Hurricane Sandy: 2 Years Later

By Yvanna Saint-Fort and Rose Driscoll

Nearly two years ago Hurricane Sandy hit New Jersey towns with force that had not been seen in decades. Many can remember the uprooted trees and branches littered all through the streets of West Orange, the long gas lines all around the tri-state area and the countless homes left without power or completely destroyed.

Prior to the storm, the Red Cross released a list of items to have on hand during the storm in case of emergency. At the time residents were encouraged to prepare for the worst, but very few could have predicted what would happen in the coming days.

• West Orange instituted a curfew, encouraging residents to stay in their homes between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
• The storm knocked down or uprooted about 230 trees.
• Voting was relocated due to power outages.
• West Orange Public Schools were closed for five days.
• The community united to hold fund raisers and provide relief for victims of the storm.

Meteorologists have predicted that 2014 would have fewer hurricanes than usual, but that if any should come, the MidAtlantic coast could be among the most vulnerable regions. But Hurricane Season is drawing to a close, and will end officially on November 30. So, you know, knock on wood.

Have any Sandy memories to share? What did your family do to keep busy while the lights were out? Which relief initiative helped you most? Tell us in the comments below.