Total loss to dozens of Milford homes

MILFORD, Conn. (WTNH) -- There are 17 miles of Milford coastline, every bit of it felt the wrath of Hurricane Sandy. Dozens of homes there are a total loss, including 8 on one street alone. Many more were severely damaged.

Sandy packed a one-two punch, the second of which was the water.

"It's amazing that now that we've been breached since Irene that there's really no protection anymore," said Annie Mecca.

Annie lives a few short blocks away from Merwin Avenue which was hit especially hard, and she had no idea what to expect when they returned home Tuesday.

"I was really picturing that the water was going to go right through the window and right through the house, but thank God and thank you St. Anthony," said Pat Mecca.

St. Anthony, the patron saint of lost things, they say, he is also protector against storms. A neighbor wrapped a rosary about the hedges out front, then they all evacuated.

"We actually sat on the couch and just kept praying so he answered," Pat said.