Hurricane Milton: Fil-Am leader recounts ‘terrifying’ experience, shares insights
NEW YORK — Hurricane Milton, a powerful storm that ravaged Florida just weeks after hurricane Helene, has left the state reeling. With widespread damage and ongoing recovery efforts, the impact on Floridians is profound.
For Filipino Americans, the challenges are compounded by a sense of déjà vu and the urgency to support the community. This interview delves into the experiences of Brendan Flores, a prominent national leader in the Fil-Am community, as he navigates the aftermath of Hurricane Milton.
Brendan, based in Florida, shares his personal struggles, the resilience of the Fil-Am community, and his insights on the importance of preparation and community support in the face of increasingly frequent and intense hurricanes.
Coping with Hurricane Milton
Brendan Flores describes the current situation: “It’s been very challenging for the community to cope with Hurricane Milton. Many have yet to return home to assess the full extent of the damage. The emotional and physical toll will be heavy, and the community will need to rely on each other while working with local and state agencies to secure much-needed resources.”
He emphasizes that they are still in the early stages of organizing support, which includes collaborating with organizations such as the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) and The PUSO Foundation. They are exploring ways to provide financial assistance and volunteer opportunities for cleanup efforts.
Experiencing the Storm
On being asked if this was the worst storm he has faced in Florida, Brendan answers, “Yes, this has been the worst storm I’ve experienced here, especially given the aftermath of Hurricane Helene just two weeks ago. It’s been a period of relentless destruction.”
He explains the terrifying experience he faced when the storm made landfall near his home: “The winds were over 110 mph, making it impossible to sleep. It felt like living in a horror movie, with power flickering and the front door almost blowing open. Currently, 3 to 4 million people in Florida are without power, and at least 10 people have been confirmed dead.”
Challenges Facing the Community
When asked about specific challenges, Brendan shares, “The challenges are numerous, from financial burdens of repairs to the emotional toll of dealing with back-to-back storms. Recently, I learned of a kababayan in her 70s who tragically lost her life when a tree fell on her.”
He reflects on the needs of their elders in the Fil-Am community and the importance of demonstrating the spirit of bayanihan, their tradition of coming together to support one another during difficult times.
The Susceptibility of Florida to Hurricanes
Brendan discusses why Florida is prone to hurricanes. “Its geographic location places it right in the path of storms forming in the Atlantic, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean. Global warming is indeed an undeniable factor contributing to more frequent and intense storms.”
He suggests practical measures residents can take, such as creating an emergency plan, gathering a supply kit, and ensuring that homes are properly secured. “It’s essential to stay informed through weather updates to ensure preparedness,” he advises.
Seeking Assistance
While Brendan notes he has not received personal assistance from local agencies yet, he appreciates the proactive measures taken by state and federal officials. He encourages the community to leverage available resources for much-needed support during recovery efforts.
Lessons Learned
“One key lesson from previous storms is the value of early preparation and open communication,” he explains. “Residents have begun taking warnings more seriously, and this shift in attitude potentially saves lives.”
Considering Relocation
Brendan reflects on the potential of relocating due to the increasing frequency of storms. “I’ve thought about moving to cities like New York or Texas, driven by personal and professional considerations. Ultimately, it’s about balancing love for the place with practicality.”
A Message of Resilience
Brendan’s message to fellow Floridians and the broader Filipino American community is one of solidarity and support: “Stay strong and be kind to one another. Let’s show the true spirit of bayanihan, helping one another during these challenging times.”
“Utilize the available resources and assistance. Together, we will rebuild and emerge stronger.”
