Although the rains and strong winds have stopped, communities throughout the northeast continue to assess damage caused by Hurricane Irene.
According to reports, the death toll from Hurricane Irene rose again today to 45 killed in 13 states, as flooding plagued New Jersey, New York state and Vermont.
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said at the end of the day, the total damage will be close to $1 billion, over 600 homes destroyed, six towns inundated; 150 major highways have been damaged, 22 state bridges closed, in the area of agriculture, over $45 million in damage, 140,000 acres and still climbing.
Fortunately, there were also some small steps forward, with help arriving in badly damaged communities.
PBS NewsHour reports the most tangible sign of progress came in hard-hit Vermont. Ground crews managed to reach 10 of 11 towns that had been cut off by muddy torrents. Several towns also got airdrops from National Guard helicopters that ferried in water and ready-to-eat meals.
Power outages and flooding across New England also means that a number of districts delayed the start of the new school year, which had been set for this week.
Note to teachers: Use this lesson plan as a tool in discussing natural disasters and their effects: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/classroom/teachers/lessonplans/health/jan-june11/floods_06-15.html
Quotes
"We believe at the end of the day, the total damage will be close to $1 billion, over 600 homes destroyed, six towns inundated; 150 major highways have been damaged, 22 state bridges closed, in the area of agriculture, over $45 million in damage, 140,000 acres and still climbing." - Gov. Andrew Cuomo, D-N.Y.
Warm Up Questions
1. What is a natural disaster? Create a list of natural disasters.
2. How does a hurricane form?
3. What region of the U.S. was affected by a hurricane this past week?
Discussion Questions
1. In what ways was the east coast affected by Hurricane Irene?
2. What is the National Guard? What is its responsibility during a natural disaster?
3. Have you or someone you know experienced a natural disaster? What was that like? How did you prepare for the event? Share.
Additional Resources
Hurricane Irene's Cost May Hit $7B as Pricey East Coast Cleanup Begins
Hurricane Irene Makes Landfall; Moves North With Hammering Rains, Wind
