As I am writing this, a second hurricane (Milton) is forming in the Gulf and taking aim at Florida. The widespread damage from Helene in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, but most notably in Asheville, North Carolina, may far exceed what we saw with Katrina.

It will be weeks before we really have a clear picture of how bad the damage from Helene has been. In the places where it damaged or destroyed critical infrastructure including water processing plants, roads, and bridges, living in these areas may be impossible for not just weeks or months, but even years.

What’s particularly of note is the damage to the quartz mines in Spruce Pines, North Carolina. According to CNN and other news sources, the damage may completely shut down the semi-conductor chip manufacturing business causing a worldwide chip shortage. This impacts almost everything from your appliances, computers, cars, or anything else that relies on semi-conductor chips.

Regardless of how bad it has been and will continue to be, the one positive thing I know about this great country of ours is that when we face an event like this, we band together to help each other, share food, and provide shelter for those whose homes were destroyed.

I also know that many realtors are already on the front lines on the cleanup, raising money for those who have lost everything, and working towards restoring their lives and their communities.

If any of the local charitable organizations in your area are taking clothing, shoes, and types of items for the hurricane victims, clean out your closet and share what you’re not using with those who need it so desperately. You can also contribute to the Red Cross and other known charities who provide disaster assistance.