Hurricane Sandy Damage Assessment

Subway systems in NYC were being cleared on October 31, 2012, after superstorm Hurricane Sandy swept through the northeastern coast of the U.S.  City buses were running regular routes on Wednesday, whereas subway service between Brooklyn and Manhattan remain suspended until the weekend.

October 29 -- risk assessment in Manhattan Subway Lines

October 30-31 -- restoring the city's subway system
After getting the water out of the subway system, it is important that the Metropolitan Transit Authority inspect, clean, and repair all electrical damage crucial to the safety of the train that were caused by Hurricane Sandy.

Power outtages were also occurring during the aftermath.  Traffic lights were not responsive on Tuesday afternoon.  Full power restoration is to be expected by Sunday.

Tunnels, trains, and airports will also need to be cleaned.  NYC bridges were re-opened on Tuesday afternoon, but the Brooklyn-Battery Tunnel and Queens-Midtown Tunnel remained closed.  Once the tunnels are clear of water, they will need to be rid of sludge and other debris.

The superstorm also caused a lot sewage and stormwater mix to seep into wastewater treatment plants.  These plants are located in the lowest-lying areas of the city.  Once these plants get filled to capacity, water will begin to flow directly into New York's waterways and flood streets and buildings.

As mentioned above, flooding is a huge issue associated with Hurricane Sandy.  Not only are subway systems, tunnels, streets, and buildings are affected, water can also get into electrical equipment and cause power outtages.

Other damages were caused by fires and wind.  At least 111 homes were destroyed by a wind-fueled fire in Breezy Point, Queens.  Severe flooding in the area kept fire engines from putting out the blaze.