A family in Florida survived Hurricane Helene with minimal damage due to their specially built hurricane-resistant home. Their proactive construction, which included reinforced concrete and high-impact windows, allowed them to shelter safely while many others faced significant losses. Jenny Reimold, the family spokesperson, emphasized the necessity of advanced building techniques and community support in times of disaster.
In the face of Hurricane Helene, which devastated various states in the southeastern United States, a family in Florida successfully weathered the storm due to their hurricane-resistant home. The Reimold family, residing in Crystal Beach, Florida, constructed their house in 2020 with advanced engineering and building codes specifically designed to withstand severe weather. Their home sustained minimal damage during the hurricane, allowing them to shelter safely without the need for evacuation. Since Helene made landfall on September 26, the storm has resulted in over 120 fatalities across several states including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. Jenny Reimold, a media stylist and spokesperson for HomeGoods, explained that the key structural features of their home significantly contributed to its resilience. The foundation utilizes reinforced concrete blocks, while regulations mandate high-impact windows designed to withstand intense hurricane winds. Reimold shared insights into their preparations and the home’s protective measures through a video posted on TikTok. High-impact windows prevented water and debris from breaching their home, while hydrostatic vents equalized pressure to limit water damage. Raised electrical outlets minimized the risk of electrical fires, a crucial preventive measure during severe flooding. “We knew it would flood, but this prevented structural damage,” stated Reimold in her video. Despite facing extensive flooding on the bottom floor, reaching approximately 2.5 feet, the family’s safety features reduced what could have been catastrophic damage. The storm flooded their home’s first floor, resulting in the loss of various belongings; however, the critical structural integrity of their home was maintained, preventing total devastation. Preparations prior to the hurricane included ensuring sufficient food, water, and power backup, as well as having kayaks and an off-road vehicle readily available. While the family experienced losses, including damage to their gym and other recreational areas, they recognized their privilege in having the means to secure their home and family. Reimold acknowledges the broader community’s grief and loss while leading efforts to organize aid for those less fortunate. In addition, she advises maintaining compassion for others, emphasizing that extreme weather preparations entail considerable emotional and logistical challenges. “During those frantic hours, we’re not just preparing to evacuate; we’re caring for our families,” Reimold poignantly articulated.
Hurricane Helene made landfall in late September 2023 and became one of the deadliest storms to hit the southeastern United States, with cascading consequences across states such as Florida, Georgia, and Virginia. The Reimold family’s experience exemplifies how strategically designed homes equipped with advanced features can mitigate the devastating impact of such natural disasters. Given the increasing frequency and severity of hurricanes, discussions around building resilience through improved construction practices are becoming ever more relevant.
The Reimold family serves as a testament to how proactive construction and emergency preparedness can protect lives and property during extreme weather events like Hurricane Helene. Despite facing significant challenges, their well-designed home only sustained minimal damage, underscoring the importance of adopting robust building codes in hurricane-prone areas. The family’s emphasis on community support amid their own struggles highlights the collective effort needed in the aftermath of such disasters.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
