1933 Treasure Coast hurricane

Introduction

The 1933 Treasure Coast hurricane was a powerful and destructive tropical cyclone that struck the southeastern coast of the United States in late August and early September 1933. This hurricane, also known as the Great Hurricane of 1933, caused significant damage and loss of life along the Treasure Coast of Florida. It serves as a reminder of the devastating impact that hurricanes can have on coastal communities.

Meteorological history

The 1933 Treasure Coast hurricane originated from a tropical wave that moved off the coast of Africa in late August 1933. As it traveled across the Atlantic Ocean, the system gradually organized and intensified. On August 29, the storm reached hurricane strength and was named the Treasure Coast hurricane.

The hurricane continued to strengthen as it moved westward towards the Caribbean Sea. By September 1, it had become a major hurricane with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph (195 km/h). The storm then made a sharp turn to the northwest, heading towards the Florida coast.

Impact

The Treasure Coast of Florida, which includes the counties of Martin, St. Lucie, and Indian River, bore the brunt of the hurricane's impact. The storm made landfall near Stuart, Florida, on September 4, 1933, with sustained winds of 120 mph (195 km/h). The storm surge associated with the hurricane caused extensive flooding along the coast, submerging low-lying areas and destroying many homes and buildings.

The strong winds of the hurricane also caused widespread damage. Trees were uprooted, power lines were knocked down, and roofs were torn off buildings. The combination of high winds and heavy rain resulted in significant agricultural losses, particularly in the citrus industry.

Response and aftermath

In the aftermath of the 1933 Treasure Coast hurricane, relief efforts were launched to assist the affected communities. The American Red Cross provided emergency supplies and assistance to those in need. Local and state authorities worked together to restore power, clear debris, and rebuild damaged infrastructure.

The hurricane served as a wake-up call for improved hurricane preparedness and response measures. In the years following the storm, coastal communities implemented stricter building codes and improved evacuation plans to better protect residents from future hurricanes.

See also

• List of Florida hurricanes
• Hurricane preparedness

External links

• National Hurricane Center - 1933 Treasure Coast hurricane report
• Florida Memory - 1933 Treasure Coast hurricane photographs