This four-part series gives a glimpse of the Valley before, during and after the hurricane through the interweaved story of a Rio Grande Valley family caught in the many storms of life. (Published originally in The Valley Morning Star, Harlingen, on the eve of the 2006 Hurricane Season.)
THE EYE: STORM FRONT
While several hurricanes have hit the Rio Grande Valley, the one that came in 1933 caused the most damage in terms of human life and suffering, with 40 dead and 500 injured. The economic damage of about $17 million ($230 million in today’s money) was also significant, given that the Valley was trying to recover from the Great Depression.
EDITOR'S NOTE: In September 1933, the Rio Grande Valley was struck by Storm No. 11, causing 40 deaths, 500 injuries and $17 million in damages. Over the next four days, a series of articles will chronicle the events surrounding Hurricane No. 11 through the eyes of a San Benito family — the Tanamachis.
*Part One: Storm Front
A snapshot of life in the Valley as a world war and a new hurricane season loom.
*Part Two: Landfall
Late plans for shelter, facing the storm, early accounts of damage.
*Part Three: Aftermath
Government and relief agencies join recovery efforts.
*Part Four: Recovery and War
Long-term recovery efforts and World War II.
