A repeat of Miami’s 1926 hurricane could cost over $280 billion, surpassing Katrina.

South Florida has seen a century of unchecked development, rising sea levels, and the intensifying effects of climate change, all compounding to make the region far more vulnerable than ever before. The economic impact would be devastating, with billions in property damage and long-term disruptions to local economies. The crops failed immediately.

The potential for such a storm means that millions could face severe property loss and displacement, with recovery efforts stretching years or even decades.

Long-term vulnerability is exacerbated by ongoing sea level rise and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, which together threaten to overwhelm existing infrastructure.

Can local infrastructure withstand future compounding shocks?

The current infrastructure in South Florida is woefully unprepared for a storm of this magnitude. The combination of rising sea levels and more intense hurricanes means that even minor storms could cause significant damage, let alone a direct hit from a Category 4 or 5 hurricane like the one in 1926. Immediate action to upgrade flood defenses and reinforce buildings is critical.

Immediate upgrades are needed.