-by April MacDonald
As the storm slid into Saturday morning, residents of Inverness, Richmond, and Victoria couldn’t believe the sheer force of the east wind that hammered down on Cape Breton Island and mainland Nova Scotia.
Downed trees, branches and pulverized leaves, damage to property, and the destruction of critical infrastructure was apparent.
And the tragic death of one woman from Richmond County.
Power crews, clean-up crews, first responders, government officials, and volunteers quickly began the dangerous and daunting task on helping get people to safety and out of harm’s way.
Local contractors and anyone who possessed heavy equipment sprung into action to clear roadways and residential areas.
Warming centres were opened in every community for so many who were without power.
As it is every time there is a weather event of such magnitude, people rolled up their sleeves and answered the rallying cry.
Checking in on loved ones and neighbours or even strangers to ensure that seniors had what they needed, especially those who live alone.
Those who didn’t have to be out on the roads were asked to stay home and stay safe as damage to local infrastructure was yet to be determined.
The shock in seeing the impacts of flooding firsthand was like something from a disaster movie.
As of 10:00 p.m. Monday night, the local State of Emergency in Richmond, Inverness, and Victoria counties remained in effect for the next 24 hours.
It will be re-evaluated after that time.
Minister of Emergency Management Kim Masland was on the ground in Port Hawkesbury Tuesday, seeing the damage caused by the flooding on West Bay Road, and speaking with the local Regional Emergency Operations Centre about the impacts they are facing.
Their focus remains on keeping people safe and supporting communities through the response and recovery.
If you are in an affected area, stay off flooded roads and follow directions from local officials.
The speed in which crews cleared roadways, repaired bridges, and restored power was remarkable.
The counties who were hardest hit thank everyone who answered the call. We are grateful for their bravery, professionalism, and commitment to helping get us all back on our collective feet.