Assessing the aftermath: Hurricane Idalia's impact on Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina

Hurricane Idalia caused heavy damage to homes in the fishing village of Horseshoe Beach, Florida, but some residences built on stilts remained relatively unscathed. State building codes, regularly revised to withstand catastrophic weather events, played a significant role in protecting these homes. However, the debate arises between building stronger structures and considering income disparities and the preservation of local culture. The aftermath of Idalia highlights the need for improvements in building codes and the challenges faced by homeowners in raising older residences. Grants may be available for rebuilding, but stricter building codes and insurance requirements may apply. The storm may serve as a turning point in reevaluating how communities rebuild and adapt to climate change.