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Oct. 28, 2022, 4:37 p.m.

Federal support nears $1.3 billion after Hurricane Ian — how should communities rebuild during a climate crisis?

Summary

Hurricane Ian was one of the strongest Category 4 storms to ever make landfall in the U.S. More than 100 fatalities have been reported. In its aftermath, housing is an urgent problem, and hundreds of thousands of households have applied for federal assistance. But there are big challenges around rebuilding and questions about the wisdom of doing so along parts of the coast. William Brangham reports. For a transcript of this story, click here .

Five Facts

  • Who are some of the people interviewed in this story, and what are their backgrounds?
  • Where are some of the places Hurricane Ian struck?
  • How many households have applied for federal assistance due to the impact of Ian?
  • What are some reasons rebuilding is difficult after Hurricane Ian?
  • Why are some people considering not rebuilding after Ian?

Focus Questions

After watching this story, what do you think is the best way to help Floridians who are at risk of further damage from storms? Media literacy : Who else would you want to hear from to better understand how Floridians at risk should rebuild?

For More

What students can do: 1. Learn what the federal government (taxpayer money) does to help families in disaster situations like Hurricane Ian?.How much do you think voters take in account which lawmakers are more apt to support federal assistance, including disaster loans and flood insurance payments? Check out the list of what the money is going to by reading this press release, FEMA Provides $603 Million in Individual Assistance to Jumpstart Survivor Recovery as Overall Federal Support Surpasses $1.28 Billion . 2. Though we're many weeks past Hurricane Ian's landfall, families still need help. See this article on what nonprofits and other organizations are doing in Florida, and discuss which seem the most helpful a month after landfall.
Hurricane Ian aftermath, in Punta Gorda, Florida
An aerial view of a couple walking down a flooded street after Hurricane Ian caused widespread destruction, in Punta Gorda, Florida, U.S., September 29, 2022. REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton"
An aerial view of a couple walking down a flooded street after Hurricane Ian caused widespread destruction, in Punta Gorda, Florida, U.S., September 29, 2022. REUTERS/Shannon Stapleton"

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