On the Island

Nor’easter Update

Update, April 20: Sumar & Kristen were on WMUR news last night, talking about the storm! Check out the online companion article “Workers Stranded On Island During Storm”. It includes video (requires a Windows PC, sorry). The story has also been picked up by WCVB in Boston, under the headline “Nor’easter Strands Pair On Island.”

Intrepid Facilities Manager Sumar Maji has reported back with more information on damage to Star over the last few days as high winds and tides repeatedly pounded the island.

“As far as damage goes, we’re in good shape structurally,” he told the office by phone yesterday, but went on to describe some fairly serious weather-related destruction that became evident after he and the Pels examined the island more closely.

He noted a breach to the floodwall around the main pump station that receives waste water from half of the island. Flood waters tossed rocks and debris under the truck trestle, damaging pipes and destroying the pump station’s manifold.

The top surface of the pier was scarred and damaged after being basically underwater through high tide. The entire upper surface has been pockmarked and cracked and the railing washed away.

There was also damage to the roof of Sandpiper which has resulted in a waterlogged and ravaged ceiling.

Tons of debris has washed ashore around the wastewater treatment facility and across the front lawn, which will require significant clean-up.

In general, Sumar hopes the open-up crew and volunteers can help get the island back on track in time for the summer season. More updates to come!

You can check out the great article “Three are stranded but OK on Star Island” by Karen Dandurant in today’s Portsmouth Herald, which features an interview with Sumar.

More photos, courtesy Athena Steinkraus: