Post Irma, The FL Keys Were Hit Hard But Coming Back Strong

October 30, 2017 — Reposted with permission from JungleRedWriters.com Blog

LUCY BURDETTE: Lots of people have asked me how the Florida Keys and Key West are faring after Hurricane Irma roared through. Friday was the first day we were able to see for ourselves. Honestly, it was a bit of a grim ride south, especially the area stretching from Marathon through Big Pine, where the eye blew across the islands. The road is still lined with piles of trash, boats washed ashore, and mind-boggling deposits of
appliances and mattresses. I’ll show you a little of what we saw…

We saw many trucks loading up the trash and heading north–but it will be a while before things get back to normal. Quite a few people lost their homes in the middle Keys, and are struggling to figure out where and how to find a new home. Unfortunately, this debris represents many sad stories, lost fortunes, and difficulty ahead. The devastation will have an effect on businesses attempting to open without their full complement of employees or customers. There is definitely a push and pull between welcoming tourists, which the Keys economy depends on, and allowing the residents to recover from the storm.

Key West, on the other hand, was lucky to avoid Irma’s worst wrath. The town lost big trees and vegetation, so it appears lighter and a little more bare than it did. However, this is Fantasy Fest weekend, one of the biggest parties of the year. And the spirit of the Keys is still strong. These photos from Friday’s locals’ parade show that Key West residents will not let a hurricane dampen their imagination and playfulness!

Matt and Leigh blast off!
We’re not in Kansas anymore A small contingent from a gaggle of Chers Hula hoop skirts Who could resist a guy in polka dots

And here are just a few shots from the big Saturday night parade–the hurricane theme was very strong…
Big Pine float Float made up of Irma debris

We’re so grateful that the islands and our friends survived…

Note: Many, many people lost their homes and livelihood in the aftermath of this year’s hurricanes in Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico, and other islands. If you can help , here is a link to the Charity Navigator, where you can research reputable charitable outfits that can help (be careful, research carefully and don’t get scammed!)

About Lucy Burdette
Lucy Burdette is the author of the Key West food critic mysteries–a cozy, culinary mystery series, which debuted with AN APPETITE FOR MURDER. Her books can be found in bookstores and online at Amazon. She also happens to be married to Mr. Topretirements (lucky for him)!