Wednesday night was scary. I was lucky enough to experience only minor flooding in my central New Jersey home and was not as heavily impacted by Hurricane Ida as others, but just seeing the damage so close to home was terrifying. Global warming is real—and it’s time we take climate change seriously. 

At least 14 people died, including a 2-year-old and two adults found dead in a basement after a wall collapsed, Daily Kos reported. Many others are severely injured. Rescue boats were sent out to help people stranded in their cars. Record amounts of rain fell in New York City, with multiple tornadoes touching down in Maryland, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Videos and photos of water rushing into apartments, subway stations, homes, and even cars have taken over social media. 

As the remnants of Hurricane Ida moved through the northeast, damage was done. The need for better infrastructure is clear. Daily Kos compiled some of the videos below; take a look for yourself.

New Jersey was definitely not prepared for a tornado.

Through it all, there were some who continued to work. Perhaps they had no choice.

Here’s a brave delivery man delivering some food.

While some took to staying indoors for safety, one man thought it would be a good idea to go kayaking. I really hope his intention was to help those who were stuck … 

Of course, it’s not only people that were impacted. Photos of animals also circulated showing cows stuck in trees and fish out of water.

Yet, not all the animals found in these areas were suffering. While everyone was panicking, this one rat was clearly chilling and having the time of his life. 

We need policies that not only combat climate change but improve the infrastructure in place to handle the results of it. We cannot stop what we have started but we can work to lessen the damage and ensure things are better for future generations.

Sending love and prayers to all those impacted by the hurricane. Hoping everyone is safe and in good health.

Were you impacted by the storm? Have any videos you would like to share? Please drop them in the comments, if so.