Good Riddance to Hurricane Irene

Hurricane Irene came along like an annoying family member that overstays her welcome. She came along like a grump and caused a path of destruction everywhere she went. Irene only moved at about 13 - 14 mph. She was quite a wide, big hurricane, so Irene was able to cause a lot of damage.

Many people all across the east coast do not have power. In Maryland, the Baltimore Gas and Electric Company is stating over 500,000 homes lost power during Irene's visit last night. It is currently August 28th, Sunday morning, and BGE has already been able to restore power to over 100,000 homes. They are working as fast as possible to restore everybody's electricity.

If you are reading this on Sunday, many newscasters are advising you still do not leave your home yet. There are still gusty winds and a number of trees and limbs are down. Also, there are plenty of power lines down. If you see a power line or wires, DO NOT touch them! They are likely to still have some currents surging through them. Stay in your homes if at all possible.

Also, it is being recommended you do not get rid of your sandbags yet. The newscasters just kindly reminded everyone that hurricane season is only beginning. It is possible more hurricanes just like Irene could visit us this season. I don't know about you, but that makes me want to cry. I will be glad to say good riddance to this hurricane, and I would be perfectly happy never to experience another one.

Based on a number of conversations I've had with friends and family members along the east coast and different news reports, I believe Hurricane Irene really outdid herself. So far, here is the list of damages Irene caused:

• Trees fell down in roads, on houses, on cars, and completely destroyed many yards.
• Several tornadoes touched down
• Windows broke
• The power is off in many areas
• Leaky windows and air conditioners
• Floods
• A number of items are missing that were left out in yards.

Sadly, there were a number of reports of deaths caused by Hurricane Irene. So far, reports are stating at least 11 deaths are being contributed to the hurricane. Most of the deaths were caused by trees crashing into houses or cars. This hurricane was very serious. At this time, Hurricane Irene has now been downgraded to Tropical Storm Irene. She is now in the upper part of the east coast ruining lives up there.

Please keep in mind, she is almost gone and we can celebrate Irene leaving the U.S. soon. Hurricane Irene is very evil and I personally can't wait to say good riddance to her forever. Before you begin your "Good Riddance to Hurricane Irene Celebrations," remember it is still dangerous out there. I am personally concerned the electric will still go out since the high winds continue at this time. So don't dump out all your extra water and ice just yet. Furthermore, you might want to keep it and offer it to the people the next block over who do not have power. Be safe and help your neighbors. Most of all, let's happily say goodbye to Irene!

• Tropical Storm Irene is still hitting the U.S. right now. Let's not forget the folks in the New England states. They are just getting acquainted with Irene now.
• At least 21 Hurricane Irene related deaths are being reported at this time.
• Over 800,000 homes are without power in Maryland. Millions of homes and businesses are still without power on the east coast.
• Tropical Storm Jose formed today over the Atlantic Ocean. Jose is expected to turn into a tropical depression soon and I am sure we can all agree we are happy Jose will not be the next Irene.