The effects of Florida's hurricanes

Many Blazers can still remember the effects of Hurricane Isabel which hit the area in the fall of 2002 closing Blair for three days and leaving dozens of people without power for days. As horrible as that was for Maryland, it is nothing compared to the effects that a recent series of hurricanes has had on Florida.

Between Hurricanes Ivan, Charley and Frances Florida has been in a state of disarray for months. According to an article in the Christian Science Monitor the series of storms have left people living things that most 21st-century humans consider necessities.

The article reported that many homes that were not destroyed completely by the strong winds have been without simple necessities such as showers, flushing toilets and air conditioning. About 440,000 homes and businesses remained without power Monday in Florida and Alabama. Statewide, 289 homes and at least 31 businesses were destroyed and 473 other homes severely damaged

Students and teachers are expected to face the consequences of the many canceled school says that resulted from the hurricanes including an extended school year and a loss of holidays, according to the article. One county in central Florida is planning to make up the lots time by extending school days by seven minutes and eliminating early-release days.

Not only has the school calendar been affected but the hurricanes have also affected the state's education budget due to the shutting down of lottery outlets. Forty percent of Florida Lotto revenue goes toward education, but this money has gone down by $13 million as a result of the storms.

Money is an issue in other areas besides education. Simple products such as groceries are expected to see a large increase in prices. Fishermen have lost more than a month of profits due to the hurricane and losses are expected to continue because of lost facilities.

According to a story on Builder Online, The Florida citrus crop has also taken a hit. Charley passed through the citrus belt, laying waste to entire groves of productive trees. Oranges and grapefruits from Florida likely will be in shorter supply.

A Cleveland Newspaper reported that State officials fear that many frail and aging residents have been left susceptible to illness and are going without important medication because of the hurricane, while others have been too stubborn to leave their damaged homes.

Overall, at least 52 deaths in the United States and 70 in the Caribbean are reportedly the result of the hurricanes and its effects.

There are many programs and services that are seeking donations and help so that they may aid Florida in their rebuilding process.

• The Florida Hurricane Relief Fund is seeking any donations to help with the relief effort. Donations can be made online on their website.