Storm in S. Illinois

[Dee in S. IL]

We finally have power after the storm that came through Friday. It is being called by the media an in-land hurricane. Winds were over 106mph. Whole towns have been without power and some areas will remain without power for several more days. The hospitals are running on generators as well as radio and tv stations. We have had excessive rain the past few weeks, so the ground has been saturated. With the high winds, the huge trees were completely uprooted causing huge amounts of damage. Buildings collapsed, roofs torn off, and uprooted trees have caused gas lines to be unearthed as well. Powerlines down everywhere. Helicoptors were supposed to have been bringing supplies saturday morning to the hospitals and other places that needed it. Storm shelters have been set up, and at least 1 meal a day is being served at most of these places. Curfews have been established and as far as I know are being enforced. Through all the devastation God has really been with us. There has only been one storm related fatality here in S. Illinois. An elderly man and his family were seeking shelter in his basement. He turned around to close the door and just at that time a tree came through the house and hit him throwing him down the flight of stairs. Truly sad, and our hearts go out to his family. Media reported that across the state line over in Missouri, a couple was killed when a tree landed on the vehicle they were in. Our hearts go out to their families as well. The utility workers have worked non-stop and are doing a fantastic job. They are working against time tho, as it is supposed to start raining again tomorrow(tuesday)evening through the weekend. The hospitals are treating storm related injuries, but mostly chain saw injuries, and cuts & bruises. I believe the media said there were 2 vehicle accidents reported, but no fatalities with them. So as we gear up for another week of weather, some of which is estimated to be severe again, I thank God for His blessings and mercy to my family and I, and pray for those who are still suffering the affects of the storm passed, and ask protection in the coming storms this week.

[Sylvia]

deeinsil

I'm devastated to hear of what you, your family and all the people in your area are suffering.

I'm sure that all Nancy's family of landers will pray for you and everyone's safety.

God be with you all!

Sylvia

[Chris in NM]

Dee, our prayers are with you and everyone in the path of that huge storm!

Chris

[Dee in S. IL]

Thanks Chris and Sylvia. I know everyone will cherish your prayers. There are still about 24,000 without power as of this morning. We know this doesnt compare to the real hurricanes and storms that come to those living on the coasts. But to our repressed area, it really is devastating to those who have lost so much. The red cross has set up stations and our current govenor is touring and makeing plans to get federal aid. One thing about it, things like this really gets everyone working together. In our world today, this is a really wonderful sight to see. Thanks again Ladies for your prayers! God bless
Dee

[kerly87]

I know what you mean! I live in Southeast Missouri, we were hit hard, too. We have damage to our home and property that will take months to repair.

Our electric and phone finally was hooked up yesterday.

I have never seen wind blow as hard as it did last Friday!

[Sylvia]

Hi Kerly87,

It must be terrifying to be around such awful weather conditions. We are all praying that you will all be safe. I know that it must be difficult for you all and it will take months to repair the damage - houses, gardens even vehicles can be replaced, but as long as life is OK, that is the main thing. Try to be strong for the rest of the family and friends.

We, my Family were caught up in a really strong and severe blackout sandstorm way back in the late 70s, I never want to feel that way again.

Weather conditions world-wide, are going haywire. Keep your family as safe as you possibly can!

Sylvia