Puerto Ricans who survived Hurricane Maria seven years ago and are now living in Florida are not only grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, but they are also coping with the emotions that come when reminded of one of the deadliest and most devastating tragedies. Cecilia Rosa De Leon, who survived Maria, described it as one of the most traumatizing experiences of her life. She took precautions during Hurricane Milton, such as boarding up windows and stocking up on food and flashlights in preparation for the storm. The experience of surviving Maria has left her cautious and prepared for any potential disasters that may occur.
De Leon was in Puerto Rico during Hurricane Maria, living with her family in a house in a mountainous area. The intensity of the storm caused windows to burst and flood the home, leaving them unprepared for the aftermath. After the storm, they found that some of their neighbors had not survived. This experience taught De Leon the importance of being prepared for hurricanes and the devastating consequences that can result from underestimating the intensity of such natural disasters.
The aftermath of Hurricane Maria claimed the lives of almost 3,000 people in Puerto Rico, becoming the deadliest hurricane in the United States in 100 years. Research showed that many died due to delayed or interrupted medical care as a result of the long blackout that followed the storm. Hurricane Milton made landfall as a Category 3 storm, causing widespread power outages and claiming at least nine lives. The similarities between Milton and Maria have triggered emotional responses from Puerto Ricans in Florida who have vivid memories of surviving the devastation caused by Maria.
Shailier Figueroa, a survivor of Hurricane Maria who now lives in Florida, described the panic and sense of deja vu that she felt as she prepared for Hurricane Milton. Many Puerto Ricans who relocated to Florida after Maria have been stocking up on supplies since August in anticipation of the hurricane season. Jesús Eduardo Aponte Feliciano, who survived Maria as a teenager, faced his first hurricane as an adult during Hurricane Milton in Florida. Memories of the hardships faced during Maria, such as living without power and water, have resurfaced in his mind, but he has prepared and decided to stay in Florida to work and help others in need.
While many Puerto Ricans eventually returned to the island after Maria, thousands relocated to states like Florida for safety, economic opportunities, and a chance to rebuild their lives. Facing Hurricane Milton has brought back memories of the trauma and loss experienced during Maria, leading many survivors to prepare diligently for the potential impacts of the storm. The resilience and strength of these survivors are evident as they confront the aftermath of Hurricane Milton with caution, preparedness, and a determination to help others in need.
