🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 123 (from laksa085)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa123.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://teamcomplete.com/hurricane-irma/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://teamcomplete.com/hurricane-irma/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/hurricane-irma\/","crawl_time":1775239795,"first_indexed_time":1577216786,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,teamcomplete!\/hurricane-irma\/ s443","src_root_hash":"15333476975486307523","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Hurricane Irma: The Landfall, The Aftermath, The Recovery","meta_descriptions":["Hurricane Irma: First Category 5 hurricane to strike the Leeward Islands, caused devastation in the Florida Keys path and the northeastern Caribbean."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Hurricane Irma\n, the first Category 5 Cape Verde hurricane to strike the Leeward Islands, caused devastation and damage in the Florida Keys and the northeastern Caribbean area as it intensified in late August 2017. This hurricane was the most intense to roar into the U.S. since Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and its effects are still widespread.\nA Timeline of Events\nAug. 26, 2017\nThe first inkling of a developing hurricane was monitored by the National Hurricane Center as experts tracked a tropical wave over western Africa.\nAug. 27, 2017\nThe tropical wave slowly moved off the coast in western Africa as thunderstorms and showers continued to pound the continent.\nTrue-color images before and after the passage of Irma, in which light blue indicates sediment suspended in the water, kicked up by the intensity of the storm. Source: Wikipedia\nAug. 29, 2017\nAfter two days of powerful storms and showers, stemming from the tropical wave, the system passed through the Cape Verde Islands, prompting the threat of a tropical depression. Over the next day, the developments were dubbed as Tropical Storm Irma due to satellite estimates and scatterometer data. The islands experienced drier air and cooler waters as the storm strengthened.\nAug. 31, 2017\nTropical Storm Irma gained momentum and an anticyclone established over the system. Early in the day, Irma intensified rapidly and was declared a Category 2 hurricane. Over the next few hours, Irma was upgraded to a Category 3 and by midnight of Sept. 1 was declared a major hurricane.\nSept. 1, 2017\nAs Irma was established as a major hurricane in the wee hours of the morning, the intensity of winds increased to 65 mph.\nAn aerial view of Hurricane Irma’s cloud structure as Seen by NASA’s AIRS. Source: Flickr, NASA\nSept. 2, 2017\nWith rapid winds ranging from 45 mph to 65 mph, it was clear that the eye of the storm remained compact. A strong high pressure system developing north of Irma moved southwest from Sept. 2 to Sept. 4. The eye of the storm was 29 miles from Barbados with winds topping 115 mph.\nSept. 4, 2017\nIrma was eventually deemed a Category 4 hurricane as it approached the Leeward Islands. Just hours later, with more rapid intensification, Irma was upgraded to a Category 5 hurricane at approximately midnight on Sept. 5, as winds escalated to 175 mph.\nSept. 5, 2017\nHurricane Irma continued to intensify with winds topping 180 mph to 185 mph.\nSept. 6, 2017\nIrma reached peak strength and made landfall in Barbuda along the northern coast. The storm eventually bottomed out in the evening, marking the lowest mbar of 914 since Hurricane Dean in 2007. Irma continued by making landfall on Saint Martin and Virgin Gorda – in the Virgin Islands – at peak intensity. As Irma traveled out of the Virgin Islands and to the north of Puerto Rico, an elliptical eye and double eyewalls was recorded.\nSept. 7, 2017\nHurricanes Katia and Jose joined Irma as three active hurricanes wreaked havoc. This was the first occurrence of three simultaneous hurricanes since 2010.\nHurricanes Irma and Jose collide after making landfall Puerto Rico. Source: Wikimedia Commons\nSept. 8, 2017\nHurricane Irma weakened, gaining status as a Category 4 as she passed south of the Caicos Island and the Turks, ending the 60-hour continuous period of intensity and devastation. Irma is known as the second-longest hurricane to maintain intensity and winds topping 156 mph since Cuba’s 1932 hurricane.\nSept. 8, though, is not when Irma’s destruction ended. Irma made landfall in the Bahamas on the island of Little Inagua early in the morning and began tracking more to the west. The eyewall replacement was complete, leading Irma to regain intensity and lunge back into a Category 5 classification as she traveled east of Cuba.\nHurricane Irma gains momentum on Sept. 8, 2017. Source: Flickr, Antti Lipponen\nSept. 9, 2017\nWith winds of more than 165 mph, Hurricane Irma made landfall in Cayo Romano, Cuba early in the morning. The eye moved along the northern coast and gradually weakened with the land interaction, ultimately changing classification to a Category 2 later in the day.\nSept. 10, 2017\nIrma’s slow down was short-lived as the hurricane turned northwest toward Florida. As Irma moved over warm Florida waters, she gained strength – to a Category 4 – early morning as the eye became better defined. The wind field increased in size and winds wavered between 80 mph and 220 mph. At approximately 1 p.m. EST, the \nhurricane made landfall in Cudjoe Key, Florida\n. Irma eventually weakened to a Category 3 later in the day as the hurricane made landfall in Marco Island, Florida, with winds topping at 115 mph.\nSept. 11, 2017\nHurricane Irma moved inland and continued to accelerate to the north and northwest with increasing land interaction, dry air and wind shear, ultimately re-classified as a Category 3. Irma swept passed east of Tampa and weakened to a Category 1 by 6 a.m. Irma still maintained a large wind field, though, as she spread to southern Georgia and was classified as a tropical storm.\nSept. 12, 2017\nHurricane Irma hit a low as she entered Alabama, but she did not dissipate until she traveled over Missouri the next day.\nThe Death Toll Continued to Rise\nEven though Irma dissipated on Sept. 13, the damage was significant and impacted several areas. Overall, the story caused major damage in Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, the Virgin Islands, Barbuda and Anguilla when it was classified as a Category 5.\nThe death toll rose to 134 with the following deaths reported:\n1 in Barbados\n3 in Barbuda\n1 in Anguilla\n4 in the British Virgin Islands\n10 in Cuba\n11 in the French West Indies\n3 in Puerto Rico\n4 in Saint Martin\n1 in Haiti\n4 in the U.S. Virgin Islands\n92 in the contiguous United States\nFlorida, especially, faced devastating deaths and damage. In fact, Hurricane Irma prompted the state’s governor, Rick Scott, to declare a state of emergency on Sept. 4. More than 100 members of the Florida National Guard and 7,000 troops were activated for duty by Sept. 8.\nIn addition, preparation for Hurricane Irma included preparing hurricane kits, coordination with electrical companies to restore power and a suspension of tolls on all Florida roads and turnpikes. From Sept. 8 to Sept. 11, 67 counties closed colleges, universities and public schools, and the state’s Department of Education donated school buses for transportation of residents to shelters. In the midst of the hurricane, more than 150 Florida state parks closed.\nTeams volunteering for the Anguilla Red Cross gather donated supplies for victims of Hurricane Irma. Source: Flickr, Anguilla Red Cross\nAs a response to the state of emergency, the state opened nearly 700 shelters that housed nearly 200,000 people, including those with special needs. Hurricane Irma’s catastrophic damage led to the closing of airports resulting in the cancellation of 9,000 flights. Seaports and beaches spanning from Key West to St. Petersburg were closed. Theme parks, including Disney World, were closed, as well as Universal Orlando, Seaworld and the Kennedy Space Center.\nEvacuations Ensued Prior to Landfall\nFlorida residents – approximately 6.5 million – were ordered to evacuate as Hurricane Irma approached the coastal areas.\nResidents in the following counties faced mandatory evacuations:\nBrevard\nBroward\nCitrus\nCollier\nDixie\nDuval\nFlagler\nGlades\nHendry\nHernando\nIndian River\nLee\nMartin\nMiami-Dade\nMonroe\nOrange\nPalm Beach\nPasco\nPinellas\nSarasota\nSeminole\nLucie\nSumter\nVolusia\nAdditional residents in Florida counties were issued voluntary evacuation notices to safeguard their families. Hurricane Irma prompted the largest evacuation in the history of the state of Florida which resulted in immense traffic congestion right along the Florida peninsula that was in danger of landfall.\nNeighboring states and counties also faced uncertainty as the path of Hurricane Irma and its intensity continued to fluctuate. Also on Sept. 6, Georgia’s governor declared a state of emergency for six of the state’s coastal counties. This declaration was eventually expanded to include 30 counties, then 94 counties, and eventually the entire state by Sept. 10. Overall, more than 540,000 Georgia residents received mandatory evacuation notices.\nFlorida residents receive supplies at a temporary shelter housed at Florida International University. Source: Flickr, Florida International University\nNorth Carolina followed suit when Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency in conjunction with South Carolina’s governor. Virginia declared a state of emergency on Sept. 8.\nDuring and after Hurricane Irma made landfall in the U.S., several states modified laws to allow for medical professionals to practice in other states, with Tennessee leading the way.\nThe Aftermath and Recovery\nThe path of Hurricane Irma — including landfalls in the United States, Cuba, the Bahamas, Barbuda, Antigua and Saint Martin — caused not only more than 130 deaths but also devastation to structures, homes, buildings and businesses.\nAntigua and Barbuda\nIn Antigua and Barbuda, Irma began wreaking havoc with structural damage on roofs and downed power lines, ultimately ceasing communication. By the end of the storm’s landfall, 95 percent of the island was deemed uninhabitable by the Prime Minister. Residential blocks were either flattened or submerged as a result of the storm and the only airport on the island was inoperative. The total property damage was assessed from $150 to $300 million. One of the primary concerns after the landfall was the island’s wildlife, such as the Barbuda warbler and the largest colony of frigate birds.\nHurricane Irma approaches St. Martin, causing damage to structural foundations and leaving the area with excessive flooding. Source: Wikipedia\nSaint Martin\nWhen Irma crossed into Saint Martin on Sept. 6, an island-wide blackout occurred as entire structures were swept away, trees were ripped out of the ground and vehicles and roads were submerged. Homes and boats were left in ruins as 95 percent of property in Saint Martin was damaged in some way, causing 60 percent of Saint Martin to be declared uninhabitable. Estimations to restore the area exceed $1.2 billion.\nSaint Barthelemy\nFlooding and destruction was all that was left of Saint Barthelemy after Hurricane Irma swept through the area. Entire coastal establishments were erased with buildings reportedly stripped of their foundation. The streets soon appeared to be rushing rivers while many of the homes were destroyed. Estimations of damage topped $1.44 billion in Saint Barthelemy, marking Irma as the costliest natural disaster to wreak havoc on the French Republic in more than 50 years.\nAnguilla\nThe eyewall of the storm passed over Anguilla, destroying homes, schools and the hospital. The East end took the brunt of the damage as rough seas mutilated the bays and harbors. By the end of the storm, 90 percent of the roads were viewable.\nBritish Virgin Islands\nTo say that the damage in the British Virgin Islands was catastrophic is an understatement. The island of Tortola faced the hurricane’s core and majority of residential areas in the British Virgin Islands were destroyed. Those left to pick up the pieces were plagued without electricity for more than six months.\nDamage to buildings caused by Hurricane Irma in Nanny Cay on the British Virgin Island of Tortola. The Caribbean island suffered widespread damage and destruction when Hurricane Irma passed over on Sept. 6, 2017. Source: Flickr, DFID – UK Department for International Development\nU.S. Virgin Islands\nMore than 12 inches of rain fell as a result of Hurricane Irma in the U.S. Virgin Islands. St. Thomas island, for one, suffered extreme structural damage and local airports, hospitals and ferry services were inoperable. The island was left without electricity as well.\nPuerto Rico\nRainstorms ahead of Hurricane Irma attributed to two deaths in Puerto Rico while nearly 80 homes were destroyed and approximately 1 million people lost power. The islands of Vieques and Culebra were declared disaster areas by the governor.\nThe Dominican Republic and Haiti\nEven though Haiti and the Dominican Republic were not directly hit by Hurricane Irma, these areas faced damage from waves and flooding. The Dominican Republic alone reported more than 2,700 damaged homes while mudslides, flooded crops and infrastructure damage plagued Haiti.\nDebris lines the roads in Florida following the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. Source: Flickr, Palm Harbor Homes\nTurks and Caicos Islands\nPowerful winds and a hit from the northern side of Hurricane Irma’s eye resulted in more than 75 percent of roofs destroyed in South Caicos, with damages exceeding $230 million. Both the Turks and the Caicos Islands faced the powerful storm for more than two hours, leading to damage to the communications infrastructure.\nThe Bahamas\nDamages in the Bahamas were focused primarily on the southern islands. In Great Inagua, more than 70 percent of homes sustained damage while downed power lines made electricity non-existent. Two days later, the northern Bahamas were hit, prompting tornadic activity. The total estimated losses were $135 million.\nCuba\nThe northern coast of Cuba sustained significant damage from winds topping 165 mph as Irma made landfall. Approximately 10 deaths were reported and more than $500 million in damages with approximately 150,000 homes damaged. Tourist areas, such as Cayo Santa Maria and Cayo Guillermo faced the brunt of Irma with flooding caused by rolling waves. One noteworthy effect of Irma was the death of several hundred flamingos in Cayo Coco.\nHurricane Irma over Cuba approaching the Gulf of Mexico on Sep. 9, 2017 Source: Flickr, Karl-Ludwig Poggemann\nFlorida\nAlthough the western panhandle of Florida was spared for the most part, Hurricane Irma’s large wind field produced powerful winds throughout most of Florida. Heavy amounts of rain and winds left more than 7.5 million homes without electricity, making up 70 percent of the state. Topping out as the costliest hurricane in Florida, Irma’s damage was estimated at $50 billion. The highest death toll resulting from Hurricane Irma was recorded in Florida, with deaths attributed to the storm’s effects including trauma, carbon monoxide poisoning and drowning.\nThe Florida Keys were hit the hardest with surge flooding and strong winds knocking out water and fuel supplies, electricity and communication.\nHurricane Irma damage on Summerland Key, perhaps the hardest hit Key. Source: Flickr, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region\nGeorgia\nFalling debris and trees led to the three deaths in Georgia. In addition, the state reported wind damage, power outages and extensive flooding, especially on Tybee Island and St. Simons Island.\nSouth Carolina\nThe storm surged up to 10 feet in Charleston, South Carolina, leaving 100,000 without power and five dead due to storm-related issues.\nFinding the Help You Need\nRegardless of what stage of recovery you are in after facing the devastation of Hurricane Irma, Complete, Inc. can help. As a licensed appraisal\/umpire claims firm in Gulf Breeze, we offer industry-leading expertise to help you navigate appraisals and find alternate dispute resolution services.\nContact us today\nto learn more about how we can assist you with property appraisal and Hurricane Irma relief.","attrs_markdown":"![](https:\/\/secure.perk0mean.com\/183883.png)\n\nSearch\n\n- [Contact Team Complete Today](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/contact-2\/)\n- [850\\.932.8720](tel:+18509328720)\n\n[Menu](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/hurricane-irma\/#masthead)\n\n- [Home](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/)\n- [Team Complete](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/about-team-complete\/)\n- [News & Resources](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/news\/)\n- [Case Studies of Our Work](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/category\/case-studies\/)\n- [Contact](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/contact-2\/)\n\n- [Visit our Facebook Page](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/Teamcomplete\/)\n- [Watch our Youtube 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[Construction Management Services](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/construction-services\/)\n- [Construction Defect](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/expert-witness-services\/construction-defect\/)\n- [Cost & Contract Analysis](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/cost-contract-analysis\/)\n- [Tornado Damage](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/expert-witness-services\/tornado\/)\n- [Fire Damage](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/expert-witness-services\/fire\/)\n- [Building Code](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/expert-witness-services\/building-code\/)\n- [Wind Damage](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/expert-witness-services\/wind\/)\n- [Land Use](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/expert-witness-services\/land-use\/)\n- [Water Damage](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/expert-witness-services\/water\/)\n- [Personal Injury](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/expert-witness-services\/personal-injury\/)\n- [Flood Damage](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/expert-witness-services\/flood-damage\/)\n- [Delay and Extra Work](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/expert-witness-services\/delay-and-extra-work\/)\n- [Hail Damage](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/expert-witness-services\/hail\/)\n- [RCV vs. ACV](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/expert-witness-services\/rcv-vs-acv\/)\n- [Hurricane Damage](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/expert-witness-services\/hurricane\/)\n- [Owner’s Representative](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/owners-representative-services\/)\n\n![Hurricane Irmas Path](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20975%20512'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Hurricane Irmas Path](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irmas-Path.png)\n\n# Hurricane Irma\n[News & Resources](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/news\/ \"Return to News & Resources\")\n\n- [Broward County Florida](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/category\/regions\/broward-county-florida\/ \"View all posts in Broward County Florida\")\n- [Florida Keys](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/category\/regions\/florida-keys\/ \"View all posts in Florida Keys\")\n- [Hurricane](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/category\/hurricane\/ \"View all posts in Hurricane\")\n- [Hurricane Irma](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/category\/hurricane\/hurricane-irma\/ \"View all posts in Hurricane Irma\")\n- [Meteorology](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/category\/technical-services-diagnostics\/meteorology\/ \"View all posts in Meteorology\")\n- [Regions](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/category\/regions\/ \"View all posts in Regions\")\n- [Tampa Bay Area](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/category\/regions\/tampa-bay-area\/ \"View all posts in Tampa Bay Area\")\n- [Water Damage](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/category\/forensic-engineering-cause\/water-damage\/ \"View all posts in Water Damage\")\n- [Wind Damage](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/category\/forensic-engineering-cause\/wind-damage\/ \"View all posts in Wind Damage\")\n- [April 1, 2020](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/2020\/04\/ \"View other posts this month\")\n\n## The Landfall, The Aftermath, The Recovery\n> [Hurricane Irma](https:\/\/www.nhc.noaa.gov\/data\/tcr\/AL112017_Irma.pdf), the first Category 5 Cape Verde hurricane to strike the Leeward Islands, caused devastation and damage in the Florida Keys and the northeastern Caribbean area as it intensified in late August 2017. This hurricane was the most intense to roar into the U.S. since Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and its effects are still widespread.\n## A Timeline of Events\n### Aug. 26, 2017\nThe first inkling of a developing hurricane was monitored by the National Hurricane Center as experts tracked a tropical wave over western Africa.\n\n### Aug. 27, 2017\nThe tropical wave slowly moved off the coast in western Africa as thunderstorms and showers continued to pound the continent.\n\n![True color images before and after the passage of Irma](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20975%20547'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![True color images before and after the passage of Irma](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/True-color-images-before-and-after-the-passage-of-Irma.png)\n\nTrue-color images before and after the passage of Irma, in which light blue indicates sediment suspended in the water, kicked up by the intensity of the storm. Source: Wikipedia\n### Aug. 29, 2017\nAfter two days of powerful storms and showers, stemming from the tropical wave, the system passed through the Cape Verde Islands, prompting the threat of a tropical depression. Over the next day, the developments were dubbed as Tropical Storm Irma due to satellite estimates and scatterometer data. The islands experienced drier air and cooler waters as the storm strengthened.\n\n### Aug. 31, 2017\nTropical Storm Irma gained momentum and an anticyclone established over the system. Early in the day, Irma intensified rapidly and was declared a Category 2 hurricane. Over the next few hours, Irma was upgraded to a Category 3 and by midnight of Sept. 1 was declared a major hurricane.\n\n### Sept. 1, 2017\nAs Irma was established as a major hurricane in the wee hours of the morning, the intensity of winds increased to 65 mph.\n\n![Hurricane Irmas cloud structure](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20975%20548'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Hurricane Irmas cloud structure](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irmas-cloud-structure.png)\n\nAn aerial view of Hurricane Irma’s cloud structure as Seen by NASA’s AIRS. Source: Flickr, NASA\n### Sept. 2, 2017\nWith rapid winds ranging from 45 mph to 65 mph, it was clear that the eye of the storm remained compact. A strong high pressure system developing north of Irma moved southwest from Sept. 2 to Sept. 4. The eye of the storm was 29 miles from Barbados with winds topping 115 mph.\n\n### **Sept. 4, 2017**\nIrma was eventually deemed a Category 4 hurricane as it approached the Leeward Islands. Just hours later, with more rapid intensification, Irma was upgraded to a Category 5 hurricane at approximately midnight on Sept. 5, as winds escalated to 175 mph.\n\n### Sept. 5, 2017\nHurricane Irma continued to intensify with winds topping 180 mph to 185 mph.\n\n### Sept. 6, 2017\nIrma reached peak strength and made landfall in Barbuda along the northern coast. The storm eventually bottomed out in the evening, marking the lowest mbar of 914 since Hurricane Dean in 2007. Irma continued by making landfall on Saint Martin and Virgin Gorda – in the Virgin Islands – at peak intensity. As Irma traveled out of the Virgin Islands and to the north of Puerto Rico, an elliptical eye and double eyewalls was recorded.\n\n### Sept. 7, 2017\nHurricanes Katia and Jose joined Irma as three active hurricanes wreaked havoc. This was the first occurrence of three simultaneous hurricanes since 2010.\n\n![Hurricane Irma Storm Image](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20975%20649'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Hurricane Irma Storm Image](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irma-Storm-Image.png)\n\nHurricanes Irma and Jose collide after making landfall Puerto Rico. Source: Wikimedia Commons\n### **Sept. 8, 2017**\nHurricane Irma weakened, gaining status as a Category 4 as she passed south of the Caicos Island and the Turks, ending the 60-hour continuous period of intensity and devastation. Irma is known as the second-longest hurricane to maintain intensity and winds topping 156 mph since Cuba’s 1932 hurricane.\n\nSept. 8, though, is not when Irma’s destruction ended. Irma made landfall in the Bahamas on the island of Little Inagua early in the morning and began tracking more to the west. The eyewall replacement was complete, leading Irma to regain intensity and lunge back into a Category 5 classification as she traveled east of Cuba.\n\n![Hurricane Irma Storm Path](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20975%20570'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Hurricane Irma Storm Path](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irma-Storm-Path.png)\n\nHurricane Irma gains momentum on Sept. 8, 2017. Source: Flickr, Antti Lipponen\n### Sept. 9, 2017\nWith winds of more than 165 mph, Hurricane Irma made landfall in Cayo Romano, Cuba early in the morning. The eye moved along the northern coast and gradually weakened with the land interaction, ultimately changing classification to a Category 2 later in the day.\n\n### Sept. 10, 2017\nIrma’s slow down was short-lived as the hurricane turned northwest toward Florida. As Irma moved over warm Florida waters, she gained strength – to a Category 4 – early morning as the eye became better defined. The wind field increased in size and winds wavered between 80 mph and 220 mph. At approximately 1 p.m. EST, the [hurricane made landfall in Cudjoe Key, Florida](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/storm-damage-florida-keys-from-key-largo-to-key-west\/). Irma eventually weakened to a Category 3 later in the day as the hurricane made landfall in Marco Island, Florida, with winds topping at 115 mph.\n\n### Sept. 11, 2017\nHurricane Irma moved inland and continued to accelerate to the north and northwest with increasing land interaction, dry air and wind shear, ultimately re-classified as a Category 3. Irma swept passed east of Tampa and weakened to a Category 1 by 6 a.m. Irma still maintained a large wind field, though, as she spread to southern Georgia and was classified as a tropical storm.\n\n### Sept. 12, 2017\nHurricane Irma hit a low as she entered Alabama, but she did not dissipate until she traveled over Missouri the next day.\n\n## **The Death Toll Continued to Rise**\nEven though Irma dissipated on Sept. 13, the damage was significant and impacted several areas. Overall, the story caused major damage in Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, the Virgin Islands, Barbuda and Anguilla when it was classified as a Category 5.\n\nThe death toll rose to 134 with the following deaths reported:\n\n- 1 in Barbados\n- 3 in Barbuda\n- 1 in Anguilla\n- 4 in the British Virgin Islands\n- 10 in Cuba\n- 11 in the French West Indies\n- 3 in Puerto Rico\n- 4 in Saint Martin\n- 1 in Haiti\n- 4 in the U.S. Virgin Islands\n- 92 in the contiguous United States\n\nFlorida, especially, faced devastating deaths and damage. In fact, Hurricane Irma prompted the state’s governor, Rick Scott, to declare a state of emergency on Sept. 4. More than 100 members of the Florida National Guard and 7,000 troops were activated for duty by Sept. 8.\n\nIn addition, preparation for Hurricane Irma included preparing hurricane kits, coordination with electrical companies to restore power and a suspension of tolls on all Florida roads and turnpikes. From Sept. 8 to Sept. 11, 67 counties closed colleges, universities and public schools, and the state’s Department of Education donated school buses for transportation of residents to shelters. In the midst of the hurricane, more than 150 Florida state parks closed.\n\n![Hurricane Irma storm supplies](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20890%20500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Hurricane Irma storm supplies](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irma-storm-supplies.png)\n\nTeams volunteering for the Anguilla Red Cross gather donated supplies for victims of Hurricane Irma. Source: Flickr, Anguilla Red Cross\n\nAs a response to the state of emergency, the state opened nearly 700 shelters that housed nearly 200,000 people, including those with special needs. Hurricane Irma’s catastrophic damage led to the closing of airports resulting in the cancellation of 9,000 flights. Seaports and beaches spanning from Key West to St. Petersburg were closed. Theme parks, including Disney World, were closed, as well as Universal Orlando, Seaworld and the Kennedy Space Center.\n\n## Evacuations Ensued Prior to Landfall\nFlorida residents – approximately 6.5 million – were ordered to evacuate as Hurricane Irma approached the coastal areas.\n\nResidents in the following counties faced mandatory evacuations:\n\n- Brevard\n- Broward\n- Citrus\n- Collier\n- Dixie\n- Duval\n- Flagler\n- Glades\n- Hendry\n- Hernando\n- Indian River\n- Lee\n- Martin\n- Miami-Dade\n- Monroe\n- Orange\n- Palm Beach\n- Pasco\n- Pinellas\n- Sarasota\n- Seminole\n- Lucie\n- Sumter\n- Volusia\n\nAdditional residents in Florida counties were issued voluntary evacuation notices to safeguard their families. Hurricane Irma prompted the largest evacuation in the history of the state of Florida which resulted in immense traffic congestion right along the Florida peninsula that was in danger of landfall.\n\nNeighboring states and counties also faced uncertainty as the path of Hurricane Irma and its intensity continued to fluctuate. Also on Sept. 6, Georgia’s governor declared a state of emergency for six of the state’s coastal counties. This declaration was eventually expanded to include 30 counties, then 94 counties, and eventually the entire state by Sept. 10. Overall, more than 540,000 Georgia residents received mandatory evacuation notices.\n\n![Hurricane Irma victims in Florida](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20740%20493'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Hurricane Irma victims in Florida](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irma-victims-in-Florida.png)\n\nFlorida residents receive supplies at a temporary shelter housed at Florida International University. Source: Flickr, Florida International University\n\nNorth Carolina followed suit when Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency in conjunction with South Carolina’s governor. Virginia declared a state of emergency on Sept. 8.\n\nDuring and after Hurricane Irma made landfall in the U.S., several states modified laws to allow for medical professionals to practice in other states, with Tennessee leading the way.\n\n## The Aftermath and Recovery\nThe path of Hurricane Irma — including landfalls in the United States, Cuba, the Bahamas, Barbuda, Antigua and Saint Martin — caused not only more than 130 deaths but also devastation to structures, homes, buildings and businesses.\n\n### Antigua and Barbuda\nIn Antigua and Barbuda, Irma began wreaking havoc with structural damage on roofs and downed power lines, ultimately ceasing communication. By the end of the storm’s landfall, 95 percent of the island was deemed uninhabitable by the Prime Minister. Residential blocks were either flattened or submerged as a result of the storm and the only airport on the island was inoperative. The total property damage was assessed from \\$150 to \\$300 million. One of the primary concerns after the landfall was the island’s wildlife, such as the Barbuda warbler and the largest colony of frigate birds.\n\n![Hurricane Irma St Martin](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20750%20500'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Hurricane Irma St Martin](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irma-St-Martin.png)\n\nHurricane Irma approaches St. Martin, causing damage to structural foundations and leaving the area with excessive flooding. Source: Wikipedia\n### Saint Martin\nWhen Irma crossed into Saint Martin on Sept. 6, an island-wide blackout occurred as entire structures were swept away, trees were ripped out of the ground and vehicles and roads were submerged. Homes and boats were left in ruins as 95 percent of property in Saint Martin was damaged in some way, causing 60 percent of Saint Martin to be declared uninhabitable. Estimations to restore the area exceed \\$1.2 billion.\n\n### Saint Barthelemy\nFlooding and destruction was all that was left of Saint Barthelemy after Hurricane Irma swept through the area. Entire coastal establishments were erased with buildings reportedly stripped of their foundation. The streets soon appeared to be rushing rivers while many of the homes were destroyed. Estimations of damage topped \\$1.44 billion in Saint Barthelemy, marking Irma as the costliest natural disaster to wreak havoc on the French Republic in more than 50 years.\n\n### Anguilla\nThe eyewall of the storm passed over Anguilla, destroying homes, schools and the hospital. The East end took the brunt of the damage as rough seas mutilated the bays and harbors. By the end of the storm, 90 percent of the roads were viewable.\n\n### British Virgin Islands\nTo say that the damage in the British Virgin Islands was catastrophic is an understatement. The island of Tortola faced the hurricane’s core and majority of residential areas in the British Virgin Islands were destroyed. Those left to pick up the pieces were plagued without electricity for more than six months.\n\n![Damage caused by hurricane Irma](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20685%20457'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Damage caused by hurricane Irma](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Damage-caused-by-hurricane-Irma.png)\n\nDamage to buildings caused by Hurricane Irma in Nanny Cay on the British Virgin Island of Tortola. The Caribbean island suffered widespread damage and destruction when Hurricane Irma passed over on Sept. 6, 2017. Source: Flickr, DFID – UK Department for International Development\n### U.S. Virgin Islands\nMore than 12 inches of rain fell as a result of Hurricane Irma in the U.S. Virgin Islands. St. Thomas island, for one, suffered extreme structural damage and local airports, hospitals and ferry services were inoperable. The island was left without electricity as well.\n\n### Puerto Rico\nRainstorms ahead of Hurricane Irma attributed to two deaths in Puerto Rico while nearly 80 homes were destroyed and approximately 1 million people lost power. The islands of Vieques and Culebra were declared disaster areas by the governor.\n\n### The Dominican Republic and Haiti\nEven though Haiti and the Dominican Republic were not directly hit by Hurricane Irma, these areas faced damage from waves and flooding. The Dominican Republic alone reported more than 2,700 damaged homes while mudslides, flooded crops and infrastructure damage plagued Haiti.\n\n![Hurricane Irma Storm Damage](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20975%20651'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Hurricane Irma Storm Damage](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irma-Storm-Damage.png)\n\nDebris lines the roads in Florida following the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. Source: Flickr, Palm Harbor Homes\n### Turks and Caicos Islands\nPowerful winds and a hit from the northern side of Hurricane Irma’s eye resulted in more than 75 percent of roofs destroyed in South Caicos, with damages exceeding \\$230 million. Both the Turks and the Caicos Islands faced the powerful storm for more than two hours, leading to damage to the communications infrastructure.\n\n### The Bahamas\nDamages in the Bahamas were focused primarily on the southern islands. In Great Inagua, more than 70 percent of homes sustained damage while downed power lines made electricity non-existent. Two days later, the northern Bahamas were hit, prompting tornadic activity. The total estimated losses were \\$135 million.\n\n### Cuba\nThe northern coast of Cuba sustained significant damage from winds topping 165 mph as Irma made landfall. Approximately 10 deaths were reported and more than \\$500 million in damages with approximately 150,000 homes damaged. Tourist areas, such as Cayo Santa Maria and Cayo Guillermo faced the brunt of Irma with flooding caused by rolling waves. One noteworthy effect of Irma was the death of several hundred flamingos in Cayo Coco.\n\n![Hurricane Irmas Path](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20975%20512'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Hurricane Irmas Path](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irmas-Path.png)\n\nHurricane Irma over Cuba approaching the Gulf of Mexico on Sep. 9, 2017 Source: Flickr, Karl-Ludwig Poggemann\n### Florida\nAlthough the western panhandle of Florida was spared for the most part, Hurricane Irma’s large wind field produced powerful winds throughout most of Florida. Heavy amounts of rain and winds left more than 7.5 million homes without electricity, making up 70 percent of the state. Topping out as the costliest hurricane in Florida, Irma’s damage was estimated at \\$50 billion. The highest death toll resulting from Hurricane Irma was recorded in Florida, with deaths attributed to the storm’s effects including trauma, carbon monoxide poisoning and drowning.\n\nThe Florida Keys were hit the hardest with surge flooding and strong winds knocking out water and fuel supplies, electricity and communication.\n\n![Hurricane Irma Damage](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20512%20384'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)\n\n![Hurricane Irma Damage](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irma-Damage-512x384.png)\n\nHurricane Irma damage on Summerland Key, perhaps the hardest hit Key. Source: Flickr, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region\n### Georgia\nFalling debris and trees led to the three deaths in Georgia. In addition, the state reported wind damage, power outages and extensive flooding, especially on Tybee Island and St. Simons Island.\n\n### South Carolina\nThe storm surged up to 10 feet in Charleston, South Carolina, leaving 100,000 without power and five dead due to storm-related issues.\n\n## Finding the Help You Need\nRegardless of what stage of recovery you are in after facing the devastation of Hurricane Irma, Complete, Inc. can help. As a licensed appraisal\/umpire claims firm in Gulf Breeze, we offer industry-leading expertise to help you navigate appraisals and find alternate dispute resolution services. 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Would you like to accept the use of cookies? [Cookie settings]()[ACCEPT]()\n\nPrivacy & Cookies Policy\n\nClose\n\n#### Privacy Overview\nThis website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.\n\n[Necessary]()\n\nNecessary\n\nAlways Enabled\n\nNecessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.\n\n[Non-necessary]()\n\nNon-necessary\n\nAny cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.\n\n[SAVE & ACCEPT]()\n\n- [![](data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%2018%2012'%3E%3C\/svg%3E)![](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/sitepress-multilingual-cms\/res\/flags\/en.svg)English](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/hurricane-irma\/)","attrs_readable_markdown":"> [Hurricane Irma](https:\/\/www.nhc.noaa.gov\/data\/tcr\/AL112017_Irma.pdf), the first Category 5 Cape Verde hurricane to strike the Leeward Islands, caused devastation and damage in the Florida Keys and the northeastern Caribbean area as it intensified in late August 2017. This hurricane was the most intense to roar into the U.S. since Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and its effects are still widespread.\n## A Timeline of Events\n### Aug. 26, 2017\nThe first inkling of a developing hurricane was monitored by the National Hurricane Center as experts tracked a tropical wave over western Africa.\n\n### Aug. 27, 2017\nThe tropical wave slowly moved off the coast in western Africa as thunderstorms and showers continued to pound the continent.\n\n![True color images before and after the passage of Irma](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/True-color-images-before-and-after-the-passage-of-Irma.png)\n\nTrue-color images before and after the passage of Irma, in which light blue indicates sediment suspended in the water, kicked up by the intensity of the storm. Source: Wikipedia\n### Aug. 29, 2017\nAfter two days of powerful storms and showers, stemming from the tropical wave, the system passed through the Cape Verde Islands, prompting the threat of a tropical depression. Over the next day, the developments were dubbed as Tropical Storm Irma due to satellite estimates and scatterometer data. The islands experienced drier air and cooler waters as the storm strengthened.\n\n### Aug. 31, 2017\nTropical Storm Irma gained momentum and an anticyclone established over the system. Early in the day, Irma intensified rapidly and was declared a Category 2 hurricane. Over the next few hours, Irma was upgraded to a Category 3 and by midnight of Sept. 1 was declared a major hurricane.\n\n### Sept. 1, 2017\nAs Irma was established as a major hurricane in the wee hours of the morning, the intensity of winds increased to 65 mph.\n\n![Hurricane Irmas cloud structure](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irmas-cloud-structure.png)\n\nAn aerial view of Hurricane Irma’s cloud structure as Seen by NASA’s AIRS. Source: Flickr, NASA\n### Sept. 2, 2017\nWith rapid winds ranging from 45 mph to 65 mph, it was clear that the eye of the storm remained compact. A strong high pressure system developing north of Irma moved southwest from Sept. 2 to Sept. 4. The eye of the storm was 29 miles from Barbados with winds topping 115 mph.\n\n### **Sept. 4, 2017**\nIrma was eventually deemed a Category 4 hurricane as it approached the Leeward Islands. Just hours later, with more rapid intensification, Irma was upgraded to a Category 5 hurricane at approximately midnight on Sept. 5, as winds escalated to 175 mph.\n\n### Sept. 5, 2017\nHurricane Irma continued to intensify with winds topping 180 mph to 185 mph.\n\n### Sept. 6, 2017\nIrma reached peak strength and made landfall in Barbuda along the northern coast. The storm eventually bottomed out in the evening, marking the lowest mbar of 914 since Hurricane Dean in 2007. Irma continued by making landfall on Saint Martin and Virgin Gorda – in the Virgin Islands – at peak intensity. As Irma traveled out of the Virgin Islands and to the north of Puerto Rico, an elliptical eye and double eyewalls was recorded.\n\n### Sept. 7, 2017\nHurricanes Katia and Jose joined Irma as three active hurricanes wreaked havoc. This was the first occurrence of three simultaneous hurricanes since 2010.\n\n![Hurricane Irma Storm Image](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irma-Storm-Image.png)\n\nHurricanes Irma and Jose collide after making landfall Puerto Rico. Source: Wikimedia Commons\n### **Sept. 8, 2017**\nHurricane Irma weakened, gaining status as a Category 4 as she passed south of the Caicos Island and the Turks, ending the 60-hour continuous period of intensity and devastation. Irma is known as the second-longest hurricane to maintain intensity and winds topping 156 mph since Cuba’s 1932 hurricane.\n\nSept. 8, though, is not when Irma’s destruction ended. Irma made landfall in the Bahamas on the island of Little Inagua early in the morning and began tracking more to the west. The eyewall replacement was complete, leading Irma to regain intensity and lunge back into a Category 5 classification as she traveled east of Cuba.\n\n![Hurricane Irma Storm Path](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irma-Storm-Path.png)\n\nHurricane Irma gains momentum on Sept. 8, 2017. Source: Flickr, Antti Lipponen\n### Sept. 9, 2017\nWith winds of more than 165 mph, Hurricane Irma made landfall in Cayo Romano, Cuba early in the morning. The eye moved along the northern coast and gradually weakened with the land interaction, ultimately changing classification to a Category 2 later in the day.\n\n### Sept. 10, 2017\nIrma’s slow down was short-lived as the hurricane turned northwest toward Florida. As Irma moved over warm Florida waters, she gained strength – to a Category 4 – early morning as the eye became better defined. The wind field increased in size and winds wavered between 80 mph and 220 mph. At approximately 1 p.m. EST, the [hurricane made landfall in Cudjoe Key, Florida](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/storm-damage-florida-keys-from-key-largo-to-key-west\/). Irma eventually weakened to a Category 3 later in the day as the hurricane made landfall in Marco Island, Florida, with winds topping at 115 mph.\n\n### Sept. 11, 2017\nHurricane Irma moved inland and continued to accelerate to the north and northwest with increasing land interaction, dry air and wind shear, ultimately re-classified as a Category 3. Irma swept passed east of Tampa and weakened to a Category 1 by 6 a.m. Irma still maintained a large wind field, though, as she spread to southern Georgia and was classified as a tropical storm.\n\n### Sept. 12, 2017\nHurricane Irma hit a low as she entered Alabama, but she did not dissipate until she traveled over Missouri the next day.\n\n## **The Death Toll Continued to Rise**\nEven though Irma dissipated on Sept. 13, the damage was significant and impacted several areas. Overall, the story caused major damage in Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, the Virgin Islands, Barbuda and Anguilla when it was classified as a Category 5.\n\nThe death toll rose to 134 with the following deaths reported:\n\n- 1 in Barbados\n- 3 in Barbuda\n- 1 in Anguilla\n- 4 in the British Virgin Islands\n- 10 in Cuba\n- 11 in the French West Indies\n- 3 in Puerto Rico\n- 4 in Saint Martin\n- 1 in Haiti\n- 4 in the U.S. Virgin Islands\n- 92 in the contiguous United States\n\nFlorida, especially, faced devastating deaths and damage. In fact, Hurricane Irma prompted the state’s governor, Rick Scott, to declare a state of emergency on Sept. 4. More than 100 members of the Florida National Guard and 7,000 troops were activated for duty by Sept. 8.\n\nIn addition, preparation for Hurricane Irma included preparing hurricane kits, coordination with electrical companies to restore power and a suspension of tolls on all Florida roads and turnpikes. From Sept. 8 to Sept. 11, 67 counties closed colleges, universities and public schools, and the state’s Department of Education donated school buses for transportation of residents to shelters. In the midst of the hurricane, more than 150 Florida state parks closed.\n\n![Hurricane Irma storm supplies](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irma-storm-supplies.png)\n\nTeams volunteering for the Anguilla Red Cross gather donated supplies for victims of Hurricane Irma. Source: Flickr, Anguilla Red Cross\n\nAs a response to the state of emergency, the state opened nearly 700 shelters that housed nearly 200,000 people, including those with special needs. Hurricane Irma’s catastrophic damage led to the closing of airports resulting in the cancellation of 9,000 flights. Seaports and beaches spanning from Key West to St. Petersburg were closed. Theme parks, including Disney World, were closed, as well as Universal Orlando, Seaworld and the Kennedy Space Center.\n\n## Evacuations Ensued Prior to Landfall\nFlorida residents – approximately 6.5 million – were ordered to evacuate as Hurricane Irma approached the coastal areas.\n\nResidents in the following counties faced mandatory evacuations:\n\n- Brevard\n- Broward\n- Citrus\n- Collier\n- Dixie\n- Duval\n- Flagler\n- Glades\n- Hendry\n- Hernando\n- Indian River\n- Lee\n- Martin\n- Miami-Dade\n- Monroe\n- Orange\n- Palm Beach\n- Pasco\n- Pinellas\n- Sarasota\n- Seminole\n- Lucie\n- Sumter\n- Volusia\n\nAdditional residents in Florida counties were issued voluntary evacuation notices to safeguard their families. Hurricane Irma prompted the largest evacuation in the history of the state of Florida which resulted in immense traffic congestion right along the Florida peninsula that was in danger of landfall.\n\nNeighboring states and counties also faced uncertainty as the path of Hurricane Irma and its intensity continued to fluctuate. Also on Sept. 6, Georgia’s governor declared a state of emergency for six of the state’s coastal counties. This declaration was eventually expanded to include 30 counties, then 94 counties, and eventually the entire state by Sept. 10. Overall, more than 540,000 Georgia residents received mandatory evacuation notices.\n\n![Hurricane Irma victims in Florida](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irma-victims-in-Florida.png)\n\nFlorida residents receive supplies at a temporary shelter housed at Florida International University. Source: Flickr, Florida International University\n\nNorth Carolina followed suit when Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency in conjunction with South Carolina’s governor. Virginia declared a state of emergency on Sept. 8.\n\nDuring and after Hurricane Irma made landfall in the U.S., several states modified laws to allow for medical professionals to practice in other states, with Tennessee leading the way.\n\n## The Aftermath and Recovery\nThe path of Hurricane Irma — including landfalls in the United States, Cuba, the Bahamas, Barbuda, Antigua and Saint Martin — caused not only more than 130 deaths but also devastation to structures, homes, buildings and businesses.\n\n### Antigua and Barbuda\nIn Antigua and Barbuda, Irma began wreaking havoc with structural damage on roofs and downed power lines, ultimately ceasing communication. By the end of the storm’s landfall, 95 percent of the island was deemed uninhabitable by the Prime Minister. Residential blocks were either flattened or submerged as a result of the storm and the only airport on the island was inoperative. The total property damage was assessed from \\$150 to \\$300 million. One of the primary concerns after the landfall was the island’s wildlife, such as the Barbuda warbler and the largest colony of frigate birds.\n\n![Hurricane Irma St Martin](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irma-St-Martin.png)\n\nHurricane Irma approaches St. Martin, causing damage to structural foundations and leaving the area with excessive flooding. Source: Wikipedia\n### Saint Martin\nWhen Irma crossed into Saint Martin on Sept. 6, an island-wide blackout occurred as entire structures were swept away, trees were ripped out of the ground and vehicles and roads were submerged. Homes and boats were left in ruins as 95 percent of property in Saint Martin was damaged in some way, causing 60 percent of Saint Martin to be declared uninhabitable. Estimations to restore the area exceed \\$1.2 billion.\n\n### Saint Barthelemy\nFlooding and destruction was all that was left of Saint Barthelemy after Hurricane Irma swept through the area. Entire coastal establishments were erased with buildings reportedly stripped of their foundation. The streets soon appeared to be rushing rivers while many of the homes were destroyed. Estimations of damage topped \\$1.44 billion in Saint Barthelemy, marking Irma as the costliest natural disaster to wreak havoc on the French Republic in more than 50 years.\n\n### Anguilla\nThe eyewall of the storm passed over Anguilla, destroying homes, schools and the hospital. The East end took the brunt of the damage as rough seas mutilated the bays and harbors. By the end of the storm, 90 percent of the roads were viewable.\n\n### British Virgin Islands\nTo say that the damage in the British Virgin Islands was catastrophic is an understatement. The island of Tortola faced the hurricane’s core and majority of residential areas in the British Virgin Islands were destroyed. Those left to pick up the pieces were plagued without electricity for more than six months.\n\n![Damage caused by hurricane Irma](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Damage-caused-by-hurricane-Irma.png)\n\nDamage to buildings caused by Hurricane Irma in Nanny Cay on the British Virgin Island of Tortola. The Caribbean island suffered widespread damage and destruction when Hurricane Irma passed over on Sept. 6, 2017. Source: Flickr, DFID – UK Department for International Development\n### U.S. Virgin Islands\nMore than 12 inches of rain fell as a result of Hurricane Irma in the U.S. Virgin Islands. St. Thomas island, for one, suffered extreme structural damage and local airports, hospitals and ferry services were inoperable. The island was left without electricity as well.\n\n### Puerto Rico\nRainstorms ahead of Hurricane Irma attributed to two deaths in Puerto Rico while nearly 80 homes were destroyed and approximately 1 million people lost power. The islands of Vieques and Culebra were declared disaster areas by the governor.\n\n### The Dominican Republic and Haiti\nEven though Haiti and the Dominican Republic were not directly hit by Hurricane Irma, these areas faced damage from waves and flooding. The Dominican Republic alone reported more than 2,700 damaged homes while mudslides, flooded crops and infrastructure damage plagued Haiti.\n\n![Hurricane Irma Storm Damage](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irma-Storm-Damage.png)\n\nDebris lines the roads in Florida following the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. Source: Flickr, Palm Harbor Homes\n### Turks and Caicos Islands\nPowerful winds and a hit from the northern side of Hurricane Irma’s eye resulted in more than 75 percent of roofs destroyed in South Caicos, with damages exceeding \\$230 million. Both the Turks and the Caicos Islands faced the powerful storm for more than two hours, leading to damage to the communications infrastructure.\n\n### The Bahamas\nDamages in the Bahamas were focused primarily on the southern islands. In Great Inagua, more than 70 percent of homes sustained damage while downed power lines made electricity non-existent. Two days later, the northern Bahamas were hit, prompting tornadic activity. The total estimated losses were \\$135 million.\n\n### Cuba\nThe northern coast of Cuba sustained significant damage from winds topping 165 mph as Irma made landfall. Approximately 10 deaths were reported and more than \\$500 million in damages with approximately 150,000 homes damaged. Tourist areas, such as Cayo Santa Maria and Cayo Guillermo faced the brunt of Irma with flooding caused by rolling waves. One noteworthy effect of Irma was the death of several hundred flamingos in Cayo Coco.\n\n![Hurricane Irmas Path](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irmas-Path.png)\n\nHurricane Irma over Cuba approaching the Gulf of Mexico on Sep. 9, 2017 Source: Flickr, Karl-Ludwig Poggemann\n### Florida\nAlthough the western panhandle of Florida was spared for the most part, Hurricane Irma’s large wind field produced powerful winds throughout most of Florida. Heavy amounts of rain and winds left more than 7.5 million homes without electricity, making up 70 percent of the state. Topping out as the costliest hurricane in Florida, Irma’s damage was estimated at \\$50 billion. The highest death toll resulting from Hurricane Irma was recorded in Florida, with deaths attributed to the storm’s effects including trauma, carbon monoxide poisoning and drowning.\n\nThe Florida Keys were hit the hardest with surge flooding and strong winds knocking out water and fuel supplies, electricity and communication.\n\n![Hurricane Irma Damage](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/04\/Hurricane-Irma-Damage-512x384.png)\n\nHurricane Irma damage on Summerland Key, perhaps the hardest hit Key. Source: Flickr, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region\n### Georgia\nFalling debris and trees led to the three deaths in Georgia. In addition, the state reported wind damage, power outages and extensive flooding, especially on Tybee Island and St. Simons Island.\n\n### South Carolina\nThe storm surged up to 10 feet in Charleston, South Carolina, leaving 100,000 without power and five dead due to storm-related issues.\n\n## Finding the Help You Need\nRegardless of what stage of recovery you are in after facing the devastation of Hurricane Irma, Complete, Inc. can help. As a licensed appraisal\/umpire claims firm in Gulf Breeze, we offer industry-leading expertise to help you navigate appraisals and find alternate dispute resolution services. [Contact us today](https:\/\/teamcomplete.com\/contact\/) to learn more about how we can assist you with property appraisal and Hurricane Irma relief.","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	Hurricane Irma: The Landfall, The Aftermath, The Recovery
Meta Description	Hurricane Irma: First Category 5 hurricane to strike the Leeward Islands, caused devastation in the Florida Keys path and the northeastern Caribbean.
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Boilerpipe Text	Hurricane Irma , the first Category 5 Cape Verde hurricane to strike the Leeward Islands, caused devastation and damage in the Florida Keys and the northeastern Caribbean area as it intensified in late August 2017. This hurricane was the most intense to roar into the U.S. since Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and its effects are still widespread. A Timeline of Events Aug. 26, 2017 The first inkling of a developing hurricane was monitored by the National Hurricane Center as experts tracked a tropical wave over western Africa. Aug. 27, 2017 The tropical wave slowly moved off the coast in western Africa as thunderstorms and showers continued to pound the continent. True-color images before and after the passage of Irma, in which light blue indicates sediment suspended in the water, kicked up by the intensity of the storm. Source: Wikipedia Aug. 29, 2017 After two days of powerful storms and showers, stemming from the tropical wave, the system passed through the Cape Verde Islands, prompting the threat of a tropical depression. Over the next day, the developments were dubbed as Tropical Storm Irma due to satellite estimates and scatterometer data. The islands experienced drier air and cooler waters as the storm strengthened. Aug. 31, 2017 Tropical Storm Irma gained momentum and an anticyclone established over the system. Early in the day, Irma intensified rapidly and was declared a Category 2 hurricane. Over the next few hours, Irma was upgraded to a Category 3 and by midnight of Sept. 1 was declared a major hurricane. Sept. 1, 2017 As Irma was established as a major hurricane in the wee hours of the morning, the intensity of winds increased to 65 mph. An aerial view of Hurricane Irma’s cloud structure as Seen by NASA’s AIRS. Source: Flickr, NASA Sept. 2, 2017 With rapid winds ranging from 45 mph to 65 mph, it was clear that the eye of the storm remained compact. A strong high pressure system developing north of Irma moved southwest from Sept. 2 to Sept. 4. The eye of the storm was 29 miles from Barbados with winds topping 115 mph. Sept. 4, 2017 Irma was eventually deemed a Category 4 hurricane as it approached the Leeward Islands. Just hours later, with more rapid intensification, Irma was upgraded to a Category 5 hurricane at approximately midnight on Sept. 5, as winds escalated to 175 mph. Sept. 5, 2017 Hurricane Irma continued to intensify with winds topping 180 mph to 185 mph. Sept. 6, 2017 Irma reached peak strength and made landfall in Barbuda along the northern coast. The storm eventually bottomed out in the evening, marking the lowest mbar of 914 since Hurricane Dean in 2007. Irma continued by making landfall on Saint Martin and Virgin Gorda – in the Virgin Islands – at peak intensity. As Irma traveled out of the Virgin Islands and to the north of Puerto Rico, an elliptical eye and double eyewalls was recorded. Sept. 7, 2017 Hurricanes Katia and Jose joined Irma as three active hurricanes wreaked havoc. This was the first occurrence of three simultaneous hurricanes since 2010. Hurricanes Irma and Jose collide after making landfall Puerto Rico. Source: Wikimedia Commons Sept. 8, 2017 Hurricane Irma weakened, gaining status as a Category 4 as she passed south of the Caicos Island and the Turks, ending the 60-hour continuous period of intensity and devastation. Irma is known as the second-longest hurricane to maintain intensity and winds topping 156 mph since Cuba’s 1932 hurricane. Sept. 8, though, is not when Irma’s destruction ended. Irma made landfall in the Bahamas on the island of Little Inagua early in the morning and began tracking more to the west. The eyewall replacement was complete, leading Irma to regain intensity and lunge back into a Category 5 classification as she traveled east of Cuba. Hurricane Irma gains momentum on Sept. 8, 2017. Source: Flickr, Antti Lipponen Sept. 9, 2017 With winds of more than 165 mph, Hurricane Irma made landfall in Cayo Romano, Cuba early in the morning. The eye moved along the northern coast and gradually weakened with the land interaction, ultimately changing classification to a Category 2 later in the day. Sept. 10, 2017 Irma’s slow down was short-lived as the hurricane turned northwest toward Florida. As Irma moved over warm Florida waters, she gained strength – to a Category 4 – early morning as the eye became better defined. The wind field increased in size and winds wavered between 80 mph and 220 mph. At approximately 1 p.m. EST, the hurricane made landfall in Cudjoe Key, Florida . Irma eventually weakened to a Category 3 later in the day as the hurricane made landfall in Marco Island, Florida, with winds topping at 115 mph. Sept. 11, 2017 Hurricane Irma moved inland and continued to accelerate to the north and northwest with increasing land interaction, dry air and wind shear, ultimately re-classified as a Category 3. Irma swept passed east of Tampa and weakened to a Category 1 by 6 a.m. Irma still maintained a large wind field, though, as she spread to southern Georgia and was classified as a tropical storm. Sept. 12, 2017 Hurricane Irma hit a low as she entered Alabama, but she did not dissipate until she traveled over Missouri the next day. The Death Toll Continued to Rise Even though Irma dissipated on Sept. 13, the damage was significant and impacted several areas. Overall, the story caused major damage in Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, the Virgin Islands, Barbuda and Anguilla when it was classified as a Category 5. The death toll rose to 134 with the following deaths reported: 1 in Barbados 3 in Barbuda 1 in Anguilla 4 in the British Virgin Islands 10 in Cuba 11 in the French West Indies 3 in Puerto Rico 4 in Saint Martin 1 in Haiti 4 in the U.S. Virgin Islands 92 in the contiguous United States Florida, especially, faced devastating deaths and damage. In fact, Hurricane Irma prompted the state’s governor, Rick Scott, to declare a state of emergency on Sept. 4. More than 100 members of the Florida National Guard and 7,000 troops were activated for duty by Sept. 8. In addition, preparation for Hurricane Irma included preparing hurricane kits, coordination with electrical companies to restore power and a suspension of tolls on all Florida roads and turnpikes. From Sept. 8 to Sept. 11, 67 counties closed colleges, universities and public schools, and the state’s Department of Education donated school buses for transportation of residents to shelters. In the midst of the hurricane, more than 150 Florida state parks closed. Teams volunteering for the Anguilla Red Cross gather donated supplies for victims of Hurricane Irma. Source: Flickr, Anguilla Red Cross As a response to the state of emergency, the state opened nearly 700 shelters that housed nearly 200,000 people, including those with special needs. Hurricane Irma’s catastrophic damage led to the closing of airports resulting in the cancellation of 9,000 flights. Seaports and beaches spanning from Key West to St. Petersburg were closed. Theme parks, including Disney World, were closed, as well as Universal Orlando, Seaworld and the Kennedy Space Center. Evacuations Ensued Prior to Landfall Florida residents – approximately 6.5 million – were ordered to evacuate as Hurricane Irma approached the coastal areas. Residents in the following counties faced mandatory evacuations: Brevard Broward Citrus Collier Dixie Duval Flagler Glades Hendry Hernando Indian River Lee Martin Miami-Dade Monroe Orange Palm Beach Pasco Pinellas Sarasota Seminole Lucie Sumter Volusia Additional residents in Florida counties were issued voluntary evacuation notices to safeguard their families. Hurricane Irma prompted the largest evacuation in the history of the state of Florida which resulted in immense traffic congestion right along the Florida peninsula that was in danger of landfall. Neighboring states and counties also faced uncertainty as the path of Hurricane Irma and its intensity continued to fluctuate. Also on Sept. 6, Georgia’s governor declared a state of emergency for six of the state’s coastal counties. This declaration was eventually expanded to include 30 counties, then 94 counties, and eventually the entire state by Sept. 10. Overall, more than 540,000 Georgia residents received mandatory evacuation notices. Florida residents receive supplies at a temporary shelter housed at Florida International University. Source: Flickr, Florida International University North Carolina followed suit when Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency in conjunction with South Carolina’s governor. Virginia declared a state of emergency on Sept. 8. During and after Hurricane Irma made landfall in the U.S., several states modified laws to allow for medical professionals to practice in other states, with Tennessee leading the way. The Aftermath and Recovery The path of Hurricane Irma — including landfalls in the United States, Cuba, the Bahamas, Barbuda, Antigua and Saint Martin — caused not only more than 130 deaths but also devastation to structures, homes, buildings and businesses. Antigua and Barbuda In Antigua and Barbuda, Irma began wreaking havoc with structural damage on roofs and downed power lines, ultimately ceasing communication. By the end of the storm’s landfall, 95 percent of the island was deemed uninhabitable by the Prime Minister. Residential blocks were either flattened or submerged as a result of the storm and the only airport on the island was inoperative. The total property damage was assessed from $150 to $300 million. One of the primary concerns after the landfall was the island’s wildlife, such as the Barbuda warbler and the largest colony of frigate birds. Hurricane Irma approaches St. Martin, causing damage to structural foundations and leaving the area with excessive flooding. Source: Wikipedia Saint Martin When Irma crossed into Saint Martin on Sept. 6, an island-wide blackout occurred as entire structures were swept away, trees were ripped out of the ground and vehicles and roads were submerged. Homes and boats were left in ruins as 95 percent of property in Saint Martin was damaged in some way, causing 60 percent of Saint Martin to be declared uninhabitable. Estimations to restore the area exceed $1.2 billion. Saint Barthelemy Flooding and destruction was all that was left of Saint Barthelemy after Hurricane Irma swept through the area. Entire coastal establishments were erased with buildings reportedly stripped of their foundation. The streets soon appeared to be rushing rivers while many of the homes were destroyed. Estimations of damage topped $1.44 billion in Saint Barthelemy, marking Irma as the costliest natural disaster to wreak havoc on the French Republic in more than 50 years. Anguilla The eyewall of the storm passed over Anguilla, destroying homes, schools and the hospital. The East end took the brunt of the damage as rough seas mutilated the bays and harbors. By the end of the storm, 90 percent of the roads were viewable. British Virgin Islands To say that the damage in the British Virgin Islands was catastrophic is an understatement. The island of Tortola faced the hurricane’s core and majority of residential areas in the British Virgin Islands were destroyed. Those left to pick up the pieces were plagued without electricity for more than six months. Damage to buildings caused by Hurricane Irma in Nanny Cay on the British Virgin Island of Tortola. The Caribbean island suffered widespread damage and destruction when Hurricane Irma passed over on Sept. 6, 2017. Source: Flickr, DFID – UK Department for International Development U.S. Virgin Islands More than 12 inches of rain fell as a result of Hurricane Irma in the U.S. Virgin Islands. St. Thomas island, for one, suffered extreme structural damage and local airports, hospitals and ferry services were inoperable. The island was left without electricity as well. Puerto Rico Rainstorms ahead of Hurricane Irma attributed to two deaths in Puerto Rico while nearly 80 homes were destroyed and approximately 1 million people lost power. The islands of Vieques and Culebra were declared disaster areas by the governor. The Dominican Republic and Haiti Even though Haiti and the Dominican Republic were not directly hit by Hurricane Irma, these areas faced damage from waves and flooding. The Dominican Republic alone reported more than 2,700 damaged homes while mudslides, flooded crops and infrastructure damage plagued Haiti. Debris lines the roads in Florida following the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. Source: Flickr, Palm Harbor Homes Turks and Caicos Islands Powerful winds and a hit from the northern side of Hurricane Irma’s eye resulted in more than 75 percent of roofs destroyed in South Caicos, with damages exceeding $230 million. Both the Turks and the Caicos Islands faced the powerful storm for more than two hours, leading to damage to the communications infrastructure. The Bahamas Damages in the Bahamas were focused primarily on the southern islands. In Great Inagua, more than 70 percent of homes sustained damage while downed power lines made electricity non-existent. Two days later, the northern Bahamas were hit, prompting tornadic activity. The total estimated losses were $135 million. Cuba The northern coast of Cuba sustained significant damage from winds topping 165 mph as Irma made landfall. Approximately 10 deaths were reported and more than $500 million in damages with approximately 150,000 homes damaged. Tourist areas, such as Cayo Santa Maria and Cayo Guillermo faced the brunt of Irma with flooding caused by rolling waves. One noteworthy effect of Irma was the death of several hundred flamingos in Cayo Coco. Hurricane Irma over Cuba approaching the Gulf of Mexico on Sep. 9, 2017 Source: Flickr, Karl-Ludwig Poggemann Florida Although the western panhandle of Florida was spared for the most part, Hurricane Irma’s large wind field produced powerful winds throughout most of Florida. Heavy amounts of rain and winds left more than 7.5 million homes without electricity, making up 70 percent of the state. Topping out as the costliest hurricane in Florida, Irma’s damage was estimated at $50 billion. The highest death toll resulting from Hurricane Irma was recorded in Florida, with deaths attributed to the storm’s effects including trauma, carbon monoxide poisoning and drowning. The Florida Keys were hit the hardest with surge flooding and strong winds knocking out water and fuel supplies, electricity and communication. Hurricane Irma damage on Summerland Key, perhaps the hardest hit Key. Source: Flickr, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region Georgia Falling debris and trees led to the three deaths in Georgia. In addition, the state reported wind damage, power outages and extensive flooding, especially on Tybee Island and St. Simons Island. South Carolina The storm surged up to 10 feet in Charleston, South Carolina, leaving 100,000 without power and five dead due to storm-related issues. Finding the Help You Need Regardless of what stage of recovery you are in after facing the devastation of Hurricane Irma, Complete, Inc. can help. As a licensed appraisal/umpire claims firm in Gulf Breeze, we offer industry-leading expertise to help you navigate appraisals and find alternate dispute resolution services. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with property appraisal and Hurricane Irma relief.
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This hurricane was the most intense to roar into the U.S. since Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and its effects are still widespread. ## A Timeline of Events ### Aug. 26, 2017 The first inkling of a developing hurricane was monitored by the National Hurricane Center as experts tracked a tropical wave over western Africa. ### Aug. 27, 2017 The tropical wave slowly moved off the coast in western Africa as thunderstorms and showers continued to pound the continent. ![True color images before and after the passage of Irma](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20975%20547'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![True color images before and after the passage of Irma](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/True-color-images-before-and-after-the-passage-of-Irma.png) True-color images before and after the passage of Irma, in which light blue indicates sediment suspended in the water, kicked up by the intensity of the storm. Source: Wikipedia ### Aug. 29, 2017 After two days of powerful storms and showers, stemming from the tropical wave, the system passed through the Cape Verde Islands, prompting the threat of a tropical depression. Over the next day, the developments were dubbed as Tropical Storm Irma due to satellite estimates and scatterometer data. The islands experienced drier air and cooler waters as the storm strengthened. ### Aug. 31, 2017 Tropical Storm Irma gained momentum and an anticyclone established over the system. Early in the day, Irma intensified rapidly and was declared a Category 2 hurricane. Over the next few hours, Irma was upgraded to a Category 3 and by midnight of Sept. 1 was declared a major hurricane. ### Sept. 1, 2017 As Irma was established as a major hurricane in the wee hours of the morning, the intensity of winds increased to 65 mph. ![Hurricane Irmas cloud structure](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20975%20548'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Hurricane Irmas cloud structure](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irmas-cloud-structure.png) An aerial view of Hurricane Irma’s cloud structure as Seen by NASA’s AIRS. Source: Flickr, NASA ### Sept. 2, 2017 With rapid winds ranging from 45 mph to 65 mph, it was clear that the eye of the storm remained compact. A strong high pressure system developing north of Irma moved southwest from Sept. 2 to Sept. 4. The eye of the storm was 29 miles from Barbados with winds topping 115 mph. ### Sept. 4, 2017 Irma was eventually deemed a Category 4 hurricane as it approached the Leeward Islands. Just hours later, with more rapid intensification, Irma was upgraded to a Category 5 hurricane at approximately midnight on Sept. 5, as winds escalated to 175 mph. ### Sept. 5, 2017 Hurricane Irma continued to intensify with winds topping 180 mph to 185 mph. ### Sept. 6, 2017 Irma reached peak strength and made landfall in Barbuda along the northern coast. The storm eventually bottomed out in the evening, marking the lowest mbar of 914 since Hurricane Dean in 2007. Irma continued by making landfall on Saint Martin and Virgin Gorda – in the Virgin Islands – at peak intensity. As Irma traveled out of the Virgin Islands and to the north of Puerto Rico, an elliptical eye and double eyewalls was recorded. ### Sept. 7, 2017 Hurricanes Katia and Jose joined Irma as three active hurricanes wreaked havoc. This was the first occurrence of three simultaneous hurricanes since 2010. ![Hurricane Irma Storm Image](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20975%20649'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Hurricane Irma Storm Image](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irma-Storm-Image.png) Hurricanes Irma and Jose collide after making landfall Puerto Rico. Source: Wikimedia Commons ### Sept. 8, 2017 Hurricane Irma weakened, gaining status as a Category 4 as she passed south of the Caicos Island and the Turks, ending the 60-hour continuous period of intensity and devastation. Irma is known as the second-longest hurricane to maintain intensity and winds topping 156 mph since Cuba’s 1932 hurricane. Sept. 8, though, is not when Irma’s destruction ended. Irma made landfall in the Bahamas on the island of Little Inagua early in the morning and began tracking more to the west. The eyewall replacement was complete, leading Irma to regain intensity and lunge back into a Category 5 classification as she traveled east of Cuba. ![Hurricane Irma Storm Path](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20975%20570'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Hurricane Irma Storm Path](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irma-Storm-Path.png) Hurricane Irma gains momentum on Sept. 8, 2017. Source: Flickr, Antti Lipponen ### Sept. 9, 2017 With winds of more than 165 mph, Hurricane Irma made landfall in Cayo Romano, Cuba early in the morning. The eye moved along the northern coast and gradually weakened with the land interaction, ultimately changing classification to a Category 2 later in the day. ### Sept. 10, 2017 Irma’s slow down was short-lived as the hurricane turned northwest toward Florida. As Irma moved over warm Florida waters, she gained strength – to a Category 4 – early morning as the eye became better defined. The wind field increased in size and winds wavered between 80 mph and 220 mph. At approximately 1 p.m. EST, the [hurricane made landfall in Cudjoe Key, Florida](https://teamcomplete.com/storm-damage-florida-keys-from-key-largo-to-key-west/). Irma eventually weakened to a Category 3 later in the day as the hurricane made landfall in Marco Island, Florida, with winds topping at 115 mph. ### Sept. 11, 2017 Hurricane Irma moved inland and continued to accelerate to the north and northwest with increasing land interaction, dry air and wind shear, ultimately re-classified as a Category 3. Irma swept passed east of Tampa and weakened to a Category 1 by 6 a.m. Irma still maintained a large wind field, though, as she spread to southern Georgia and was classified as a tropical storm. ### Sept. 12, 2017 Hurricane Irma hit a low as she entered Alabama, but she did not dissipate until she traveled over Missouri the next day. ## The Death Toll Continued to Rise Even though Irma dissipated on Sept. 13, the damage was significant and impacted several areas. Overall, the story caused major damage in Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, the Virgin Islands, Barbuda and Anguilla when it was classified as a Category 5. The death toll rose to 134 with the following deaths reported: - 1 in Barbados - 3 in Barbuda - 1 in Anguilla - 4 in the British Virgin Islands - 10 in Cuba - 11 in the French West Indies - 3 in Puerto Rico - 4 in Saint Martin - 1 in Haiti - 4 in the U.S. Virgin Islands - 92 in the contiguous United States Florida, especially, faced devastating deaths and damage. In fact, Hurricane Irma prompted the state’s governor, Rick Scott, to declare a state of emergency on Sept. 4. More than 100 members of the Florida National Guard and 7,000 troops were activated for duty by Sept. 8. In addition, preparation for Hurricane Irma included preparing hurricane kits, coordination with electrical companies to restore power and a suspension of tolls on all Florida roads and turnpikes. From Sept. 8 to Sept. 11, 67 counties closed colleges, universities and public schools, and the state’s Department of Education donated school buses for transportation of residents to shelters. In the midst of the hurricane, more than 150 Florida state parks closed. ![Hurricane Irma storm supplies](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20890%20500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Hurricane Irma storm supplies](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irma-storm-supplies.png) Teams volunteering for the Anguilla Red Cross gather donated supplies for victims of Hurricane Irma. Source: Flickr, Anguilla Red Cross As a response to the state of emergency, the state opened nearly 700 shelters that housed nearly 200,000 people, including those with special needs. Hurricane Irma’s catastrophic damage led to the closing of airports resulting in the cancellation of 9,000 flights. Seaports and beaches spanning from Key West to St. Petersburg were closed. Theme parks, including Disney World, were closed, as well as Universal Orlando, Seaworld and the Kennedy Space Center. ## Evacuations Ensued Prior to Landfall Florida residents – approximately 6.5 million – were ordered to evacuate as Hurricane Irma approached the coastal areas. Residents in the following counties faced mandatory evacuations: - Brevard - Broward - Citrus - Collier - Dixie - Duval - Flagler - Glades - Hendry - Hernando - Indian River - Lee - Martin - Miami-Dade - Monroe - Orange - Palm Beach - Pasco - Pinellas - Sarasota - Seminole - Lucie - Sumter - Volusia Additional residents in Florida counties were issued voluntary evacuation notices to safeguard their families. Hurricane Irma prompted the largest evacuation in the history of the state of Florida which resulted in immense traffic congestion right along the Florida peninsula that was in danger of landfall. Neighboring states and counties also faced uncertainty as the path of Hurricane Irma and its intensity continued to fluctuate. Also on Sept. 6, Georgia’s governor declared a state of emergency for six of the state’s coastal counties. This declaration was eventually expanded to include 30 counties, then 94 counties, and eventually the entire state by Sept. 10. Overall, more than 540,000 Georgia residents received mandatory evacuation notices. ![Hurricane Irma victims in Florida](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20740%20493'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Hurricane Irma victims in Florida](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irma-victims-in-Florida.png) Florida residents receive supplies at a temporary shelter housed at Florida International University. Source: Flickr, Florida International University North Carolina followed suit when Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency in conjunction with South Carolina’s governor. Virginia declared a state of emergency on Sept. 8. During and after Hurricane Irma made landfall in the U.S., several states modified laws to allow for medical professionals to practice in other states, with Tennessee leading the way. ## The Aftermath and Recovery The path of Hurricane Irma — including landfalls in the United States, Cuba, the Bahamas, Barbuda, Antigua and Saint Martin — caused not only more than 130 deaths but also devastation to structures, homes, buildings and businesses. ### Antigua and Barbuda In Antigua and Barbuda, Irma began wreaking havoc with structural damage on roofs and downed power lines, ultimately ceasing communication. By the end of the storm’s landfall, 95 percent of the island was deemed uninhabitable by the Prime Minister. Residential blocks were either flattened or submerged as a result of the storm and the only airport on the island was inoperative. The total property damage was assessed from \$150 to \$300 million. One of the primary concerns after the landfall was the island’s wildlife, such as the Barbuda warbler and the largest colony of frigate birds. ![Hurricane Irma St Martin](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20750%20500'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Hurricane Irma St Martin](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irma-St-Martin.png) Hurricane Irma approaches St. Martin, causing damage to structural foundations and leaving the area with excessive flooding. Source: Wikipedia ### Saint Martin When Irma crossed into Saint Martin on Sept. 6, an island-wide blackout occurred as entire structures were swept away, trees were ripped out of the ground and vehicles and roads were submerged. Homes and boats were left in ruins as 95 percent of property in Saint Martin was damaged in some way, causing 60 percent of Saint Martin to be declared uninhabitable. Estimations to restore the area exceed \$1.2 billion. ### Saint Barthelemy Flooding and destruction was all that was left of Saint Barthelemy after Hurricane Irma swept through the area. Entire coastal establishments were erased with buildings reportedly stripped of their foundation. The streets soon appeared to be rushing rivers while many of the homes were destroyed. Estimations of damage topped \$1.44 billion in Saint Barthelemy, marking Irma as the costliest natural disaster to wreak havoc on the French Republic in more than 50 years. ### Anguilla The eyewall of the storm passed over Anguilla, destroying homes, schools and the hospital. The East end took the brunt of the damage as rough seas mutilated the bays and harbors. By the end of the storm, 90 percent of the roads were viewable. ### British Virgin Islands To say that the damage in the British Virgin Islands was catastrophic is an understatement. The island of Tortola faced the hurricane’s core and majority of residential areas in the British Virgin Islands were destroyed. Those left to pick up the pieces were plagued without electricity for more than six months. ![Damage caused by hurricane Irma](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20685%20457'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Damage caused by hurricane Irma](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Damage-caused-by-hurricane-Irma.png) Damage to buildings caused by Hurricane Irma in Nanny Cay on the British Virgin Island of Tortola. The Caribbean island suffered widespread damage and destruction when Hurricane Irma passed over on Sept. 6, 2017. Source: Flickr, DFID – UK Department for International Development ### U.S. Virgin Islands More than 12 inches of rain fell as a result of Hurricane Irma in the U.S. Virgin Islands. St. Thomas island, for one, suffered extreme structural damage and local airports, hospitals and ferry services were inoperable. The island was left without electricity as well. ### Puerto Rico Rainstorms ahead of Hurricane Irma attributed to two deaths in Puerto Rico while nearly 80 homes were destroyed and approximately 1 million people lost power. The islands of Vieques and Culebra were declared disaster areas by the governor. ### The Dominican Republic and Haiti Even though Haiti and the Dominican Republic were not directly hit by Hurricane Irma, these areas faced damage from waves and flooding. The Dominican Republic alone reported more than 2,700 damaged homes while mudslides, flooded crops and infrastructure damage plagued Haiti. ![Hurricane Irma Storm Damage](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20975%20651'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Hurricane Irma Storm Damage](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irma-Storm-Damage.png) Debris lines the roads in Florida following the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. Source: Flickr, Palm Harbor Homes ### Turks and Caicos Islands Powerful winds and a hit from the northern side of Hurricane Irma’s eye resulted in more than 75 percent of roofs destroyed in South Caicos, with damages exceeding \$230 million. Both the Turks and the Caicos Islands faced the powerful storm for more than two hours, leading to damage to the communications infrastructure. ### The Bahamas Damages in the Bahamas were focused primarily on the southern islands. In Great Inagua, more than 70 percent of homes sustained damage while downed power lines made electricity non-existent. Two days later, the northern Bahamas were hit, prompting tornadic activity. The total estimated losses were \$135 million. ### Cuba The northern coast of Cuba sustained significant damage from winds topping 165 mph as Irma made landfall. Approximately 10 deaths were reported and more than \$500 million in damages with approximately 150,000 homes damaged. Tourist areas, such as Cayo Santa Maria and Cayo Guillermo faced the brunt of Irma with flooding caused by rolling waves. One noteworthy effect of Irma was the death of several hundred flamingos in Cayo Coco. ![Hurricane Irmas Path](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20975%20512'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Hurricane Irmas Path](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irmas-Path.png) Hurricane Irma over Cuba approaching the Gulf of Mexico on Sep. 9, 2017 Source: Flickr, Karl-Ludwig Poggemann ### Florida Although the western panhandle of Florida was spared for the most part, Hurricane Irma’s large wind field produced powerful winds throughout most of Florida. Heavy amounts of rain and winds left more than 7.5 million homes without electricity, making up 70 percent of the state. Topping out as the costliest hurricane in Florida, Irma’s damage was estimated at \$50 billion. The highest death toll resulting from Hurricane Irma was recorded in Florida, with deaths attributed to the storm’s effects including trauma, carbon monoxide poisoning and drowning. The Florida Keys were hit the hardest with surge flooding and strong winds knocking out water and fuel supplies, electricity and communication. ![Hurricane Irma Damage](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20512%20384'%3E%3C/svg%3E) ![Hurricane Irma Damage](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irma-Damage-512x384.png) Hurricane Irma damage on Summerland Key, perhaps the hardest hit Key. Source: Flickr, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region ### Georgia Falling debris and trees led to the three deaths in Georgia. In addition, the state reported wind damage, power outages and extensive flooding, especially on Tybee Island and St. Simons Island. ### South Carolina The storm surged up to 10 feet in Charleston, South Carolina, leaving 100,000 without power and five dead due to storm-related issues. ## Finding the Help You Need Regardless of what stage of recovery you are in after facing the devastation of Hurricane Irma, Complete, Inc. can help. As a licensed appraisal/umpire claims firm in Gulf Breeze, we offer industry-leading expertise to help you navigate appraisals and find alternate dispute resolution services. 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Readable Markdown	> [Hurricane Irma](https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/AL112017_Irma.pdf), the first Category 5 Cape Verde hurricane to strike the Leeward Islands, caused devastation and damage in the Florida Keys and the northeastern Caribbean area as it intensified in late August 2017. This hurricane was the most intense to roar into the U.S. since Hurricane Katrina in 2005 and its effects are still widespread. ## A Timeline of Events ### Aug. 26, 2017 The first inkling of a developing hurricane was monitored by the National Hurricane Center as experts tracked a tropical wave over western Africa. ### Aug. 27, 2017 The tropical wave slowly moved off the coast in western Africa as thunderstorms and showers continued to pound the continent. ![True color images before and after the passage of Irma](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/True-color-images-before-and-after-the-passage-of-Irma.png) True-color images before and after the passage of Irma, in which light blue indicates sediment suspended in the water, kicked up by the intensity of the storm. Source: Wikipedia ### Aug. 29, 2017 After two days of powerful storms and showers, stemming from the tropical wave, the system passed through the Cape Verde Islands, prompting the threat of a tropical depression. Over the next day, the developments were dubbed as Tropical Storm Irma due to satellite estimates and scatterometer data. The islands experienced drier air and cooler waters as the storm strengthened. ### Aug. 31, 2017 Tropical Storm Irma gained momentum and an anticyclone established over the system. Early in the day, Irma intensified rapidly and was declared a Category 2 hurricane. Over the next few hours, Irma was upgraded to a Category 3 and by midnight of Sept. 1 was declared a major hurricane. ### Sept. 1, 2017 As Irma was established as a major hurricane in the wee hours of the morning, the intensity of winds increased to 65 mph. ![Hurricane Irmas cloud structure](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irmas-cloud-structure.png) An aerial view of Hurricane Irma’s cloud structure as Seen by NASA’s AIRS. Source: Flickr, NASA ### Sept. 2, 2017 With rapid winds ranging from 45 mph to 65 mph, it was clear that the eye of the storm remained compact. A strong high pressure system developing north of Irma moved southwest from Sept. 2 to Sept. 4. The eye of the storm was 29 miles from Barbados with winds topping 115 mph. ### Sept. 4, 2017 Irma was eventually deemed a Category 4 hurricane as it approached the Leeward Islands. Just hours later, with more rapid intensification, Irma was upgraded to a Category 5 hurricane at approximately midnight on Sept. 5, as winds escalated to 175 mph. ### Sept. 5, 2017 Hurricane Irma continued to intensify with winds topping 180 mph to 185 mph. ### Sept. 6, 2017 Irma reached peak strength and made landfall in Barbuda along the northern coast. The storm eventually bottomed out in the evening, marking the lowest mbar of 914 since Hurricane Dean in 2007. Irma continued by making landfall on Saint Martin and Virgin Gorda – in the Virgin Islands – at peak intensity. As Irma traveled out of the Virgin Islands and to the north of Puerto Rico, an elliptical eye and double eyewalls was recorded. ### Sept. 7, 2017 Hurricanes Katia and Jose joined Irma as three active hurricanes wreaked havoc. This was the first occurrence of three simultaneous hurricanes since 2010. ![Hurricane Irma Storm Image](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irma-Storm-Image.png) Hurricanes Irma and Jose collide after making landfall Puerto Rico. Source: Wikimedia Commons ### Sept. 8, 2017 Hurricane Irma weakened, gaining status as a Category 4 as she passed south of the Caicos Island and the Turks, ending the 60-hour continuous period of intensity and devastation. Irma is known as the second-longest hurricane to maintain intensity and winds topping 156 mph since Cuba’s 1932 hurricane. Sept. 8, though, is not when Irma’s destruction ended. Irma made landfall in the Bahamas on the island of Little Inagua early in the morning and began tracking more to the west. The eyewall replacement was complete, leading Irma to regain intensity and lunge back into a Category 5 classification as she traveled east of Cuba. ![Hurricane Irma Storm Path](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irma-Storm-Path.png) Hurricane Irma gains momentum on Sept. 8, 2017. Source: Flickr, Antti Lipponen ### Sept. 9, 2017 With winds of more than 165 mph, Hurricane Irma made landfall in Cayo Romano, Cuba early in the morning. The eye moved along the northern coast and gradually weakened with the land interaction, ultimately changing classification to a Category 2 later in the day. ### Sept. 10, 2017 Irma’s slow down was short-lived as the hurricane turned northwest toward Florida. As Irma moved over warm Florida waters, she gained strength – to a Category 4 – early morning as the eye became better defined. The wind field increased in size and winds wavered between 80 mph and 220 mph. At approximately 1 p.m. EST, the [hurricane made landfall in Cudjoe Key, Florida](https://teamcomplete.com/storm-damage-florida-keys-from-key-largo-to-key-west/). Irma eventually weakened to a Category 3 later in the day as the hurricane made landfall in Marco Island, Florida, with winds topping at 115 mph. ### Sept. 11, 2017 Hurricane Irma moved inland and continued to accelerate to the north and northwest with increasing land interaction, dry air and wind shear, ultimately re-classified as a Category 3. Irma swept passed east of Tampa and weakened to a Category 1 by 6 a.m. Irma still maintained a large wind field, though, as she spread to southern Georgia and was classified as a tropical storm. ### Sept. 12, 2017 Hurricane Irma hit a low as she entered Alabama, but she did not dissipate until she traveled over Missouri the next day. ## The Death Toll Continued to Rise Even though Irma dissipated on Sept. 13, the damage was significant and impacted several areas. Overall, the story caused major damage in Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, the Virgin Islands, Barbuda and Anguilla when it was classified as a Category 5. The death toll rose to 134 with the following deaths reported: - 1 in Barbados - 3 in Barbuda - 1 in Anguilla - 4 in the British Virgin Islands - 10 in Cuba - 11 in the French West Indies - 3 in Puerto Rico - 4 in Saint Martin - 1 in Haiti - 4 in the U.S. Virgin Islands - 92 in the contiguous United States Florida, especially, faced devastating deaths and damage. In fact, Hurricane Irma prompted the state’s governor, Rick Scott, to declare a state of emergency on Sept. 4. More than 100 members of the Florida National Guard and 7,000 troops were activated for duty by Sept. 8. In addition, preparation for Hurricane Irma included preparing hurricane kits, coordination with electrical companies to restore power and a suspension of tolls on all Florida roads and turnpikes. From Sept. 8 to Sept. 11, 67 counties closed colleges, universities and public schools, and the state’s Department of Education donated school buses for transportation of residents to shelters. In the midst of the hurricane, more than 150 Florida state parks closed. ![Hurricane Irma storm supplies](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irma-storm-supplies.png) Teams volunteering for the Anguilla Red Cross gather donated supplies for victims of Hurricane Irma. Source: Flickr, Anguilla Red Cross As a response to the state of emergency, the state opened nearly 700 shelters that housed nearly 200,000 people, including those with special needs. Hurricane Irma’s catastrophic damage led to the closing of airports resulting in the cancellation of 9,000 flights. Seaports and beaches spanning from Key West to St. Petersburg were closed. Theme parks, including Disney World, were closed, as well as Universal Orlando, Seaworld and the Kennedy Space Center. ## Evacuations Ensued Prior to Landfall Florida residents – approximately 6.5 million – were ordered to evacuate as Hurricane Irma approached the coastal areas. Residents in the following counties faced mandatory evacuations: - Brevard - Broward - Citrus - Collier - Dixie - Duval - Flagler - Glades - Hendry - Hernando - Indian River - Lee - Martin - Miami-Dade - Monroe - Orange - Palm Beach - Pasco - Pinellas - Sarasota - Seminole - Lucie - Sumter - Volusia Additional residents in Florida counties were issued voluntary evacuation notices to safeguard their families. Hurricane Irma prompted the largest evacuation in the history of the state of Florida which resulted in immense traffic congestion right along the Florida peninsula that was in danger of landfall. Neighboring states and counties also faced uncertainty as the path of Hurricane Irma and its intensity continued to fluctuate. Also on Sept. 6, Georgia’s governor declared a state of emergency for six of the state’s coastal counties. This declaration was eventually expanded to include 30 counties, then 94 counties, and eventually the entire state by Sept. 10. Overall, more than 540,000 Georgia residents received mandatory evacuation notices. ![Hurricane Irma victims in Florida](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irma-victims-in-Florida.png) Florida residents receive supplies at a temporary shelter housed at Florida International University. Source: Flickr, Florida International University North Carolina followed suit when Governor Roy Cooper declared a state of emergency in conjunction with South Carolina’s governor. Virginia declared a state of emergency on Sept. 8. During and after Hurricane Irma made landfall in the U.S., several states modified laws to allow for medical professionals to practice in other states, with Tennessee leading the way. ## The Aftermath and Recovery The path of Hurricane Irma — including landfalls in the United States, Cuba, the Bahamas, Barbuda, Antigua and Saint Martin — caused not only more than 130 deaths but also devastation to structures, homes, buildings and businesses. ### Antigua and Barbuda In Antigua and Barbuda, Irma began wreaking havoc with structural damage on roofs and downed power lines, ultimately ceasing communication. By the end of the storm’s landfall, 95 percent of the island was deemed uninhabitable by the Prime Minister. Residential blocks were either flattened or submerged as a result of the storm and the only airport on the island was inoperative. The total property damage was assessed from \$150 to \$300 million. One of the primary concerns after the landfall was the island’s wildlife, such as the Barbuda warbler and the largest colony of frigate birds. ![Hurricane Irma St Martin](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irma-St-Martin.png) Hurricane Irma approaches St. Martin, causing damage to structural foundations and leaving the area with excessive flooding. Source: Wikipedia ### Saint Martin When Irma crossed into Saint Martin on Sept. 6, an island-wide blackout occurred as entire structures were swept away, trees were ripped out of the ground and vehicles and roads were submerged. Homes and boats were left in ruins as 95 percent of property in Saint Martin was damaged in some way, causing 60 percent of Saint Martin to be declared uninhabitable. Estimations to restore the area exceed \$1.2 billion. ### Saint Barthelemy Flooding and destruction was all that was left of Saint Barthelemy after Hurricane Irma swept through the area. Entire coastal establishments were erased with buildings reportedly stripped of their foundation. The streets soon appeared to be rushing rivers while many of the homes were destroyed. Estimations of damage topped \$1.44 billion in Saint Barthelemy, marking Irma as the costliest natural disaster to wreak havoc on the French Republic in more than 50 years. ### Anguilla The eyewall of the storm passed over Anguilla, destroying homes, schools and the hospital. The East end took the brunt of the damage as rough seas mutilated the bays and harbors. By the end of the storm, 90 percent of the roads were viewable. ### British Virgin Islands To say that the damage in the British Virgin Islands was catastrophic is an understatement. The island of Tortola faced the hurricane’s core and majority of residential areas in the British Virgin Islands were destroyed. Those left to pick up the pieces were plagued without electricity for more than six months. ![Damage caused by hurricane Irma](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Damage-caused-by-hurricane-Irma.png) Damage to buildings caused by Hurricane Irma in Nanny Cay on the British Virgin Island of Tortola. The Caribbean island suffered widespread damage and destruction when Hurricane Irma passed over on Sept. 6, 2017. Source: Flickr, DFID – UK Department for International Development ### U.S. Virgin Islands More than 12 inches of rain fell as a result of Hurricane Irma in the U.S. Virgin Islands. St. Thomas island, for one, suffered extreme structural damage and local airports, hospitals and ferry services were inoperable. The island was left without electricity as well. ### Puerto Rico Rainstorms ahead of Hurricane Irma attributed to two deaths in Puerto Rico while nearly 80 homes were destroyed and approximately 1 million people lost power. The islands of Vieques and Culebra were declared disaster areas by the governor. ### The Dominican Republic and Haiti Even though Haiti and the Dominican Republic were not directly hit by Hurricane Irma, these areas faced damage from waves and flooding. The Dominican Republic alone reported more than 2,700 damaged homes while mudslides, flooded crops and infrastructure damage plagued Haiti. ![Hurricane Irma Storm Damage](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irma-Storm-Damage.png) Debris lines the roads in Florida following the aftermath of Hurricane Irma. Source: Flickr, Palm Harbor Homes ### Turks and Caicos Islands Powerful winds and a hit from the northern side of Hurricane Irma’s eye resulted in more than 75 percent of roofs destroyed in South Caicos, with damages exceeding \$230 million. Both the Turks and the Caicos Islands faced the powerful storm for more than two hours, leading to damage to the communications infrastructure. ### The Bahamas Damages in the Bahamas were focused primarily on the southern islands. In Great Inagua, more than 70 percent of homes sustained damage while downed power lines made electricity non-existent. Two days later, the northern Bahamas were hit, prompting tornadic activity. The total estimated losses were \$135 million. ### Cuba The northern coast of Cuba sustained significant damage from winds topping 165 mph as Irma made landfall. Approximately 10 deaths were reported and more than \$500 million in damages with approximately 150,000 homes damaged. Tourist areas, such as Cayo Santa Maria and Cayo Guillermo faced the brunt of Irma with flooding caused by rolling waves. One noteworthy effect of Irma was the death of several hundred flamingos in Cayo Coco. ![Hurricane Irmas Path](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irmas-Path.png) Hurricane Irma over Cuba approaching the Gulf of Mexico on Sep. 9, 2017 Source: Flickr, Karl-Ludwig Poggemann ### Florida Although the western panhandle of Florida was spared for the most part, Hurricane Irma’s large wind field produced powerful winds throughout most of Florida. Heavy amounts of rain and winds left more than 7.5 million homes without electricity, making up 70 percent of the state. Topping out as the costliest hurricane in Florida, Irma’s damage was estimated at \$50 billion. The highest death toll resulting from Hurricane Irma was recorded in Florida, with deaths attributed to the storm’s effects including trauma, carbon monoxide poisoning and drowning. The Florida Keys were hit the hardest with surge flooding and strong winds knocking out water and fuel supplies, electricity and communication. ![Hurricane Irma Damage](https://teamcomplete.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Hurricane-Irma-Damage-512x384.png) Hurricane Irma damage on Summerland Key, perhaps the hardest hit Key. Source: Flickr, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Southeast Region ### Georgia Falling debris and trees led to the three deaths in Georgia. In addition, the state reported wind damage, power outages and extensive flooding, especially on Tybee Island and St. Simons Island. ### South Carolina The storm surged up to 10 feet in Charleston, South Carolina, leaving 100,000 without power and five dead due to storm-related issues. ## Finding the Help You Need Regardless of what stage of recovery you are in after facing the devastation of Hurricane Irma, Complete, Inc. can help. As a licensed appraisal/umpire claims firm in Gulf Breeze, we offer industry-leading expertise to help you navigate appraisals and find alternate dispute resolution services. [Contact us today](https://teamcomplete.com/contact/) to learn more about how we can assist you with property appraisal and Hurricane Irma relief.
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