Videos and satellite imagery demonstrate the rapid construction of Donald Trump’s immigration detention facility in Florida, a site expert opinions say has design flaws that could compromise the safety of the people held there.
Sky News’ Data and Forensics team verified footage on social media which showed water covering electricity cables on the ground during a storm, as detainees were arriving.
The Florida Division of Emergency Management, under Governor Ron DeSantis, reported on X that detainees were at the site on July 3, just before 1pm local time (6pm UK time).
Concern was raised after a storm led to flooding at the facility, with footage showing electricity cables under water. Although the state claims the structures can withstand category two hurricanes with winds up to 110mph, experts say this raises significant safety concerns.
Steff Gaulter, a Sky News meteorologist, pointed out that Florida has seen 13 hurricanes in the last decade, seven of which have been category three or higher. She also noted that hurricane tracks can be unpredictable.
James Uthmeier, Florida’s Attorney General, praised the speed of the facility’s construction, calling it a feat to have completed “Alligator Alcatraz” in just a week, a name that alludes to the local wildlife and the former Alcatraz prison.
Despite some positive comments, there are significant worries about both the ability of the facilities to withstand storms and the quality of living conditions being provided, with concerns over medical support and sanitary provisions such as sewage systems not being properly installed.
Environmental concerns have also been raised with a lawsuit filed against the project by the Centre for Biological Diversity, arguing it poses a threat to the nearby Florida Everglades and that there has been insufficient environmental reviews or public feedback.
The site is expected to initially accommodate 3,000 detainees, with plans to expand to 5,000 by early July, and at an annual operational cost of an estimated $450m, with a daily bed cost of $245.
SKY News contacted both Ron DeSantis and the Florida state department for their responses but has yet to receive them.
