Sandy's daughter & family were caught in the flood. They called to say the water was rising, and it was nearing their doorstep. Later we learned that they had to run out the back door and climb a hill to a neighbor's house on higher ground, with a baby and Pomeranian in tow. They had called 911, but no one came until much later. The water ended up doorknob height into their first floor. Both cars were still in the garage. They're shorted out. I imagine any computer chips are fried. Mold and bugs became a problem quickly after the waters receded. Sandy got an SOS call early yesterday morning. By 10:30 AM, we were on the road in a borrowed Tahoe with over 40 gallons of water (the greatest need) and some food.
I was surprised that we made it into Nashville with little trouble. I expected Katrina, but (1) the waters receded quickly, (2) only parts of the city are disaster areas, unlike the impression you get from the news, and (3) Nashville is very different from New Orleans, people-wise. We didn't try to go into their neighborhood, though. The son-in-law's mother made it there before, and they drove out to meet us at a Kroger parking lot. He ended up staying for the cleanup and other duties. We drove back with the daughter and baby (and the dog). Made it in about 10:30 PM. 12 hours of driving, and I feel like I got off so easy.
I can't imagine what a mess they have to deal with now. To make matters worse, they had sold that house, contingent on inspection, which was scheduled for today. They had already chosen a house to buy where they're moving soon. My heart goes out to them.
