Re: Tropical storm / Hurricane Sandy
Yep brings back some really bad memories.
Some of this reminds me of our Tropical Storm Allison - especially the hospital in New York.
East Texas and I were spared the worst of the TV coverage during Ike because we lost power and cable very early on. It was nearly 2 weeks later that we watched a local special on Ike and saw most of the devastation. I think that is one good thing about no power.
Now reality sets in for these poor folks. I can tell you about the shock, numbness, etc. that sets in at daylight as you begin to look around and see the damage to your property/neighborhood. I can also tell you about the elation that sets in about 3-4 hours from now when you (finally) begin to realize that the damage is not as bad as you feared and you begin to understand that you survived.
The worst, though, sets in after a couple of days as survivor guilt sets in. You begin to hear bits and pieces of news and realize how bad it is for other folks. That is a toughie to deal with.
FEMA finally arrives with MRE's, water, and ice. You drive through long lines to pick up supplies. The first folks were from TSA and, later, the Texas National Guard. The Guard folks were so funny and great with the kids waiting patiently in cars.
Frustration begins after about a week of no power or, in our case, off and on power.
The debris then begins to pile up on the street and frustrated folks begin the never ending calls to the waste management folks and insurance companies.
The funerals begin.
About two weeks in, the insurance companies finally get to your house and write the check. FEMA follows shortly thereafter. Now is when you, finally, are able to begin new construction.
By this time most of the grocery stores have opened. The store shelves are still a bit bare especially fresh produce and bread but it is manageable.
A month out and most of the shock is gone if you don't have much damage to your home.
For the folks who lost everything, now is a very vulnerable time. You begin to get your FEMA trailer or housing vouchers and you understand that life will never be the same.
Six months out and new construction begins. Folks begin to replant trees and flower beds devastated by the storm.
A year later and construction still continues.
Two years out and most new construction has been completed. Things are looking pretty good. There is new infrastructure, new restaurants, new homes, new apartments, etc. The place is pretty much spruced up and looking better than ever.
Four years out and you don't really remember what happened until another storm like Sandy comes around. You watch and you weep for those who are affected.