Hurricane Central

[pomtzu]

It looks like all of us PTers from the Mid-Atlantic to the Cape, could be in for some nasty weather come Monday. I can't believe that the little "nothing storm" that we were hearing about, has turned into a potential monster storm named Sandy (sorry Sandie! :p) Time to check your emergency supplies and make sure you have enough to get by on for a couple of days at least, and if possible, fill a bathtub with water too. Keep a sharp ear for the latest day by day reports, and if it does strike your area, please do what it takes to stay safe!
My granddaughter who goes to college in North Jersey, lives in an oceanfront condo leased by the college for upperclassmen. I hope they have evacuation plans for them. But she already has a plan - she and her boyfriend will go inland about 20 miles to his grandmother's house. At least I can rest easier knowing that! Whew........

[Pinot's Mom]

We're ready (I hope our trees are, too!). We'll early vote on Sunday and hunker down to see what happens! Stay safe, Ellie!:love:

[david p]

Pomtzu, we could have some "fun" with this storm in western Pa. area too. The weather forecasters are tossing around the word "snow" for us out of this frankenstorm. Everyone one on the east coast: Please batten down the hatches and BE SAFE!!

[kaycountrygal]

I was listening/watching the weatherman this morning on tv. It does sound as if this hurricane could be a terrible storm. I'm in central NC and 2.5 hrs from the coast. Once in awhile we have high winds and have lost trees I think this one is not supposed to affect my area very badly. I feel sorry for all of you who might be affected if this storm comes your way. I'll keep watching the weather. You'll be in my thoughts and prayers... Kay in NC

[pomtzu]

We're ready (I hope our trees are, too!).

Oh yeah - I hear ya. It's not the trees I worry about, but what's in their path if they come down! :eek: We have tall pines (about 40 years worth of growth) for about 300' along one side of our property line - and not planted by us and not on our property - and the garage could be wiped out if one in that vicinity came down. On an even mildly windy day, you can be outside and listen to them creak and groan and snap - makes me jittery as all get-out! One came down some years ago, but it was way back from the garage and there was nothing in it's path.

The latest prediction I heard, Maggie, has the storm coming in along the Chesapeake or Delaware Bay. Are we ready??? Of course, it could take a lot of different directions before then - Monday is a long way off when it comes to what this storm will do.

[momoffuzzyfaces]

Pet Talker sandtatsxxx11 is out there too. I'm keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. This sounds like a bad bad bad thing. :love::love::love:

[Freedom]

First time in my life time we have reach the "S" names and have a storm with my name - figures it is a quirky one! :D Some are calling it "Snowcane Sandy" with the possibility of snow.

I spent an hour and half this morning getting all the loose branches cut up and in a barrel (not in the garage) and putting away all the stuff we had out for summer. Surf is already up along the RI coast.

I am all set for batteries and lamp. We've been told to prepare for several days without power. Next, I need to address food for me. The dogs and cats are all set, their closet is packed full with food and treats, ha haaa!

Looks like we may have to postpone Halloween! We had that early snow storm here last year and up around Woonsocket RI to Worcester Mass did that for the Trick or Treaters.

[Catty1]

Praying and hoping that everyone will be safe and there are no casualties.:love:

[Felicia's Mom]

Sending prayers and positive thoughts to everyone on the east coast.

[Karen]

I am curious what will actually happen, as there are so many different predictions at this point! We have food, water, blankets, flashlights, a few candles, an UPS for the computers ... and a gas fireplace as well. But that is nothing abnormal!

[pomtzu]

We are skee-roo'ed if we lose power - the house is all electric, plus we have well water and with no power - no way for the pump to pump it. We don't lose power often enough to invest in a generator tho, so we'll just have to rough it.

I'm going to cook a chicken and pick the meat off and put in the freezer - cold sandwiches are good. I'll boil potatoes and put them in the fridge - cold boiled potatoes are good too. Then there's always peanut butter and jelly sandwiches as long as there's still bread left in the stores tomorrow. Myndi has enough food to last her for weeks and we'll stockpile plenty of water tomorrow while we can, and mix up several gallons of tea and juices.

Plenty of lamp oil and batteries, and I'll make sure my Kindle is charged so I don't die of boredom. We are getting well prepared, so that means we won't need to be. That's the way it usually works - when you aren't prepared you get slammed - when you are prepared, then the storm fizzles. :D

[phesina]

Prayers and good wishes for all our East Coast friends..

:love::love::love::love::love::love::love::love:

[lizbud]

When I heard about this strong storm, I began to think of just how many PTers who
live in the East & along the Eastern coastline. A lot. Good luck to all of you & stay safe.:)

[Grace]

We are skee-roo'ed if we lose power - the house is all electric, plus we have well water and with no power - no way for the pump to pump it. We don't lose power often enough to invest in a generator tho, so we'll just have to rough it.

I'm going to cook a chicken and pick the meat off and put in the freezer - cold sandwiches are good. I'll boil potatoes and put them in the fridge - cold boiled potatoes are good too. Then there's always peanut butter and jelly sandwiches as long as there's still bread left in the stores tomorrow. Myndi has enough food to last her for weeks and we'll stockpile plenty of water tomorrow while we can, and mix up several gallons of tea and juices.

Plenty of lamp oil and batteries, and I'll make sure my Kindle is charged so I don't die of boredom. We are getting well prepared, so that means we won't need to be. That's the way it usually works - when you aren't prepared you get slammed - when you are prepared, then the storm fizzles. :D

We have a generator - and wouldn't be without it - no matter how infrequently the power goes off. We connect it to a plug on the outside of the house - this connects to a panel inside, and we switch on whatever we want. We have the well, furnace, refrigerator and some assorted lights connected. This way we can always flush, and keep food safe. And in the winter stay warm.

[Steve Arnold]

I was able to get a portable generator during our big flood in 2008 and it was a lifesaver - I had to use it again last year for three days after a big storm that caused massive power outages due to downed trees. I can't say enough about what peace of mind it brings to have it. It's costly to run (over five gallons of gasoline a day), and it doesn't power the whole house, but it keeps the essentials going.

[Alysser]

Pom, not to sound creepy, but a lot of my friends go to your grand-daughters school, they closed for Monday and Tuesday. :p

I am right where it's supposed to hit. I'm just hoping my school is closes. :p But this storm doesn't look like it's going to be a joke. My boyfriend lives right on the Jersey Shore in a flood zone, but I think he's evacuating to his Aunt and Uncle's house. My family is lucky we don't live in a flood zone. My moms flipping out as always, she doesn't realize that that never helps :rolleyes:

[pomtzu]

Pom, not to sound creepy, but a lot of my friends go to your grand-daughters school, they closed for Monday and Tuesday. :p

I am right where it's supposed to hit. I'm just hoping my school is closes. :p But this storm doesn't look like it's going to be a joke. My boyfriend lives right on the Jersey Shore in a flood zone, but I think he's evacuating to his Aunt and Uncle's house. My family is lucky we don't live in a flood zone. My moms flipping out as always, she doesn't realize that that never helps :rolleyes:

Yeah - I know. We talked to Tia last night, and they have already evacuated her condo at oceanfront, and are finding room for everybody at the dorms on campus. She and her boyfriend will either go to his grandmother's place inland, or stay at his place. He lives at Twin Lights of Navasink where his mother is curator. They'd definitely be safe in that old stone fort, and I think it would be pretty cool to view the storm from there.

I guess it's still anybody's guess as to where the storm will come on shore. I'm still hearing at Rehoboth Beach here in De at the mouth of the Delaware Bay. Guess we'll find out on Monday!

Tell your Mom no sense in flipping out - it won't change anything. Just be well prepared and stay safe - ya hear?? :)

[cassiesmom]

I'm with Lizbud- when I heard about this storm I started thinking of all the PTers who live in its potential path. We are supposed to have temps in the 40s and rain for the next several days. I'll keep praying. I don't know how else I could be of help.

[chocolatepuppy]

Rainy days ahead and high winds Tuesday for NE Ohio! I hope everyone in the storms path is prepared to stay safe!

[pomtzu]

It's a little rainy and breezy right now, but the worst isn't supposed to hit until tomorrow night and into Tuesday. And it looks like it might make landfall right around Alysser's place. We are just a little south of her, and we'll get socked with heavy rain and wind. Schools already announced closing for Monday and Tuesday in this district, and I imagine the whole state probably will too.

We're prepared, but I hope Sandy goes easy on us.........:eek:

[Alysser]

Isn't it awesome when you try to call out of work and your boss tells you YOU HAVE TO COME IN? :mad: You know, honestly, today I don't really care but if you think I'm coming in tomorrow you are crazy. I realize the dogs have to go out and all that but you can't expect me to drive through a literal hurricane, I'm sorry. I live 30 minutes from work on a good day. The roads I take flood in a normal rainstorm. I really can't believe this.

[Karen]

Alyssa - if the governor declares a State of Emergency, you may call in to say they should stay off the roads.

[Freedom]

The "worst" for us is predicted to be Monday, noon to 8PM. Steady winds of 35 to 50 MPH, with gusts to 75 MPH. That brings a high potential of power outages.

I haven't seen a recent report on rainfall amounts for us here. I will be interesting being here with the pets, I hate being THE one in charge, ha haaa. Maybe I can convince Willy?

Dad has been in hospital since Tuesday. Since Friday afternoon, they have been trying to find a rehab facility to transfer him; but as he had C-diff now, he will need a private room, and none of the places local to us has any open. ( I suspect they just don't want the highly contagious C-diff in their facility.)

[momcat]

The most recent reports I've seen show that Maryland, Delaware, and New Jersey are going to get a direct hit when the storm makes landfall. There is flooding already in Cape May County and all casinos in Atlantic City are closed by order of the governor. Several coastal areas in New Jersey were ordered to evacuate by 4:00p.m. today. Schools in the Trenton area have been closed along with other districts in the state. For the past few days the power companies have cancelled all vacations & time off and all workers have been called in to prep for the power outages that are expected to last for 7-10 days. Our governor declared a state of emergency yesterday and I received a notice this morning that all state offices are closed tomorrow. Here in Trenton we can expect the winds to start off at 40 mph and increase from there. We're not in a flood zone but sections of Trenton along the Delaware River could be in for a lot of trouble. Unless it has been updated, we're being told to expect 7" to 12" of rain, the worst of the storm will be tomorrow. Our temperatures have dropped considerably. Rain in our area is expected to last until Wednesday. The full moon is not going to help the storm surges. This looks like a bad one.

[phesina]

Sending along all my hopes and prayers and good wishes that you folks in the path of this storm will make it through this all right .. (you and everyone facing it, for that matter).

Love from Pat and cats

[Freedom]

State of Emergency here in RI, many coastal areas have evacuation orders in place. Mass. has declared same and closed all schools. RI, each community handles its own school cancellations apparently as some are closed others are not.

Trash pick up is another biggie, some places have postponed one day, most have not said a word as yet.

[kaycountrygal]

Sun, Oct 28 2012, 645pm
To those in the path of Sandy, I sure hope you, your family, and your pets will be alright. Where I live in central NC the wind is higher than usual and to be moreso tomorrow (Mon) but I dont think we will have big trouble where I am. Currently at NC coast the wind is having a fit with the waves, rain, and sand and it looks as if foam is blowing everywhere (saw that on tv news report) and of course the tv reporter could hardly stand up.

If the power goes off here, I have a generator that I got years ago after Hurricane Fran knocked out power for 5 days--terrible. At the time I said I will not go through this again and I got a generator and I've used it several times during ice storms and bad storms.

I'll be thinking about you all and checking back from time to time. Hang in there! I'm sending up prayers for you.

[pomtzu]

Every update I hear sounds worse and more ominous than the last - it's making me jittery already. Pretty much what Eileen (momcat) said applies here - she's just a stone's throw away. Rain could be up to 12", sustained winds up to 60 mph for about 18 hours straight - gusts from 60 - 80 mph. And the worst part for me, is that the worst is expected from late tomorrow afternoon and into Tuesday morning - at night when you can't see anything that's happening, and you have to wonder what that crash was, etc, etc, etc........:eek: At least when storms like this hit in daylight hours, you might be able to duck out of the way in time. :p Just heard that they are reporting 16' waves off Rehoboth Beach, and the t.v. showed surfers out in it. CRAZY!!!!

[momcat]

Every update I hear sounds worse and more ominous than the last - it's making me jittery already.

I couldn't agree with you more, Ellie. It started raining lightly here about an hour ago. Toll booths heading north on the Garden State Parkway and Atlantic City Expressway have been closed to speed up evacuations. Both roadways heading south are completely shut down. Waves are picking up from Asbury Park down past Wildwood, folks who have been living in the shore area for years say they've never seen anything like this. And to think this is only the beginning! New Jersey is in virtual shut down and the governor has ordered everyone to stay inside and do not go out so roads are clear for emergency vehicles only. Like the surfers, I cannot understand the people who are refusing to evacuate. I did hear on the news that this storm is expected to collide with another storm. There's a whole lot of praying going on here - Ellie, you, Maggie & Coop, and all of our PT friends in the line of fire are very much included.

To all of our PT friends, thank you very much for your concern and your prayers. It means much more than words can say. We'll update you as we can. This storm is most definitely FOR REAL!!!

[Alysser]

I was worried for awhile because my Boyfriend didn't know where he was going to go and he lives in Lavalette, about a block from the beach. He went to his Brother's house in PA with his grandma though, so all good there.:D My family is as ready as possible, I think. Mikey is already starting to act strange.

It's supposed to hit land right in my county. They said the name of a really close town to mine on the news. My mom is freaking out, especially over the power.

[Pinot's Mom]

Thank y'all for the concern - much appreciated. At this moment nothing (and I mean NOTHING) is happening. I just got off the phone with my brother in Connecticut and this may sound strange; we were raised in RI and have been through our share of storms (on and off the water). Both of us said the same thing. This one's not raising the hair on the back of my neck. Maybe we're both wrong, hope not. I'm sure there will be plenty of wind and rain, but I think we'll be fine.

[Randi]

I hope you all will be safe! It's sounds like it could do quite a bit of damage. All flights from Denmark to New York have been cancelled.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/9639974/Hurricane-Sandy-how-storm-moved-through-Caribbean-to-threaten-US.html

[Kirsten]

Watching the news on hurricane Sandy over here. Looks so scary, hope everyone will be safe!

Flights from Germany to the East Coast have been cancelled also.

[pomtzu]

Thank y'all for the concern - much appreciated. At this moment nothing (and I mean NOTHING) is happening. I just got off the phone with my brother in Connecticut and this may sound strange; we were raised in RI and have been through our share of storms (on and off the water). Both of us said the same thing. This one's not raising the hair on the back of my neck. Maybe we're both wrong, hope not. I'm sure there will be plenty of wind and rain, but I think we'll be fine.

You're right Maggie - been thru a lot worse storms growing up in RI. What concerns me about this one, is the length of time it will be hanging around. It rained off and on all day yesterday, then settled in for continuous rain late yesterday afternoon. The whole state of DE is basically shut down at this point. Oh joy - no school for grandson and son and DIL's businesses are closed. It's gonna be a loooooong day and most likely tomorrow too. :rolleyes: At least I hope the power stays on, but I'm not betting on that one, since it has already flickered off and then back on a couple of times this a.m. :eek:

[Maya & Inka's mommy]

To those in the path of Sandy, I hope that everybody is ready and will be safe too!
I am watching and listening to all the news I can find about this storm, and am crossing my fingers for all of you!!
This is in my prayers now:"Please let everybody be safe, humans and pets"
Take care dear PT-ers who are in the path of horrible Sandy.... :love: :love:

[lizbud]

Wow. Had no idea this many states could be affected.

http://www.rr.com/news/topic/article/rr/55255142/76962724/A_state-by-state_look_at_the_East_Coast_superstorm

[Queen of Poop]

Watching it unfold and praying for all of our PT family that are or will be affected. Please everyone stay inside and stay safe. :love::love::love:

[Karen]

Stay safe everyone!

[ChrisH]

All of those in the path of danger are in my thoughts and prayers. Be safe.

[Alysser]

Found some scary pictures on Facebook.

1st one is in Brigantine, NJ. The other, I am not sure of.

[Karen]

Right now all the birds have fled to the relative safety of the hedges, when the winds die down a bit they come back for the seed I threw out. The wind had been gusting so hard at times, the little squirrel I can Nathaniel was blow a couple inches sideway in his foraging efforts. It is pouring rain as well, the gutter looks like a faucet some set to be wide open!

[pomtzu]

We're still hangin in with no real damage as yet, but the worst is still not going to get here till tonight. We are very windblown and rain soaked. The front yard next door is under water and is spilling over into our side yard, and the landscaping timbers that edged his driveway are floating all around his yard - the drainage ditch by the road is overflowing into our front yard - but all petty compared to what's going on right along the shore. Fortunately no trees down right here yet, just some branches - and we still have power.

Poor little Myndi was really agitated and antsy this morning - it's so strange how animals can sense events like this without even going out of the house. She wouldn't even eat her breakfast, but finally settled down around lunchtime. I held her on my lap most of the morning, so I think that calmed her. Of course she doesn't appreciate having to go outside in this storm to go potty - just as I don't think too fondly of the thought of going out in this mess either. Grandson has been appointed Chief of Myndi Potty Patrol! I ain't no dummy.....:p:D

[Alysser]

:eek:

[david p]

Rainy days ahead and high winds Tuesday for NE Ohio! I hope everyone in the storms path is prepared to stay safe!

Same here in Butler, Pa. too, Chocolatepuppy. A lot of rain so far, but the winds haven't really picked up yet. However they should be picking a little later tonight.

[Taz_Zoee]

:eek:

Is that in your neighborhood??

[Alysser]

Is that in your neighborhood??

No, that was in Milford CT. We have a tree branch from the yard behind us in our yard. Our neighbors fence is all collapsed and mangled. We have a huge tree branch on our pool cover to. We still have power though that in itself is a miracle!

[lizbud]

Is that in your neighborhood??


Wow. I can just see it. "power lines take down by trampoline"

[Karen]

A Boston weather forecaster said the worst of the winds were probably over a couple hours ago, but it is still very blustery here. Not much rain now, but earlier in the day it was alternately pouring, just raining, or just drizzling. Lots of folks in the area are without power, including other in our town, but we are okay so far.

[Alysser]

Just lost power :( no clue how long it'll be out. I'll try to keep you updated!

[kaycountrygal]

I keep checking back to see how you all are doing. I KNOW what it's like to be without power--either from ice storms or hurricanes--not fun. You all hang in there and be careful.

[carole]

Just wanted to say KEEP SAFE everyone, i have been watching the news, and it looks mighty scarey, i hope all my lovely PT friends and their families and furbabies will be safe and well, take care, thinking of you all.

[Karen]

Many across the region are without power tonight, we have had bouts of high winds, downpours and rain of every sort - from sideways wind-whipped rain to gentle misting drops ... but we have not lost power, for which we are thankful.

[cassiesmom]

In Chicago ... Wind speeds 25-35mph with gusts 40mph and up. High waves off Lake Michigan affecting lakefront running/bicycling path as well as northwest Indiana and southwest lower Michigan. Temps in the high 40s all week. I have candles and a flashlight ready in case the power goes out from the wind.

[CountryWolf07]

Here in CLE. Power went out and we don't have a generator. Basement is starting to flood because of our sump pump. At least it is unfinished and we have nothing important and we moved our stuff we wanted out upstairs. Wind is very very loud! Unbelievable. I am definitely nervous.

[gini]

I cannot believe that I have relatives in three states that are impacted by this same hurricane and storm.

My brother who is near you Karen, said all has been fine - some mild wind and rain - and then it was
quiet about a couple of hours ago.

Two nieces in New York City - one is just fine - the younger niece is in college and they are closer to some of the flooding but safe and haven't had to evacuate.

My nephew is in New Haven and all is well for him too.

Thank you God!!!

I pray all of our Pet Talk family is fine as well.

[chocolatepuppy]

Here in CLE. Power went out and we don't have a generator. Basement is starting to flood because of our sump pump. At least it is unfinished and we have nothing important and we moved our stuff we wanted out upstairs. Wind is very very loud! Unbelievable. I am definitely nervous.

Oh no, this is what I'm worried about, no power, no sump pump! I have my basement as flood ready as it can be. Most likely wouldn't flood bad as my house sits up high, but I can't bail if I'm at work!

[Annie89121]

I was born in NE Pennsylvania, and I am worried about a few friends that still live there.
My thoughts & prayers are with everyone who has been affected by this storm.
Stay safe everyone.

[Kirsten]

Still watching the news over here, there's so much destruction left in Sandy's path, it's horrible! They say at least 16 people have lost their lives, and I wonder how many animals died in the floods last night. :(

Hope all Pet Talkers in these areas are safe, and so are their pets!

[pomtzu]

Just checking in to let you know that we are okay and dodged the worst of the bullet. Amazingly, we never even lost power. It got pretty wild around 5 yesterday afternoon and for several hours after that. It was just plain scary for a while. The rain was so heavy and blowing that it looked like a winter blizzard. The sun's not up enough yet to see if there's any wind damage, but we get a lot of protection from the woods on 3 sides of us. Go a half mile down the road, it could be an entirely different story. Most of everything is still closed down in the whole state again today to allow for cleanup. It's just breezy out now, and very little rain.

Maggie and Eileen - hoping you're okay and will check in soon.

To all of you to the north and west of us, please take care and be safe. Sandy's not done dishing it out yet.

Thank you all for your prayers and concern for us.

And this is so horrible, and doesn't seem real in light of all the flooding and rain, but 50 homes in Queens, NY were destroyed by fire early this a.m. and they were in a flood zone. All of those people really need all the prayers and support that they can get. That is so sad.........

[Kirsten]

Just checking in to let you know that we are okay and dodged the worst of the bullet. Amazingly, we never even lost power. It got pretty wild around 5 yesterday afternoon and for several hours after that. It was just plain scary for a while. The rain was so heavy and blowing that it looked like a winter blizzard. The sun's not up enough yet to see if there's any wind damage, but we get a lot of protection from the woods on 3 sides of us. Go a half mile down the road, it could be an entirely different story. Most of everything is still closed down in the whole state again today to allow for cleanup. It's just breezy out now, and very little rain.

Maggie and Eileen - hoping you're okay and will check in soon.

To all of you to the north and west of us, please take care and be safe. Sandy's not done dishing it out yet.

Thank you all for your prayers and concern for us.

And this is so horrible, and doesn't seem real in light of all the flooding and rain, but 50 homes in Queens, NY were destroyed by fire early this a.m. and they were in a flood zone. All of those people really need all the prayers and support that they can get. That is so sad.........


Glad to hear from you! Sounds to me you've been lucky that you didn't lost power; apparently, many homes did...

I've seen the fire in Queens on tv, it's just terrible!

[Maya & Inka's mommy]

Just saw some places on the news on tv....:eek: OMG, please stay safe everybody out there.......:love:!!!
I would be sooooooo scared.....:eek:

[Queen of Poop]

Praying everyone is alright this morning. Looks pretty bad on the news. :love::love::love:

[Freedom]

Checking in; never did lose power, here. High winds, lots of rain, but all fine in my house!

RI currently has over 111,000 without power.

[Karen]

We are fine, never lost power, and know we are lucky. Still raining, of course, but hopefully the worst is past.

[kaycountrygal]

Tues Oct 30 2012 at 10:45am
Checking in from central NC. Even though the storm was far away we felt fringe winds last night and will today also. The power went off at 12:30am this morning and came back on at 5am and then off for 15mins and back on. I did not go out to start generator as it was pitch black and the wind was howling. I lit 3 oil lamps (cant stand the dark) and just hunkered down on the couch with the furbabies. All of this and we were not in the worst of it. All those who really got hit are in my thoughts and prayers. Hope everybody and their pets are ok.

[Catty1]

The news here is saying that 17 people died in the storm; that includes one woman in Toronto who was hit by a sign the wind blew off a building. Major prayers for them and their families - and all who have lost homes and more. Many prayers also for the fur and feather babies out there.

[Grace]

My brother, in East Greenwich, RI, has power. My cousin, in Lakewood, NJ, never lost power and she is close to where it came on land. My son, in Virginia, just got wind and rain.

We've had lots of wind out here in SE Michigan - about 56,000 without power. We're fine, so far :)

[momoffuzzyfaces]

I got a phone email from sandra, tatsxxx11, yesterday afternoon. They lost power but had their generator. She doesn't have Internet access though. I have not heard from her today. I tried calling but the call doesn't even ring through. Just a voice saying that number is temporarily unavailable. I imagine lots of phone lines and cell towers are damaged too. She lives in the Cape Cod area. I did see on the news that lots of big trees are down around there.

If I hear from her, I'll let you know.

[Pinot's Mom]

Checking in - no power, I stopped in to my office to do a few things (the plant is closed) so I thought I'd let y'all know we're OK!

[krazyaboutkatz]

I'm glad to hear that you're all safe.:) Hopefully those of you without power will have it restored soon. Lots of prayers and positive thoughts are being sent to everyone in need.:love:

[momoffuzzyfaces]

I see Sandra is on Pet Talk now so we know she is ok. What a relief!!! :love:

[Alysser]

Just checkin' in from Central NJ if anyone wanted to know.

Power here's been out since 8:30 PM last night. The wind was horrible last night. NJ transit is down "indefinitely". I am pretty sure I can't even get off my block b/c of the downed trees, phones have ceased working whatsoever. Me and Mr. Mikey surveyed some damage this morning, I have never seen so many downed trees in my life. But all is well pretty much. My sister is fine up in North Jersey. Some of her campus got evacuated but she's okay! I am pretty sure school will be cancelled tomorrow too. Will try to keep you updated but I can only use the hotspot so much!

[Karen]

Glad you and Mikey are okay - I am sure he had plenty of amazing things to sniff today!

[david p]

I just wanted to let everyone know that me and everyone in Concordia where I live are all O.K. There was some wind damage and a lot of rain, but there was very little property damage. We never lost power here, either.

[Pinot's Mom]

Power's on!! :)

[happylabs]

Whew! We had big winds here in Central Pennsylvania. The rain wasn't too bad but the wind was loud. I put my MP3 player headphones on for awhile and listened to some tunes to drown out the noise. My power went out about 10 p.m. The power came back on this morning about 9 a.m. Very thankful that we had no damage in my general area.

[Bonny]

Just watching the Today Show. It is unbelievable the damage.:eek: Sending Hope, Good Thoughts & Prayers to the Easterners.

[david p]

Now we're getting some wet snow here, but it's not expected to last.

[Alysser]

Still no power as of this morning :( cell service is back up and working though!

[CountryWolf07]

As of this morning, still no power at home since Monday evening. Basement is flooding though, 6-8 inches. Ready for the rainy days to be over.

[pomtzu]

Hope all of you without power get it back soon. Not only is it inconvenient, but it's gotten too cold out to not have any heat in the house.

Everything is pretty much back to normal here. The state bans have been lifted, and all schools and businesses are open with the exception of some along the coast. Now all we have to do at this house is clean up a ton of small dead branches that came down out of our trees, and put away all of our emergency supplies. It was great to not have to use any!

[Alysser]

Just found out my boyfriend who lives a block from the shore (he's in pa now) thinks his house is flooded. He isn't positive but it seems inevitable at this point.

[Karen]

Hope they didn't have anything too important in the basement!

[Alysser]

Karen his house is a duplex and he's on the lower level :( no basement. His home is in lavalette

[Alysser]

Power is on!!! I am so lucky and grateful! It may have been a bit of an inconvenience but hey I didn't loss my house! Life is good:)

ETA: Gov. Christie postponed Halloween till Monday Nov. 5th.

[CountryWolf07]

UPDATE: Power is back, and came back on Wednesday late afternoon. Things are back to normal. We got lucky with the basement, by the time we got home, the water was gone but just a few puddles here and there. We used the dehumidifier to help clear out the water as well. Last night we put bleach on the floor in the basement (it is unfinished, we have zero plans to rebuild and make it our own, we are wanting to find another house within the next couple years, this is only our starter home.) AND also, if you were wondering, the puppy WILL NOT be allowed down there as well so he will be blocked out from being able to go down there.

[Karen]

Oh, Rachel, that sounds good - the best plan! Do you know where the water came in?

[redbird]

I live in Central NJ and we were hit hard. I was not but people not far away lost a lot, it was so sad to see them standing outside their homes with trees on top of them. The Jersey Shore was really devastating to see on TV. Sandy was huge to say the least. We are still in a State of Emergency and our Gov. Christie cancelled Halloween till next Monday.

A lot of traffic lights are still not working and forget about gas for the cars, rarely can we get any, not because we have no gas but the gas stations don't all have power yet. I'm sure you have all seen this on your news broadcasts.

I lost power for only about 8 hours but lost TV, Internet and Phone for almost 3 days, thank goodness for the cell phone. Right now my area is doing ok but for many others it is a nightmare, prayers for them.

[neko1]

Since we live in the middle of the woods, we were hit with a lot of downed trees and wires. We lost power on Monday and are not expected to have power until Nov. 11th. I am staying at the emergency shelter during the day and going back home at night to take care of Neko.

[carole]

It saddens me so much to hear and see what you guys are going through, I know it's of little comfort,but just know the kiwis down under are thinking of you all and praying for your safety,HUGS. To all.

[pomtzu]

My granddaughter in north Jersey still had no power as of last night. She lives in an oceanfront condo and had to evacuate and they haven't been allowed back into the area yet - they are telling them maybe this weekend. She and her boyfriend went to one of his relative's houses to weather the storm, but things aren't much better there with no power, and they can't get out until the roads are cleared of beach sand and debris. She said she's seen pics of her condo, and the first floor is pretty much buried in sand.

[carole]

Oh no that is just devastating,thinking of everyone affected by this hurricane,please take care

[CountryWolf07]

Oh, Rachel, that sounds good - the best plan! Do you know where the water came in?

Yes, it was from overflowing from outside - Our backyard flooded as well as our front yard, so, when the power went out, the sump pump stopped working so - it started to flood. We will have a generator & a backup pump next time. :)

[Karen]

Since we live in the middle of the woods, we were hit with a lot of downed trees and wires. We lost power on Monday and are not expected to have power until Nov. 11th. I am staying at the emergency shelter during the day and going back home at night to take care of Neko.

Michelle, could Neko come with you to the shelter, or would that be more traumatic for him than being home alone?

[Kirsten]

Michelle, could Neko come with you to the shelter, or would that be more traumatic for him than being home alone?


Karen, from what I read on Michelle's Facebook page, animals are not allowed at the shelter. Michelle mentioned also that it's gonna be freezing cold; I'm very worried about Neko and her at this point. Wish I could help. :(

[cassiesmom]

Karen, from what I read on Michelle's Facebook page, animals are not allowed at the shelter. Michelle mentioned also that it's gonna be freezing cold; I'm very worried about Neko and her at this point. Wish I could help. :(

I saw the same thing on her Facebook page and I am worried about them too. Not sure how I might help. :(

[Alysser]

Well it's official, John's (Boyfriend) house is gone. :(

[Kirsten]

Well it's official, John's (Boyfriend) house is gone. :(

Oh no. That's just devastating; I'm so sorry! :(

[Karen]

Sorry to hear that, Alyssa. But at least he is safe and well, that's a blessing.

[Alysser]

Yeah, but he's just so lost right now. For personal reasons which I won't mention, he doesn't think he can register with FEMA. For now he's living in a friends house next door to mine (they moved recently and didn't put the house up for sale yet), and my parents LOVE him so he is always welcome here. But if he can't register with FEMA, he doesn't know what he's going to do.

[cassiesmom]

Momcat ... I haven't seen you post for a couple of days; are you OK?

[pomtzu]

Just as cleanup is getting underway, the forecast is predicting the possibility of a Nor'Easter mid week. While it will be not be comparable to Sandy, it could still be disastrous for so many along the coast. With the dunes washed away from Sandy's wrath, there is nothing to stop the ocean waves from coming ashore and wreaking more havoc on top of the already devastated areas. Those poor people - how much more can they take??? I pray that this storm fizzles and gives so many people that are already suffering and still in shock, a much needed break.

[Karen]

You are all in our prayers, and tomorrow there will be a special offering at our church service for Sandy relief.

[Asiel]

We're still getting news reports from the damages of Sandy and we heard about that next Nor'Easter - it's so hard to imagine another one so close to the one they haven't recovered from yet---those poor people must all be so frazzled and desperate for some relief.
I'm hoping it won't materialize or will take a detour for other parts, while we did have some damages in some southern areas we've never had to experience anything like this.

[kaycountrygal]

I've been watching the news re Storm Sandy for days and I feel so sorry for those people affected. I dont personally know anyone on this site but it hurts me to know that some of you are going through rough times... or you know someone who is. The entire situation is sad. It's terrible to be without electricity and heat for days; I've been through it years ago. I hope you have the strength and determination to get through it all. You're in my thoughts.

[momcat]

Momcat ... I haven't seen you post for a couple of days; are you OK?

Hi Elyse and all my PT friends!
I'm happy to say that Soncat, Groucho, and I are okay. We lost power for 24 hours but there was only one house damaged on our street. A chimney came down and went through the roof, fortunately no injuries. Even though we dodged the bullet here, going a few blocks in any direction was a completely different world. Not far from here a tree fell and split a house in two and a building collapsed in downtown Trenton. NJ Transit suspended all trains and buses, some service has been restored but not everything is up and running yet. Schools are expected to reopen on Monday but that depends on power. Here in Mercer County 32,000 are still out. The problem is clearing away downed trees and branches plus there are live wires in some of the flood water. All state offices were closed for 3 days then we were called back on Thursday. Since the buses weren't running I wasn't able to get there. When I talked to my supervisor, she said very few made it in and the power at the office was in and out throughout the day. There are still a few friends that I haven't been able to contact both here in Trenton and a neighboring town. My cell phone message says either service not available or emergency calls only. Around here, nobody is going out unless they absolutely have to. Gas in in very short supply because of power outages, many stations that have gas don't have the electricity to pump it and stations with power are low on supply or have run out. The governor has ordered gas rationing.

Soncat and I consider ourselves among the lucky ones especially as we see pictures coming in from the shore area. I can't comprehend Atlantic City without its boardwalk. Places I spent a lot of time at in Asbury Park are gone. Getting to some shore areas is still impossible. For the past few days, weather reports on the local news are saying we could get a nor'easter on Wednesday with rain turning to snow. But while they are emphasizing this won't be anything near what Sandy was, there is a chance of more floods and power outages.

I've lived in New Jersey all my life and have never seen anything like this. To all of my PT friends that have been affected by this storm, please know you are all very much in my heart and will remain in my prayers. If there's ANYTHING I can do for you, please pm me and I'll do whatever I can to help.

[pomtzu]

Eileen - glad to hear that you're okay. I was starting to get concerned.

Alysser - so sorry to hear about your boyfriend's place. Who would have imagined that this storm would bring so much heartache and grief to so many people.

And to those in shelters or still without power - I pray for some sense of normalcy to return soon.

My granddaughter still hasn't been able to get back to her place - now they're saying maybe Tuesday. The university reopens on Wednesday and she has been displaced since the Friday before the storm hit when they had to evacuate. Don't know how all this is going to play out - and then another storm mid week too??? :(

[ChrisH]

Posted on Facebook by MuttsComics.com - Patrick McDonnell

PLEASE SHARE THIS PHONE NUMBER AND INFO:
The Humane Society of the United States, the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture have teamed up to launch a 24-hour hotline for New Jersey evacuees who were unable to bring their pets with them before Hurricane Sandy hit. Evacuees with pets still at home or with emergency animal needs are urged to call the New Jersey Hurricane Sandy Pet Rescue hotline at 1-855-407-HSUS for assistance.

Editing to add the New York City Hotline, which is: 347-573-1561. Also the link to the website. http://www.humanesociety.org/news/dispatch/2012/11/hurricane-sandy-110212-1.html

.

[momcat]

Posted on Facebook by MuttsComics.com - Patrick McDonnell

PLEASE SHARE THIS PHONE NUMBER AND INFO:
The Humane Society of the United States, the New Jersey Office of Emergency Management, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture have teamed up to launch a 24-hour hotline for New Jersey evacuees who were unable to bring their pets with them before Hurricane Sandy hit. Evacuees with pets still at home or with emergency animal needs are urged to call the New Jersey Hurricane Sandy Pet Rescue hotline at 1-855-407-HSUS for assistance.

ChrisH,
On behalf of all the pets and their owners that have been affected and in some cases separated, thank you for posting this important information. I've sent this on to a friend who is involved with animal rescue and asked her to spread the word to the shelters her group works with to make sure the word gets out.

[ChrisH]

You are more than welcome, I only wish I could do something more tangible.

If you think it would be of help perhaps you could also pass the info in this link on to your friend.

Veterinary Help for Hurricane Sandy Victims (http://petnewsandviews.com/2012/11/veterinary-help-for-hurricane-sandy-victims/)

[Alysser]

Turns out we miscommunicated somehow! I thought my Boyfriend said HIS house was gone, he meant his neighbors, and he said he THOUGHT his would be. The township posted pictures of all the properties. His house is in one piece!:D:D His Grandma's car is also still there. He may be able to go back to get some stuff tomorrow.

[Asiel]

Sending all the best to the PT'ers who have been affected by Sandy. We've never had to live through something like this so it's hard to comprehend the horrible damage we keep watching on the news. At worse we get power outages of a day and get snowed in for a couple of days but with snowblowers and tractors, payloaders, it doesn't take long to get out from under. But we never get the kind of hurricanes you get. I hope the predicted Nor'easter slips quietly into the ocena and loses force.

[smokey the elder]

I was in Florida on vacation while all this was unfolding, but got reports from my catsitters. Other than my cats becoming totally neurotic during the storm, everything was OK at my place. Poor little boos couldn't wait for us to get home on Friday, and were velcro (tm) kitties all weekend! I hope all the folks without power get it back soon. A piece of good news about Wednesday's storm: it's supposed to track more easterly so the effects should be minimal.

[momcat]

For all of my PT friends in New Jersey, if you are in need of help as a result of last week's storm click on the following link. It will take you to the "Hurricane Sandy Information Center". It provides information on what help is available and how to get what you need. If you have a problem accessing the link, please pm me.


http://nj.gov/nj/home/features/spotlight/hurricane_sandy.shtml

[pomtzu]

Granddaughter's university starts back with classes today, but she is still without power at her condo. Odd - since it is only a little over a mile from campus. The lighthouse where her boyfriend lives got power back 2 days ago, so they have moved from one of his relative's houses, back to his place. Thankfully, she listened to her Dad's advice when he told her to take a lot along when she had to evacuate, so she's had clothes enough to get by on, plus all of her school books, laptop, etc. I do imagine this little "adventure" is starting to get pretty darn old tho, since it will be 2 weeks this Friday since she has been displaced. :(

And today the Nor'easter is marching up the coast. Hope it's not too bad for those already affected by Sandy. They are calling for wet snow here from this storm, later today.....:eek:

[Alysser]

I got stuck at work. An half hour drive took me an hour. I almost got into a huge accident going 25m MPH and I come home to find no power. I'm beyond upset, annoyed, disgusted and snappy. Not to mention, I found out my coworkers house got washed away in the hurricane. All in all this day has not been one of the best :(

[Karen]

Awww, I felt sorry for all the people we saw stuck in traffic this afternoon - seems like a lot of companies let folks go early - so everyone had to sit in so much traffic, they probably got home later, and more stressed, than if they had stayed to their usual time!

[Alysser]

No, Karen It wasn't because of traffic. It was because of the snow.