Hurricane Katrina may be the second-largest natural disaster in United States history. The area affected covers 90,000 square miles, and nearly 300,000 homes were damaged or destroyed. Around 485,000 people evacuated New Orleans alone, and 120,000+ evacuees were placed in shelters in every state and the District of Columbia. As of 17 September 2005 the death toll stood at a little over 700. More than 43,000 National Guard troops were deployed to the region. About 2,000 health care professionals, active and reserve, have helped to treat and evacuate 10,000 people with illnesses and injuries, as well as assisting with public health and prevention issues.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has an informative web page devoted to hurricane recovery. The health effects of a hurricane can be dangerous and widespread. This web page contains valuable resources about prevention of illness and injury; food, water and clean up safety; mental health support; and much more. Click here to read more...
Hurricane Katrina Resources
To make a donation or volunteer:
American Red Cross: 1-866-HELP NOW
Mississippi Donations Hotline: 1-866-230-8903
Federal Emergency Management Agency Hurricane Katrina Donations Hotline: 1-800-440-6728
Families of Deployed Soldiers affected by the Hurricane are asked to call the National Guard Bureau Family Program at 1-888-777-7731 to let Family members know of their whereabouts. Deployed Soldiers may call as well to request information.
SAMHSA Sets Crisis Hotline for Persons Affected by Hurricane - Profound sadness, grief, and anger are normal reactions that many people may be experiencing in the wake of hurricane Katrina, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services wants people in crisis to know they can call a hotline and speak to a trained counselor in one of the local crisis centers across the country.
Army Reserve Family members and Soldiers affected by Hurricane Katrina can still access Hurricane Relief Information. Read More...
Katrina Teleconsultation Support for Physicians
The U.S. Army established a teleconsultation program for deployed physicians of all branches of the military in 2004. This service is now available to all DoD, Public Health Service and FEMA healthcare professionals supporting Hurricane Katrina relief operations. Click here for more information.
