During Hurricane Sandy, VDOT crews cleared debris, recovering access to the island town of Saxis and the village of Sanford. The storm’s sudden tidal surge of nearly 7 feet, which lasted from Sunday, Oct. 28 through Tuesday, Oct. 30, prevented many bayside residents from evacuating.
“At that point,” recalls Accomack Residency Administrator Chris Isdell, “the mission transitioned from one of preparation and response to one of life and safety.”
At the request of the Department of Public Safety, VDOT crews navigated their trucks through high water to rescue a family of 6 that was trapped in their Sanford home.
Also, while the Chincoteague Causeway was closed Sunday evening, crews from VDOT cleared the way so that emergency response teams could rescue a citizen requiring medical attention. Additionally, VDOT personnel assisted in distribution of emergency supplies throughout the storm.
Among the hardest hit areas of Virginia, Accomack and Northampton Counties endured extensive damage from winds and tidal surges topping 7 feet deep. VDOT crews worked around the clock to recover the roadways from the debris and water that rendered the roads impassable.
All roads in Accomack and Northampton Counties are currently open. VDOT continues to work closely with A&N Electric Cooperative (ANEC) to restore power to the area.
