Topline
President Joe Biden warned Sunday of the devastation that Hurricane Ida will cause. This category four storm, with sustained winds up to 150 mph, made landfall in Louisiana shortly after noon.
The US President Joe Biden talks about Hurricane Ida in a visit to FEMA Headquarters, Washington, DC, August 29, 2021. - Sunday's hurricane Ida, a strong Category 4 storm that struck Louisiana, was 16 years after Hurricane Katrina destroyed New Orleans. The National Hurricane Center issued an advisory saying that Category 4 Hurricane Ida made landfall near Port Fourchon in Louisiana. (Photo taken by SAUL LOEB / AFP). (Photo taken by SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Images). AFP via Getty Images
The Key Facts
Biden gave a briefing about Hurricane Sandy at FEMA Headquarters in Washington, D.C. He said that it was important to be realistic about the potential damage and urged residents of Louisiana, Mississippi, and other affected states to listen to officials. The federal government will continue to provide all necessary support to handle any future storms.
Important Background
Biden made the previously-unannounced detour at FEMA headquarters as he was traveling back to the White House from a dignified transfer in Dover, Delaware, for 13 U.S. troops killed in Afghanistan last week.
Big Number
2.5 million. Biden stated that 3 million liters of water and 2.5 million meals were prepared to help survivors. He added that the government had also prepared backup generators and more than 100 ambulances for emergency medical teams, as well as dozens of shelters.
Tangent
Biden stated that he wasn't supposed to answer any questions after his remarks, but called upon a reporter to ask about the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan. Biden said, "I'm not going to answer Afghanistan now," before stepping off the podium.
