Weeks after a record-breaking storm pummeled the San Bernardino Mountains, dirty snow still lines the streets, piled atop cars and blocking driveways — slowly melting remnants of the extreme weather that radically changed people’s lives and a stark reminder of the arduous recovery ahead.
The storm dumped more than 100 inches of snow in the region over several days, isolating many for days, forcing some to go without food or needed medicine and endangering lives, while clogging local roads and damaging property and businesses.
Amid criticism of a slow response, local officials admitted they were unprepared for the extraordinary storm. A resident-led volunteer effort dubbed “Operation Mountain Strong” cropped up to dig neighbors out of homes and deliver food and medical supplies, at one point clashing with the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department over landing helicopters.
While many of the storm’s immediate effects have subsided — most roads are clear and people are able to get out of their homes — residents say the memories of the harrowing weeks won’t let go.
Inside the lower offices of the local movie theater, Blue Jay Cinema, Operation Mountain Strong still gives out boxes of food to residents that trickle in.
Organizers Patrice Mock, a 57-year-old Lake Arrowhead resident of 26 years, and her daughter, 26-year-old Crestline resident Faith Mattioli, said that the donation outpost sometimes feels like a place for survivors to reconnect, especially as many have been unable to return to work.
“Honestly, sitting here, I’m ready to cry,” Mock said. “It was all about residents helping each other in the beginning. We did not have any help. Even when people got up here, we felt like we were forgotten.”
Mock and Mattioli recalled the early days of the storm, when residents would climb to the top of enormous snow berms outside their homes to take photos and try to connect with neighbors. Facebook groups were filled with dozens upon dozens…
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