The Effects of Hurricane Fiona on Puerto Rico—and How to Offer Support

As rains and floods continued to pose a threat to communities across Puerto Rico on Thursday, residents began assessing the devastation caused by Hurricane Fiona, which swept through the island on Sunday, leaving most residents without power and water.

By Thursday morning, authorities reported that they had restored power to nearly 500,000 of the island's 1.47 million customers, but Governor Pedro Pierluisi cautioned that it could take days before everyone regains electricity. Over 400,000 individuals in Puerto Rico were still without water service as residents queued for hours to fill containers from water trucks, while others collected water from mountain runoff.

The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced this week that it has dispatched additional teams to aid the hundreds of personnel already on site, as the agency worked to evaluate the damage and identify additional resources needed. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has also declared a public health emergency on the island and sent teams to the territory.

The National Weather Service indicated on Wednesday that flooding remained a significant concern due to persistent rainfall following the hurricane. Some regions of the island had recorded over 25 inches of rain, with more anticipated in the coming days.

Governor Pierluisi stated that it would take at least a week for officials to assess the damage caused by Fiona, describing the destruction as "catastrophic," particularly in the island's central, southern, and southeastern areas.

Officials reported on Tuesday that at least 500 individuals were still taking refuge in shelters across the island.

Although Puerto Rico has been the most severely impacted, it is not the only Caribbean island facing damage. The storm also forced over 1,550 people in the Dominican Republic to seek refuge in shelters, leaving more than 406,500 homes without power.

The storm struck the Turks and Caicos Islands on Tuesday as a Category 3 hurricane and was intensifying into a Category 4 hurricane as it approached Bermuda, where it is predicted to make landfall on Friday, according to the Hurricane Center.

Ways to assist the people of Puerto Rico

For those observing the devastation through Dinogo and wondering how to lend a hand, several prominent organizations are actively involved in the recovery efforts. Alongside major aid organizations like Red Cross, there are grassroots initiatives in Puerto Rico making a significant impact on the ground.

Taller Salud

This women-led organization is dedicated to supporting women who are survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Taller Salud also equips the community with emergency management resources and is distributing food, water filters, and diapers in the wake of Hurricane Fiona.

SBP Puerto Rico

Established in response to Hurricane Maria in 2017, SBP Puerto Rico assists families in repairing and rebuilding their damaged homes. "Our team works on 8 to 12 homes daily, advancing recovery construction through our construction model inspired by the Toyota Production System, trained AmeriCorps members, and dedicated volunteers," the organization states on its website. SBP has supported over 200 families and anticipates many more will require help in securing safe housing after Hurricane Fiona. They are also seeking volunteers and funding.

Ayuda Legal

This valuable resource offers Puerto Rican residents free access to legal information, helping them understand the legal options available for obtaining assistance, especially following crises or natural disasters like Hurricane Fiona. It aims to empower those who cannot afford an attorney by providing clear and comprehensible legal guidance for self-advocacy in legal matters.

Puerto Rican Civic Club

Based in San Jose, California, this nonprofit social club for Puerto Ricans is actively fundraising for solar lights, propane, and gas generators for those in need in Puerto Rico. Donors can contribute funds or directly purchase items from a list provided by the organization, which will be collected and distributed by staff at the designated address in Puerto Rico.

PR x PR

Established by Puerto Rican business leaders, PR x PR is a nonprofit organization with zero overhead costs, ensuring that every dollar donated goes directly to communities in need. Their aid initiatives prioritize providing food, clean water, and energy.

Reporting contributed by the Associated Press.