Tri-state residents are waking up today to the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, and what an event it was. With over 8.1 million U.S. home and business without power Sandy took its toll. They have reported that it could be 10 days or more until power is restored in some areas throughout New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. Schools have been closed all along the east coast. The New York Stock Exchange is closed again, this is the first time it’s been closed for 2 days in a row due to weather since 1888.
In NYC, water levels hit a record high in Battery Park flooding subway tunnels and rail yards. All mass transit has been suspended until 5pm today when buses will begin running on a Sunday schedule and will be free today and tomorrow. The Holland Tunnel remains closed while other bridges and tunnels begin to open. 50 homes in Queens are destroyed after Sandy’s winds spread an enormous fire through the neighborhood. A crane is still dangling over midtown Manhattan. And to top everything off all 3 NY area airport are closed.
The Jersey Shore is seeing the power of Sandy as well. Coastline homes are still underwater after this morning’s high tide. Roofs are destroyed. Docks and boats are gone. The famed “Funtown Pier” in Seaside Heights has collapsed. 1 coastal home in Ocean County was knocked off its foundation and swept down a river, hitting a bridge.
One northern New Jersey town was swamped by a 6 foot surge. Moonachie, N.J. lost its fire department, police department and municipal buildings. Emergency crews ran overnight boat rescues to reach unsuspecting residents. This is all due to a levee breach.
There are thus far a total of 34 confirmed dead, with the death count continuing to be updated. Mayor Bloomberg has already announced New York City school will be closed tomorrow.
We will have a full update on the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy and where it is headed next at 3 p.m. today. Be sure to tune in. Also as long as it is safe to do so please tweet us your picture of Sandy using #msnbcpics.