Storm Surge and Electric Emergency

The lead article in today’s New York Times, “Storm’s Push North Leaves Punishing Inland Flooding,” describes the way our attention had been diverted to the coastline during Hurricane Irene while we neglected areas that are really suffering now from inland flooding, primarily the mid-Hudson valley, upstate New York and Vermont.

In addition to that, millions, yes millions, remain without power including more than half of Connecticut — and I give a shoutout to my Pastor in Greenwich who at least last evening was one of them.

This seemingly delayed impact of the storm came as we looked for major damage in New York City, dramatic winds breaking windows in skyscrapers and other hurricane-related, category 1 effects throughout the region. We were aware of the possibility of flooding, but we were looking more at the ocean than inland rivers.

Meanwhile, the situation in New Jersey also remains dire in many regions with delayed flooding still expected on the Ramapo, Delaware and Passaic rivers according to Governor Christie.

So, briefly, Hurricane Irene continues to have a diverse impact throughout the tri-state area and in Vermont. It has claimed 40 lives as it barreled up the East Coast, and we may be experiencing its effects for weeks to come. Those of us in safe or unaffected areas need to help our neighbors as much as possible.