Social Media: The Calm After the Storm

With hurricane Harvey and Irma both hitting within the same month, social media became more important than ever to keep people safe, updated, and to raise money for those affected. Before the hurricanes even hit, all forms of social media were blowing up in an effort to warn people of the severity of the natural disasters and to prepare accordingly. Weather channels used Facebook and Instagram to keep everyone updated on the path of the storms, while local governments and police departments posted to warn people about hazards, power outages, and if necessary, evacuations. In addition, companies such as Georgia Power updated customers on power outages and  when customers should expect their power to return. Social media was also able to ease people's minds by allowing those who were in the path of the hurricanes to check in with friends and family to ensure everyone of their safety.

Because the damage of these hurricanes was so severe, many schools, stores, and restaurants were forced to close to keep everyone safe. These businesses used social media to update students and customers of their closings or adjusted hours. UGA posted on its Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter page to inform students that school would be closed on Monday and Tuesday, in addition to an email sent to all students and faculty. Chick-fil-a announced on these same platforms that they would be closing early, and urged customers to visit early in the day to get food. Chicken Salad Chick offered customers with Florida IDs 50% off their meals, and promoted this offer on their various social media platforms to spread the word.

Perhaps one of the most beneficial applications of social media throughout these deadly hurricanes was the power to raise money for those affected. Every time a user opened Facebook, they were asked if they wanted to donate to hurricane relief funds. JJ Watt, defensive end for the Houston Texans, used his social media platform to raise over $31 million for those affected by Hurricane Harvey. Social media and the internet themselves have significantly increased donations for natural disasters. Instead of having to mail in a check to the Red Cross or a similar organization, you can now simply text a number to donate $10, or link your credit card up to a site such as GoFundMe and donate within seconds.

Although these hurricanes were incredibly severe, the power of social media made it so that losses were not as severe as they could have been. By sharing information about the hurricanes and the dangers they imposed, people were able to prepare accordingly and lessen, if not avoid, some of these potential losses. Social media helped to share the stories of those who were not able to avoid losses, and made it quick and easy for people to donate to relief funds to help those who were affected.