The AquaFence: A Lifesaver Amidst Hurricane Helene’s Wrath
Florida’s Big Bend region faced the fury of Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 hurricane with devastating 140 mph winds. The aftermath has been tragic, with 33 reported fatalities and widespread flooding wreaking havoc across cities like Tampa and St. Petersburg. Amidst this chaos, one beacon of hope emerged – Tampa General Hospital.
Situated right along Tampa Bay, Tampa General Hospital managed to stay dry, thanks to a remarkable innovation – the AquaFence. This 5- to 10-foot high barrier has gained viral attention for its role in safeguarding the region’s only Level 1 trauma center.
The AquaFence: A Shield Against Nature’s Fury
Developed by AquaFence in 1999, this innovative system has offices in Norway and New Jersey. According to the company’s website, AquaFence systems are currently protecting over $30 billion worth of real estate in the United States alone, ranging from hotels to gas stations and even a Shake Shack.
Quick and easy to install, AquaFence can set up a 100-foot barrier in just 30 minutes. Thomas Briedis, AquaFence USA President, described the process, stating, “They come folded together, similar to a laptop. You take them out of the crate, put them down, and they fold open.”
A Bright Future for AquaFence
In an interview with WTSP Tampa 10, Briedis shared plans for residential AquaFences, costing around $20,000. These barriers are designed to withstand the force of a Category 5 hurricane. “We are very confident in the system. It has been thoroughly tested,” Briedis assured.
Amidst the chaos of Hurricane Helene, the AquaFence stands as a symbol of resilience and innovation, providing hope for a safer tomorrow in the face of nature’s wrath.