Hurricane Ian , Could End Up Causing , $65 Billion in Damage.
ABC reports that Hurricane Ian has already done devastating damage after making landfall in Florida, and the storm is still raging.
After briefly dropping to tropical storm strength, Ian climbed back to Category 1 status as it approached South Carolina.
According to a projection by data firm Enki Research, the economic damage caused by the hurricane could reach up to $65 billion.
Enki Research's estimate suggests the best-case scenario for storm damage would be $55 billion.
ABC reports that the projected cost is less than half of the damage caused by Hurricane Katrina, which totaled $161 billion.
Hurricane Ian demolished homes and businesses, damaged vital infrastructure and has harmed citrus fruit trees, a key industry in the state.
ABC reports that Florida makes up 70% of all citrus fruits produced in the United States.
On September 29, President Joe Biden approved a major disaster declaration for the state, permitting additional federal assistance for Florida.
On September 29, President Joe Biden approved a major disaster declaration for the state, permitting additional federal assistance for Florida.
Biden vowed the federal government's full support in clearing the debris, assessing the damage caused by the storm and rebuilding public structures.
ABC reports that over 8,700 people have already registered for aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA.
ABC reports that over 8,700 people have already registered for aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA
