When Tropical Storm Helene hit, Don Reeb initially found it hard to believe the reports of flooding, only coming to terms with the damage after realizing what was happening. He described seeing furniture and even a refrigerator floating, leading to an overwhelming sense of disbelief. 'I just could not visualize, in this house, you know the furniture and the refrigerator floating up to the windows,' he recounted, illustrating the surreal nature of the flooding experience.
The aftermath of the storm left many homes in Newport, including Reeb's, completely destroyed. Lacking flood insurance due to being informed of the associated risks when purchasing the home, he now faces an estimated $50,000 in damages. Reeb highlights the emotional and financial toll this disaster imposes, stating, 'Oh, it's gonna hurt, it's gonna hurt,' capturing the struggle of those who must rebuild their lives from the debris.
Amid the devastation, communities have rallied together, showcasing human resilience and compassion. Strangers arrived to help the clean-up efforts in Newport, and this spirit of neighborly assistance is echoed in social media networks where residents not directly affected by the storm are connecting with those in need. The informal networks have provided a vital link for survivors as they coordinate support, demonstrating how community solidarity can help through tough times.
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