Hurricane Carla (1961)

Duration: 38:23:00

Year Published: 1961

Sound: silent

Description: This raw news footage, shot by KTBC-TV cameraman Gordon Wilkison, captures preparations for and the aftermath of Hurricane Carla in September 1961. The news crew—traveling in KTBC’s “Red Rover”—visits cities both along the coast and further inland to document the extensive damage to homes and businesses. (The KTBC crew includes Austin broadcast personality Cactus Pryor, who can be spotted speaking with survivors of the storm.) While the footage largely focuses on storm damage and cleanup, it also highlights relief efforts. Evacuees arrive at shelters in Central Texas, where they receive food and supplies. The film also goes behind the scenes of the United States Weather Bureau, now known as the National Weather Service.