The American Red Cross has announced it will be flying a drone in an attempt to assess the damages that have accrued since Hurricane Harvey’s arrival in Houston. This will be the first time the Red Cross will use drones as a relief resource. The organization believes its use will be strategic because of the flooding.
The Red Cross currently stands as the United States’ largest nonprofit aid group, and it has been historically known for helping with relief projects since Hurricane Katrina. It will specifically use one drone in a one-week simulation in the areas of Houston that were badly affected by the hurricane. The decision is designed to help areas where transportation is difficult, and in theory, this plan would give the group more opportunities to help those who are in hard-to-reach places.
Hurricane Harvey arrived on Aug. 25 and left a devastating impact around the Houston area. It is proclaimed to be one of the most powerful hurricanes to hit Texas in the past 50 years. There have been 50 reported deaths, with the potential for more as cleanup continues, and the cost of the damage is near $180 billion. The drone not only helps the group provide aid to people, but it also allows the city to make damage assessments. Drone maker CyPhy Works, which is funded by UPS Inc., builds the aircraft. Eduardo Martinez, president and chief diversity and inclusion officer for the UPS Foundation, made the following statement about the foundation’s involvement with Hurricane Harvey relief aid:
“With such catastrophic injury and damage being caused by natural disasters, every minute counts. It’s essential that public and private organizations work together to find new and innovative solutions to support and enhance recovery efforts after a natural disaster strikes. Accurately and quickly assessing the impact is a critical step to help save lives and lay the groundwork for eventual recovery and rebuilding. The UPS Foundation is pleased to bring together, fund and support this effort, in partnership with CyPhy Works and the American Red Cross.”
The hurricane has left thousands of Houston residents without homes and caused billions of dollars worth of damage, but luckily this is the time when relief groups like the Red Cross come in to help those who are in dire need.