Many were forced to flee with only a few minutes notice, and have been out of their homes since June 30, with no timeline as to when they can return to the village to see the extent of the damage. Many don’t know if they have a home to return to at all.
Tower says although it is a top priority for residents to be able to return, at this time it’s still too dangerous, as along with structures, critical infrastructure was damaged as well.
“[There were] downed power lines that were compromised, and buildings that have been so damaged that there is unsafe air quality potentially. There is a lot of consideration before allowing the public back,” he said.