Ida strands some in Wisconsin, cuts off communication with loved ones

SHEBOYGAN, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Traveling hairstylist Caitlin Orellana had planned to fly from Sheboygan back home to New Orleans Sunday, Aug. 30.

"At first it wasn't supposed to really hit until Monday morning, but as Sunday kind of progressed, the categories just kept getting worse and worse," Orellana said of Ida.

Orellana had lived in Sheboygan for years before moving to Louisiana, but returns occasionally for appointments. Soon after being stranded, she lost contact with her husband because cell service stopped.

"It's terrifying," Orellana said. "It is absolutely terrifying not knowing what's going to happen."

Mike Winston moved to Milwaukee for work this January after living in Louisiana for decades.

He said the lack of communication with family gives him flashbacks.

"Exactly what happened with Katrina," Winston said. "I couldn't get in touch with some of my sisters and I was in Louisiana at the time when Katrina hit, and I couldn't get in touch with some of my sisters and family then."

Winston still hasn't been able to reach some of his family, but has felt the relief of hearing from some.

"When I heard from my daughter, oh my God," Winston said. "It felt like a ton was lifted off my shoulders."

Orellana eventually reached her husband and friends because one person's Verizon service was working. She learned her house is still standing, but victims need assistance, as more than one million are without power.

"Honestly, just watch and wait if they have any FEMA response team," Orellana said. "The main thing is Louisiana needs its power grid back up."

Winston said after going through Katrina, sending water is one of the best ways to help.