Hurricane Ernesto Hits Puerto Rico: NYC Residents Offer Support and Resources

Hurricane Ernesto Pummels Puerto Rico, NYC Offers Support

Hurricane Ernesto slammed into Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands on Wednesday, causing widespread flooding and power outages. The storm is now tracking north of Puerto Rico and is expected to reach Bermuda later this week.

President Joe Biden declared a state of emergency for Puerto Rico, enabling FEMA to immediately initiate recovery efforts. New York City's Office of Emergency Management is closely monitoring the situation, with a member deployed to aid FEMA's Incident Support Team.

Reaching Loved Ones:

New Yorkers are concerned about their loved ones in the storm's path. The Red Cross offers reunification services to help locate missing individuals. For those unable to utilize those services, the Red Cross recommends the following tips:

• Call during off-peak hours to increase the likelihood of connection.
• Send a text message, as they may go through even if calls do not.
• Try sending an email.
• Mail a letter in case mail is being redirected to a new location.
• Check their social media for any updates about their situation.
• Reach out to individuals they know or places they frequent, such as neighbors, employers, schools, places of worship, or senior centers.

Offering Help:

In response to the disaster, many are turning to organizations like the Red Cross, Salvation Army, or United Way to donate or volunteer. The National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD) has a registry of vetted organizations that accept donations and volunteer assistance.

NVOAD strongly encourages cash donations as they are the most efficient form of aid. Material goods, such as clothing or food, are often difficult to manage and sort in the initial stages of a disaster.

Volunteer efforts are also crucial, but NVOAD recommends waiting until it is safe to travel and the specific needs on the ground are identified.

Recovery efforts extend beyond the immediate aftermath and will require ongoing support.

If you have been affected by the storm, visit FEMA's website for information on emergency relief programs.

Help is available for those in need. Let's show solidarity with Puerto Rico in the aftermath of this devastating storm.