Weather Heroes
Weather Heroes takes you on an insightful journey into the essential realm of disaster preparedness and response. We introduce you to key weather experts from diverse backgrounds and industries, shedding light on their vital roles before and after extreme weather events.
The financial, environmental, and human costs of weather disasters are staggering. In 2023 alone, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported 28 weather disasters, causing at least $92.9 billion in damage. This record-breaking year surpassed the previous high of 22 events in 2020. Since 1980, the U.S. has endured 376 major weather events, accumulating over $2.5 trillion in damages.
With the total damage estimate from 2024, including the L.A. Wildfire and the third costliest hurricane season (featuring Hurricane Helene), the overall cost will undoubtedly rise. Moreover, countless smaller-scale disasters also leave profound impacts on people's lives and properties.
Each weather event unfolds its own narrative, uniquely affecting individuals and communities. Weather Heroes connects you with those who rebuild lives—sharing stories of resilience and unwavering dedication.
Weather Heroes
Katrina Chronicles: Leading Through Catastrophe - A Fire Chief's Story
Welcome to another powerful installment of the Katrina Chronicles, our continuing series marking the 20th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. While most of the public focus after Katrina was on New Orleans due to the devastating levy breaks, this killer storm wrecked the coast of Mississippi in ways still being studied today. The citizens of Mississippi responded with heart, grit, and a steadfast belief that they would overcome the effects of the storm. Their resilience in the face of unimaginable loss, and the long, arduous path to recovery is a moving testament to courage and community strength.
Today, we’re privileged to speak with Pat Sullivan, Fire Chief of Harrison County, Mississippi. Back in 2005, when Katrina roared ashore, Chief Sullivan was leading the fire department in Gulfport—a city squarely in the storm’s path along the Mississippi coast.
In this episode, he takes us back to those harrowing days: the tense lead-up to landfall, the unprecedented challenges faced by first responders, and the deeply human moments that emerged amid the chaos. Through his firsthand accounts, Chief Sullivan paints a vivid picture of the courage, determination, and resilience that defined the response. His heartfelt reflections shine a light on the tireless efforts it took to safeguard lives and begin the long road to recovery—honoring the spirit of a community forever changed.
Hurricane Katrina
Hurricane Katrina (August 2005), a large and extremely powerful hurricane, caused enormous destruction and significant loss of life. It is the costliest hurricane to ever hit the United States, surpassing the record previously held by Hurricane Andrew from 1992. In addition, Katrina is one of the five deadliest hurricanes to ever strike the United States. In all, Hurricane Katrina was responsible for 1,833 fatalities and approximately $108 billion in damage (un-adjusted 2005 dollars).