Aerial Footage
On Friday, March 15, we boarded a small plane and began taking photos and videos of what would be known as Nebraska's historic flooding. We were the first media in the state to do this — not even the Nebraska State Patrol had seen the view from the air yet. The flooding had not hit any city yet, so most of the state was just starting to see what was about to happen. By using social media, we were able to share this unique aspect of the flood. We used still images for our print publication as well, but to see the amount of devastation from the air in video — including the ice bergs left on the sand — is what really put this event in perspective. Unless you are from the area, gauging flooding can be difficult because you have no comparison, so aerial helped a lot. Also included was the first aerial video of the compromised Spencer Dam, where Kenny Angel was killed, and Lazy River Acres. Thousands of people have homes at Lazy River Acres but could not get there due to the bridge out. Our footage provided a glimpse into what was left of their property. This was made possible by social media, timing and becoming the source for flooding information.