The Duchess And The Hurricane

Hurricane Sandy has made its way through New York City. My-Mother-The-Dowager-Duchess lives in Evacuation Zone A. Right near the water (well, I suppose everywhere is right near the water now). Evacuation Zone A is low-lying. Mandatory evacuation; the mayor of New York said residents of Zone A were required to go to shelters. But The Duchess and most of her high-rise neighbors stayed put. I haven't heard from her since yesterday morning. I'm sure all is well. Her co-op has its own power plant. So, even if they're without power, it could be only as a precaution and it shouldn't be for too long. The Duchess had stocked up before the storm.

SAND BERM FRONTING THE BOARDWALK IN ANTICIPATION OF HURRICANE SANDY.
(THAT'S NOT THE ORIGINAL NATHAN'S. THAT'S THE BOARDWALK STORE.)
(PHOTO FROM THE WEB.)

I've read that streets in The Duchess's neighborhood are flooded. The photos and stories I've found are very disturbing. There was a car on fire at the hospital three blocks away last night and it took emergency vehicles an hour to get there through three to four feet of water. No injuries. Initially, it was reported that the main building of the hospital was on fire. I'm glad that wasn't the case.

A VIEW OF CONEY ISLAND PIER YESTERDAY AFTERNOON BEFORE SANDY (AND HIGH TIDE) HIT.
(PHOTO FROM THE WEB.)

I'm about to try and reach The Duchess by phone (first home phone, then mobile). I waited just on the odd chance she actually slept late this morning. I don't know if I'll get through. I'll also try calling Kid Brother. He lives above 5 miles from the beach and he's smart enough to know when to come in from the rain (and falling trees). Besides, the organization that watches out for him, AHRC, does a great job.

CONEY ISLAND STREETS UNDER WATER (PHOTO TAKEN DURING THE NIGHT).
("A" IS WHERE CHUCK AND I PLAYED SKEEBALL.)

(PHOTO FROM THE WEB.)

When the Duchess emailed yesterday morning, she didn't seem much concerned. More than anything else, I think she was disappointed she couldn't go to school for her square dance/folk dance class. I sure hope things are cleared up by tomorrow, but that's a lot to hope for. The Duchess sure won't be pleased when she has to also miss her painting class this week.

BUILDING "A." THE VIEW IN SEPTEMBER OUT TO THE STREET,  NOW A RIVER.

I hope those of you in the path of the storm remain safe... and careful.