By TRYSTAN KNAPP
Tiger Media Network
It’s not something many thought they would ever see — especially in the land-locked state of Nebraska. But rising floodwaters from a large storm system have sent the state into emergency mode.
The start of the flooding is said to have come from a “bomb cyclone,” which hit the central U.S. with hurricane-like winds and severe blizzard conditions last week. The melting snow and heavy rains associated with the powerful storm system now have Nebraska in a state of emergency.
The worst of the storm hit eastern Nebraska, and the southeast part of the state is under many flood warnings.
Drew Gannon, director of the Tiger Wellness Center, has been affected by the disaster while being here in Kansas.
Gannon, who is originally from Nebraska, said the storm has had an effect on his family still living in Nebraska.
“My hometown has had no roads in or out passable for several days, so supplies within the community are limited,” he said.
Since supplies are limited and even scarce to those hampered by the floods, helicopters were planning to airdrop supplies to communities throughout the state.
Not only has Gannon been impacted by the storm because of his family being located in Nebraska, he also cherishes his memories of a state that means so much to him.
“Crops and livestock have been lost, which will impact the economy of the Midwest as well as supplies and food of the Midwest and beyond,” he said.
Some are estimating the flooding will take many years and billions of dollars to overcome.
“Homes are gone, lives have been lost and semi trucks with supplies can’t make it in because of roads/bridges being washed away,” Gannon said.
The Fort Hays State community can help those struggling in Nebraska by donating items for those in need. The Tiger Wellness Center is collecting all donations this week until 12:30 p.m. Friday. A list of donation ideas can be found below:
Bottled water
Diapers
Baby wipes
Paper towels
Cleaning supplies
Gently used/new clothing
Blankets
Towels
Gloves for medical use
Cleaning gloves
Cleaning wipes