The disaster that was this weekend's snow storm has wreaked havoc in the northeastern states of New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut. The damage was so widespread that it is being compared to the summer's big storm, Hurricane Irene. While the October storm doesn't get a name, it has left many people in the dark, just as the cold temperatures are settling in. Power outages and downed trees and wires throughout the area have caused many schools to be shut down. It has even caused the unthinkable in many towns: Halloween has been postponed.
The disaster that was this weekend's snow storm has wreaked havoc in the northeastern states of New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut. The damage was so widespread that it is being compared to the summer's big storm, Hurricane Irene. While the October storm doesn't get a name, it has left many people in the dark, just as the cold temperatures are settling in. Power outages and downed trees and wires throughout the area have caused many schools to be shut down. It has even caused the unthinkable in many towns: Halloween has been postponed.
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In the busy NJ suburb, Summit, all the public schools are closed today. In Summit and throughout the state, a State of Emergency is in effect. Streets have become obstacle courses and many are impassable. Downed wires have made the town downright dangerous. Summit mayor, Jordan Glatt, issued a statement on Sunday, urging residents to stay inside for their own safety. The town has postponed trick or treating to Friday, November 4.
In the town of Brookfield, Connecticut, city legislators have moved the annual children tradition to Saturday. They have been contemplating moving trick-or-treating to the nearest weekend for all future Halloweens. But the recent storm has forced their plan to take effect sooner than expected. In Brookfield, seventy-five percent of all households lost power.
Other areas are also postponing their trick-or-treating, from as far south as Maryland, all the way up to Maine.
Many are starting to get the feeling that Mother Nature has it out for them. For a year, it seems that there are more extreme weather events. Last winter saw huge amounts of snow fall, which led to floods in the spring. The month of July was scorching hot. Then Hurricane Irene hit at the end of August, causing massive flooding and damage. Now this early nor’easter has hit the area, taking down an incredible amount of trees.
It will be strange for many to see trick-or-treaters out on the streets in November. Such a thing is unheard of. However, odds are not every kid will abide by the rule. The more ambitious ones will use this as an excuse for two Halloweens. Even more troubling, some may also use this as excuse for another mischief night. Homeowners beware!
For more information: http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/capital-weather-gang/post/historic-october-northeast-storm-epic-incredible-downright-ridiculous/2011/10/31/gIQApy7LZM_blog.html
Image credit: David A Gabel
