September 19, 2004

More Details on Ivan’s Wreckage

Talked to mom after they surveyed the damage at the bay house first hand. It wasn’t as bad as it could have been. Others who have homes near there weren’t quite so lucky. My grandmother’s home was ripped apart and pushed across the road, as was my uncle and aunt’s home and some other neighbors who owned houses on ground level. Only the houses built on pilings were able to withstand the fury of the 10 foot storm surge of water. The only damage incurred at their cabin was minimal compared to other destruction along the beach. The stairs leading up to the house were gone, the utility shed was across the street, and the pump/well were destroyed.

All in all they were extremely fortunate. Back in Wagarville (about an hour north of Mobile) where they live full time, they sustained no damage to property, only downed trees. They are still without power, and will be that way for who knows how long? Thankully, dad has a generator so he and my mom have been able to keep the contents of the freezer safe as well as watch the Cowboys beat the Browns tonight.