Massachusetts governor Deval Patrick declared that his state was in a state of emergency after several long days of heaving rain fell on New England this March, which left entire neighborhoods, streets and basements flooded with deep, muddy water.
Patrick has ordered state agencies to step into action and said that displaced residents have been re-located to shelters in those communities getting the worst of the storm damage. Declaring a state of emergency is a much needed step to make sure the state gets all of the federal aid it is entitled to. For now, flood waters must reside before a full assessment can be made. There was much fear that the Waltham Moody Street Dam would burst under the tremendous pressure, but soon relief came when the rains finally subsided.
Many of Massachusetts’ rivers were in the critical flood stage and numerous counties were under flood watch and warnings. Many schools were forced to close down and numerous workers were sent home. The strong winds and driving rains downed trees and power lines as river banks could no longer hold their own-sending muddy water rushing into yards and homes. Flooding is the most costly type of emergency that the state of Massachusetts faces each year, but this giant storm was not expected and left most people in its path dazed and terrified.
For those living in the storm damage area, it is good to remember to watch and listen for reports related to localized flooding as small streams in low-lying areas can swell quickly over their banks if another rain moves through the area. It is a good idea to minimize the chance of having basements flooded by elevating utilities and materials that could be prone to basement flooding. Know the evacuation procedures and listen to local public officials so that the appropriate emergency action is taken if need be.
Flash flood waters move swiftly and can sweep away vehicles, uproot trees, knock down buildings and destroy bridges. Just six inches of fast moving water can knock you completely off your feet so if you are forced to walk through a flood area, use a walking stick to be sure you are on solid ground at all times. If you have discovered water has entered your home, It is highly advisable that you do not turn on your home’s electricity to check for damage as a spark could cause a fire if there should happen to be a gas leak. Take care to clean everything in your home that has gotten wet as floodwater often picks up sewage and run-off from streets and factories. Throw away anything you have doubts about and locate your insurance company as soon as possible.
