TOPICS: Canastota, Rome, Tornado, Displaced, FEMA, Housing, Damage, Insurance

Shirley Northup has been residing at her son’s place, living out of a duffle bag for the past ten days. She was forced out of her home of 20 years in Canastota after a tornado sent a massive tree crashing through her window. Like many others from Canastota to Rome who have been displaced by tornadoes this month, she is uncertain about when she will be able to return home.

“I just want my house fixed and back to normal,” expressed Northup.

Northup’s house on Canastota’s Barlow Street is one of six deemed too dangerous to live in by the village’s code enforcement. The extent of the damage is not completely clear; Code Enforcement Officer Michael Adsit mentioned that residents need to consult with insurance and an engineer to assess what can be repaired and what may require demolition.

In Rome, severe damage has affected multiple neighborhoods, with dozens of people displaced, including 40 individuals evacuated from the Georgian Arms apartment complex and relocated to the Quality Inn in New Hartford.

Currently, without federal or state aid, most residents in Rome and Canastota are left to navigate the situation on their own. Northup mentioned positive communication with her insurance provider but is unsure when a contractor will commence repairs. Canastota Mayor Rosanne Warner noted that while some residents on Barlow Street have made progress in restoring their homes, uncertainty looms regarding the arrival of FEMA funding to assist with expenses.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and other representatives have committed to advocating for FEMA assistance. Schumer emphasized the importance of accurately evaluating the damages in hard-hit areas like Rome before relief can be allocated.

Amid the ongoing recovery efforts in Rome and Canastota, residents await further information on FEMA applications and potential aid. Some individuals are struggling without insurance coverage and basic necessities such as electricity.

Mayor Warner of Canastota highlighted the challenges in assisting families in finding alternative accommodation. She recounted the hardships faced by a family who, after losing their home, sought refuge with relatives on Barlow Street only to be displaced once more by the tornado.

Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente announced financial assistance of up to $5,000 for each person impacted by the tornado last week. However, this aid may be insufficient for many families, leaving property owners responsible for their own damages, particularly those without insurance or financial resources, who are relying on potential FEMA relief.