Puerto Ricans who survived Hurricane Maria in 2017 are now living in Florida and facing the aftermath of Hurricane Milton. The memories of Maria, one of the deadliest and most devastating tragedies for many, are resurfacing as they prepare for the impacts of Milton. Cecilia Rosa De Leon, who survived Maria in Puerto Rico, recalled the trauma of the experience and how it has informed her cautious approach to preparing for hurricanes now.
De Leon and others stocked up on supplies and sealed their homes to endure Milton, drawing upon the lessons learned from their experiences during Maria. The emotional toll of losing loved ones and witnessing the destruction left behind by Maria has left a lasting impact on them. Many Puerto Ricans who left the island in the aftermath of Maria have made Florida their new home, seeking safety, economic opportunities, and a chance to rebuild their lives.
Facing Milton brought back memories of the devastation caused by Maria, leading many to reflect on the importance of being prepared for natural disasters. Jesús Eduardo Aponte Feliciano, who was a teenager during Maria, emphasized the need to take even the smallest hurricanes seriously and to always be prepared. As they braced for the impact of Milton, these survivors were determined to face the storm with resilience and readiness, knowing the challenges that come with such catastrophic events.
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