The United States’ Tsunami

The effects of Hurricane Katrina on our environment, economy,

and citizens.

Katrina the Killer

Over the past few days, most of us have seen and/or felt the effects of Hurricane Katrina. However, the long term effects of the catastrophe will be felt for many years to come. What effects will be felt?

What are hurricanes?

Hurricanes are cyclones that develop over tropical water with winds above 75 mph. Circulate clock wise in Northern Hemisphere.

What are Hurricanes?, cont

Hurricanes get their energy from warm waters and high humidities in the areas of the Caribbean and South Atlantic Sea. Low amounts of wind shear in developing hurricane complexes also contribute to their formation.

Hurricane Zones

The zones in yellow, orange, and red are zones where hurricanes can form, mainly due to warm water.

Mayor of Biloxi’s Office

QuickTime™ and aSorenson Video 3 decompressorare needed to see this picture.

Effects of Katrina

There will be environmental effects– Drinking water will be unsafe for perhaps

months to come. Sewage system floods Spoiled food rotting and contaminating the

water Toxic materials and agricultural products Stagnant waters might draw dehydrating

diseases, such as cholera and typhoid.

Environmental Effects, cont

Water may contaminate medications and food supplies for months to come

Foreign animals and bacteria might also become a problem. Alligators might be roaming the streets of New Orleans or Biloxi right now or very soon.

Effects of Katrina

There will be social effects– The entire of cities of New Orleans, Biloxi,

and Gulfport are deserted. What does that do to the job market there and the surrounding areas.

– Looting and lawlessness are everywhere– New roaming society; thousands moving to

Houston’s Astrodome.

Economic effects

Millions of people have left the areas where they are productive citizens.

Banks, tourism, and use as a port city describe this area.

Example: Casinos in MS area employ 14,000 people and generate $13 billion in revenue each year.

Economic Effects, cont.

As a port, the gulf area may be as important as any in this country.

More than anything, this area will not be part of this nation’s economy for at least a month, but more likely a few months.

A telethon, similar to the one after the tsunami disaster, is already being planned.

The immediately effects of the hurricane can already be felt here by the following:

In Closing

The extent of this disaster may not be known for months, but know that it will affect us all. Whether one of the thousands feared dead is a relative or you just see images, no one should ever doubt the power of Mother Nature and always show her respect.