State leaders call Sandy first real test of hurricane barrier
Andrea Medeiros
The combination of the storm surge and waves is expected to cause some of the highest water levels ever in Rhode Island.
Governor Chafee said it'll be the first real test of the hurricane barrier in Providence. The barrier, built in the 60's, is meant to protect our capital city from fierce waves and flooding, but the water has to go somewhere. The concern is Cranston, Warwick, East Providence, and Bristol are in the line of fire.
April Olsen packed up her lawn furniture and Halloween decorations, Sunday, ahead of Hurricane Sandy. Her home on Dudley Ave. in Warwick is just a block away from Narragansett Bay.
“Yeah, which is very scary,” said Olsen.
The storm surge, which could be one of the worst in history, is one problem and the reason Governor Chafee declared a state of emergency.
“I've got great concerns about Sandy arriving during a full moon high tide,” said Governor Chafee, “And as those who live a long the water know it's a big event and to have a hurricane coming in at the same time.”
The governor's greater concern is the hurricane barrier in Providence, up until now, hasn't really been tested.
“Once that barrier creates a dam of the surge coming up Narragansett bay, they call it flood displacement,” said Chafee, “Where do those waters go.”
April Olsen's neighborhood in Warwick is one place. Other nearby towns along northern Narragansett Bay could be flooded too.
“We're going to get our bags packed and just be ready at a moment's notice to go,” said Olsen.
The state government in Rhode Island will be open Monday.
