We evacuated to Eastern Alabama and my father and I were able to rush in the next morning to assess the damage before the roadblocks and checkpoints could be set up to keep us out. Even at Christmas they are still in place in a number of the worst hit areas on the Mississippi Coast and you cannot get in without a pass.
Katrina did a number on my parents' house. As we walked up on it the next day I thought it was okay but then I noticed that the brick was two different shades of color. Sure enough, that was how high the water had risen (about five feet). The bottom floor was a total loss. My brothers and sister and in-laws came in and we had the entire bottom floor gutted within a week to prevent mold growth. All carpets, furniture, cabinets, sheetrock, etc. were thrown out.
My parents are living with me while their home is repaired. Fortunately they did have flood insurance which has made quicker recevery possible.
My dad is showing the waterline on the house.
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The water as it was leaving the house knocked out the brick wall and the door. |
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Normally pine trees snap and oaks fall over but the winds were enough this time to snap oaks. Notice all the leaves are gone from those left standing. It should look almost like a forest.
My Dad Shows the waterline inside the house (Living Room)
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My parents' den is missing a wall of bookcases and the 300 pound television set floated out to the carport. This tv was so heavy that my dad needed surgery a while back on his arm because he tried to lift it. The storm had no such problems. |
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This photo gives new meaning to "the kitchen is a mess!"
The funny part about this photo is that my mother has always wanted an inside entrance from the dining room to the laundry room and now she will have one!
My Home Photos (not as dramatic as these)
