As Hurricane Dorian threatens a direct hit against the coast of Florida over the next few days, Airbnb has launched its “Open Homes Program” to help evacuees find free temporary housing to weather out the storm.
The program started right at the end of August and will be available until September 16. Over 800 Airbnb hosts have opened their doors for the purpose throughout Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama, obviously in areas out of Dorian’s projected path.
“Airbnb’s Open Homes Program continues to be activated for those affected by Hurricane Dorian across the southeast U.S. region,” said Airbnb’s head of Global Disaster Response and Relief, Kellie Bentz. “We encourage hosts to open up their homes, and those who need housing to take advantage of the program.”
The areas where free housing is currently available. Google Maps via Airbnb.
A well-tested operation
This kind of program is not new for the lodging company. Its first iteration came in 2012, when Hurricane Sandy wreaked havoc around the Caribbean—causing over $65 billion in damage. The program was a success, and it has significantly grown since.
Hurricane Dorian stands to be one of the biggest storms ever to hit Florida’s Atlantic coast, with winds nearing 200 mph. It has already caused massive devastation across the Bahamas, and it’s uncertain whether the storm will head north—sparing US shores—or veer west. As Americans prepare for the hit, it’s good to know they’ll at least have safe houses available in case they need them.
You can check all the available listings on Airbnb’s official page.
Check out these other articles:
Hurricane Dorian Will Hit Florida On Tuesday Amid Fears Of Historical Damage
Why Experts Believe A Huge Earthquake Is Coming From The San Andreas Fault
Images And Footage That Show The Massive Earthquake That Hit Alaska
