BlkMtnGirl
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- Aug 31, 2012
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The whole thing happened much faster than anyone, including officials, could imagine. We are in severe draught. The winds picked up to 80mph gusts unexpectedly, followed by rain later that evening. In fact, if it hadn't rained, believe it or not, the destruction would have been much, much worse. The way I understand it from various news and such, they had one car. Hubby and son went out to take a look when they heard there was fire in the area. Before he could get back, Constance had called to tell him there was fire across the street and she didn't know what to do. By the time father and son made it back up the mountain, fire had completely gutted the house. I never did hear the time frame, but I believe we're talking about several hundred houses burned TO THE GROUND in roughly an hour, maybe two. The neighbors (if there are any close by), wouldn't have had time to check on anybody. The stories and videos from survivors driving out of that hell are truly terrifying. I mean, there is video of people discussing jumping into swimming pools to escape flames. A son leaving behind a mother with a broken hip. Don't look it up if you want to sleep tonight. I sure haven't been sleeping.Sounds as if they headed out on foot and got caught up in a whirlwind of fire. I take it her husband must have had the only family vehicle, otherwise I don't know why she wouldn't have tried to drive out instead of fleeing on foot. I also have to assume that the neighbors close-by to where they lived, who were also being evacuated, were unaware this family needed a ride out of there. [snipped]
We sent a bunch (my business alone collected two vans and five carloads FULL) of emergency shelter supplies over there. The community has really shown up, and they no longer need emergency supplies. Singer Dolly Parton, the largest employer in this once-rural area (Dollywood), is offering $1000 per month per family to "get back on their feet." Of course, her foundation is taking donations. (Can't link due to TOS.) If you've never been, Dollywood is a fabulous theme park for families. Miss Dolly is a true national hero.
Sorry for the long post. Rest in peace, all of those who have passed (13 at last count.)