Subways aren't running. The tunnels are blocked off. Streets are still overrun with water. Power is still off. Airports are still closed. The New York Stock Exchange has been closed for two days.

But, the storm is over. And now it's time for rescue, recovery, relief and restoration.

Many of the major roads and bridges reopened on Tuersday. Airports will reopen to limited flights tomorrow. Subways? Well, they'll take a while to be retored.

As expected, the Red Cross is on hand, operating temporary shelters and providing food and necessities. According to Mike Thompkins, who runs the Prescott Red Cross office, nobody has been deployed at this time from the Prescott area. "However, we are on alert," Thompkins said.

Thompkins explained that it's the policy of the Red Cross for chapters to wait in the event of a disaster until assistance is requested before sending anyone out.

Sandy

Red Cross

So, what is needed right now?

Financial donations are the most critical. Thompkins said that it is very expensive to send actual supplies to the scene of a disaster, so they typically purchase what is needed in the locality of the catastrophe. That also helps their local economy begin to recover, he pointed out.

Donate funds to the Red Cross.

Blood Drives

There is also a need for blood donations. Two blood drives are taking place in November:

November 8, 2012 12-5 PM

Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church
1202 Green Lane
Prescott, AZ 86305

November 20, 2012 10 AM-3 PM

Tri City Prep High School
5522 Side Rd.
Prescott, AZ 86301

Make a Blood Donation Appointment

Loved Ones

With phone and power out of service, making contact with people you care about can be difficult. Check the Red Cross Safe and Well page to see if they have registered.

Here is information about open shelters that are in operation.