...my current neighborhood looked like this. (photo: NOAA Photo Library)
I remember that my mom, stepfather, sister, brother and I waited out the storm in the hall bathroom. Afterwards, we were without power for about three weeks. As friends and family had power restored, we'd venture over to their homes for warm meals and hot showers. While there was some damage to our home, it was structurally sound. If I recall correctly, there was damage to the roof, water came in through the garage, and the fence in the backyard needed to be replaced, along with the usual debris. We had a huge ficus tree in our front yard, and the storm winds shifted at the precise moment that the tree came down. Had the wind not changed, the tree would have landed right through the middle of our house. We were lucky, but just under 10 miles away, others weren't.
Fast forward 15 years, and hubby and I bought our home in that same area of devastation. But, we're prepared: we have shutters that cover the entire house, and as soon as we hear that a hurricane is headed this way, we get our gas tanks filled and our other supplies ready. We're even considering buying a diesel generator. Our friends Viv and Martin, who live in our community as well, have had a generator for a while, but last season they invested in Jinma tractors to clear the rubbish from their huge backyard. It's a hassle, but better some tree debris to clean up, than what used to be a house.
It's amazing to think back to that destruction, and compare it to the present. The only remnant of the storm is the lack of vegitation near the Miami Metrozoo. That's just how it is: you rebuild or relocate and life goes on. But you don't forget.
My roommate and I lived in the Hammocks, in West Kendall. Our roof came off and the floor gave way... thank God we were elsewhere when that monster came through! Others were not as lucky.
I remember never knowing where we were because all the trees, signs and landmarks were gone or altered beyond recognition. I remember sitting outside the business with a shotgun and a sign stating 'Don't even try it'. I remember the National Guard had guns but no bullets but we had to obey the curfew anyway.
I loved Metrozoo and went often, but I haven't been back in 15 years.
wow
let's hope that never happens again.
Glad that your family was one of the lucky ones. And I am glad that the last couple of years have been so mild. Take care.
Posted by: Tink at August 24, 2007 1:49 PM