How Much Portsmouth Businesses Lost During Irene

not only cost Portsmouth damage in the way of trees and branches, but also cost local businesses "green" as in loss of income. 

Many businesses were forced to throw out food after electricity spoiled the goods. Businesses also lost customers in the days when they were forced to close due to loss of electricity and, for some, water.

The town of Portsmouth is also conducting an assessment of damage to local businesses. The assessment may be used later to apply for federal aid.

Any Portsmouth business, who experienced physical damage not covered by insurance, is asked to call the Portsmouth Fire Department at (401) 683-1200 and ask for Chief Jeffrey Lynch or Capt. Mike Cranson.  

So how much did local businesses lose? We asked around and found out the answers from a few, well-known proprietors. 

• — $2,500 in food loss, two days of sales
• — $33,000, 1.5 days of sales lost due to closing
• — $1,000, one day of sales lost
• — Around $1,000 (restaurant saved most food by using generator to keep coolers operating), closed one day

Do you own a Portsmouth business affected by Hurricane Irene? What did you lose during the storm? How long were you closed? 

Tell us in the comment section below!