NASA images show the aftermath of Hurricane Irma

Stunning images from space show just how much devastation Irma caused, as one of the most intense hurricanes in years raced across the open Atlantic.

Before the weakening that occurred with Irma as the hurricane encountered land, the sheer power of the storm changed the landscape.

What were once lush, green islands are now nothing but barren soil. NASA says this occurs due to a variety of reasons. It’s likely either from the vegetation being ripped away by the strong winds and leaving the ground bare, or salt spray from the hurricane that dehydrate and damages the leaves — or both.

Images also show just how much sediment Irma brought up along the Florida Peninusla. It’s a testament to just how brutal a hurricane can be to life in the ocean as well, where many coral and slower fish succumb to injuries.

Satellite images can be viewed in the gallery above.

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