Devastation by Hurricane Sandy

Halloween wasn’t the major event in October this year. Hurricane Sandy, a tropical cyclone, devastated many parts of the United States in late October 2012. People all over Northeastern United States were drastically affected by the storm. Flooding, strong winds, and power outages all resulted from Sandy’s wrath. People were updated on the status of the storm from varies news media’s, and given advice on how to prepare for the devastation. Numerous areas were evacuated including the well known Ocean City.  Emergency shelters were set up all over the country for those affected by the Hurricane. Citizens from all over the United States came together to help those that were in need.

Sign posted in Annapolis Hall

Frostburg State University also prepared for the arrival of Hurricane Sandy. People were advised to stay indoors and to take safety precautions. Dormitories such as Annapolis Hall put up signs that listed schedules on days of the storm. Students noticed other Maryland Universities announcing cancellations of classes, and began to become anxious when Frostburg State University had not. Eventually, FSU announced that there would be no classes through Wednesday, October 31, 2012.  

Many students at the University were far away from their homes. Tina Dasasi, A senior at FSU shared her experience with the Hurricane. She said, “My family was hours away without power and I didn’t have any way to contact them until the storm was over. It was really scary; the only thing I could do was pray”.

While some students worried about their loved ones, others took the days off from class to spend time with friends.

 Brooke Hughes, also a senior, spoke about how she spent her days off from class. “Yes, I was worried about my family. I know how much the news likes to make a small event seem like such a big deal. I knew my family would be alright so I took the time to party with some of my close friends. It’s my senior year; I will probably never get three days off from school ever again”.

Hurricane Sandy may have not hit certain states as hard but it indeed had an impact on areas in Maryland. The storm brought forth snow, sleet, and rain in the Frostburg area. The University sent out many emails updating students on the status of classes and the storm that was approaching. Many students living off campus were without power for days. Frostburg State University reopened on Thursday, November 1, 2012. October is known to be popular for trick or treating, and candy on Halloween. This year, Hurricane Sandy will be remembered for her arrival before this spooky holiday.