In early September 2017, Hurricane Irma formed in the eastern Atlantic, rapidly intensifying into a formidable storm. After wreaking havoc in the Caribbean, including catastrophic impacts in countries such as Barbuda, St. Martin, and the Bahamas, Irma continued its path towards the U.S. mainland. On September 10, 2017, Irma made landfall at Cudjoe Key, Florida with sustained winds of 130 mph, placing it firmly in the Category 4 classification. The storm's approach prompted mass evacuations across Florida, with storm surges and heavy rainfall posing severe threats to life and property.

The aftermath of Irma left widespread destruction across the Florida Keys and further inland. Homes were damaged or completely destroyed, and infrastructure suffered significant impairments, including roads and power lines knocked out across the state. Emergency services were overwhelmed, and more than six million residents were urged to evacuate. Florida faced a long and challenging recovery as residents navigated debris, flooded areas, and limited resources.

The effects of Hurricane Irma extended beyond immediate physical damage. The economic ramifications were severe, with estimated losses amounting to $77.2 billion. The extensive damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure spurred discussions on climate resilience and preparedness for future disasters. Government agencies, non-profits, and volunteers mobilized to assist in recovery efforts, highlighting the resilience of communities in the face of natural disasters while also exposing the vulnerabilities within their disaster response systems.