National Weather Service Says TS Sandy a "Powerhouse...of Historical Events"

[PhilDernerJr]

http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/discussions/hpcdiscussions.php?disc=pmdepd&version=0&fmt=reg
(http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/medr/nav_conus_pmsl.php?fday=7&fcolor=wbg)
THE 12Z/23 ECMWF STILL INCORPORATES AN EXTREMELY DEEPPOST-TROPICAL SANDY INTO THE MID-LEVEL PIVOT POINT OF THE POLARJET IN THE VICINITY OF LONG ISLAND EARLY NEXT TUESDAY, THE DYNAMICTRANSFER RESULTING IN A MINIMUM PRESSURE OF AT LEAST 932MB.THEREIN LIES THE STORM'S MENACE- A POWERHOUSE CAPABLE OF WHIPPINGTHE ATLANTIC INTO A FRENZY AND CHURNING UP DANGEROUS TIDES. OFPARTICULAR NOTE IS THE COINCIDENCE OF THE FULL MOON ON SUNDAY,OFTEN A SIGNIFICANT FACTOR IN HISTORICAL EVENTS. Are these guys writing a weather forecast or a Stephen King novel?

[yankees368]

Wait a second. Just 2 hours ago they were saying it was headed out into the ocean, and only the EU model was showing impact over LI?

[Matt Molnar]

Last I saw a few models show it curling into LI/New England, but the others have it blowing out to sea. I did read one forecaster who thinks the conditions are similar to two previous storms, both of which veered off into the Atlantic. Still a very long time away for computers or humans to say anything with much certainty.

Note: The 932 MB they mention is equivalent to a Category 4 hurricane.

[Mateo]

932mb is 27.53", which is some serious, serious stuff. For comparison, when Irene made landfall in New York, it was 965mb, or 28.50"

[PhilDernerJr]

True or not, I just feel it's way too early to forecast like that.

[puckstopper55]

ugh .. lets hope this moves out to sea .. I do not feel like a storm with potential for 10"+ of rain

[Matt Molnar]

Most of the models seem to be in agreement now that the storm will make landfall somewhere between Delaware and Maine. The official NWS HPC forecast now shows a direct hit on NYC. Wunderground's Jim Masters now gives it only a 30% chance of missing the US completely and says it could generate the heaviest October rain in the history of the northeast.

http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/medr/5dayfcst_wbgpre.gif

[AirtrafficController]

True or not, I just feel it's way too early to forecast like that.
Totally Agree. These forecast models are generally accurate to only 24-48 hours ahead of the predicted storm path.
As of right now, its a media hayride.

[alberchico]

Well hurricane Irene turned out to be a dud for the NYC area, not to mention that this time NOBODY will take this threat seriously and prepare in advance after the media went into overdrive portraying Irene as the mother of all storms....

[PhilDernerJr]

Sandy expecting to deliver Tropical Storm conditions to Eastern Florida Thursday morning.

http://www.nycaviation.com/hosting/055956W5_NL_sm.gif

[eric8669]

Well hurricane Irene turned out to be a dud for the NYC area, not to mention that this time NOBODY will take this threat seriously and prepare in advance after the media went into overdrive portraying Irene as the mother of all storms....

A dud? seriously? my street was under water.

[puckstopper55]

most of the tracks have it coming close enough to LI that even if we dont get a direct hit we will get wind/rain. I just hope its not more than a few inches.

[moose135]

A dud? seriously? my street was under water.
I was without power for 2 days. Some friends were without power for up to a week.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hurricane_Irene#New_York

In Manhattan, the Hudson River flooded in the Meatpacking District. Long Beach and Freeport, both of which experienced serious flooding, were among the worst-hit towns on Long Island, and many roads were left impassable. The winds knocked down many trees and power lines, leaving almost 350,000 homes and businesses without power in Nassau and Suffolk counties. Flooding of the Ramapo River and more than a half-mile of washouts led both Metro-North and NJ Transit to suspend service on the Port Jervis Line north of Suffern for nearly three months.
Maybe NYC didn't get hit with 150mph winds, and we didn't see a 40 foot wall of water crashing down the streets of Lower Manhattan, but there was plenty of damage done in this area, not to mention even more extensive damage upstate and through New England. Irene was hardly a "dud" of a storm.

[puckstopper55]

i dont know why, but this storm has me more nervous than the last one ... what do you guys think?

[yankees368]

i dont know why, but this storm has me more nervous than the last one ... what do you guys think?

Media hype (I hope)

[Matt Molnar]

Latest official track has it making landfall along the northern Jersey Shore on Tuesday, which is pretty close to a worst case scenario for NYC in terms of storm surge. (Absolute worst case would have the storm churning directly up over New York Harbor).

[puckstopper55]

ugh. i guess the only thing we can hope for is that it moves in and out quickly.

[PhilDernerJr]

The NOAA writer called it "Frankenstorm", and someone already made a Twitter account for it.

I'd like to point out that this isn't new for NOAA/NWS, and I find it to be very irresponsible and unprofessional.

[puckstopper55]

The NOAA writer called it "Frankenstorm", and someone already made a Twitter account for it.

I'd like to point out that this isn't new for NOAA/NWS, and I find it to be very irresponsible and unprofessional.

I agree. Maybe they dont have homes and family right in the path of the storm, or where storms have the ability to hit.

[alberchico]

I was without power for 2 days. Some friends were without power for up to a week.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hurricane_Irene#New_York

Maybe NYC didn't get hit with 150mph winds, and we didn't see a 40 foot wall of water crashing down the streets of Lower Manhattan, but there was plenty of damage done in this area, not to mention even more extensive damage upstate and through New England. Irene was hardly a "dud" of a storm.


I apologize for my wording but my point still stands. The media went into overdrive scaring the hell out of New Yorkers and in the end the storm was nowhere as bad as people predicted it to be. So yes compared to the hype that preceded it the storm was more bark than bite.

[puckstopper55]

Holy Mother of God .. look at the latest spaghetti models. http://www.wunderground.com/tropical/tracking/at201218_ensmodel.html

I dont know what the wind/pressure will be, but it looks like its stopping over our houses.

[alberchico]

Holy Mother of God .. look at the latest spaghetti models. http://www.wunderground.com/tropical/tracking/at201218_ensmodel.html

I dont know what the wind/pressure will be, but it looks like its stopping over our houses.


Aren't hurricane paths supposed to be notoriously unpredictable ? Is there a chance it might veer off course at the last minute and head out to sea ?

[JHNA57]

Holy Mother of God .. look at the latest spaghetti models. http://www.wunderground.com/tropical/tracking/at201218_ensmodel.html

I dont know what the wind/pressure will be, but it looks like its stopping over our houses.


Is that a CAMRN FOUR or a ROBER ONE approach??

[Matt Molnar]

I'd like to point out that this isn't new for NOAA/NWS, and I find it to be very irresponsible and unprofessional.
I agree. Maybe he's trying to get a job at The Weather Channel.

[PhilDernerJr]

I'd also like to point out that I read those text forecasts on "boring" days and there are such casual conversation in there is commonplace. The NWS/NOAA just shouldn't have that for potentially dangerous storms.

[NIKV69]

A dud? seriously? my street was under water.

I drove around with Fred. Many trees down. Water came halfway up the block. Power was out awhile. Def not a dud.

[Matt Molnar]

@chadmeyerscnn: "After 26 years in TV weather and 2 years with NOAA, #Sandy (http://twitter.com/search?q=%23Sandy) may pose the greatest risk to human life that I have seen. Pls keep up."

This is a serious storm, and maybe I've been a little over the top, but this guy is going a little nuts here. This storm will affect a huge number of people, but for most the effects will be inconvenience like loss of power and water. Worst case, I think, is that parts of Manhattan and the subways will be flooded and unusable for some period of time. This is not the kind of storm that's going to blow people's houses down. The main threat will be flooding, which is a serious problem in some areas but much less so in others. Sure, the local economy will crap out for awhile and people will suffer, but to say this a more dangerous storm than say, Katrina, which killed over 1,800 people, is a bit much.

[megatop412]

IT'S COMING RIGHT AT US!
http://images.spatiallyadjusted.com/airplane.jpg

[yankees368]

http://thepunkeffect.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/hide-yo-kids.jpg

[puckstopper55]

none of you guys are worried?

[yankees368]

Considering the forecast for Tuesday currently reads "Tuesday: Rain likely. Rain may be heavy at times. Very windy with highs in the mid 50s. Chance of rain 70 percent."
No.

[PhilDernerJr]

As far as the "dud" thing, that NYC portion of the forecast WAS a dud. I don't think anyone is calling the Long Island part a dud.

[kc2aqg]

Hey Phil- In your professional dispatcher's opinion, do you think the corridor between ATL and JFK will be affected between now and Sunday? Flying back and forth this weekend and would appreciate your thoughts on if we'll be impacted flying on Sunday evening. Thanks!

[Matt Molnar]

On a more reasonable note, frantic CNN guy is now saying he has banned the word "Frankenstorm" from their reports, noting that it's not appropriate to joke about a storm that's already killed 20 people (now 39 according to AP).

[PhilDernerJr]

Hey Phil- In your professional dispatcher's opinion, do you think the corridor between ATL and JFK will be affected between now and Sunday? Flying back and forth this weekend and would appreciate your thoughts on if we'll be impacted flying on Sunday evening. Thanks!

Between now and Sunday should be completely fine for that city pair. Nothing that would affect much at all, don't worry. :)

[Gerard]

Between now and Sunday should be completely fine for that city pair. Nothing that would affect much at all, don't worry. :)

Thanks you are my second airport guy to tell me Sunday night should be fine. Presently enjoying beautiful Tucson, flying back Sunday eve (11PM landing) at JFK.

[Gerard]

And I saw that NJ has formed an EMS Helibase at Trenton-Mercer Airport for storm related emergency work. Additional hoist equipped helicopters will be put into service!

[PhilDernerJr]

Thanks you are my second airport guy to tell me Sunday night should be fine. Presently enjoying beautiful Tucson, flying back Sunday eve (11PM landing) at JFK.

Unless any of your flights have some odd, annoying reason to go 150 miles out into the water, I see no reason that it would create a problem.

[alberchico]

By this point with Irene the city had already decided to shut down all subway service so the fact that we've heard nothing so far is a good sign....

[threeholerglory]

ugh. i guess the only thing we can hope for is that it moves in and out quickly.

Thats what she said.

Not to downplay the severity of this or any other storm, but maybe the weather gods are setting these storms up to cancel Halloween because of the childhood obesity rate.

[wunaladreamin]

Thats what she said.

Not to downplay the severity of this or any other storm, but maybe the weather gods are setting these storms up to cancel Halloween because of the childhood obesity rate.
What will Honey Boo Boo do now?

[Matt Molnar]

Thanks you are my second airport guy to tell me Sunday night should be fine. Presently enjoying beautiful Tucson, flying back Sunday eve (11PM landing) at JFK.
Second opinion: Sunday night may be cutting it close. At some point the airlines are just going to stop flying to JFK and/or Port will halt arriving flights like they did during Irene. With the heavy stuff expected to begin late Sunday/early Monday, I'd expect that point to come sometime during that period.

[NYCA News]

NYCAviation:

Hurricane Sandy Live Air Travel Updates (http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/nycaviation/~3/8xbtmN1GkFs/)

Around the clock info about airlines and airports as Hurricane Sandy moves into the Northeast US.http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/nycaviation/~4/8xbtmN1GkFs
[Click to Read Full Article (http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/nycaviation/~3/8xbtmN1GkFs/)]

[PhilDernerJr]

Matt's right...the storm will be affecting us sooner, and airlines are trying to close shop. I think if you're not where you want to be by sundown on Sunday, you're not getting too far. :(

[alberchico]

http://www.weather.com/maps/news/atlstorm18/projectedpath_large.html

the latest projections have the storm missing the city and long island....

[eric8669]

http://www.weather.com/maps/news/atlstorm18/projectedpath_large.html

the latest projections have the storm missing the city and long island....

that's just where is making landfall. its not missing anything.

[Zee71]

Alberchico....I think you are misinterpeting the map. Sandy is about 800 miles in diamteter. As Eric stated ..... "it's not missing anything"! Businesses in the HoBe area are boarding up, and have sand bags protecting them from water surges. To all .... stay safe!!!

[Gerard]

Second opinion: Sunday night may be cutting it close. At some point the airlines are just going to stop flying to JFK and/or Port will halt arriving flights like they did during Irene. With the heavy stuff expected to begin late Sunday/early Monday, I'd expect that point to come sometime during that period.

Yup woke up this morning and flight was cancelled!! Not a big surprise!! Stranded in gorgeous Tucson till Thursday. Have a flight booked out of PHX then. Hopefully things will be muh better. Who knows!! Everyone stay safe up there in the NE/Mid-atlantic!!

[Fighting_falcon_51]

Yup woke up this morning and flight was cancelled!! Not a big surprise!! Stranded in gorgeous Tucson till Thursday. Have a flight booked out of PHX then. Hopefully things will be muh better. Who knows!! Everyone stay safe up there in the NE/Mid-atlantic!!

I don't envy you at all :p

Anyway meteorologist Michael Leona is posting important info on twitter: https://twitter.com/liweatherman

[NIKV69]

http://www.weather.com/maps/news/atlstorm18/projectedpath_large.html

the latest projections have the storm missing the city and long island....

Yet still will probably give us tides 6 feet higher than Irene if not more. Plus spots will be without power for up to 12 days.

Not much of a miss.

[eric8669]

well here in Oceanside there is already Water in the streets. It has not rained yet and the water is coming up through the sewers. Not exactly flooding but its the start of things to come.

[eric8669]

Also saw saw two huge flashes in the sky just north of here. Transformers blowing.....

[moose135]

Stay safe up there, folks!

[alberchico]

http://hisz.rsoe.hu/alertmap/index2.php?area=usa&lang=eng

this useful site does a good job tracking the storm...

[megatop412]

http://hisz.rsoe.hu/alertmap/index2.php?area=usa&lang=eng

this useful site does a good job tracking the storm...

Uhh...looks like that site is saying Cat 2 till just before it comes ashore, and it looks like it's poised for a near direct hit on Philly/South Jersey. I'm not a meteorologist, so I don't understand why it's going to take a left turn in the next 12 hours instead of continuing NNE like it is now. Guess it doesn't matter now haha

[Delta777LR]

be safe everyone

[Gerard]

Just read that NYPD Aviation moved all their helicopters from Floyd Bennett Field up to Stewart Airport. Makes sense with the field being on Jamaica Bay. And a photo op for any spotters up there!! :tongue:

[Speedbird1]

It must be taken seriously as NYC Mayor Bloomberg closed the schools and the MTA shut the subways and ended above-ground service. Better safe than sorry. Hope everyone stays safe. I am thinking of walking outside later to get a newspaper but if the gusts are too strong; I'll head back. So far no rain in Brooklyn! The Full Moon I was anticipating, will only add to the High Tides; I live just slightly out of Zone A, where evacuations were ordered. My lights are flickering as I type this; hope we don't lose power.

[Iberia A340-600]

As of 8:11am they're still some repositioning flights happening out of DCA... Must be really desperate to get the remaining planes off the ground as the weather has gotten pretty bad here!

[yankees368]

Hey everyone. Not much of an event thus far, but it will be ramping up soon.
I set up a live-stream out the window, so you can see what I see:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLaUSIjhFfw&feature=youtu.be

[eric8669]

just returned from a walk down/around the block. Water is now halfway up my block and inching its way up. One block over the water has made its way further down. The next high tide should be very interesting.


highest wind gust over at JFK has been about 51mph so far.

[yankees368]

Hey everyone. Not much of an event thus far, but it will be ramping up soon.
I set up a live-stream out the window, so you can see what I see:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OLaUSIjhFfw&feature=youtu.be

Getting windy over here.

[lijk604]

ISP just reported a 54kt gust at 1220 local.

[AirtrafficController]

RWY 13 Threshold at KLGA and RWY 13R at KJFK are experiencing storm surge on the runway thresholds.

[megatop412]

A portion of the Atlantic City boardwalk has been washed away

[lijk604]

57kts gusts at ISP at 3:05pm local.

Of course as soon as I post this...now a 64kts gust recorded!

[Zee71]

My wish is for some of those trees at the mounds to go down!!!!

[eric8669]

My wish is for some of those trees at the mounds to go down!!!!

you never know. just maybe.

[kc2aqg]

Thought I would share my experience last night at JFK for DAL73 JFK-ATL, the last flight out of JFK for Atlanta. Check-in at T3 was a zoo, people everywhere all wanting to get out. The terminal itself was wrought with frustrated travelers and anger, and DL gate agents yelling that flights were full and there were no more seats to people waiting on line. There was one additional 763 and a 764 also going to ATL in the hours before us, both were completely full. Our flight was delayed 30 minutes for late arriving pax through security, then another 30 minutes for their luggage as the captain said "if those bags don't make it on this plane, they won't be going anywhere for days". We taxiied onto runway 13R and waited in line for close to 45 minutes for 4L departure, things moved pretty slowly. The flight was so rough that on both takeoff and landing, the overhead bin over my wife's head popped open and bags threatened to fall on us, but a quick-reacting FA stood up to close them for us even through we were rapidly accelerating/decelerating.

At least we made it home. Stay safe up there guys.

[megatop412]

just returned from a walk down/around the block. Water is now halfway up my block and inching its way up. One block over the water has made its way further down. The next high tide should be very interesting.


highest wind gust over at JFK has been about 51mph so far.

Eric be careful man there could be lots of crap flying around you might not see during the darkness of the next high tide(if you have trees on your block)

[threeholerglory]

the attic in my house (3rd floor) is officially the creepiest place i've been...half the lights are out, the other half are flickering and the wind is insane up there...I can feel the gusts moving the house...unless that's just me being a bitch which is more likely.

in other news, ACY is reporting 28.01" hg....how low can you go?

[alberchico]

Many parts in Manhattan are without power F**k:mad:

http://live.nydailynews.com/Event/Tracking_Hurricane_Sandy_2

http://gothamist.com/2012/10/29/lower_manhattan_loses_power_after_p.php

[AirtrafficController]

Took them long enough:
JFK Closed till October 31st at 2300Z
LGA closed till October 31st at 0026Z
EWR closed till October 31st at 1100Z

Lower Manhattan is flooded. Water is seeping into the WTC Construction site.

[alberchico]

Took them long enough:
JFK Closed till October 31st at 2300Z
LGA closed till October 31st at 0026Z
EWR closed till October 31st at 1100Z

Lower Manhattan is flooded. Water is seeping into the WTC Construction site.

Were stranded passengers still inside the terminals hoping to spend the night there or were the airports mostly empty ?

[Zee71]

As most of you know I reside in Howard Beach. We lost power around 8:30pm this evening. Also Howard Beach is totally under water as the storm surge and high tides occurred at around 9pm this evening. My apartment got flooded with at least 2 feet of water from the bay. It is definitely the worst storm that I have ever seen. The water level in the street must have been around 4 plus feet high at its peak. Hope everyone is okay.
ne is okay.

[Gerard]

Sitting in my hotel room in Arizona watching coverage and getting TXTs from my wife and brother on LI and I cant believe the power and devestation of this storm. The flooding of lower Manhattan is ASTOUNDING!! Never saw anything like that!! And the video of the ConEd transformer blowing is AMAZING!! Right now there is a fire raging in Rockaway Park and FDNY had big problems getting even close to rescue people due to high water and barely could put water on it. I can only imagine the destruction we will see at first light this morning all over the region!! We will be feeling the effects of Sandy for a long long time!!

[megatop412]

Well, for being closer to the center of the storm here in South Jersey I actually escaped with no damage, and amazingly, the power never went off. I am reading about the flooding and destruction up there that you are all dealing with right now and it is heartbreaking.

I truly hope that at least everyone here and their loved ones are OK and that your homes are without too much damage. Mark I am sorry to hear about your apartment but glad you are OK.

As soon as I can get ahold of my Mom and she is able to get back to Lawrence I'll be trying to get up there to help her clean up as I'm sure that at least the basement has flooded. Based on the surge prediction maps and topographic maps I looked at the house is 23 ft above sea level but I've seen pictures of the corner of Rockaway Tpke and Peninsula Blvd and the parking lot at Panera, they had about a foot of water there. Woodmere Docks was completely inundated and I'm reading that Meadowmere Park was devastated. When I saw the fire they had in Breezy Point I was speechless. One HUNDRED homes, gone, and most if not all of the Rockaways under water, same with Long Beach.

Take care over the next few days everyone

[eric8669]

Hey guys.

Found a place with with WiFi.

I am without power and had flooding. Was a Pretty scary night. Water was everywhere. A river went down my block.

[eric8669]

Hey guys.

Found a place with with WiFi.

I am without power and had flooding. Was a Pretty scary night. Water was everywhere. A river went down my block.

[wunaladreamin]

On vacation in Orlando and glued to the news. Also getting some pretty disturbing pics from my neighborhood. Glad to see for the most part everyone's ok. **** can be replaced. You guys cannot. Be safe everyone.

[nssd70]

Just wanted to let everyone who has been affected by Sandy,that my thoughts and prayers are with you,and if I can be of any help let me know.

Doug

[Zee71]

Update: Doing well given the circumstances. Stepped out this morning and took a few photos but haven't gotten a chance to off load them yet. Saw plenty of National Guard troops staging in HoBe along with Homeland Security trailers and rescue volunteers from Maryland. Power is still out here. Was able to make a trek to Woodhaven where there are plenty of trees down. Checked on my moms house there and charge phones, my sisters iPad and took a nice hot shower (things we aren't able to do in HoBe). Eric and Jason, glad to hear you are all okay. One thing I am sadly missing out on is the news on tv. Feel clueless of what is happening in NYC. Friend sent me a pic of a parking lot at LGA which was flooded as well. Hopefully her car starts when she gets back from her trips. Stay safe all and thanks for the best wishes.

[jerslice]

So glad to see folks checking in and doing OK.

[alberchico]

http://www.airliners.net/uf/view.file?id=117468&filename=php5kipuo.jpeg

http://d.pr/i/xgb8

http://d.pr/i/P7gx

Intrepid got hit hard. Poor shuttle....

[lijk604]

Staying at my parents in Hicksville, while my area in Patchogue has not even been assessed yet according to LIPA's map. Needless to say my posts will be very sporadic. My place survived, just no power, tv, Internet or,phone there. Probably won't be for a while. Glad to hear my friends here all seem to be okay. Like Kenny said, **** can be replaced friends cannot. Mark and Eric, I hope the damage to your places is not too severe, and you can go back to a normal life pretty soon.

[AirtrafficController]

KEWR opens at 7AM tomorrow.
KJFK opens at 12PM tomorrow.
KLGA is still closed indefinitely.

[yankees368]

Hey everyone! We did just fine at my place. We were very lucky. Had the wind been blowing the other direction, we would have been under water. We had no flooding f any sort, just a loss of power. So sorry to hear about Mark and Erik. Below is a video and a picture album of the damage:

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.172313956240981.40171.100003871331015&type=1&l=081f7fbc01


http://youtu.be/kiwfCfXdY68

[Gerard]

Well just printed myBoarding Pass for a flight from PHX to Dulles on United tomorrow AM!! Supposed to connect to LGA but not sure that will happen!! But have my contigency plan as long as I get to DC area. Will rent a car, bunk overnite with friends in Potomac and hit the road Friday morning!! Going home to no power since 6PM Monday and a number of trees down but none on the house!! Could be a week for restoration!! Thats fine!! What can you do!!!?? I was just on a Town "Patch" and people are moaning about no power and the wait!! REALLY? We just had a monster storm 2 DAYS AGO!! 90% of Nassau in the dark!! People dead, missing, businesses destroyed, homes destroyed, lives shattered so if you have no power for a week FEEL BLESSED!!!!! And BE PATIENT!!
And its beautiful here in Arizona but still have Cabin fever!! Is that possible!!?? :eek:
Stay safe all!!!

[gonzalu]

Update: Doing well given the circumstances. Stepped out this morning and took a few photos but haven't gotten a chance to off load them yet. Saw plenty of National Guard troops staging in HoBe along with Homeland Security trailers and rescue volunteers from Maryland. Power is still out here. Was able to make a trek to Woodhaven where there are plenty of trees down. Checked on my moms house there and charge phones, my sisters iPad and took a nice hot shower (things we aren't able to do in HoBe). Eric and Jason, glad to hear you are all okay. One thing I am sadly missing out on is the news on tv. Feel clueless of what is happening in NYC. Friend sent me a pic of a parking lot at LGA which was flooded as well. Hopefully her car starts when she gets back from her trips. Stay safe all and thanks for the best wishes.

Mark, remember that you can get most TV channels nowadays on your iOS or Android. CNN has a great app as well as NBC and ABC I believe they all broadcast their channels via the app. I know CNN does!. Also, Cablevision app allows broadcasting of your entire cable subscription via their app but you have to be on your home network.

[yankees368]

Verizon phone service is all but dead. SMS outgoing is impossible, but incoming works. My Android phone won't even attempt to place a call at all, but iPhones will keep trying and eventually get through. However, LTE is working just fine!
If you have access to Optimum WiFi, I highly recommend using that. Even if your area does not have power, those are powered by the CATV system, and may be functional. I am on one right now at the Starbucks in Hewlett, which has no wifi itself. Stay safe everyone.

[PhilDernerJr]

Relieved all of you are ok. Still in shock at how much of a hit the city and surrounding areas took.

[bonanzabucks]

My neighborhood was hit or miss. Some damage to my place, but we have power. I think we're the only house on the block with power. Trees down everywhere. Our neighbor's house was hit by a falling tree. Can't believe how much damage there was.

[Gerard]

I cant put the link here from the hotel computer but if you go to the NY Post or Google NYPD helicopter rescue you get some amazing video of Helicopter 23 (the "unmarked" B412) doing
hoist rescues in Staten Island. I believe the footage was shot directly from one of the PD Agustas!!
Also I saw that the Navy is repositioning a number of helicopter carriers off the NY/NJ shore in case the copters on board are needed!!
AMAZING, HEROIC and INSPIRING work being done by all police, fire, EMS, National Guard, utility crews and just ordinary citizens helping out!!
Gives hope to humanity!!!

[Mattimus]

I cant put the link here from the hotel computer but if you go to the NY Post or Google NYPD helicopter rescue you get some amazing video of Helicopter 23 (the "unmarked" B412) doing
hoist rescues in Staten Island. I believe the footage was shot directly from one of the PD Agustas!!
Also I saw that the Navy is repositioning a number of helicopter carriers off the NY/NJ shore in case the copters on board are needed!!
AMAZING, HEROIC and INSPIRING work being done by all police, fire, EMS, National Guard, utility crews and just ordinary citizens helping out!!
Gives hope to humanity!!!


http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/staten_island/watch_nypd_helicopter_crews_pluck_jrVPsIuUJCvW5S7G 7zU9AK

[yankees368]

So I just talked to a LIPA crew, and they estimate we will still be out for another 7-10 days. On that news, I'm hitching a ride on jetblue up to Buffalo tomorrow. The damage around here is insane. Thankfully, none to our house.
Good luck, everyone.

[Zee71]

I need a long extension cord and a power strip tor some juice since there are no power generators and even fuel around here to run them.

After this I am going to need a good spottng trip!

[yankees368]

I've had enough of the darkness and the cold, and booked a flight up to Buffalo. I will be returning Tuesday. Good luck with the cleanup, everyone!

[threeholerglory]

and the marathon is still going to happen? aren't there better things to do with the talent and resources?

[PhilDernerJr]

Yeah, Bloomberg says the marathon will still happen. I agree with you.

[Gerard]

I need a long extension cord and a power strip tor some juice since there are no power generators and even fuel around here to run thEm.

That is exactly what we did with our neighbor/friend across the street that has power. Others down the block doing the same as our side is out of service. Huge tree came down in our backyard taking down the lines. It's going to be awhile but we are coping with the help of our friends.
On a travel note I finally made it back from Arizona late lady night but not without some trepidation. Our United flight in PHX was delayed 2 hours but once we got up it was great. Guess people didn't want to come back east as it wasn't filled. In fact I had the whole row to myself and with clear skies pretty much all the way to Dulles it was an enjoyable view. Get in to Dulles and the first thing I see on the screen was that o
9:30 flight to LGA was delayed till 10:30 "awaiting aircraft". Also knowing the state of LGA, even though it was open I'm thinking "oh man they better not cancel"! Well they didn't, we boarded and were airborne by 10:40. Very eerie coming in over the city and seeing large patches of darkness and lots of emergency lights flashing. Landed smoothly on 22 and home by 12:30. Hope everyone is safe!

[Gerard]

Hahaha sorry for the long space underneath. Using my wife's iPad with a little technical difficulty.:tongue:

[Perriwen]

I heard on the national news Bloomberg is planning on throwing people out of the hotels to house the runners. Is this true? :mad:

[Cary]

The news (believe it was CNBC) just reported the marathon is cancelled.

[NIKV69]

The news (believe it was CNBC) just reported the marathon is cancelled.

Suprised it took Bloomberg that long. It was a horrible decision to hold it. I think once he saw the hotels refusing to give up rooms for runners and some runners boycotting he knew he was in trouble.

Eric has the water receded near Middle Bay? Got a friend on Illona Lane. He lost everything and he isn't answering his phone. Was going to try to go down and help him.

[Matt Molnar]

I heard on the national news Bloomberg is planning on throwing people out of the hotels to house the runners. Is this true? :mad:
Bloomberg is a jerk but he doesn't have quite that much power to do that. :)

It was some hotels themselves that were kicking out Sandy refugees in order to honor the reservations held by marathon runners. Other hotels did the right thing and told the runners to bugger off.

[moose135]

It was some hotels themselves that were kicking out Sandy refugees in order to honor the reservations held by marathon runners.
If I were homeless because of the storm, and the hotel told me to leave so a marathoner could have the room, I'd tell them to call the police to have me removed, and I'd be calling the news media while I waited for NYPD to show. Because that's exactly the kind of publicity a hotel would love to have...

[eric8669]

Day 4 of cleanup. Still no power and it's cold.
Finally getting out for for a break. At the movies.

[wunaladreamin]

Just got a call from my landlord...I am in desperate need of vodka.

[wunaladreamin]

Ok...half a bottle of vodka down...turns out my place took on 3' of water. Our cars are out of the way but the national guard is denying access from 1/2 mile north of me. When we come back from FL on Sunday, we'll be at the in laws for a bit but nobody knows for sure.

[Zee71]

Update - going 6 to 7 days without any power here and not sure when power will be back up. Lines for gasoline are long if you are fortunate to find a station with fuel. Still tossing out damaged goods which will take a few more days as I try to salvage some stuff. Last night I saw a convey of about 20 or garbage trucks ready to hit the streets to start hauling away the mess. Saw a couple of businesses on Cross Bay open with their own generators. It will take some time to recover from this disaster. Nights are pretty much sleepless as we stay home in a powerless and heatless home in layers of clothing. Finally was able to get a pair of shoes and comfy slippers since ever shoe and sneaker was water logged. I am thrilled to see we are all okay I am sure the next time we all go spotting will be a bitter sweet outting. Stay safe and warm. By the way I hear we might get blasted again by another nor'easter.

[eric8669]

Update - going 6 to 7 days without any power here and not sure when power will be back up. Lines for gasoline are long if you are fortunate to find a station with fuel. Still tossing out damaged goods which will take a few more days as I try to salvage some stuff. Last night I saw a convey of about 20 or garbage trucks ready to hit the streets to start hauling away the mess. Saw a couple of businesses on Cross Bay open with their own generators. It will take some time to recover from this disaster. Nights are pretty much sleepless as we stay home in a powerless and heatless home in layers of clothing. Finally was able to get a pair of shoes and comfy slippers since ever shoe and sneaker was water logged. I am thrilled to see we are all okay I am sure the next time we all go spotting will be a bitter sweet outting. Stay safe and warm. By the way I hear we might get blasted again by another nor'easter.

sounds exactly like the situation i am in as well. It can only get better, I hope.
I have taken refuge at the Casino for heat, food and to watch the football game. Back to the dark and cold soon.

[gonzalu]

You guys are tough. I would have chickened out and relocated to my sister's up in Albany. I hope you all hang in there mentally because that's the price you pay ultimately... your heart and mind just can't cope. Physically we can all withstand a lot of stress but not emotionally.

I say it again, if there is anything I can do for anyone on this community no matter how big or small, please ask. Feel free to call me or E-mail me or PM me.

Hopefully we'll be out talking about this soon as part of history instead of the reality it still is.

[eric8669]

You guys are tough. I would have chickened out and relocated to my sister's up in Albany. I hope you all hang in there mentally because that's the price you pay ultimately... your heart and mind just can't cope. Physically we can all withstand a lot of stress but not emotionally.

I say it again, if there is anything I can do for anyone on this community no matter how big or small, please ask. Feel free to call me or E-mail me or PM me.

Hopefully we'll be out talking about this soon as part of history instead of the reality it still is.


Thanks Manny. Yes, continuing to tough it out with some breaks in between.

When its all over, we all have a nice meal together and some spotting. good enough for me.

[wunaladreamin]

Just got back from MCO and the power at Kim's parents house has just been turned back on. I won't be attempting to see the damage at my house until the morning. Honestly, I feel extremely ****ty for being out of town on vacation while everyone I care about has suffered. All I have to look forward to is a nasty cleanup. Stay strong guys.

[yankees368]

Just checking in. Still in Buffalo, will be returning tomorrow. Still no power at home, as far as I know, and I don't expect it to be back by the time I get there.
A curfew was put in place in Lawrence, so that's a sign of how things are in that area.
Hopefully see everyone soon.
Anyone want to venture a guess on how Bayswater did?

[lijk604]

Anyone want to venture a guess on how Bayswater did?

I can only imagine that Bayswater & HoBe will never look the same.

Honestly, I would feel bad going out to spot around here now given all the devastation. It's time to help our neighbors.
Spotting can wait.

[727C47]

is the BayHouse still standing? my friends and family range from OK(EastMeadow,Massapequa) to devastated(Long Beach),we were the first airplane(allegedly)into JFK last Wednesday, our low level tour of the south shore was sobering, flying out of JFK again today, back thurs/friday, my Jersey friends /familia were also hit extremely hard,God bless us all.

[yankees368]

The area that bayswater is in floods on a sunny day, so I can't imagine they did too well. Nearby meadowmere was pretty much wiped out.

[wunaladreamin]

Finally was able to get home. Everything is just gone.

[megatop412]

Finally was able to get home. Everything is just gone.

Damn dude. I am so sorry but glad you are around to tell it.

My block in Lawrence just got power back at 3:07AM. They had to reconfigure the power grid because we were connected to one of the 8 substations in Far Rock, all of which are screwed. It has been cold as sh*t in the house. Got here Wed night to find large branches in the yard but no damage there and no water in basement. We have a marker in the sidewalk that says we are at 23 feet above sea level so I guess that helped.

Some of the scanner chatter I heard over the past few days included reports of police finding bodies in homes, one filling station trying to charge $40 for a gallon of gas, pleas for food and water deliveries, and customers trying to break windows in the BP station on Peninsula Blvd. We stayed in the house this whole time to avoid the chaos. Now I need to find some gas or try to get back to Philly on the 1/2 tank I have(stations north of 195 were either shut or had very long lines on my trip up here).

I hope life returns to some kind of routine(I don't even want to say 'normal') for all of you as quickly as possible.

[yankees368]

Finally was able to get home. Everything is just gone.

So sorry to hear that.
That is just awful.

[NIKV69]

Sorry to hear Kenny.

[Landing Lights]

Now I need to find some gas or try to get back to Philly on the 1/2 tank I have(stations north of 195 were either shut or had very long lines on my trip up here).

It might be worth it for you to travel home via I80 or similar through the Poconos. I have it on good authority that they have no issues with gas availability in that area.

Best wishes to all of you still trying to recover. It's not going to be quick or easy, but you will get through this.

[USAF Pilot 07]

Some of the scanner chatter I heard over the past few days included reports of police finding bodies in homes, one filling station trying to charge $40 for a gallon of gas, pleas for food and water deliveries, and customers trying to break windows in the BP station on Peninsula Blvd. We stayed in the house this whole time to avoid the chaos. Now I need to find some gas or try to get back to Philly on the 1/2 tank I have(stations north of 195 were either shut or had very long lines on my trip up here).


Not many issues getting gas south of 195. I filled up the other day in Mt. Laurel, wasn't even a line, and didn't see many lines for gas until north of 195 on the tpke.

[wunaladreamin]

Thanks guys. Everyone is accounted for and alive so it's definitely the little things to be thankful for. I have to say, watching what happened on tv from FL couldn't possibly paint an accurate picture of the scope of what happened here. I am still in shock beyond words. Has anyone heard from Spellman? I know he's in Long Beach and I don't think he's checked in yet.

[Gerard]

Thanks guys. Everyone is accounted for and alive so it's definitely the little things to be thankful for. I have to say, watching what happened on tv from FL couldn't possibly paint an accurate picture of the scope of what happened here. I am still in shock beyond words. Has anyone heard from Spellman? I know he's in Long Beach and I don't think he's checked in yet.

Ryan is fine. Very busy as a member of the LB Aux PD! Just saw a pic of him on FB and he posted a quick I am fine message a few days ago.

[wunaladreamin]

Great to hear Gerard thanks.

[Zee71]

Kenny .... I am so sorry to hear of your lose. My prayers go out to you and all the others impacted by Sandy. Day 8 and still no power .... Today the Con Ed guys were going door to to door looking the damage and informing folks. As far as power coming back he informed us it still may be a few days as they bring up each grid. Tomorrow I will be removing the damaged sheet rock to prevent mold from forming. The entire kitchen has to be redone. It will take some time before things get back to some state of normalcy. Gas lines are nuts .... My sister got a call from one of her friends asking if she was interested in getting or chipping in for a 55 gallon drum of gas ...... The price was $600! Freaking nuts. Stay safe and strong as we'll pull through this all together.

[gonzalu]

$11,00 per gallon? Jesuchrist!

Anyway, Kenny, so sorry man, really... I am sure coming from you, it must be really bad... Seeing the swath of destruction on Breezy Point really affects me every time they play that clip, especially since I heard the Fireman response (and their inability to do anything) on the scanner live that evening.

The spread of the destruction is what's sobering. I can't imagine an Earthquake ...

[Cary]

Really sorry to hear that, Kenny. If you need anything (basics like deodorant, etc.) let me know, and I'll get it up to you :tongue: Seriously, though, let us know if you need anything!

[eric8669]

What day is it?

[Zee71]

Maybe the Mayan's knew something we didn't, and this is just the beginning. I hope not! Day 8 - still no power. The lines for gas are insane. Looking forward to better days ahead.

[eric8669]

Maybe the Mayan's knew something we didn't, and this is just the beginning. I hope not! Day 8 - still no power. The lines for gas are insane. Looking forward to better days ahead.
What he said.....

[NIKV69]

Just got my power back.

[megatop412]

Drove back to Philly this morning and there were gas lines and closed stations even in NJ but lines were MUCH shorter than the ones on LI. Saw convoys of power trucks from a Missouri utility coming up Rt 1.

Hang in there guys

[yankees368]

Update- Still no power, and areas around here are still a total mess, with poles snapped and transformers on the ground.
Just got gas, took 1h15m, not terrible. But its cold out, and LIPA doesn't say anything about restoration times.

[PhilDernerJr]

Hey all, we're raising money to BBQ for victims of the hurricane, hoping to give many of them their first hot food since the storm.

If you are interested in donating, please do so here... http://fundly.com/grillin-for-rockaway

If anyone wants to join us this Monday, maybe just a helping hand or to bring a grill or anything else, please let me know.

[Gerard]

This is crazy. They said rain then snow late afternoon but it has been all snow. And can hear the wind picking up. We got our power back Mon night and hoping we can get through this storm. A friend of ours in Syosset already lost their power which they had gotten back Sun night. Was out doing errands around 10 this morning and the Utility trucks were all over my neighborhood working. Not sure his long they will stay out. And as I write our lights just blinked! Oh well good luck to all.

[yankees368]

Hey all, we're raising money to BBQ for victims of the hurricane, hoping to give many of them their first hot food since the storm.

If you are interested in donating, please do so here... http://fundly.com/grillin-for-rockaway

If anyone wants to join us this Monday, maybe just a helping hand or to bring a grill or anything else, please let me know.

Wish I could help, Phil, but I'll be in Chicago that day.

[yankees368]

Big regression out here. Transformers and high voltage lines popping all over the place. Everything I can see is once again in the dark.

[Gerard]

Big regression out here. Transformers and high voltage lines popping all over the place. Everything I can see is once again in the dark.

Not sure where you are but same happening up in Syosset. Friend lost power there and another the same in the 5 Towns area. She said when the transformer blew it scared the "bleep" out of her it was so loud!

[yankees368]

Not sure where you are but same happening up in Syosset. Friend lost power there and another the same in the 5 Towns area. She said when the transformer blew it scared the "bleep" out of her it was so loud!

I'm in Woodmere. Using up the remainder of my laptop battery. It was more than a transformer, it was a high voltage line or substation to take this much out.
It was very bright, and VERY loud. Unreal.
I'm cold.

[eric8669]

After 10 days of no power, heat or hot water I have relocated to my aunts in North Woodmere who up until an hour ago had power back but one has lost it again. But she has hot water so I've moved a step up.

[wunaladreamin]

This is not what many of us needed. Be safe guys.

[megatop412]

My mom just called and said that her power went off around 8pm so she's back in the dark. Hope the second time around isn't as long

[gonzalu]

Well, at least the predicted winds were not nearly as bad... but the weight of that wet snow is just as killer on power lines :-(

[Zee71]

Well going on day 10 without power! I guess this is the modern version of being a cave man. This is unbelievable a modern society such as us has been brought to her knees. Stay warm and safe all.

[NIKV69]

Well going on day 10 without power! I guess this is the modern version of being a cave man. This is unbelievable a modern society such as us has been brought to her knees. Stay warm and safe all.

Just got mine back last night. It sucked! Hang in there Mark!

[Delta777LR]

take it slow everyone. where im at already has ice on the ground.

[Gerard]

I'm in Woodmere. Using up the remainder of my laptop battery. It was more than a transformer, it was a high voltage line or substation to take this much out.
It was very bright, and VERY loud. Unreal.
I'm cold.

That's where she is and that must have been what she heard. I'm hearing lots of horror stories of people just getting power back then losing it including my son in Huntington. Last nights commute whether it was by car or rail was a nightmare. 30 minute drives into 4 hour travels. LIRR suspended service a number of times and people trapped on trains for hours. I played hooky yesterday and am doing so again. Right now heading out to start digging out from the 6 plus inches of snow we got and try to knock some of it off tree branches. There is light at the end of the tunnel with temps in the 50/60 range starting tomorrow but right now we will deal with this disaster.

[yankees368]

So the snow last night didn't help. Areas near me that regained power the Tuesday after the storm, lost it last night as a few high-voltage lines came down. Still no ETA for restoration by me, and I'm not holding my breath.

[Gerard]

So they just announced gas rationing for Long Island using the odd/even system. Kicks in tomorrow morning at 5am.

[PhilDernerJr]

I think something is fishy, because you can drive north and find gas stations with no lines that all have a lot of gas, yet companies aren't redistributing down here.

Are we all getting the screw?

[yankees368]

Would that surprise you?

[yankees368]

Electricity!

[lijk604]

Electricity!
Welcome back to the grid!

[megatop412]

Rationing on LI? What happened to 'you should see the gas situation improve dramatically over the next few days', which Cuomo said on the radio several days ago??? So I take it that didn't come to pass and you guys are still dealing with lines.

All the spigots should be on by now, and there should be no lines. Like I said, not very far away(south of I195) there are no problems at all.

[lijk604]

I think something is fishy, because you can drive north and find gas stations with no lines that all have a lot of gas, yet companies aren't redistributing down here.

Are we all getting the screw?

Of course we are. Make all the promises right before election day, then after the election, you don't hear a word about how they are making progress getting fuel to Long Island/NYC. Now they announce the rationing...why didn't they do that from the beginning?

[gonzalu]

NYC just announced it too... Odd-Even starting 6am tomorrow until further notice. I predicted this would happen before the storm hit. Even with the port open, with electricity back at Linden refinery/fuel farm, there are unknown problems not being shared with the public and it shows in the lack of service to the gas station network.

[gonzalu]

Long Islanders should really really strongly urge their local governments to ignore the NIMBYs and create a strategic fuel depot or depots throughout the island that come in from the north and the south and NOT through the NYC bottleneck!

[megatop412]

last I heard the Inwood terminal was repaired and open as of last weekend...guess it didn't matter much, OR there are probably bigger problems than we are being told. I'll go with the latter

[yankees368]

Trucks have been flowing in and out of the Inwood terminal for quite a while now. The problem out here on LI, I believe, is a combo of panic buying and the fact that a lot of stations have closed recently.
My area has lost a bunch of gas stations recently, and others have gone independent. The independent ones have yet to refuel even once. The remaining major stations are getting daily shipments, but they are overwhelmed with customers. Combined with stations that just don't have power, it's a problem.

[yankees368]

From NYS:
"Due to conditions caused by Hurricane Sandy, Bayswater Point State Park will be closed until further notice."

[NIKV69]

We should have been gas rationing all along like NJ. The lines were ridiculous and the second storm just made the problem worse with panic buying and stockpiling.

[megatop412]

We should have been gas rationing all along like NJ. The lines were ridiculous and the second storm just made the problem worse with panic buying and stockpiling.

True, as the lines here were nowhere near as bad as what I saw in Nassau. Maybe they didn't want to use the word 'rationing' as that in itself could have spurred panic but the damage has already been done

[gonzalu]

I keep reminding myself it was not even a CAT1 when it hit land... imagine if this had been a CAT5? Today I heard the DOH talking on the radio about a massive deployment somewhere (could not figure out where in the city) of over 90 Ambulances, a M.A.S.H. setup, 200 Army troops and lots of police... I assume Far Rockaway or Long Beach? this is crazy crazy crazy...

[NIKV69]

I keep reminding myself it was not even a CAT1 when it hit land... imagine if this had been a CAT5? Today I heard the DOH talking on the radio about a massive deployment somewhere (could not figure out where in the city) of over 90 Ambulances, a M.A.S.H. setup, 200 Army troops and lots of police... I assume Far Rockaway or Long Beach? this is crazy crazy crazy...

Nor did we get much rain. If we got 8-10 inches of rain forget it. SI and the Rockaways are terrible and FEMA has been a joke. They were closed because of 4-8 inches of snow? They are an emergency org!

[yankees368]

Much shorter lines today, about 30m. Over in queens, I did see NYPD enforcement. Did not see that in Nassau.

[NIKV69]

Much shorter lines today, about 30m. Over in queens, I did see NYPD enforcement. Did not see that in Nassau.

There was no enforcement in my town though most were complying I did see one car with an even plate but the line moved so fast nobody seemed to care. Again this was done late in the game and with the weather now things will correct.

[PhilDernerJr]

The gas thing is really upsetting me. I don't see why there are still distribution problems in our area. If I can drive to Westchester or CT, then the gas trucks can drive to me, too.

Now the rationing...did the politicians know that maybe distribution was to improve for today and the rationing makes it seem as though THEY found the fix?

There's really something not right about this.

[NIKV69]

The gas thing is really upsetting me. I don't see why there are still distribution problems in our area. If I can drive to Westchester or CT, then the gas trucks can drive to me, too.

Now the rationing...did the politicians know that maybe distribution was to improve for today and the rationing makes it seem as though THEY found the fix?

There's really something not right about this.

http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5hdS0jTCGBFBuBvc5V4FkeXIpNhKw?docId=CNG.f1230 08f7575a156fb9c945fe5b10c48.2c1

Simple search. It's not a conspiracy Phil. In fact the rationing should have been started from the beginning like NJ did.

[yankees368]

For what it's worth, just about any gas delivery that goes into Nassau County rumbles down my cross street, Peninsula Blvd, on their way out of the Inwood Terminal. There is no lack of gas trucks zipping along, nor has there been for days.

[PhilDernerJr]

Thank you for giving me front line info.

[Zee71]

Power is back on for me, after 11 nights of darkness and no heat. Plenty of work ahead to get my dwelling back up to par! It may take a month or two just to make livable. As far as gas goes I saw this morning a tanker at the Hess station on Cross Bay blvd open with 6 cars this morning. When I returned later in the day about 15 or so were there. I know they had to replace all the pumps which they did a couple of days ago.

[wunaladreamin]

Nice Mark!

[eric8669]

Good to here Mark.

my home is still in the dark. Don't know if you guys have been seeing what's going on in Oceanside. I know its bad all over. There was some kind of rally today. Lots of yelling and screaming as Politicians spoke. I'm at my aunts house in N Woodmere who finally got power yesterday.

[Zee71]

It amazes me these worthless politians a couple of days after superstorm how they are patting themselves on the back about how they communicated so well amongst themselves but they forgot one important ingredient " the victims" of the disaster. They only way I knew what was sort of going on was thanks to my scanner which I was able to tune into news frequencies. If it weren't for that I would clueless. People are frustrated with all that has been occurring or not occurring. I believe even Mayor Bloomberg didn't think the storm would be that bad while the meteorologists were stating otherwise, by then it was too late to evacuate other low lying areas. Lots of lessons to be learned from this disaster and lots of angry people to satisfy.

One group that deserves lots of kudos is the NYC department of sanitation. They really came through big time in terms of cleanup the trash that piled up.

[wunaladreamin]

Well besides that is just the fact that you can keep some faith in humanity as well. I've heard some really touching stories from around the way. Aside from friends that have reached out and offered help in any way, which is touching and deeply appreciated, a local dude whom I only know through twitter via the Capitals news lines sent me a message offering a hand as well. And a guy I work with (who we all think is bat **** crazy) went out and bought a SECOND generator so he could give it to another coworker in desperate need. All very touching. **** the politicians. It's up to us to take care of each other in situations like this. All I and a lot of folks in my area who are very bad off have heard from FEMA is a big **** you. That part of it is sickening. What else can one expect I suppose? They said **** New Orleans so why would they really go the extra mile for us?

There is a lesson to be taken from all of this. The lesson I've learned is be thankful for everything. My friends and family are all ok. There are no funerals to attend (which is great because I don't have a suit anymore lol) and nobody needs to be visited in the hospital. The rest is just stuff, and stuff can be fixed and replaced over time.

[NIKV69]

FEMA is a joke. You would think after Katrina we would have learned. We don't need an agency in these situations just the money. The fed should give the local officials whatever money or help they need and they should be in charge.

Yea Eric I saw Israel going on about something how the Government should have handled the power like they did in Baghdad. Unfortunately though he was on to something Baghdad probably was a bit easier to deal with since it wasn't under water, didn't have any trees and probably had a much easier infrastructure. Though he was trying to flame LIPA. LIPA should be ashamed of themselves. Unprepared and doing a terrible job. In cases like this I think the Governor should insert people to take over the operations during the disaster until things get done.

[yankees368]

For what it's worth, I am hearing people being helped by FEMA. However, like others said, it's messy.
My parents friends live in a development in Inwood, which had it's entire first floor washed out.
They obviously all have their own claim numbers with FEMA.
But instead of sending one person to observe the damage at the complex, they assigned an individual agent to each unit. So they would look at one unit, and say ok we have to go to Oceanside now, bye.
Total disorganization.

[Zee71]

I took a quick ride to see first hand the damage in Broad Channel and Rockaway. All can say what a mess! As soon as I crossed over the Cross Bay Memorial bridge the devastation was clear. Sand was all over the place the boardwalk was swept away and homes ruined. My eyes teared up knowing how much damaged Sandy caused to us all!

[wunaladreamin]

I took a quick ride to see first hand the damage in Broad Channel and Rockaway. All can say what a mess! As soon as I crossed over the Cross Bay Memorial bridge the devastation was clear. Sand was all over the place the boardwalk was swept away and homes ruined. My eyes teared up knowing how much damaged Sandy caused to us all!
It's all very overwhelming.

[Gerard]

I took a quick ride to see first hand the damage in Broad Channel and Rockaway. All can say what a mess! As soon as I crossed over the Cross Bay Memorial bridge the devastation was clear. Sand was all over the place the boardwalk was swept away and homes ruined. My eyes teared up knowing how much damaged Sandy caused to us all!

On Facebook News12 Weatherman Bill Korbel showed pictures he took during a flight yesterday over Robert Moses and Smith Point Park. Just incredible that there really isnt much if any beach left!! SAD!!

[gonzalu]

On Facebook News12 Weatherman Bill Korbel showed pictures he took during a flight yesterday over Robert Moses and Smith Point Park. Just incredible that there really isnt much if any beach left!! SAD!!


WOW!!

https://www.facebook.com/korbel12?ref=ts&fref=ts

[gonzalu]

I believe FEMA gets a bum rap no matter what. I am fairly certain they gave money to local and state officials right away. I have not heard otherwise. It is always up to local govt to use it accordingly. I am certain I got help from FEMA via my employer (Hospital) as the folks supplying us with fuel were from Louisiana and were fueled by FEMA personnel at Ft. Dix from Military fuel tanks/reserves (his words)

Not saying they are great but certainly can;t say they are a joke. Not sure what they should be doing. NO AMOUNT of response or preparation will ever get to everyone right away, at the same time nor will it ever put things back the way they were overnight. I think we need to wait and see after all has been recovered how the response could be measured. I listen to First Responders and Emergency Services as well as Federal and State government all day long on my scanners and I hear nothign but well intentioned hard working people at all levels.

Sanitation especially has shown to be HIGHLY professional and amazing in really stepping it up, 24/7 non stop.

NYC DOH and US Army with out of town EMS and private Ambulance were setting up a M.A.S.H. unit somewhere yesterday, I assume Far Rockaway but not sure. FEMA is probably the best prepared to guarantee dollars for such a huge relief operation. Lots of private companies would not be doing this otherwise. Same for electrical contractors and linemen from out of state. I saw one on TV being interviewed saying the pay was really good but he loved to help. That money is likely coming from FEMA funneled through the local utilities.

When you hear Christie, Cuomo, Bloomberg etc. saying FEMA is not stepping up, then you can say that... otherwise, I think it is premature to say they are a joke! Again, with the caveat that I saw that help directly. I understand if [you] have not, how you can believe anyone isn't doing much for you and your recovery :-(

[NIKV69]

how you can believe anyone isn't doing much for you and your recovery :-(

By closing with 5 inches of snow on the ground?

They have done a little better than Katrina (where they were more than a joke) but still very inept. Give the local officials the money and let them get the help in. BTW No governor or mayor will publicly slag them for it hurts them down the road politically with the feds if they ever need something.

[PhilDernerJr]

The thing about FEMA is that they are not a massive Army, so when things ARE happening, it can be tough to know where the help is coming from and who did what.

But hearing about people who have had hardly any officials come downt heir block, leaving people to completely rely on themselves...not good.

[Gerard]

When you hear Christie, Cuomo, Bloomberg etc. saying FEMA is not stepping up, then you can say that... otherwise, I think it is premature to say they are a joke! Again, with the caveat that I saw that help directly. I understand if [you] have not, how you can believe anyone isn't doing much for you and your recovery :-(

Tsake a ride out to Republic Airport and talk with them. :cool: They have the whole Main Terminal and surrounding lots set up as their staging area/HQ.

[hiss srq]

Hey everyone, it's been a long two weeks, the state activated my agency so I have been working for 14 days strait on 18 hour rotations, all I can say is wow..... And thank you for all of the support from all over America we have gotten in Long Beach, this is my first day back at the airline after which I will be back in LB to work again. One day when I have fully digested everything I will put it to some workds, I've still yet to really think about it all myself but I will tewlll you having been smack dab center and up close, that was something I don't think could be conjured in a movie makers dreams. It was like the deepest darkest nightmare you can think of where everything that can go wrong did. For now, I need to tend to some airline things, after a few more days of work and a two week vacation to someplace warm with boobs, beer and calypso music I'll be back. Thanks for the wishes everyone. I'll be in touch.

[Gerard]

A little humor which we all need........http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QKDpu4u650

LIPA Style!!

[yankees368]

LOL
thats great

[JHNA57]

Sandy's destruction as seen via NOAA satellite photos

http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/weeklynews/nov12/ngs-sandy-imagery.html

[eric8669]

Sandy cleanup continues
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fX40_bauYvg&feature=plcp

[wunaladreamin]

Sandy's destruction as seen via NOAA satellite photos

http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/weeklynews/nov12/ngs-sandy-imagery.html
That is ****ing insane.

[JHNA57]

http://nycaviation.com/forum/images/misc/quote_icon.png Originally Posted by JHNA57 http://nycaviation.com/forum/images/buttons/viewpost-right.png (http://nycaviation.com/forum/showthread.php?p=477173#post477173)
Sandy's destruction as seen via NOAA satellite photos

http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/we...y-imagery.html (http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/news/weeklynews/nov12/ngs-sandy-imagery.html)


Actually, these are not satellite photos, they were taken from an aircraft. I do recall seeing a twin engine, maybe Baron flying high patterns last week.

[Zee71]

The other day I drove past North Woodmere park and that was closed except for authorized vehicles. Additionally Branch Blvd that we use to get to the park from Peninsula was blocked and I had to take a detour. I am not sure why it was closed off.

Today we gutted the kitchen from the flood and sprayed bleach to prevent mold from growing as we try to get some sort of normalcy back. It may be about another month or two before I have my place back to a some what livable condition. At this point a mattress on the floor would be a blessing. I pray that others recover quickly and get the basic essentials. I am still trying to find out about a friend and his family who reside in Long Beach.

Looking forward to better days ahead.

[eric8669]

The other day I drove past North Woodmere park and that was closed except for authorized vehicles. Additionally Branch Blvd that we use to get to the park from Peninsula was blocked and I had to take a detour. I am not sure why it was closed off.

Today we gutted the kitchen from the flood and sprayed bleach to prevent mold from growing as we try to get some sort of normalcy back. It may be about another month or two before I have my place back to a some what livable condition. At this point a mattress on the floor would be a blessing. I pray that others recover quickly and get the basic essentials. I am still trying to find out about a friend and his family who reside in Long Beach.

Looking forward to better days ahead.

mark,

branch blvd is blocked because the road collapsed into the water.

[yankees368]

Here is a video of the damage to Branch Blvd from the day after the storm. These guys got to it before the police set up a road block. Needless to say, it wont be back in use for quite some time.
The force of the water in the lake eroded the land to the south of the flood control barrier and went around it, and then under the road, completely washing it away.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNJxpOobwVU&feature=g-hist

[yankees368]

In other news, the Bayhouse survived! They are currently open. How they managed to not get wiped out, I have no idea.
http://www.bayhousebar.com/

[eric8669]

Finally back home and able to post some pics.

Images are from Oceanside, Long Beach and Island Park.

http://southpawcaptures.com/my-blog/2012/11/17/sandy

[gonzalu]

Eric, great coverage, pictures we have not seen yet... Glad you're back home with power!

[Matt Molnar]

Has anyone been to Bayswater yet? I've been to the Rockaways twice and I've seen pretty much the whole peninsula from the Marine Parkway Bridge to Inwood, but haven't made it down Mott Ave yet.

[yankees368]

Has anyone been to Bayswater yet? I've been to the Rockaways twice and I've seen pretty much the whole peninsula from the Marine Parkway Bridge to Inwood, but haven't made it down Mott Ave yet.

I have not yet made it down that way. However, there was some areal imagery taken near JFK that showed Bayswater, and it looked in tact. However, according to the state parks website, it is still closed.

[lijk604]

A friend was there on Sunday. Said the gates were open and there were fishermen at their usual posts.