Through power losses that lasted days, technology withdrawals, and destruction all around, Waterford took a hard hit from Tropical Storm Irene.

Residents discovered how much they rely on and take advantage of technology.

“It made me slow down and realize how scary it is how we depend on electronics so much in our lives,” said senior Lauren Lamothe

“When my phone died, I felt so disconnected from everything because I couldn’t charge it,” said sophomore Nicolette Fardon.

People also found themselves doing whatever it took to keep their phones alive.  

Junior Daniel Ortiz said, “I spent most of my time in my car to keep my phone charged and listen to music.”

In some areas, residents waited for over a week for their return of power and being able to use their electronics.

“There were power lines down everywhere around my house” said senior Quiana Johnson “We didn’t get power back until eight days after the storm.”

Even though there were many bad effects of the storm, some students found something good in it.

“My cable and internet were down, but I see it as a blessing in disguise because it helped me stay focused on finishing Columbine [the assigned summer reading book] before the start of school” said senior Ryan Finnegan.