Deadly storm......


Three million people without power. The storm rolled in last Saturday. It was a quick mover. Snow amounts ranged from 14" to 24" inches and very heavy. A quick mover, in and out in less than twenty four hours, and left behind, what some described, as "total devastation". The end result was thousands of downed trees and power lines. Three million people without power. Most without heat, water or other basic facilities. 

To date, more than twenty people have died due mostly to CO poisoning. Outdoor gas grills inside a closed up house, unapproved space heaters, gasoline generators in closed areas. More deaths from falling branches and one individual from electrocution. Apparently he exited his car to get a better view and touched a metal guard rail that had a live power line touching it. Two deaths occurred in my town. people were overcome by CO.

After the storm I spent over five hours clearing my driveway so I could get out of my yard. Once freed, I drove around town...or maybe a I should say, maneuvered around town. Downed trees and fallen power wires everywhere resulted in a massive obstacle course. I swerved from one side of the street to the other. In some instances, avoiding other cars doing the same. The entire town looked like a tornado had gone through but, in reality there had been no wind. All the damage was from heavy wet snow.

Initially, the utility companies were slow to react. Outside help wasn't called until a few days after the storm. Consequently, many homes are still without power, including mine. It's a week today. In all honesty, I should tell you I have a generator. And because of it, I'm dealing with the result of this storm reasonably well. I can't say that for many thousands of others. I feel badly for them. I can only hope that power will be restored soon.

Last night before going to bed, I went out in the dark, lit only by a small flashlight I carried. It was time to fuel the generator once again. How many times and I done this in the past week....lots. I shut down the generator so it will cool before filling it. Suddenly, the roar of the engine ceases and then......quiet! But, wait..what's that in the background? Generators!! I can hear them running all around. Other houses have them. They are distant. I live out in the woods. Funny thing. After listening for a while, the only two sounds I could hear were generators and barking dogs. Gee, I hope the power comes back soon...I think I'm loosing it!!

Jake T