NEW HAVEN, Conn. (WTNH) — Hurricane Ian caused widespread destruction on its way through Florida.
The storm made landfall as a Category 4 storm Wednesday afternoon on Florida’s southwest coast. Millions were left without power, homes flooded from storm surges, roofs were ripped apart and some roads were impassable due to debris and downed power lines.
Since getting in contact with loved ones can be difficult in times of potential disaster, the American Red Cross offered the following tips:
- Call during off-peak hours for the best chance of getting through
- Send a text message, which may go through when phone calls can’t
- Check social media pages (Facebook, Twitter, etc.) for any updates
- Send an email
- Call relatives and friends who may have already had contact
- Call people and places where the person you’re trying to contact is well-known such as neighbors, employers, schools, places of worship, senior centers, etc.
The Red Cross said it’s already moved hundreds of volunteers to Florida, and also sent tens of thousands of relief supplies to the area.
According to the National Hurricane Center, Hurricane Ian made landfall near Cayo Costa, Florida Wednesday as a powerful Category 4 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 150 mph. By 2 a.m. Thursday, it had weakened to a Category 1 hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 75mph, but the damage had already been inflicted.
News 8 will continue to bring you the latest on-air and online.