Homes in Laurel prep for storm following recent Tornado
LAUREL, Del. – Neighbors in Laurel prepared for potential thunderstorms and a couple inches of rain on Friday. Local first responders said this has not been an easy task especially after Monday’s devastating tornado.
“The cleanup from Monday’s weather event is going to take a long time,” said the Laurel Fire Department Assistant Fire Chief, Mike Lowe.
According to the assistant fire chief, any significant wind gusts or rain mixed together can potential cause even more damages in the area. That is why it is crucial to prepare as quickly as possible and stay safe.
“What we would ask if there is impending weather, which seems is a possibility, we just ask that anything that’s not secured on your property please secure it and just make sure it doesn’t become a hazard,” said Lowe.
Neighbors said they have taken several steps to prevent further damage by adding things like tarps to their homes.
“We’ve got the roof all ready for the rain, hopefully,” said Jeff Smith, a Laurel resident.
“Got my pool house back there all wrapped up so it doesn’t get any wetter, so just making preparations for tonight,” said Smith.
Smith said even though preparations are underway, he has had enough of mother nature’s wrath.
“I feel like I can’t get it twice in three days,” said Smith.
“Better chance of hitting the lottery I would think than getting hit by something like this, and I mean as long as I’ve lived I’ve never even seen anything like this around here,” said Smith.
The Laurel resident said volunteers in Sussex County have played a huge role in keeping his home safe, and he says the tornado left parts of his home in ruins.
“It’s kind of overwhelming,” said Smith.
“I mean you’ve got people you don’t even know coming and offering help, and I didn’t know these guys, Al, I mean I just called them to get an estimate to clean up my yard,” said Smith.
Residents in Laurel said they just hope the weather clears up so they can finally kick back and live their normal lives again.
“I’m ready to just get the afternoon off and relax after a week of people coming over, looking at the house, inspectors, whatever, it’s a long process,” said Smith.
