On September 19, Hurricane Irma brought tragedy to Puerto Rico. The U.S. territory faced $1 billion in damage by the level 4 storm, causing Puerto Ricans to fall further into bankruptcy. The streets are still covered in debris and remnants from this natural disaster.

With a level 5 hurricane on the way, Puerto Rico went into a state of panic. Hurricane Maria hit the territory last Wednesday morning with winds that reached up to 175 mph.

The hurricane already killed one man in Guadeloupe and has sent Puerto Rico further into debt. Along with that, concerns are arising around the environment and economy in terms of farming.

“I don’t think many people realize how massive and serious Hurricane Maria is,” sophomore Georgia Weed said. “It’s really scary to think about how much irreversible damage it will do.”

In 1928, San Felipe, a similar type hurricane struck Puerto Rico. Eighth Grade Spanish teacher Marcie Frasz recalls her grandmother telling her stories of the atrocities of this storm, the devastation it brought to the people. Frasz not only grew up in Puerto Rico but also has a cousin currently living there.  

As of now, there are around 500 shelters open post-Maria. Still, Puerto Rico is in need of increased aid and new financing in terms of the aftermath.

Community members interested in lending a hand can donate warm weather clothing and footwear through a drive being run by the Upper School Social Justice Committee, which set up boxes in and around the school. “People are always going to be in need,” Frasz said. “Parker should be very aware of that.”