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Hurricanes change minds - 19th October 2022

Florida is a paradise for millions of Americans. But hurricanes can make it a nightmare. A category four hurricane, hurricane Ian, destroyed many areas on 28th September. Ian blew strong winds, flooded many homes and killed 30 people.

Residents in Cape Coral are cleaning up the damage. But some, like Kenneth Lowe, love Florida too much to leave. 

Kenneth Lowe: "Southwest Florida's my heaven on earth. And hurricanes come with South Florida so, you know, you just gotta kind of take it. And I'm willing to take that – it's my favourite place, you know. It's worth it. Just got to kind of have insurance, be prepared and do the smart, make the smart decision."

Florida's hit by a lot of hurricanes. Scientists are unsure if the number of hurricanes will increase. But, they're certain they'll be bigger and stronger. They say climate change is responsible. 

Tamar Lang hopes they've got another 100 years before the next big hurricane. 

Tamara Lang: "The community's been great. The neighbours have been great. Gotten to know more people since we've even gotten here – just people helping. So, we'll just rebuild and, and you know, move on, hopefully. Hopefully, it'll be another 100 years before the next one. Next big one, I should say."

Cape Coral is built in an area which floods easily. Scientists predict that in the next 30 years, sea levels will rise 14-18 inches. Authorities are now thinking seriously about where they choose to build homes. 

After the destruction of hurricane Ian, some residents are thinking about moving. But others refuse to leave the Sunshine State. 

Irene Giordano: "We have nowhere to go. I mean we could, we've, well I mean, we have places to go. But I, I just, you know, my mom's here – I just don't know. Don't have really any desire, in, in some ways, I – it's hard to say. It just, it just, it's just hard to describe."

Christopher Tuscan: "I think we're gonna try get this place back together. I mean, we've been here since '68. I mean, it's one in a million, and it got us good."