Hurricane Ian battered the southwest coast of Florida on Wednesday, with the state experiencing severe storms and torrential rain.
More than a million residents of the state have lost power and several homes have been evacuated as the dangerous storm hits the United States. Meanwhile, meteorologist Jim Cantore’s video of Hurricane Ian is doing the rounds on the internet. The video clearly shows him being knocked off his feet. He is first seen standing on the ground when a branch from a tree collides with his leg, shaking his balance and causing him to fall.
The reporter keeps struggling to get up, but eventually leans on a street stop sign and gets up. In the video, he can be seen saying, “I just can’t get up.
Jim Cantore was hit by a flying branch during a hurricane report pic.twitter.com/ybONC3VR51
— Gifdsports (@gifdsports)
September 28, 2022
The video has now garnered more than 4.2 million views. While many called the video dramatic, others simply asked the reporter to go home. “This is necessary?? We already know it’s a hurricane and it’s windy and raining a lot,” said one user.
Faire un direct c’est bien, le faire sans prendre la moindre précaution au péril de sa vie, pour 1 bonne image…c’est NON sans aucune réserve https://t.co/gYcnTkjLD7
— Salim Baungally 🇫🇷🇲🇺 (@salimbaungally)
September 29, 2022
“Dramatic. Jim Cantore must retire. This shot is inappropriate (and SUPER funny!),” said a second user.
Dramatic.
Jim Cantore needs to retire.
This shot is uncalled for.
(and SUPER funny!) https://t.co/C0uTVb5rfB— 🧠 Babe (@lakeinla) September 29, 2022
A third user praised him for broadcasting live but asked the reporter to take precautions before taking any risks. “To make a live broadcast is good without taking the slightest precaution at the risk of life, for 1 good picture … it is without reservations NO.”
Meanwhile, Hurricane Ian endured winds of up to 250 km/h (155 mph) and brought heavy rains. Most of west-central Florida has experienced rain and grueling winds due to Hurricane Ian. Citing the National Hurricane Center, Al Jazeera has reported “catastrophic” flooding and wind damage on Florida’s southwest coast due to Hurricane Ian. Additionally, Cuba began slowly restoring power Wednesday after the hurricane completely shut down the island’s power grid and wreaked havoc.
(With agency contributions)
