- Chaffin Mitchelle
- Posted On
Hurricane Harvey expected to be the most costly natural disaster in US history; how to help those in need
"This will be the worst natural disaster in American history,” said Dr. Joel N. Myers, founder, president and chairman of AccuWeather, and sometimes called the "father of commercial meteorology.”
“The economy's impact, by the time its total destruction is completed, will approach $160 billion, which is similar to the combined effect of Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy. This represents a negative impact on the economy of 8/10 of one percent of the gross national product or GDP. The GDP is $19 trillion currently,” said Myers.
Myers said business leaders and the Federal Reserve, major banks, insurance companies and others should begin to factor in the negative impact this catastrophe will have on business, corporate earnings and employment.
“The disaster is just beginning in certain areas. Parts of Houston, the United States' fourth largest city will be uninhabitable for weeks and possibly months due to water damage, mold, disease-ridden water and all that will follow this 1,000-year flood,” he said.
The worst flooding from Harvey is yet to come as rivers and bayous continue to rise in Texas with additional levees at risk for breaches and failures, according to forecasters.
"The meteorologist forecasting community as a whole did a very good job in warning people about this storm. Public officials were slow, in some cases, to react or to know what to do, which affected too many people and caused the loss of property and damage and destruction. This was unfortunate because when a natural disaster threatens, minutes and hours count and preparation and risk avoidance is imperative,” Myers said.
Myers said the negative impact from the storms are far from over. “There will be more flooding, damage, fatalities and injuries. We urge all citizens near the path of Hurricane Harvey to remain vigilant and be prepared to take immediate action if flood waters rise."
How to help: Donate to assist Harvey victims reeling from the storm's catastrophic damage
If you would like to help those affected by the storm, here's what you should keep in mind.
Monetary donations
Food, clothing and supplies might be the first thing people think to donate; however, cash donations are the best.
When items are donated, volunteers have to divert their attention to separating, distributing and storing.
"Monetary donations are the most flexible and can be used immediately in response to a crisis," Divisional Communications Director of the Salvation Army Dulcinea Kimrey said.
It allows the organization to purchase exactly what is needed, when it is needed, Kimrey said.
"Cash gives relief organizations the means to procure supplies near the affected area, which cuts down on transportation time and cost," Kimrey said.
Make sure to send money to a reputable charity. Check if the charity is trustworthy by contacting the Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance.
Donations made through www.AccuWeather.com are going to United Way of Greater Houston to help Hurricane Harvey victims in Houston and outlying areas. Donations facilitated through Centre County United Way.
Give blood
During emergencies and disaster situations, the blood supply might run low due to the increased quantity needed. Donating blood helps to save lives in the emergency room.
The Red Cross urges eligible donors to give blood or platelets to help ensure life-saving blood products are available for trauma patients and others with serious medical needs.
Chaffin Mitchelle is a staff Writer for AccuWeather.com.