More than 500 Red Cross disaster responders have deployed to both Florida and Georgia that were affected by Hurricane Idalia, which made landfall Wednesday, August 30. They are pre-positioning 45 specialty response vehicles and truckloads of supplies in order to set up distribution sites and shelters, enough to support 20,000 individuals.

Red Cross post-storm shelters are available for people who have been evacuated and are unable to reach their homes or whose homes are unlivable. Post-storm shelters typically open within 72 hours after landfall and provide sleeping support items such as cots, blankets and pillows, meals, shower facilities, medical services, and other support services.

At a shelter in Valdosta, Georgia, resident Barbara R. Curl found herself feeling incredibly welcomed and comforted by Red Cross shelter staff. Ming Yao, in particular, took an interest in Barbara’s well-being. “He has been so loving, everyone has been so kind, and I am so pleased with the staff, I promise,” said Barbara. Barbara’s home sustained severe damages caused by Idalia and she was very appreciative to have had the Red Cross to lean on until she can return home safely.

According to scientists, the climate crisis is making hurricanes worse in the United States by increasing their intensity. As extreme weather increases, more people need help from the Red Cross. Find out more about the Red Cross and its work on the climate crisis at redcross.org/climate.

To ensure people have a safe place to stay during Idalia, Red Cross disaster workers and community partners are opening and supporting evacuation centers and shelters. Anyone who needs a safe place to go can find information on redcross.org, the free Red Cross Emergency app or by calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

Written by Dariana Molina/American Red Cross

Photo by Scott Dalton/American Red Cross