Storm Cleanup Goes on
By DEBRA BOGSTIE
Updated 11:50 AM EST, Tue, Jun 30, 2009
The state is now asking for federal aid as residents are still cleaning up from the powerful storm that ripped through the state Friday afternoon.
In Wethersfield, workers spent the day cleaning up areas like the Broad Street Green, which is covered with uprooted trees and debris. The town rented grinders to cut large trees into woodchips, said Town Manager Bonnie Therrien. All roads are open, she said.
Residents are still doing what they can to clean up the mess. At Church and Garden Streets in Wethersfield, a blue tarp now covers a home that was sliced in two by a falling tree. Signs posted on the home warn people to stay away.
On Wolcott Hill Road, contractors spent the day cleaning up debris. So did residents like the Patkoskes, who returned early from vacation on Cape Cod once they heard about the mess. Some trees fell on their home, and a larger one landed on their neighbor's home. "This looks beautiful compared to what we saw," said Jennifer Patkoske. "We couldn't even see our house. It was covered in trees and it was pretty major. The kids still can't grasp what happened."
On Broad Street, an uprooted tree pulled up part of the sidewalk. Across the street at the town green, people stopped to check out the damage, many of them taking pictures. "It's just devastating to see all the trees down and our beautiful green looking like this. I mean it just makes you sad," said Arline Brady, who walked her dog along the street
By Monday afternoon, River Road in Farmington was still closed between Route 4 and Webster Street. Intense heat from fallen power lines blew a hole in the pavement and melted the road, according to police. Residents say they heard crackling and popping sounds, and saw thick black smoke coming from the road. The damaged section will have to be repaved, which could take up to two days, said police.
Connecticut Light and Power reported power was restored to all customers in Wethersfield and all but six customers in Farmington by Monday afternoon.
The Town of Wethersfield is seeking volunteers to help elderly residents clean up their properties. The number to call is 860-721-4808.
First Published: Jun 29, 2009 3:51 PM EST
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