New Jerseyans with loved ones who are in the path of Hurricane Irma say that they are hoping for the best.

The storm had devastating effects on places like Puerto Rico and the Caribbean. Officials estimate that 95 percent of the small Caribbean island of Barbuda was damaged or destroyed.

“No lights, no electricity, no water,” says Newark resident Freddy Fegueroa, who has family in Puerto Rico.

Elliott Arzuago says that his family is also dealing with damage caused by Irma.

“The water went through the houses, and the cars, and the restaurants, and stores. Everything,” he says.

Hurricane Irma is a Category 5 storm, the strongest hurricane possible. Winds have reached 180 mph. 

Islands like Turks and Caicos are bracing for the storm. The island has a special connection to New Jersey – the Archdiocese of Newark is in charge of the Catholic community on the island.

“We actually have two parishes and a school,” says diocese spokesman Jim Goodness. “We do ministry to the hotels. We have four priests who are residents down there at all times.”

The parishes in Turks and Caicos are designated as shelters for hurricane victims.

At least nine people have been killed by Hurricane Irma so far.