How mangroves kept a boat safe during a hurricane in Florida

The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Florida has historically lost much of its mangroves, but they are well protected now.
The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Florida has historically lost much of its mangroves, but they are well protected now. PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES
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When marine scientist Robert Brumbaugh left his beloved boat Astra at its mooring in the Florida Keys ahead of Hurricane Irma in 2017, he was worried about what condition he would next see it in - or if he would ever see it again.

The Category 4 hurricane, one of the most intense tropical cyclones of 2017, came churning out of the Atlantic and across the Caribbean in early September that year.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on June 01, 2019, with the headline How mangroves kept a boat safe during a hurricane in Florida. Subscribe