Norwegian Sky is a Sun -class cruise ship owned and operated by Norwegian Cruise Line . She was originally ordered by Costa Cruises as Costa Olympia from the Bremer Vulkan shipyard in Germany , but she was completed in 1999 by the Lloyd Werft shipyard in Bremerhaven , Germany for the Norwegian Cruise Line under the name Norwegian Sky . Between 2004 and 2008, she sailed as Pride of Aloha for NCL America .
121-599: The ship that eventually became known as Norwegian Sky was originally ordered in December 1993 by Costa Cruises from the Bremer Vulkan shipyard as their yard number 108 in Bremen , Germany as the second in a pair of sister ships. The first sister, Costa Victoria , was delivered on July 10, 1996. Construction of the second sister, Costa Olympia , had started several months before, but by July 1996, Bremer Vulkan
242-676: A Cayo Guillermo resort were evacuated by helicopter. The NHC issued several watches and warnings for the Southeastern United States . The first watches and warnings were issued at 15:00 UTC on September 7, which was a hurricane watch from the Jupiter Inlet to Bonita Beach , including the Florida Keys and Lake Okeechobee . The watches and warnings were extended into Georgia and South Carolina on September 9. At 21:00 UTC on that day,
363-537: A tropical wave near the Cape Verde Islands on August 30. Favorable conditions allowed Irma to rapidly intensify into a Category 3 hurricane on the Saffir–Simpson wind scale by late on August 31. The storm's intensity fluctuated between Categories 2 and 3 for the next several days, due to a series of eyewall replacement cycles . On September 4, Irma resumed intensifying, becoming
484-773: A Category 4 hurricane at 06:00 UTC on September 10, as deep convection improved and the eye became better defined. The cyclone made landfall in Cudjoe Key, Florida , at 13:00 UTC on September 10, at Category 4 intensity, with winds of 130 mph (210 km/h). Increasing wind shear and land interaction caused the satellite appearance of the storm to become ragged later that day, and Irma weakened to Category 3 intensity before making its seventh and final landfall at 19:30 UTC, in Marco Island, Florida , with sustained winds of 115 mph (185 km/h). Once Irma had moved inland, it began to accelerate to
605-673: A Category 4 hurricane, but the storm re-attained Category 5 status before making landfall in Cuba . Although Irma briefly weakened to a Category 2 storm while making landfall on Cuba, the system re-intensified to Category 4 status as it crossed the warm waters of the Straits of Florida , before making landfall on Cudjoe Key on September 10. Irma then weakened to Category 3 status, prior to another landfall in Florida on Marco Island later that day. The system degraded into
726-433: A Category 5 hurricane by early on the next day. Early on September 6, Irma peaked with 1-minute sustained winds of 180 mph (290 km/h) and a minimum pressure of 914 hPa (27.0 inHg). Irma was the second-most intense tropical cyclone worldwide in 2017 in terms of barometric pressure, and the strongest worldwide in 2017 in terms of wind speed. Another eyewall replacement cycle caused Irma to weaken back to
847-619: A combined €1.2 billion (US$ 1.43 billion) in insured losses across the French territories of Saint-Martin and Saint Barts. This total covered private property such as homes, vehicles and businesses (including lost revenue); the extent of the damage to infrastructural and public facilities remains undetermined. Nonetheless, this made Irma one of the costliest natural disasters to hit the French Republic in 50 years. On January 30, 2018, roughly five months after Irma, an analysis
968-516: A direct hit, more than half of the residents on Barbuda took shelter, and relief supplies were preemptively mobilized. The National Emergency Management Organization on Saint Lucia urged small craft operators and swimmers to be mindful of forecasts for high surf. Small Craft Warnings and High Surf Advisories were hoisted for Dominica , where residents were urged to remain vigilant of the potential for high waves, landslides, and flooding. In Guadeloupe, low-lying and cliff-edge homes were evacuated at
1089-409: A few hours on September 9. It was the first time that the shoulder-use plan, which was introduced at the start of the 2017 hurricane season, was implemented by the state for hurricane evacuations. The shoulder-use plan was implemented in place of labor- and resource-intensive contraflow lane reversal , in which both sides of an interstate highway are used for one direction of traffic. Officials from
1210-446: A gas station. Satellite images revealed many of the island's residential zones had been left in ruins. The hurricane passed over Necker Island , also causing severe damage and destroying the mansion of Richard Branson . Most homes and businesses were destroyed on the island of Jost Van Dyke , the smallest of the B.V.I.'s four main islands. The Governor , Gus Jaspert , who had only been sworn into office 13 days previously, declared
1331-545: A liner service between Genoa , Italy and Buenos Aires , Argentina via Rio de Janeiro , Brazil. In 1959, the company gradually transitioned into offering more pleasure holidays, with trips being offered in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean regions. The second purpose built ship, Eugenio C , debuted in 1966, designed by famous naval architect Nicolò Costanzi. Linea C went on to own 12 more ships by 1980, making
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#17327932704591452-452: A local dry-dock taking over a month. As a result, three cruises had to be cancelled. In May 2001, the autopilot on Norwegian Sky failed and caused it to make a jarring turn and then list, sending plates and glasses crashing and injuring more than 78 people. The malfunction, near the mouth of the Strait of Juan de Fuca , appeared to be the result of a computer error. Two serious injuries were
1573-580: A new and aggressive training program to better prepare newly hired employees for life aboard a cruise vessel. Subsequently the training for all employees took place at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education , a Maritime School in Piney Point, Maryland. Passenger satisfaction improved substantially since the introduction of the new training program. On February 11, 2008, NCL announced that Pride of Aloha would be withdrawn from
1694-402: A number of houses. In The Valley , the island's capital, the hurricane blew out the windows of government buildings. Rough seas inflicted heavy damage upon several bays and harbors, and a seaside restaurant was completely eradicated. About 90% of roads were left impassable. The island's air traffic control tower was damaged, exacerbating the already poor communication with the island. One death
1815-485: A peak sustained wind speed of 55 mph (89 km/h) at a weather station along San Juan Bay , while the same site observed a peak wind gust of 74 mph (119 km/h). However, on the island of Culebra , a wind gust of 111 mph (179 km/h) was reported. Mainly due to strong winds, approximately 1.1 million out of 1.5 million of Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority 's customers lost electricity. Portions of Puerto Rico received heavy rainfall, with
1936-503: A peak total of 13.04 in (331 mm) in Bayamón , causing seven rivers to reach flood stage, widespread flash flooding, and at least six landslides. The most severely affected areas included the offshore islands of Culebra and Vieques , as well as the northeastern, northern, and mountainous portions of the main island. On Culebra, the island suffered an almost complete loss of electrical and water services. At least 30 homes on
2057-794: A period of financial difficulties, she was the first new ship to enter service with NCL in six years. After four years of service, NCL announced she would be moved to its new NCL America division as Pride of Aloha in October 2004. Originally she was planned to be preceded by the purpose-built Pride of America in NCL America service, but a rogue storm damaged Pride of America during construction at Lloyd Werft and Pride of Aloha had to be rushed into service instead. In May 2004, Norwegian Sky entered drydock in San Francisco , re-emerging as Pride of Aloha on July 4, 2004. Pride of Aloha
2178-709: A remnant low over Alabama and ultimately dissipated on September 13 over Missouri . The storm caused catastrophic damage in Barbuda , Saint Barthélemy , Saint Martin , Anguilla , and the Virgin Islands as a Category 5 hurricane. The hurricane caused at least 134 deaths: one in Anguilla ; one in Barbados ; three in Barbuda ; four in the British Virgin Islands ; 10 in Cuba ; 11 in
2299-546: A state of emergency - the first time this has ever happened in the Territory. After the storm, restoration of electricity took approximately 5 months. Irma's effects in the U.S. Virgin Islands were most profound on Saint Thomas , where at least 12 inches (300 mm) of rain fell, and on Saint John . Saint Thomas island suffered widespread structural damage, including to its police station and airport. Patients from
2420-404: A state of emergency initially for all six coastal counties on September 6, but eventually expanded the declaration to 94 counties south of Atlanta metropolitan area , and then the entire state on September 10. Atlanta was placed under its first-ever tropical storm warning. Governor Deal ordered mandatory evacuations for all areas east of Interstate 95 on September 7, before extending
2541-468: A state of emergency on September 6, with South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster following suit the same day. Governor of Virginia Terry McAuliffe declared a state of emergency on September 8 in order to protect Virginia residents and to mobilize resources in support of neighboring states. Officials in New Orleans stated that there would not be much time for preparations if Irma failed to make
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#17327932704592662-405: A water supply network on that island lost power during the storm, leaving several communes in the dark without running water. Overall damage was limited to external parts of houses and trees that were blown onto roads and three unmanned ships wrecked by rough seas. Saint Kitts and Nevis endured similar conditions to other islands. Blustery rainstorms triggered scattered power outages and disabled
2783-593: Is currently sailing three- and four-night cruises from Miami to the Bahamas with stops at Grand Bahama , Great Stirrup Cay , Freeport , and Nassau . The ship introduced a new concept starting in January 2016 and ending in June 2019 where alcohol was included in the cost, with an upcharge only for premium brands. Norwegian Sky was one of the first U.S.-based ships to visit Cuba. While doing her inaugural cruise along
2904-504: The Costa Europa (former Holland American Line Westerdam ) in 2002. In 2002, Carnival Corporation and P&O Princess Cruises merged to form Carnival Corporation & plc, bringing together both companies' assets under one corporation. As of 2018, Costa accounted for approximately 12% of Carnival Corporation & plc's revenue. In 2004, Costa Crociere purchased control of AIDA Cruises of Germany . Carnival Corporation and
3025-673: The Alcorn State Braves was moved up a day and relocated to Legion Field in Birmingham, Alabama . The Georgia Southern Eagles game against the New Hampshire Wildcats on September 9 was also moved to Legion Field for that day. As of September 5, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding was running dangerously low, due to its response to Hurricane Harvey in Texas the previous week, prompting
3146-523: The British Virgin Islands . Irma maintained Category 5 strength for several days as it passed north of the Greater Antilles . After beginning an eyewall replacement cycle , Irma weakened to a Category 4 hurricane as it passed south of the Turks and Caicos Islands early on September 8, subsequently ending the 60-hour contiguous period of Irma maintaining Category 5 intensity,
3267-684: The Dajabón River connecting the two countries was broken. In the Dominican Republic, the fishing community of Nagua sustained damage from waves that destroyed homes. 55,000 soldiers were deployed to affected areas to help with the cleanup efforts. By the evening of September 7, the government had counted 2,721 damaged homes. In Haiti, flooding one meter deep sat in residential neighborhoods in places like Cap-Haïtien , Ouanaminthe , and Gonaives . Mudslides, destroyed homes, flooded crops, and infrastructure damage were reported in
3388-525: The Environmental Protection Agency , which had been criticized for its response to Hurricane Harvey , took special measures to inspect and secure hazardous materials, especially at Superfund sites. Direct Relief , a disaster relief organization, coordinated with local health centers and provided resources to help facilities on the front lines of Floridian and Puerto Rican communities. Georgia Governor Nathan Deal declared
3509-482: The Florida Keys are located, was placed under a mandatory evacuation. Residents in communities near the southern half of Lake Okeechobee were also ordered to leave. Additionally, voluntary evacuation notices were issued for all or parts of Alachua , Baker , Bay , Bradford , Charlotte , Columbia , Desoto , Hardee , Highlands , Hillsborough , Lake , Manatee , Okeechobee , Osceola , and Polk counties. A record 6.5 million Floridians evacuated, making it
3630-488: The Florida Keys . It was also the most intense hurricane to strike the continental United States since Katrina in 2005 , the first major hurricane to make landfall in Florida since Wilma in the same year, and the first Category 4 hurricane to strike the state since Charley in 2004 . The word Irmageddon was coined soon after the hurricane to describe the damage caused by the hurricane. Irma developed from
3751-660: The French West Indies ; one in Haiti ; three in Puerto Rico ; four on the Dutch side of Sint Maarten ; 92 in the contiguous United States , and four in the U.S. Virgin Islands . Hurricane Irma was the top Google searched term in the U.S. and globally in 2017. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) began monitoring a tropical wave over western Africa on August 26. Developing into a tropical depression just west of
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3872-520: The Port of Genoa over a period of five days, where it was dismantled and eventually scrapped. The total cost of the disaster was estimated to be over $ 2 billion. On 11 February 2015, the captain at the helm during the sinking, Francesco Schettino, was found guilty by an Italian court on multiple counts of manslaughter, causing the shipwreck, and abandoning his passengers. He was sentenced to 16 years in prison. An Italian appeals court on 31 May 2016 upheld
3993-540: The Trump administration to request an immediate $ 8 billion in additional funding as Irma approached Florida. Given the rate that current funds are being consumed and the catastrophic damage, the United States Senate almost doubled the requested amount to $ 15.3 billion, with the understanding that this would only be about 10% of what will be required for responding to Harvey. Hurricane Irma's path
4114-537: The Turks and Caicos , evacuation orders were issued for low-lying areas starting September 5. Schools were closed, government buildings were boarded up, and shelters were opened. Officials spread warnings to residents in English, Creole, and Spanish via social media, radio, SMS text, and WhatsApp . In The Bahamas , the government began preparations the week prior to the hurricane's arrival, including securing national sports facilities to use as shelters. By September 7,
4235-669: The UCF Knights - Memphis Tigers game scheduled for September 9 was moved to September 30, replacing UCF's game against Maine and Memphis game against Georgia State . UCF also canceled their game against Georgia Tech on September 16, as UCF's stadium hosted the National Guard. The USF Bulls - Connecticut Huskies football game was also canceled. The Miami Hurricanes – Arkansas State Redwolves game scheduled for September 9 at Centennial Bank Stadium in Arkansas
4356-598: The 16-year prison sentence. On 27 February 2012, Costa Allegra suffered an engine room fire and went adrift in the Indian Ocean. After several days adrift without power, the ship was towed to the Seychelles island of Desroches , but was unable to dock there. She was then towed to Mahé, Seychelles , where the passengers disembarked. No casualties were reported. On 9 March 2012, it was announced that Costa Allegra would not return to service with Costa, and she
4477-616: The Belgian bulk carrier, Lowlands Longevity in the mouth of the Yangtze river. The collision caused a gash over 60 feet long in the side of the ship. On 13 January 2012, Costa Concordia ran aground off Isola del Giglio in Tuscany . The ship capsized and partially sank, killing 32 people. In 2014, the ship was parbuckled and refloated with caissons , and in July 2014, she was towed to
4598-647: The Cape Verde Islands early on August 31, becoming Tropical Storm Irma shortly afterwards. Under favorable conditions, Irma underwent rapid intensification , becoming a major hurricane on September 1. Within a 48-hour period, the hurricane's intensity had increased by 65 mph (105 km/h). Fluctuations occurred over the next few days due to internal processes, as The first aircraft reconnaissance mission discovered an eye 29 mi (47 km) in diameter and surface winds of 115 mph (185 km/h) on September 3. As Irma continued approaching
4719-519: The Center for Disaster Management and Risk Reduction Technology (CEDIM), a Germany-based risk management agency, estimate that economic losses for Antigua and Barbuda will exceed $ 120 million. On the morning of September 6, Irma's center crossed the island of Saint Martin while the storm was at peak intensity, sweeping away entire structures, submerging roads and cars, and triggering an island-wide blackout. Irma's extreme winds ripped trees out of
4840-515: The Costa family brand before the line was taken over by Carnival Corporation & plc . The ship was scheduled to have a sister, the Costa Olympia , which was never completed for the line after the shipyards bankruptcy, and instead the uncompleted hull was sold to Norwegian Cruise Line. In March 1997, Carnival and Airtours PLC purchased Costa Cruises for $ 300 million, on a 50:50 basis. At
4961-603: The Covid pandemic of 2020, Costa sold off ships in its fleet including the Costa Victoria and Costa neoRomantica to help cut costs. It also led to the continued long term layup of the Costa Magica and Costa Serena . In 2022, parent company Carnival Corp. announced they would be transferring ships out of the fleet to help balance overall fleet capacities due to the pandemic and the selling off of numerous ships. It
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5082-821: The Eastern coast of the United States and Canada up to Québec City, Norwegian Sky temporarily ran aground in the Saguenay River on September 24, 1999. On its return to the mouth of the Saguenay, at about 11:30 local time, whales were observed in the St. Lawrence River. To prolong the whale-watching activity, the vessel was turned around but ran aground on the Bancs de l'île Rouge (Rouge Island Banks) before completing its maneuver. The vessel's stern made bottom contact with
5203-536: The French island of Saint Barthélemy , southeast of Saint Martin. Describing the extent of the destruction, one local compared it to "a bomb that burned all vegetation," while another said that it were as if the hurricane had effectively "erased the island from the map". Violent seas swept away entire coastal establishments, with one hotel being stripped of all but its foundation. Streets in the capital of Gustavia were turned into rushing rivers, which carried away vehicles and pieces of furniture. The island's fire station
5324-524: The Hawaiian market as of May 5, 2008. Initially it was reported that she would be transferred to the fleet of Star Cruises . During April 2008, Lloyd's List reported that NCL was looking to sell her to the Spain -based Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. subsidiary Pullmantur Cruises instead, but Pullmantur Cruises later withdrew their offer. In May 2008 NCL reported that instead of transferring to Star Cruises,
5445-726: The Italian cruise market, but the company's 10 ships, which all sail under the Italian flag, provide itineraries sailing to countries globally. Founded in Genoa in 1854 by Giacomo Costa (1836-1916) as Giacomo Costa fu Andrea, the company originally traded in olive oils and textiles, later establishing its own refinery and the brand "Dante". In 1924, the company was passed to the founder's sons (Federico, Eugenio and Enrico) and started shipping activities, buying its first cargo vessel , Ravenna . Seven more cargo ships were purchased before World War II , during which all but one were lost. After
5566-566: The Leeward Islands, the hurricane underwent a second and more robust period of rapid intensification, becoming a Category 5 hurricane early on September 5. The extremely powerful hurricane continued to intensify, with maximum sustained winds peaking at 180 mph (290 km/h) shortly afterwards. Irma acquired annular characteristics around this time, with the storm exhibiting a large, symmetric CDO and an impressive satellite appearance. Irma continued to intensify while approaching
5687-773: The Pride of Aloha was not allowed to have a casino given the fact that it was mainly in US waters. Instead of a casino, the ship had the Kumu Cultural Center. This focused on three main themes - Everyday life in Ancient Hawai`i, the Hawaiian Kingdom and Contemporary Hawai'i. When the Pride of Aloha was rechristened back to Norwegian Sky , the casino was reinstated but she retained her livery. Norwegian Sky
5808-565: The Spanish tour operator Orizonia Group created a joint venture in 2007, Ibero Cruises , which was absorbed into Costa Cruises in 2014. The company attracted international attention when Costa Concordia ran aground and capsized off the coast of Italy on 13 January 2012 . Thirty-two people died in the disaster. Six weeks later, the company made headlines again when a fire on Costa Allegra left it drifting without power for 13 hours in waters near Somalia frequented by pirates , before
5929-713: The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency had deployed response teams in Puerto Rico and the United States Virgin Islands . Supplies, including food rations, medical supplies, and blankets, were pre-staged in strategic locations on the islands for distribution. On September 5, the Dominican Republic activated the International Charter on Space and Major Disasters , thus providing for humanitarian satellite coverage;
6050-422: The United States and Haiti followed suit two days later. According to officials, 11,200 people were evacuated from vulnerable areas prior to the storm's arrival. Approximately 7,400 tourists were moved to Santo Domingo , away from beach resorts. In Haiti , government officials and aid organizations struggled with early preparation and evacuation efforts. While some officials blamed reluctance and indifference on
6171-593: The advisories reached their maximum extent, with a hurricane warning covering the entire east coast of the state, the west coast from Indian Pass southward, and the Florida Keys; a hurricane watch was in place from the Florida–;Georgia state line to Edisto Beach, South Carolina ; and there were two tropical storm warnings, one in Florida from Indian Pass to the Okaloosa – Walton county line and
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#17327932704596292-445: The approximately 24,000 restoration personnel who had been activated. Governor Scott suspended tolls on all toll roads in Florida, including the turnpike . All state offices in Florida were closed from September 8 to September 11, while public schools, state colleges, and state universities in all 67 counties were closed during the same period. The Florida Department of Education coordinated with school districts as
6413-585: The building [strewn] across the runway and a jet bridge snapped in half." It demolished or severely damaged about 70% of Sint Maarten's houses, forcing thousands of residents into public shelters. There were 4 deaths and 23 injuries, 11 of which were serious, in the Dutch territory. Irma is considered the worst natural disaster to hit Sint Maarten; the extent of its damage far exceeded that of any previous hurricane. Total damages were estimated at €2.5 billion (US$ 2.98 billion). Irma left widespread destruction and disastrous flooding along its path over
6534-487: The charter period further and an option for NCL to purchase the ship during the charter period. On June 1, 2012, NCL announced the signing of a memorandum of agreement to exercise its option to purchase Norwegian Sky . The purchase price was approximately $ 260 million, with financing being provided by the seller. Hurricane Irma caused cruises to be cancelled; afterwards Norwegian Sky evacuated almost 2,000 travelers from St. Thomas and took them to Miami. In June 2019, it
6655-491: The company the owner of the world's largest fleet of passenger ships. In 1986, Linea C changed its name to Costa Cruises and became a cruise-centered business. The line had decided to modernize its fleet by the late 1980s, and ordered two new ships in 1987, which became Costa Classica and Costa Romantica entering service in 1991 and 1993 respectively. The line also converted and completely rebuilt two former container ships into Costa Marina and Costa Allegra around
6776-420: The continent still in lockdown". Costa's Web site at that time was indicating no sailings in January but was hoping to start on 28 February with Costa Firenze , on 2 April with Costa Deliziosa , on 3 April with Costa Magica , and so on. Only Italian ports would be used initially, and the gradual restart would accept only guests from Italy. Hurricane Irma Effects Other wikis Hurricane Irma
6897-422: The core of the hurricane was expected to remain north of the island, a yellow alert was issued for Martinique due to the likelihood of rough seas. The island dispatched relief supplies and military reinforcements to its neighboring islands of Guadeloupe, Saint Martin. and Saint Barthélemy, which faced a greater risk of a direct impact. On September 4, Puerto Rico declared a state of emergency. By September 6,
7018-431: The fourth and third floors of Charlotte Amalie 's hospital had to be relocated to lower floors due to flooding from roof leaks. Three deaths were attributed to Irma on the island. On nearby Saint Croix , there were communication issues and some damage to the infrastructure. Saint John lost access to ferry and cargo services, along with access to the local airport. Due to its normal reliance on electricity from Saint Thomas,
7139-531: The government had evacuated 1,609 people by air from the southern islands, including 365 from Bimini . Controlled cutting of the power supply to southern and central Bahamian islands was conducted in advance of the storm. Shelters were made available, though usage was low due to most evacuees staying with family on other islands. Of the 2,679 foreign tourists still in The Bahamas on September 7, about 1,200 were being housed at Atlantis Paradise Island , one of
7260-521: The ground and sent vehicles and debris from damaged structures scattered across the territory. On the French side of Saint-Martin , entire marinas around Marigot were left in ruins, littered with the stranded remnants of boats that had smashed into each other. A hotel caught on fire, but dangerous conditions and impassable roads prevented firefighters from putting out the blaze. Another hotel lost nearly all of its ground floor. Media images depicted devastated room interiors with furniture hurled around after
7381-430: The hurricane also defoliated trees and injured a few people. CEDIM's analysts expect economic losses of $ 20–65 million for the two islands. Damage in the British Virgin Islands was extensive. Numerous buildings and roads were destroyed on the island of Tortola , which bore the brunt of the hurricane's core. Four people were confirmed dead. Along Cane Garden Bay, the storm surge submerged several seaside bars and
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#17327932704597502-474: The hurricane moved over Barbuda near its record peak intensity early on September 6; a weather station observed a wind gust of 160 mph (260 km/h). The same station also recorded a minimum barometric pressure of 916.1 mbar (27.05 inHg). The exact state of the island remained unclear for hours after Irma's passage, as downed phone lines ceased all communication with nearby islands. Later that afternoon, Prime Minister Gaston Browne surveyed
7623-467: The hurricane then made landfall in Cayo Romano, Cuba , at 03:00 UTC on September 9, with winds of 165 mph (266 km/h). This made Irma only the second Category 5 hurricane to strike Cuba in recorded history, after the 1924 Cuba hurricane . As the eye of Irma moved along the northern coast of Cuba, gradual weakening ensued due to land interaction, with the eye becoming cloud-filled and
7744-467: The intensity falling to a high-end Category 2 storm later on September 9. After slowing down late on September 9, the hurricane turned northwestward towards Florida around the southwestern edge of the subtropical high to its northeast and a low-pressure system that was located over the continental United States . Moving over the warm waters of the Straits of Florida, Irma quickly restrengthened to
7865-403: The island was left without power. Total damage from the three islands was at least $ 1.1 billion. The hurricane passed north of Puerto Rico , but still caused significant damage to the United States territory. Along the coast, a tide gauge observed waves up to 1.5 ft (0.46 m) mean higher high water . Much of the main island experienced sustained tropical storm force winds, with
7986-881: The island were destroyed, while about 30 other experienced substantial damage. High winds also toppled a number of trees. The only telecommunications tower on Culebra sustained damage, cutting off outside communications for several hours. In rural Loíza , 79 homes were destroyed. Throughout Puerto Rico, 781 out of 1,600 telecommunications towers went out of commission, primarily due to power outages. At least 362,000 customers lost water services. Debris, mostly fallen trees, blocked at least 72 roads. Approximately 25% to 30% of banana, coffee, papaya, and plantain crops were damaged by strong winds, with losses to farmers estimated at $ 30.6 million. Approximately 1,530 homes experienced at least moderate damage, with 1,448 homes moderately damaged, 32 extensively damaged, and 50 completely destroyed. Hurricane Irma
8107-553: The island's water system, but per the International Red Cross , the islands were spared the level of destruction seen elsewhere. Still, Prime Minister Timothy Harris stated that property and infrastructure had sustained "significant damage." The Dutch territories of Saba and Sint Eustatius were also struck by the hurricane's winds, resulting in infrastructural damage, water shortages and telecommunication outages. Several houses were left uninhabitable. On Saba,
8228-399: The island. In addition to the catastrophic impact on Barbuda's human residents, concern turned to the storm's effects on the island's wildlife. The island's only endemic bird, the near-threatened Barbuda warbler , numbered less than 2,000 individuals prior to the hurricane. For some time it was unknown if the warbler survived the hurricane or its aftermath; however within a few months it
8349-452: The largest evacuation in the state's history. Evacuees caused significant traffic congestion on northbound Interstate 95 , Interstate 75 , and Florida's Turnpike, exacerbated by the fact that the entire Florida peninsula was within the cone of uncertainty in the NHC's forecast path in the days before the storm, so evacuees from both coasts headed north, as evacuees would not be safer by fleeing to
8470-420: The most hurricane-ready structures in the country. In Cuba , meteorologists did not initially predict a direct hit. Fuel conservation was enacted in Camagüey Province to ensure that enough would be available during post-storm power outages. The Civil Defense evacuated nearly one million people from low-lying areas, including thousands of Canadian and European tourists in the Jardines del Rey . Dolphins at
8591-489: The need for transportation by school buses and opening shelters arose. By September 9, more than 150 state parks were closed. Throughout the state, almost 700 emergency shelters were opened. The shelters collectively housed about 191,764 people, with more than 40% of them staying in a shelter in South Florida. Additionally, more than 60 special needs shelters were opened, which housed more than 5,000 people by September 9. Many airports across
8712-492: The north-northwest, while rapid weakening began to occur due to the increasing wind shear, land interaction, and dry air, with the storm falling below Category 3 intensity hours after landfall. Irma finally weakened to a tropical storm on September 11 as it entered southern Georgia , while transitioning into an extratropical cyclone, degenerating into a remnant low early on September 12. The remnants dissipated over Missouri on September 13. Given that Irma's forecast track
8833-710: The northern Leeward Islands . At 05:45 UTC on September 6, Irma made landfall along the northern coast of Barbuda at peak intensity, with the storm's central minimum pressure having bottomed out at 914 mbar (27.0 inHg) – this was the lowest in the Atlantic since Dean in 2007; the storm also made landfall with maximum sustained winds of 180 mph (290 km/h). Irma continued to maintain its peak intensity until 12:00 UTC on September 6 and made additional successive landfalls on that same day, at 11:15 UTC on Sint Maarten , and at 16:30 UTC on Virgin Gorda , in
8954-643: The opposite coast. Fuel was in short supply throughout peninsular Florida during the week before Irma's arrival, especially along evacuation routes, leading to hours-long lines at fuel stations and even escorts of fuel trucks by the Florida Highway Patrol . Use of the left shoulder as a lane for moving traffic was allowed on northbound Interstate 75 from Wildwood to the Georgia state line beginning September 8 and on eastbound Interstate 4 from Tampa to State Road 429 near Celebration for
9075-597: The order to the entirety of Chatham County and low-lying areas west of I-95 on the following day. In total, 540,000 people on the Georgia coast were ordered to leave. Contraflow lane reversal for Interstate 16 took effect on the morning of September 9 from Savannah to Dublin, Georgia . All Georgia state parks were open for free to evacuees, as was the 800-acre camping area at Atlanta Motor Speedway . Reversible HOT lanes on Interstate 75 in Georgia through south metro Atlanta were open 24 hours northbound with no tolls. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper declared
9196-932: The other from the Florida–Georgia state line to the South Santee River in South Carolina. Watches and warnings were gradually discontinued as Irma moved inland and weakened, with all of them canceled by early on September 12. On September 4, Florida Governor Rick Scott declared a state of emergency. Governor Scott placed 100 members of the Florida National Guard on duty to assist in preparations. All 7,000 troops were ordered to be on duty by September 8. Officials advised residents to stock their hurricane kits. The state coordinated with electrical companies in order for power outages to be restored as quickly as possible, extending resources such as equipment, fuel, and lodging for
9317-536: The parent company's other cruise operations. On 22 October 1961, Bianca C. was off Grenada when an explosion occurred in the engine room. Two crew members died in the explosion and the ship subsequently caught on fire. Local fishermen helped rescue the passengers and crew, but as the local authorities did not have the equipment to extinguish the fire, the ship was left to burn until the British frigate HMS Londonderry arrived from Puerto Rico. The burning ship
9438-454: The part of the population, others "admitted they were not prepared for the onslaught and no mandatory evacuation orders were in place ahead of Irma's approach." Local officials contended that they had not received promised funds, supplies, or equipment from the national government. The United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti prepared its 1,000 peacekeepers and engineers to assist. In
9559-526: The previous ships to more themed public spaces similar to Carnival Cruise Line. The first ship delivered under Carnival Corp management, was Costa Atlantica in 2000. In 2000, Carnival Corporation took full control of Costa Crociere after buying out Airtours' 50% interest for $ 525 million. Carnival Corporation would transfer older ships from their other brands to Costa, with the Costa Tropicale (former Carnival Cruise Line Tropicale ) in 2001, and
9680-461: The projected northward turn, but that South Texas or Florida would not be a good evacuation destination. On September 10, Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam issued an executive order allowing medical professionals in other states to practice in Tennessee to aid Hurricane Irma evacuees. This order also allowed pharmacies to give out 14-day supplies of medicine, and gave women and children from outside
9801-657: The result of a video game machine falling on one passenger and another passenger suffering a broken pelvis when he was washed out of a pool due to the severe list. After the 100-foot (30.5 m) fish tender Arctic Sun struck a rock and sank in Clarence Strait in the Alexander Archipelago in Southeast Alaska on July 26, 2002, and the three people on board abandoned ship in a 16-foot (4.9 m) skiff , Norwegian Sky rescued them from
9922-517: The same lightning strike, but survived. Two other people died during the hurricane: a woman died while being evacuated from her house in a wheelchair and fell, hitting her head; another person died in a car accident in Canóvanas . Governor Ricardo Rosselló declared the islands of Culebra and Vieques to be disaster areas. Although spared a direct hit, both the Dominican Republic and Haiti were affected by high winds and heavy rains. A bridge over
10043-542: The same time as ordering the two new ships. Costa wanted to create a new upscale European brand for their new ships and launched the short-lived EuroLuxe brand. The Costa Victoria debuted in 1996, and was the largest cruise ship ever built in Germany at the time, and largest for the Costa. Its completion cost was covered by selling the Eugenio Costa . The Costa Victoria would be the final ship completed under
10164-423: The second-longest any Atlantic storm had maintained winds above 156 mph (251 km/h) – behind only the 1932 Cuba hurricane . The hurricane then began tracking more to the west due to the intensification of a subtropical ridge to its north. Once the eyewall replacement cycle was complete, Irma began to re-intensify, and it re-attained Category 5 intensity at 18:00 UTC that day east of Cuba , before
10285-427: The ship was taken under tow. In February 2018, Costa announced its partnership with the Italian football club, Juventus . In December 2019, Costa debuted Costa Smeralda and became the second cruise line to operate a cruise ship fully powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), following AIDA's AIDAnova one year earlier. Costa Smeralda was joined by her sister LNG ship, Costa Toscana , in 2021. Owing to
10406-473: The ship would return to Norwegian Cruise Line and be re-flagged to the Bahamas while reverting to her original name Norwegian Sky with the first sailing July 14, 2008. In January 2009, Norwegian Sky was sold to Ample Avenue, a subsidiary of Genting Hong Kong, and chartered back to NCL on a bareboat charter. In July 2010, the charter agreement was extended. The new agreement included options for NCL to extend
10527-486: The shoal. The vessel slowed and the stern came to rest on the Bancs de l'île Rouge. At 12:06, the vessel was aground, listing 5.2º to port. As the vessel was unstable on the reef, the master requested assistance from the Canadian Coast Guard for a preventive evacuation of all passengers plus some crew members. The Marine Rescue Centre of Québec tasked different resources including whale-watching tour boats and
10648-401: The skiff and transported them to Ketchikan , Alaska . Costa Cruises Costa Crociere S.p.A. ( Italian pronunciation: [ˈkɔsta kroˈtʃɛːre] ), operating as Costa Cruises , is an Italian cruise line founded in 1948 and organized as a wholly owned subsidiary of Carnival Corporation & plc since 2000. Based in Genoa, Italy , the cruise line primarily caters to
10769-591: The state the ability to participate in the Tennessee Department of Health programs. Bristol Motor Speedway , Talladega Superspeedway , and Charlotte Motor Speedway all opened their campgrounds to evacuees free of charge. In professional sports, the Miami Dolphins – Tampa Bay Buccaneers game scheduled for September 10 at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami was postponed to November 19 due to
10890-778: The state, particularly in Central and South Florida , were closed. Nearly 9,000 flights intending to arrive in or depart from Florida were canceled. Along Florida's coasts, most seaports were closed or opened with restricted access. For the fifth time in its 45-year history, the Walt Disney World Resort was completely closed due to the storm. Its theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs were all closed by 9:00 p.m. on September 9 and remained closed until September 12. Other Orlando -area theme parks, including Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld Orlando , were also closed. The Kennedy Space Center
11011-645: The storm's threat. The Dolphins left early for their road game against the Los Angeles Chargers . The Tampa Bay Rays and New York Yankees moved their September 11–13 series from Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg to Citi Field in Queens . Minor League Baseball 's Florida State League , Carolina League , and Southern League called off their championship finals and as a result, named their division series winners league co-champions. The Miami FC versus San Francisco Deltas match on September 10
11132-582: The territory by helicopter, revealing an effectively uninhabitable island. Irma damaged or destroyed 95% of the structures on Barbuda, including its hospital, schools, and both of its hotels; it completely flattened some residential blocks while submerging others. The destruction rendered the island's sole airport and much of its infrastructure inoperative—including water and telecommunication services—which further hampered relief efforts. Property damage on Barbuda ranged from $ 150 million to $ 300 million. A total of three storm-related deaths were reported on
11253-444: The threat of flooding and erosion. Schools and public businesses closed on September 5 and 6. Hospitals stocked up on three days' worth of supplies and checked the functionality of their generators. Of the island's 32 communes , 22 activated their emergency plans; 1,500 people were urged to take shelter. The island sustained relatively minor damage and became the base for relief efforts on Saint Martin and Saint Barthélemy . Though
11374-428: The time, Costa Cruises was the leading European cruise line, with an estimated market share of 19%. After Carnival's take over, a new-building program commenced for the line, utilizing Carnival Cruise Lines Spirit-class and Destiny-class design platforms for the new ships. They line would also utilize Carnival's designer Joe Farcus, who undertook the interior design, moving away from the contemporary Italian style of
11495-496: The two provincial ferries normally crossing the Saguenay River. However, at the very last moment, with the assistance of a small Search and Rescue cutter and the high tide, Norwegian Sky was able to free herself from the reef and proceeded to deeper waters. The vessel sustained substantial damage, but pollution was deemed minor. No injuries resulted from this occurrence. The vessel returned to Québec City for major repairs in
11616-400: The war, the company decided to rebuild its shipping business, but concentrating on passenger traffic, particularly across the Atlantic. In 1946–1947 they bought three American-owned cargo ships, refitting them with accommodation for 25 first class passengers, and in 1947 commenced a scheduled liner service between Genoa, Montevideo and Buenos Aires . At the same time, the name of the company
11737-747: The winds had shattered their windows. Irma killed four people on the French side of the island and injured 50 others, one of whom was in critical condition. As many as 95% of the buildings there were damaged to some degree; 60% of those were totally uninhabitable. Estimates from CEDIM indicate a minimum of $ 950 million worth of economic losses. Total losses exceeded €3.5 billion (US$ 4.17 billion). A similar situation unfolded in Sint Maarten , Saint Martin's Dutch half, as intense winds ripped through buildings and lifted vehicles aloft "as if they were matches". The hurricane wreaked havoc on Princess Juliana International Airport , with "huge chunks of
11858-475: Was along much of the Caribbean island chain, hurricane warnings were issued for the northern Leeward Islands, Puerto Rico, and parts of Hispaniola on September 5. In Antigua and Barbuda , residents safeguarded their homes and cleaned up their properties in anticipation of strong winds. Emergency crews were put on standby at public shelters and hospitals by September 5 to assist with any evacuations. Expecting
11979-424: Was also the third-strongest Atlantic hurricane at landfall ever recorded, just behind the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane and Dorian. The ninth named storm , fourth hurricane , second major hurricane , and first Category 5 hurricane of the extremely active 2017 Atlantic hurricane season , Irma caused widespread and catastrophic damage throughout its long lifetime, particularly in the northeastern Caribbean and
12100-529: Was an extremely powerful and devastating tropical cyclone that was the first Category 5 hurricane to strike the Leeward Islands on record, followed by Maria two weeks later. At the time, it was considered the most powerful hurricane on record in the open Atlantic region, outside of the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico , until it was surpassed by Hurricane Dorian two years later. It
12221-426: Was announced that, following the travel ban preventing U.S. cruise ships from visiting Cuba, Norwegian Sky would no longer be offering their "open bar" service and would instead transition to the traditional way for charging for onboard drinks. As originally planned, Costa Olympia would have had an exterior and interior design identical to Costa Victoria . Following the acquisition by Norwegian Cruise Line , she
12342-751: Was announced the Costa Luminosa would be transferred to Carnival Cruise Line, the Costa Venezia and the Costa Firenze will join Carnival Fleet under the new "Carnival Fun Italian Style" concept in 2023 and 2024 respectively. In February 2023, it was announced that Costa Magica had been sold to Seajets , a Greek / Cypriot ferry company. On March 31, 2023, Costa Cruises celebrated its 75th anniversary. Powered by LNG. Costa's former fleet in chronological order: The ship
12463-534: Was attributed to around $ 1 billion in damage, and the NHC attributed three fatalities to Irma in Puerto Rico, though four deaths were related to the storm. Two people died due to rainstorms ahead of the hurricane: one man died in Orocovis after falling off his ladder while repairing his roof; another man on the coast in Capitanejo died after being struck by lightning. Three nearby fishermen were burned by
12584-750: Was canceled due to travel concerns for the University of Miami. The Florida Gators - Northern Colorado Bears match in Gainesville scheduled for September 9 was canceled. The Florida State Seminoles contest against the Louisiana–Monroe Warhawks was canceled on September 8. The Seminoles' rivalry game with the Hurricanes in Tallahassee, originally scheduled for September 16, was postponed tp October 7. The FIU Panthers game against
12705-576: Was canceled so the players and staff could prepare for the storm with their families. The Orlando Pride of the National Women's Soccer League rescheduled their September 9 match to September 7. Orlando City SC of Major League Soccer did not have any scheduled home games in September, but was unable to return to training facilities in Orlando due to Hurricane Irma. In college football,
12826-602: Was changed to Linea C. In March 1948, full passenger services were introduced on the South American route, operated by the ship Anna C , with her previous capacity increased from 100 to 500 passengers. The ship departed from Genoa and reached Buenos Aires 16 days after departure, the first ocean liner to cross the South Atlantic Ocean following World War II. In 1958, Costa commissioned their first purpose-built ship, Federico C , which provided
12947-604: Was closed from September 8 to September 15. An estimated 6.5 million Floridians were ordered to evacuate, mostly those living on barrier islands or in coastal areas; in mobile or sub-standard homes; and in low-lying or flood prone areas. Mandatory evacuations were ordered for portions of Brevard , Broward , Citrus , Collier , Dixie , Duval , Flagler , Glades , Hendry , Hernando , Indian River , Lee , Martin , Miami-Dade , Orange , Palm Beach , Pasco , Pinellas , Sarasota , Seminole , St. Lucie , Sumter , and Volusia counties. All of Monroe County , where
13068-625: Was confirmed that not only did the species survive, but most of the birds survived the storm. Barbuda's Codrington Lagoon , home to the largest colony of magnificent frigatebirds in the Caribbean, with an estimated 2,500 nesting pairs, was also inundated by the storm surge. Remaining just outside of Irma's strongest windfield, Antigua sustained less severe damage, in the form of leveled roofs and fences, downed power poles and lines, and uprooted trees. Some street flooding also took place in low-lying areas. Three people were treated for minor storm-related injuries. Forensic disaster analysts from
13189-426: Was delivered in 2001 as Norwegian Sun while the order for the second one was cancelled. Norwegian Sky underwent her sea trials on July 17, 1999, and was delivered to NCL on July 28, 1999. Norwegian Sky entered service and made her maiden voyage for Norwegian Cruise Line on August 9, 1999, with a cruise from Dover , United Kingdom to Norway . The ship's crew acted as her godparents at her christening. After
13310-434: Was experiencing severe financial difficulties, and work on Costa Olympia was suspended when only 35% of the ship was completed. On October 6, 1996, the incomplete hull was launched, floated out of drydock and subsequently laid up. Costa Cruises decided not to purchase the unfinished ship, and Costa Olympia remained laid up at Bremer Vulkan until December 1997, when Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) purchased her. Costa Olympia
13431-557: Was given to the shipping company, Themis Maritime Ltd. In late 2012, Costa Allegra was beached at Aliaga, Turkey, for scrapping. Costa cruises around the world were cancelled in March 2020 due to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic . Costa began new sailings on 6 September in Italy, initially with two ships, Costa Deliziosa and Costa Diadema . At that time, the line required all passengers to be from Italy. By 27 September 2020, however, it
13552-631: Was in the main anchorage and would block the harbour if it sank there, so the Londonderry towed it to a different location where the Bianca C. sank on 24 October 1961. On 25 February 2010, Costa Europa collided with a pier in Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt, killing 3 crew members and injuring 4. Costa blamed strong winds for the collision. On 18 October 2010, Costa Classica collided with
13673-422: Was inundated with up to 6.4 ft (2.0 m) of flood waters. With scores of homes and much of the infrastructure destroyed, the majority of the island's population was left stranded and without water, electricity or phone service. The associated economic losses could exceed $ 480 million according to CEDIM's analysts. Preliminary assessments from the French government indicate that Hurricane Irma caused
13794-511: Was published indicating that an anemometer on the island recorded an unofficial gust to 199 mph (320 km/h) before failing. The British Overseas Territory of Anguilla saw the eyewall of the storm pass over it on September 6. Many homes and schools were destroyed, and the island's only hospital was badly damaged. The devastation was particularly severe in East End , where the winds uprooted scores of trees and power poles and demolished
13915-521: Was radically redesigned. Design changes included two decks of balcony cabins (opposed to no balcony cabins in the original plans), three additional restaurants, entirely altered decor and moving the bridge down by one deck to accommodate an observation lounge/spa complex on the topmost deck. Both the original and revised plans were the work of Tillberg Design . When the ship was refitted for service as Pride of Aloha she received hull art consisting of colorful Hawaiian leis . Prior to being rechristened,
14036-455: Was re-christened by Mrs. Margaret Awamura Inouye, the wife of Hawaiian senator Daniel K. Inouye . Being a U.S.-flagged vessel, Pride of Aloha required a crew of U.S. citizens. This made for a difficult launch as there was no established labor market to tap into. The first few months of sailings were plagued by poor service, crewmembers quitting and walking off the ship while in port, and an enormous number of customer complaints. NCL initiated
14157-484: Was redesigned as Norwegian Sky by Tillberg Design (who had also been responsible for her original planned design as Costa Olympia ). On March 8, 1998, the ship was towed to Lloyd Werft in Bremerhaven , Germany where her construction was completed. In fact, the ship retained the yard number of 108 under special circumstances. In 1998, NCL ordered two additional ships of Norwegian Sky design. The first of these
14278-679: Was reported on the island. Estimates of losses on the island total at least $ 190 million. Large swells ahead of Irma washed ashore debris and sea life in Castries , Saint Lucia, blocking some roads. Seaside roads were inundated with water. One surfer was killed amid rough surf in Barbados after hitting a reef and breaking his neck. Trees were also destroyed. The hurricane's effects, such as violent seas and rattling trees, were intense enough to be detected by seismographs in Guadeloupe . Several houses were damaged. Around 8,000 households and
14399-583: Was reported that, having implemented strict health protocols to protect its staff and guests, "Costa Cruises will be available for all European citizens who are residents in any of the countries listed in the most recent decree from the Prime Minister of Italy". A report on 9 January 2021 stated that some cruise lines were hoping to resume some sailings in Europe in the near future but added that "it remains to be seen whether this will go ahead with much of
14520-707: Was sold to Celestyal Cruises renamed Celestyal Experience and left the fleet in 2020. Celestyal Cruises resold her in 2021 after which she was sold to the Gadani Ship Breaking Yard in Pakistan for scrapping. It was beached for scrapping on 3 December 2021. Will sail out of Long Beach for Carnival under the Carnival Fun Italian Style concept in 2024. It will be renamed Carnival Firenze. See also Carnival Cruise Line's accidents and incidents for incidents associated with
14641-484: Was such that its impact was both far-reaching and devastating, with landfalls in Antigua and Barbuda , Saint Martin , the Bahamas , Cuba , and the United States, all at major hurricane intensity. Furthermore, the size of the storm system meant that destruction was prevalent even in territories well removed from landfall occurrences. Irma is the second-costliest Caribbean hurricane on record, after Maria. The eyewall of
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