The storms and heavy rainfall left their impact on our communities.  Monday and Tuesday were not kind to us. 

            Among the severely damaged roads was Geryville Pike, which is now closed between Finland Road and Campbell Road due to extensive flood damage.  Monday afternoon's storm brought heavy straight-line winds and caused considerable damage to residences in Pennsburg. 

            Quakertown also suffered severely flooded roads Tuesday night, so be aware and cautious of flooding conditions whenever events like this occur.

            Evacuations could be found throughout our region

            The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency reminds everyone that if you encounter flood water: turn around, don't drown; do not walk through or willingly enter flood water; pay attention to local weather alerts; and be extra cautious when driving, especially at night. Keep your eyes peeled for standing water, and never drive around barriers.

            The ground is saturated and it won't take much to uproot trees and cause more damage with the next storm.  And, there will be a next storm.

            Monday morning's fire in Upper Hanover Township brought around 50 volunteers from at least nine fire companies to the scene.  Including fire police, that's 5-1/2 volunteers per company.  That is per company, not per truck.  Volunteer firefighters are dwindling in Pennsylvania and we need to find out why and make changes to increase the numbers.  In many cases, it is insurance and state mandates that make it harder to volunteer.

            Seeing volunteer firefighters break into the front door of a building filled with flames to search for possible victims is frightening.  Seeing them do so and battling a heavy fire as they perform their task is inspiring.

            All of the incidents should serve as a reminder to thank all of our first responders for their dedication to their responsibilities.  Whether it is our fire companies, emergency medical service providers, police departments, road maintenance crews, power and cable service employees, and anyone else who responds when they are called.

            A word of thanks goes a long way.