Superstorm Sandy: A Decade of Reflection in Photos

The Devastating Impact of Superstorm Sandy

Superstorm Sandy made landfall over New Jersey on October 29, 2012. This historic storm caused catastrophic damage across the region, leading to widespread suffering and loss.

Effects of the Storm

The storm surge destroyed homes, ripped apart piers on the Jersey Shore, and inundated subway and highway tunnels in New York. Consequently, nearly 8 million people lost power across 15 states and Washington, DC.

Loss of Life and Economic Impact

Sandy was responsible for at least 72 deaths in the United States and caused an estimated $81.9 billion in damages, making it the fourth-costliest US storm, following Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Harvey, and Hurricane Maria, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

Scenes of Destruction

In New York, the Breezy Point neighborhood suffered greatly, with numerous homes lost to a fire that erupted during the peak of the storm. A resident poignantly described the devastation, stating, “In all honesty, it looks like a war zone. It looks like during the night that fighter planes or bombers came through and just bombed the entire area. It just looks terrible.”

After being removed from a flooded home in Seaside Heights, old photographs are laid out on the hood of a car to dry on November 25, 2012.
After being removed from a flooded home in Seaside Heights, old photographs are laid out on the hood of a car to dry on November 25, 2012.
Theresa Goddard is overwhelmed while discussing her living conditions in Brooklyn, New York, on November 8, 2012.
Theresa Goddard is overwhelmed while discussing her living conditions in Brooklyn, New York, on November 8, 2012.
The remains of a destroyed home are seen in Union Beach, New Jersey, on November 8, 2012.
The remains of a destroyed home are seen in Union Beach, New Jersey, on November 8, 2012.
Eight-year-old Michael Fischkelta lays on a cot with his mother, Jenifer Wilson, at a Red Cross evacuation shelter that was set up in a high school gymnasium in Toms River, New Jersey, on November 5, 2012.
Eight-year-old Michael Fischkelta lays on a cot with his mother, Jenifer Wilson, at a Red Cross evacuation shelter that was set up in a high school gymnasium in Toms River, New Jersey, on November 5, 2012.

Community Resilience Post-Sandy

The aftermath of Superstorm Sandy left communities devastated, yet the resilience displayed by the residents of New Jersey and New York became a significant aspect of their recovery stories. Local organizations worked tirelessly to support those affected, providing necessities and emotional assistance.

A woman carrying groceries passes a group of National Guardsmen as they march down a street in Manhattan on November 3, 2012.
A woman carrying groceries passes a group of National Guardsmen as they march down a street in Manhattan on November 3, 2012.

In conclusion, the impact of Superstorm Sandy is a reminder of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness. The ongoing recovery efforts highlight the strength of community bonds and the need for comprehensive disaster response strategies.


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