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
The Katrina Chronicles: From Chaos to Chalkboards - Rebuilding Education After Katrina
In this episode of our ongoing Katrina Chronicles, we discuss the recovery of coastal Mississippi schools in the aftermath of that devastating hurricane. The massive destruction of school buildings, the loss of facilities, faculty and staff presented unprecedented challenges. Almost everyone – teachers, parents and pupils were unhoused and had evacuated to places across the southeastern US.
Today, Glen East, Gulfport School District Superintendent, talks us through the journey to normalize one of the major aspects of daily life – school.
The decision to get the schools up and running as quickly as possible met a critical need for Katrina’s youngest victims. Studies later confirmed that school life, with its routine, safety, and sense of caring, was vital in helping the children cope with the daily challenges wrought by the aftermath of Katrina. Amazingly, the first schools were able to be reopened in 26 days!
Resources were gathered from around the country, partnerships made with other districts, solutions found to the many, many challenges. The reopening of schools in Gulfport and other coastal communities was paramount to help begin healing the devastated city.
So, join me in welcoming Mr. East as he recounts the post Katrina days and the rebuilding of a school district and community.