90 Percent Of Derry Without Power

DERRY, N.H. -- Some New Hampshire towns in the dark Saturday were in desperate need of aid.
Officials have opened shelters to offer a safe, warm place for residents among the hundreds of thousands who lost power.

Firefighters knocked on just about every door in town to make sure residents are safe. Fewer than 2,000 people have power in Derry out of the town's population of almost 35,000 people.

"It's like Katrina without the water," Derry Fire Chief George Klauber said. "We've been told to anticipate a number of days before power is restored. In some areas, up to two weeks."

Klauber and town officials held a news conference Saturday afternoon to explain the severity of the situation -- but because so many residents remain without power, unable to get the information, firefighters went door-to-door.

"Actually, we're not too bad. We have a generator. So, we do have heat and water," said Nancy Jervah, of Derry.

"We're here at our grandparents' because our power's out and the water's cold," said Maddie Gehrisch, who's staying with her grandmother.

Derry officials estimate about 200 roads blocked by strewn debris, fallen trees and downed wires. First responders have handled 400 emergency calls since Thursday night.

Many residents, like Dave Hastings, are doing their best to fend for themselves.

"Hopefully, they understand there's a substantial burden before they can catch up with us," he said.
Firefighters said the unprecedented extent of this power outage coupled with more cold weather settling in, means people should be ready to ask for help if they need it.

"We're tough New Hampshire people. They believe they can tough it out. This could be very long term," Klauber said.

Firefighters have asked WMUR News 9 to remind homeowners to really be thorough and thoughtful to avoid emergencies.

If you're leaving your home, make sure everything is off -- every appliance, every circuit breaker and, of course, the water.