Hurricane Irma Sucked the Life out of Barbuda Island Entirely

Hurricane Irma was one of the most destructive moments of this year’s cyclone season in the United States and the Caribbean islands. While it decimated the community and infrastructure in Florida, the storm did something more terrible when it swept the Barbuda Island on September 6. It drove the remaining inhabitants that were the last guardians of a 300-year culture away. As a result, the piece of heaven became uninhabitable for the first time in centuries.

The Economy in Barbuda Island Relied Mostly on Tourism

The Antigua and Barbuda ambassador to the United States, Ronald Sanders, announced some terrible news. The Caribbean island he represents was devoid of life after Hurricane Irma left it behind. The official is calling this tragedy a humanitarian disaster.

“For the first time in 300 years, there’s not a single living person on the island of Barbuda.”

Antigua and Barbuda can be found at the meeting line between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. In July, the population of this British Commonwealth was estimated at 94,731. Nonetheless, 97% of locals are living on the Antigua side.

The people on the Barbuda Island heavily depend on tourism as their main source of income. This industry makes up for 60% of the region’s gross domestic product which is fuelled by extensive service businesses. However, the infrastructure is all part of the past.

Hurricane Irma Caused $250 Million Worth of Damages Making All Inhabitants Leave Their Homes behind

When the hurricane reached this corner of the world, it somehow avoided Antigua. Unfortunately, the strong winds put all constructions to the ground in Barbuda.

The disaster caused one fatal victim. At least 1,700 locals managed to escape the Barbuda catastrophe and take refuge in Antigua. Nonetheless, their homes were wiped off the face of the Earth leaving them stranded to uncertainty.

The government plans to rebuild the island and revive its unique local culture. However, these efforts will take time. The small community that grew up on this isolated yet pristine island needs international assistance to mend their roots. Sanders claimed that Irma caused $250 million worth of damages.
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