The hurricane devastated the Florida Keys, washing away homes, businesses, and infrastructure. A train sent to rescue World War I veterans working on the Overseas Highway was derailed by the storm surge, contributing to over 400 fatalities. The storm's impact extended beyond Florida, with heavy rainfall of 300-400 mm (12-16 inches) and tornadoes causing significant damage in the Mid-Atlantic states, particularly in Virginia. The combination of intense winds, low pressure, and a massive storm surge made this hurricane a historic and tragic event.