We all have memories of the storm that changed everything ten years ago--Hurricane Katrina. But of course, there have been storms that changed things for decades around Louisiana. Here is one you may not have realized!
While many believe that Hurricane Katrina was the most deadly hurricane to ever strike the Gulf Coast, there was actually an earlier storm that proved to be more deadly.
Known as the Cheniere Caminada hurricane, it was one of three huge storms that came to pass in the 1893 season. The Cheniere Caminada hurricane was particularly deadly because it came so unexpected—striking in October, well after the usual time for storms.
Approximately 1500 people lived in Cheniere Caminada when the storm struck on October 2nd, 1893.
This close-knit fishing community was completely inundated with water and 779 people died. Of the towns 400 buildings, only 4 remained standing.
As the storm made its way through southeast Louisiana, it is estimated that over 2000 people lost their lives.
This makes this storm one of the most deadly to strike the United States in all of its history.
The path of the storm can be seen below, and included a hard hit to Grand Isle.
The writer Kate Chopin was said to be influenced by this event, which came up in her stories in the years to come.
Adjusted for inflation, the storm caused over $102.6 million in damage, primarily to the orange and rice crop.
This deadly storm shall never be forgotten.
This incredible storm truly changed everything in this area and made sure life was never the same.
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