Orlo Vista is one area of Orange County that was hit the hardest during Hurricane Ian. Rising floodwaters forced many out of their homes, leaving them to return to unimaginable damage.

“We expected like an inch, not feet,” said Willie Wright Jr. who has lived in Orlo Vista his entire life.

When Wright returned home, all he could see was water. Days after Hurricane Ian, the water still lingers, even in his fridge. 

“It was flipped over, it was floating on its side, so when I lift it up I figured water would still come out,” said Wright.

Because of that nearly three feet of flooding, he dragged out almost everything from the home he’s lived in with his father since the day he was born. 

“I didn’t expect it to be this bad,” said Wright.

He and his 86-year-old dad appreciate the help they’ve been getting from organizations like the American Red Cross. They are hopeful they’ll be back on their feet soon, as FEMA has already stopped by to assess the damage. 

But soaking it all in can be overwhelming. 

“This is the worst that we’ve ever seen, the worst,” said Wright. “It never got this bad”

Inside, Wright has cleaned out most of the rooms. His father’s is now down to bare bones.  

But it is not enough for them to give up hope in their home on Hope Circle. 

“He is 86, but he is a strong 86, so he is going to make sure we rebuild it,” said Wright.