Hurricane Sandy Damage - Lavallette, Ortley Beach, and Pelican Island

This video was taken on a bus tour for community representatives to evaluate the devastation to the barrier island in NJ. You will see the damage to the bayside throughout Lavallette, Ortley Beach, and on Pelican Island, finishing up on the Route 37 bridge heading west. The damage is so severe in areas that it appears as if an earthquake, tsunami, and tornado all occurred at the same time.
In Lavallette, the damage appears mostly to be the result of flooding. As we traveled into Ortley, the devastation is quite evident. Huge sink holes where created as bulkheads were breached and sewer lines collapsed. Houses were torn apart, some sinking into the ground, and most roadways sustained massive damage. Having viewed this damage, residents will now realize why they cannot return to the island yet. The infrastructure suffered widespread damage, making the entire island uninhabitable. Gas, water, and sewer lines will need to be repaired, and in most cases completely replaced. Many telephone poles and power lines are down, creating a very hazardous environment.
Many thanks to Toms River Police Chief Mike Mastronardy for coordinating this tour so that we can inform our residents about the condition of our communities. The recovery effort is very impressive, with teams of heavy equipment clearing roads and removing debris. An astonishing amount of sand covered the island, creating a monumental task to remove it. The presence of the National Guard and police patrolling the island was very comforting. Security checkpoints were established to control access to and throughout the island.
On the mainland, the Red Cross has established assistance areas providing food, water, and clothes for the displaced residents. Please help those impacted by Hurricane Sandy by contributing to the Red Cross.
This video was recorded by Dean Hansen of Ocean Beach & Yacht Club - Unit II.