The extreme flooding that has devastated many areas of Louisiana has been officially named the “Worst US disaster since Hurricane Sandy” by the Red Cross, but what exactly is the condition of the area, and to what extent is its severity?

There have been 13 deaths reported from the ruinous rains and floods, but what is primarily being emphasized are the thousands of victims who are now living in absolute destitution, relying on shelters to provide them with food and water, and mourning the loss of their homes and personal items to the disaster.

Tens of thousands of Louisiana citizens found themselves trapped within their homes and vehicles in the midst of the flooding, and were in desperate need of evacuation. Luckily, the first response team, composed of local firefighters and law enforcement, and even the national Coast Guard, came in time to alleviate the trauma, saving almost all victims.

Statistics calculated from the damage are equally as shocking as its repercussions; CNN reports that Louisiana endured 6.9 trillion gallons of rainfall in the span of one week, and in one parish of the state, 31 inches of rain in merely 15 hours.

In the midst of this tragic crisis, however, Louisiana has seen a great sense of community and compassion emerge in their society. Donations have been flooding in, nearly as fast as the rampant waters, from all across the nation. Many volunteers have even gone as far as to move to Louisiana temporarily to help out in shelters, food banks, and other organizations designed to help victims get back up on their feet. Animal shelters have committed to the cause to save lost pets from the streets, and celebrities such as Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga have donated funds in order to help the government of Louisiana protect and support the helpless victims.

The dreadful floods, despite all of the media coverage and donations, do not seem as if they are going to subside any time in the near future. It is imperative that this issue stays on the nation’s radar, so the frightful, disastrous state of Louisiana can be repaired in the shortest time possible.