Hurricane Sandy Impacts St. Louis Area Residents

ST. LOUIS, MO (KTVI)– Hurricane Sandy slammed the east coast with heavy rains and gusting winds. Streets were flooded and trees and power lines were knocked down leaving millions in the dark. Becky Wiley, from Flora, Illinois was left stranded after her flight was canceled because of the weather. She rode out the storm at her sister’s house in Salisbury, Maryland, about thirty miles from Ocean City.

“We’re very fortunate. We lost power a couple of times with no lengths of time we’re very fortunate,” said Wiley.

 Members of Missouri Task Force One loaded search and rescue supplies Monday night then headed to Herndon, Virginia to help storm victims. Captain Mike Digman says because of downed trees and power lines it will be challenging for members to reach some homes to offer assistance.

“They’re looking to make the most impact that they can with what they have. That might be a sledge hammer and a pry bar to go into homes to see if they can give them a hand,” Digman said.

Justin Kruszewski is worried about his grandparents and others in New Jersey. He’s collecting donations to drive there to give to residents in need.

“I am concerned. That’s why I’m heading up there, food, water, anything that will help. Toiletries so I can load up before I go.”

Sandy is also causing problems for business and leisure travelers with plans to fly to the east coast to take a cruise. John Heimburger, president  of Travelplex Travel and Cruise says “hundreds of our customers cruise off the east coast.” he went on to say “some of the cruise lines I understand repositioned cruises or left their ports of destination early so they could get around or out of the storms.”

It could be days before things return to normal after sandy’s wrath. If you would like to donate supplies to help Justin Kruszewski in his effort call his cell. The number is 636-387-3780.