The Hurricane Ida timeline is a detailed account of the storm's progression, from its formation in the Caribbean to its devastating impact on the United States. Hurricane Ida was a Category 4 hurricane that made landfall in Louisiana on August 29, 2021. The storm's timeline is crucial in understanding the events leading up to the disaster and the subsequent response efforts.
Formation and Early Development
Hurricane Ida formed on August 26, 2021, as a tropical wave in the Caribbean Sea. The system quickly strengthened into a tropical depression and later became a tropical storm as it moved westward towards the Gulf of Mexico. On August 27, Ida intensified into a Category 1 hurricane with sustained winds of 75 mph. The storm’s rapid intensification was fueled by the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico, which had sea surface temperatures of around 86°F (30°C).
Track and Intensification
As Ida continued to move northwestward, it encountered a favorable environment for intensification, characterized by low wind shear and high moisture. The storm’s central pressure dropped to 946 mbar, and its sustained winds increased to 150 mph, making it a Category 4 hurricane. Ida’s storm surge, which is a rise in sea level due to the storm, was estimated to be around 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) above ground level.
| Date | Time | Category | Sustained Winds | Central Pressure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| August 26, 2021 | 12:00 PM EDT | Tropical Depression | 35 mph | 1008 mbar |
| August 27, 2021 | 12:00 PM EDT | Tropical Storm | 50 mph | 1002 mbar |
| August 27, 2021 | 6:00 PM EDT | Category 1 Hurricane | 75 mph | 987 mbar |
| August 28, 2021 | 12:00 PM EDT | Category 2 Hurricane | 100 mph | 965 mbar |
| August 29, 2021 | 12:00 PM EDT | Category 4 Hurricane | 150 mph | 946 mbar |
Landfall and Impact
Hurricane Ida made landfall in Louisiana on August 29, 2021, at 12:00 PM CDT, with sustained winds of 150 mph. The storm’s eye passed over the city of Galliano, Louisiana, causing widespread destruction and power outages. The storm surge flooded coastal areas, including the city of New Orleans, which was still recovering from the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina in 2005.
Response and Recovery Efforts
The response to Hurricane Ida was swift, with emergency crews and aid workers deployed to affected areas. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provided assistance to affected communities, including food, water, and shelter. The recovery efforts were ongoing for several months, with a focus on rebuilding damaged infrastructure and providing support to affected residents.
- The American Red Cross provided shelter and food to over 10,000 people affected by the storm.
- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers worked to repair and restore damaged levees and flood control structures.
- The Louisiana Department of Education provided support to schools affected by the storm, including temporary relocation and mental health services.
What was the storm surge from Hurricane Ida?
+The storm surge from Hurricane Ida was estimated to be around 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) above ground level.
How many people were affected by Hurricane Ida?
+Over 1 million people were affected by Hurricane Ida, with many more impacted by the storm's aftermath.
In conclusion, the Hurricane Ida timeline provides a detailed account of the storm’s progression and impact. The storm’s rapid intensification and devastating effects on Louisiana and surrounding areas serve as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and emergency planning in the face of natural disasters.
