Hurricane Matthew has left at least 6 people dead in Florida. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Kennedy Space Center was also standing on the path of the category 4 hurricane. However, NASA's officials have announced initial assessment that shows only minor damage.
Hurricane Matthew Hits NASA's Complex
The Kennedy Space Center was only guarded by a skeleton crew during the strong storm. NASA had also prepared by closing out the park from visitors. However, Hurricane Matthew seemed to weaken as it approached the NASA complex.
The same number of crew assessed the damage after the storm had left. 45th Space Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Wayne Monteith has released a statement on Facebook. NASA Kennedy Space Center has been spared by extreme damage when the winds shifted to the east.
Spokesman George Diller agreed that a direct hit would have caused more serious damage. He added that they have not yet seen any reason to flight hardware.
According to The Christian Science Monitor, the complex suffered from isolated roof damage, damaged support buildings, a few downed power lines and limited water intrusion. This is based on aerial surveys conducted from the aftermath of the storm. NASA has yet to inspect every building very thoroughly to make sure.
>
NASA also reported that the complex has experienced "some beach erosion". According to Gizmodo, the space center has been consistently dealing with rising sea levels.
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex will be re-opened for visitors today.
NASA's Complex Is Hurricane-Resistant
The Kennedy Space Center is designed to be hurricane-resistant. This is further pursued after the Hurricane Andrew in 1992. It is supposed to endure 130 to 135mph storm winds. However, Hurricane Frances was able to cause enough damage to the complex back in 2004.
Hurricane Matthew was reported to have 58 to 81mph of winds when it hit the space center. According to The New York Times, the storm is now just a post-tropical cyclone.
