It’s a difficult time for the residents of Buffalo as they continue to deal with the effects of a wrecking snowstorm. But this has also produced different heroic stories of strangers helping each other find comfort and safety.
A Buffalo woman is now in the news for saving an old man from the fangs of the scary storm.
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Keep reading for the details.
Sha’Kyra Aughtry And Joe White
Sha’Kyra Aughtry heard Joe White screaming for help outside her home. She immediately went into the storm to bring him into her home, offering him warmth and immediate medical aid before calling 911, who unfortunately couldn’t make it.
The Blowdryer Technique
The Buffalo woman then used a blow dryer to melt the ice off White’s hands which were blistered from the effect of the snow according to a video she posted on Facebook where she pleaded for help.
The video reached the appropriate quarters as viewers came over to the house to get Aughtry and White to a hospital.
White’s Sister Is Speaking Up
Yvonne White told CBS News in an interview on Wednesday how Aughtry was pivotal in her brother’s survival.
“My brother’s mental capacity is that of an 11-year-old child,” she said. “If it wasn’t for this angel, if it wasn’t for this wonderful, wonderful human being, he would’ve perished and he would’ve been another statistic in this storm.”
White Is Responsive
Yvonne also confirmed her brother is in stable condition and they’re hoping he would get to use his hands again. She also added that Aughtry is now an “extended family member” due to her amazing gesture.
Another Heroic Story
Just like that of Aughtry, a National Guardsman Matthew Waldman also helped a couple get to the hospital just in time for the delivery of their 4th child after their car got buried in the snow.
Describing the situation, Waldman said, “In my mind, I was just hoping that she was okay and I would be able to get her to the hospital for her to deliver the baby and the baby would be able to recover from the delivery safely.”
Several Deaths Have Been Recorded
Unfortunately, some people couldn’t make it as the death toll from the snowstorm in Erie County has reached 34, with the majority residing in Buffalo. This is very sad news, especially during the holiday period.
Door-to-Door Check
Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz also said in a statement on Wednesday that efforts were being made to clear the Buffalo raid and National Guard continued their door-to-door check in the neighborhood with no power supply.
“We are fearful that there are individuals who may have perished, living alone.”
Cancelled Flights
The winter storm has also prompted the cancellation of about 4,800 flights as of Tuesday morning across the US, leaving dozens of passengers stranded at airports.
Flooding May Happen
Officials have also warned that the warming temperatures may cause flooding as the snow thaws and Erie County authorities have begun removing ice and blockage from storm drains ahead of a “rapid melt.”
