Weather Heroes
Weather Heroes takes you on an insightful journey into the essential realm of disaster preparedness and response. We introduce you to key weather experts from diverse backgrounds and industries, shedding light on their vital roles before and after extreme weather events.
The financial, environmental, and human costs of weather disasters are staggering. In 2023 alone, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported 28 weather disasters, causing at least $92.9 billion in damage. This record-breaking year surpassed the previous high of 22 events in 2020. Since 1980, the U.S. has endured 376 major weather events, accumulating over $2.5 trillion in damages.
With the total damage estimate from 2024, including the L.A. Wildfire and the third costliest hurricane season (featuring Hurricane Helene), the overall cost will undoubtedly rise. Moreover, countless smaller-scale disasters also leave profound impacts on people's lives and properties.
Each weather event unfolds its own narrative, uniquely affecting individuals and communities. Weather Heroes connects you with those who rebuild lives—sharing stories of resilience and unwavering dedication.
Weather Heroes
The Katrina Chronicles: One Man, Many Hats - A Leader's Lifelong Service to Gulfport, MS
August 2005—when Mississippi met its moment of truth.
In this episode, we meet Billy Hewes, a lifelong Gulfport resident whose home was left battered by Hurricane Katrina. But Hewes was more than a survivor—he was a driving force in the recovery. Serving as a state congressional leader while also working as an insurance and real estate agent, he brought a rare, multifaceted perspective to the crisis. Hewes takes us inside those early days—navigating logistical chaos, political challenges, and personal loss.
He recounts stories of resilience from the Gulf Coast. His voice carries the spirit of a community rising from devastation, sparking coordinated efforts at the city, county, and state level to not just rebuild—but rethink the future.
"We weren’t just rebuilding homes—we were rebuilding hope.” —Billy Hewes