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Water Damage Restoration in Pittsburgh, PA

Owning a home or business is one of the hallmarks of living the American Dream. While there are many fulfilling and positive aspects of owning property, one of the challenges that owners face is property damage. This type of damage can be caused by a range of disasters, both man-made and natural. Of all the types of property damage, water damage is among the most common.

Whether from broken pipes or heavy thunderstorms, it doesn't take a professor from University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh to know that water damage can be incredibly harmful to your home. Water can spread quickly throughout your property, causing damage to furniture and porous materials as it moves. In the blink of an eye, you could be looking at substantial rotting, warping, and even mold growth. That's why water damage restoration in Pittsburgh, PA is so important - to mitigate the damage to your home and help prevent it from happening in the future.

Trying to overcome flooding and other water-related disasters on your own can seem like a lost cause. But with Disaster Response by your side, you don't have to lose hope. As a local water damage clean-up company, we provide comprehensive restoration services to properties of all sizes in Pittsburgh. From the first time we assess your water damage to the time we mitigate and restore, we're here for you.

Dealing with property damage can be overwhelming. You're likely concerned about a few key things:

insurance claim process
Navigating the insurance claim process

We guide you through every step, ensuring you understand the process and get the most out of your claim.

quality completion
Scheduling for a quick and quality completion

We provide a clear timeline for restoration, prioritizing both speed and quality, so you can get back to normal as soon as possible.

You might also be thinking about:

safety and health

Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.

assessment

Understanding the full scope of the damage and what needs to be done:We conduct a thorough assessment of the damage and provide a detailed plan of action, so you know exactly what to expect.

expenses

Knowing the costs upfront and avoiding unexpected expenses: We provide transparent pricing and a detailed estimate before any work begins, so there are no surprises along the way.

structural

Preventing future issues, such as mold growth or structural problems: We don't just fix the visible damage—we address the root causes to prevent future issues, giving you peace of mind.

Protecting

Protecting your belongings and valuables from further damage: We take extra care to safeguard your possessions during the restoration process, minimizing any further impact.

You might also be thinking
might also be thinking
Minimizing

Minimizing disruption to your daily life or business operations: We work efficiently and flexibly to reduce the disruption to your routine, allowing you to continue with your life or business as smoothly as possible.

trustworthy

Finding a trustworthy team to handle your property with care: Our experienced and highly-trained professionals treat your property as if it were their own, ensuring the highest standard of care.

Ensuring

Ensuring the job is done right the first time: We pride ourselves on doing the job right the first time, using industry-leading techniques and thorough quality checks to ensure lasting results.

updates

Receiving clear communication and updates throughout the restoration process: We keep you informed every step of the way, providing regular updates and clear communication, so you're never left in the dark.

involved

Ensuring the safety and health of your family or employees during the restoration: Our team takes all necessary precautions to protect the safety and health of everyone involved, using the latest techniques and equipment.

At Disaster Response

At Disaster Response, It's All About You

Like Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh, Disaster Response has been a pillar of the community for years. As a second-generation disaster response company, we know that our work is never about us. At its most basic, it's always about you—your situation, your needs, and your satisfaction. We engineer our processes to help you quickly recover from water floods and disasters. Our total focus is on you, our valued customer. And that, in a nutshell, is what makes Disaster Response one of the most trusted and highly-rated water restoration companies in Pittsburgh.

Instead of focusing on profit, bottom lines, and yearly projections, we make you our priority. That's why we're serious about providing expert-level disaster preparedness and response services when you need them the most. Could you imagine trying to decipher misleading fine print or dealing with a pushy salesperson when you're just trying to get your life back together? That's not the Disaster Response way, and it never will be.

We don't just clean up after water leaks, floods, or other disasters; we go above and beyond by providing a consultative approach that serves you for years to come. We assist you in dealing with insurance adjusters to ensure you get the coverage you deserve without unnecessary delays. We make it a point to meticulously review every detail of your claim and work hard to make sure adjusters understand the full extent of your losses. We can also provide guidance on how and when to engage a public adjuster to bypass inefficiencies in the insurance process. At the end of the day, we strive to provide peace of mind during your difficult time and work tirelessly to get your property back to its pre-loss condition.

The Disaster Response Difference

number-one

Professional Technicians, Technology, and Processes

In fact, we'll dispatch a team of water disaster technicians to you within three minutes. We'll also advise you on what can be done to minimize the water damage in your home or business. Our water damage restoration team will use cutting-edge technology and IICRC-approved methods to restore as much of your property as possible.

number-two

Insurance Advocacy

Disaster Response works one-on-one with you and your insurance provider to expedite the claims process and get your home back to normal as soon as possible.

number-three

Satisfaction Guaranteed

We're proud of our work and stand behind every project we complete. Our goal is to exceed expectations and provide peace of mind throughout every step of your water damage restoration process. If you're not satisfied for any reason, we'll listen to your concerns and work tirelessly to rectify any issues that need addressing.

Disaster-Response Difference
Guide-Water-Damage.png

Your Guide to Water Damage Restoration in Pittsburgh, PA

Water damage restoration is a key step in remediating damage to your home, both structurally and aesthetically. Damage from water doesn't just affect the walls, floors, and ceilings in your home. It can also cause deeper issues that, when untreated, can weaken your foundation significantly and lead to long-term instability.

As if that weren't enough, water damage can present health hazards to your friends, family, and pets. Mold and bacteria can grow in damp areas after water incidents, causing allergies, respiratory problems, and even visits to The Remington Senior Living and Memory Care in Pittsburgh for examination. Ignoring water damage can also result in irreversible harm to your belongings, including furniture, electronics, and sentimental items, leading to financial loss and emotional distress. Professional water clean-up services can repair the damage to your property, help protect valuable assets, and re-establish your home or business as a safe, healthy environment for occupants.

What Makes Our Water Damage Company in Pittsburgh, PA, Different from Others?

One of the most common questions we get at Disaster Response is, "What separates you from other water damage clean-up companies in Pittsburgh?" The first and easiest answer to that question centers around our commitment to customer service. We hold our clients in high regard because, without them, there would be no Disaster Response. As such, we work tirelessly to provide them with quality work from friendly and helpful technicians, regardless of the size of their home or business.

But that's just the start. Our clients recommend friends and family to our business because we prioritize the following:

Investing-damage

Cost

Investing in damage restoration for your home is a smart move that can help reduce long-term costs. The best part? Our services are covered by insurance companies, so there's less worry about paying out of pocket.

specialized training

Technicians

Every member of our team has years of experience, specialized training, and certifications in handling water damage. We prioritize our customers' well-being and meticulously attend to every detail to prevent any potential mold-related issues in the future. From single-family homes to

disasters happen quicker

Time

Water disasters happen quicker than you might think. One moment, you're enjoying family time at Schenley Park in Pittsburgh. The next, you're pulling in your driveway to a flooded home. When you call our office, we'll get to work assessing the cause of your water damage and how extensive the water damage is in your home or business. From there, we'll dispatch a team of IICRC water damage restoration experts to your location.

significant investments

Tools

Disaster Response has made significant investments in cutting-edge water damage equipment, including inspection tools that enable thorough water removal. Our technicians have undergone extensive training to operate these machines and know when and when not to use them.

helping with water damage

Process

For over 40 years, we have been helping with water damage issues, refining our process along the way. We can quickly find hidden damages that others might miss and document everything for your insurance company.

Reliable Water Damage

Reliable Water Damage Restoration Network

We aren't afraid to ask for help if it means a safer, more enjoyable environment for your family or customers. In fact, we have access to a network of industry pros who are experts in a range of water damage services. To make your life a little easier, we also work with insurance professionals who assist with the claims process.

What Does Disaster Response Fix?

As an IICRC-certified water damage contractor in Pittsburgh, PA, our technicians can address several areas of your home or business that have been damaged by a water disaster.

  • Floors: It's very important to take the necessary time and steps to effectively dry your floors to prevent any potential water damage and mold growth in the future.
  • Walls: Depending on the amount of water that enters your business or home, the structural integrity of your property may be at stake. Our technicians will evaluate the situation, inspect your property, and replace materials damaged by water.
  • Rugs: If your rugs get wet during flooding or from another water disaster, they may be salvageable. We'll work hard to save all the rugs in your property.
  • Furniture: Your furniture is probably expensive and may hold a certain level of sentimental value. Instead of throwing it away or donating it to Senator John Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh, we can repair and restore it.
Disaster Response Fix

Disaster Response specializes in every kind of damage caused by rain, wind, or snowstorms. We handle water damage, mold, mildew, and more, and can be at your home or office within an hour of your call to assess the situation and put a water damage restoration plan into action.

What Tools Does Disaster Response Use for Water Damage Clean-Up?

We only use the best equipment! With our extensive experience in the Pittsburgh restoration industry, we've acquired state-of-the-art tools designed to tackle a wide range of challenges. This experience has also allowed our technicians to identify which type of equipment is best for a particular situation. Some of the most common water damage restoration tools we use include:

Infrared

Infrared Cameras

Our infrared cameras give us the ability to see moisture in walls and ceilings that is not visible to the naked eye, almost like having "X-ray" vision. This capability allows us to detect and address trapped and hidden humidity, significantly reducing the risk of mold growth.

Moisture

Moisture Meters

We use moisture meters to measure moisture levels in cellulose material. Before and after the drying process, we will conduct moisture readings in all areas of your property. If we detect moisture in an unaffected area of your building, we'll get to work quickly to dry it.

Air Movers

Air Movers

This equipment is designed to work in conjunction with our dehumidifiers. While our dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air and convert it to a liquid, our Air Mover helps to circulate this moisture in the air so that the dehumidifier can effectively remove it.

Generators

Ozone Generators

These advanced tools enable us to cleanse affected surfaces and the air in a more effective manner. Ozone Generators work by causing oxygen molecules to implode, making them a valuable deodorization tool.

Xtractor

Xtreme Xtractor

This tool is great for tackling tough moisture after water damage. It allows us to apply direct pressure to a surface, like a carpet, that has soaked up water. The pressure helps draw out the water, making it easier to remove.

Top 3 Types of Water Damage You Should Know About

Water damage can strike without warning and can wreak havoc on your property, leaving you feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. Whether it's from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or an overflowing appliance, your property needs immediate water damage clean-up in Pittsburgh, PA, to prevent further harm. Here are the top three types of water damage you should know about:

Clean Water Damage

Clean Water Damage

Clean

This type of water damage happens from a "clean" source, such as rainwater or a broken pipe in your home. It's easier to clean up than others on this list but can still cause extensive property damage when ignored.

Gray Water Damage

Gray Water Damage

Gray-Water

Gray water damage stems from appliances such as toilets without feces, washing machines, and dishwashers. Gray water sometimes contains bacteria and contaminants that can make you or your family sick.

Black Water Damage

Black Water Damage

Black-Water

The name alone indicates the severity of this type of water damage. It's caused by backed-up sewer lines, river flooding, and standing water that supports bacteria growth. Black water presents serious health hazards and needs to be handled by professional water damage contractors.

If you suspect your home or business has been damaged by one or more of the types of water above, take the following steps:

Stop the Source of Water
  • Be Safe: Turn off all electricity running through your property. Don't go near or touch any water you believe to be contaminated.
  • Stop the Source of Water: If you're able, put a stop to the water at its source. That way, you can prevent more damage.
  • Call Disaster Response: Contact our water damage company ASAP for water restoration services. Our team is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies.

Our Process for Water Damage Restoration in Pittsburgh, PA

Having a water damage restoration company by your side who knows how to remediate moisture is a key factor in getting your life back on track. At Disaster Response, we have refined our process over 40+ years of water damage clean-up experience. That way, we can provide customers with reliable, comprehensive service when they need it the most.

We utilize powerful pumps and vacuums to eliminate standing water from your property. Swift water removal is essential in minimizing damage and lowering the likelihood of mold growth. Our team is dedicated to ensuring efficient water extraction to prevent any additional complications.

After extracting water from your property, we dry and dehumidify the impacted areas. We use industrial-grade dehumidifiers and air movers to do so to eliminate moisture from walls, floors, and furniture. Proper drying helps prevent warping, swelling, and the growth of mold.

Whenever we deal with water damage, we have to address the potential contaminants and bacteria that can enter your home. We make sure to thoroughly clean and sanitize all affected areas to create a safe living environment. This involves cleaning carpets, upholstery, and personal belongings. Our technicians also use antimicrobial treatments to prevent mold and bacterial growth.

The final step in the process is the restoration of your home to its pre-damage condition. This comprehensive restoration process may encompass a range of tasks, from minor repairs such as replacing drywall and installing new carpeting to major reconstruction efforts. Rest assured that Disaster Response is fully equipped to manage all aspects of water damage restoration, from start to finish.

  • Maintenance: Have your business or home's roof, appliances, and plumbing inspected by professionals to spot early signs of wear and tear.
  • Water Alarms: If there is a flood or leak in your home, a water alarm can alert you so that you can take action immediately.
  • Drainage: Your home needs proper drainage systems in place at all times. To prevent water buildup, be sure to unclog your downspouts and gutters.
  • Cracks and Gaps: Be sure to seal up any cracks and gaps in your property's foundation to limit water from getting inside.
Disaster Response Fix

The Water Damage Company in Pittsburgh, PA, You Can Trust

When you want a great steak, you don't go to a fast-food joint and expect a filet. You go to a Altius in Pittsburgh. When you need quality disaster response services from licensed professionals, you don't go to a fly-by-night shop. You contact Disaster Response.

As a local water damage clean-up business, we believe that providing clients with effective service that they can rely on in times of stress is of utmost importance. While some of our competitors prioritize profits over people, you can rest easy knowing we care about you - and that's something you can always count on when you choose our water damage company.

Whether a pipe has burst in your commercial space and your showroom is flooding, or your home has standing water from a Pittsburgh rainstorm, we're here for you 24/7. Contact our office to learn more about the Disaster Response difference or to schedule an inspection for your property today.

Contact Your Emergency Disaster Response Now!

Latest News in Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh native and Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy faces Steelers in hometown homecoming

PITTSBURGH, Pa. (KDKA) -- Pittsburgh native and Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy is making a hometown homecoming this weekend for Sunday's primetime matchup against the Steelers.In McCarthy's hometown neighborhood of Greenfield, people are excited to welcome him back to Pittsburgh.From his Greenfield roots to coaching in Green Bay, Dallas, and everywhere in between, McCarthy has always had the sup...

PITTSBURGH, Pa. (KDKA) -- Pittsburgh native and Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy is making a hometown homecoming this weekend for Sunday's primetime matchup against the Steelers.

In McCarthy's hometown neighborhood of Greenfield, people are excited to welcome him back to Pittsburgh.

From his Greenfield roots to coaching in Green Bay, Dallas, and everywhere in between, McCarthy has always had the support of the community where he grew up and got his start.

While McCarthy will be coaching on the opposing sideline this Sunday night at Acrisure Stadium, it goes deeper than supporting the colors he wears -- it's a community that rallies around one of their own.

Amy Smith lives in Greenfield, knows McCarthy's family, and says she's a hardcore Steelers fan, but still wants to see him do well and succeed.

"Anytime somebody from this neighborhood gets to go above and beyond, that's a triumph for all of us," Smith said. "If you're triumphant or winning, I'm here to celebrate with you. But if you're struggling, I'm here to help you out. That's what this community is all about."

Pittsburgh roots run deep for Mike McCarthy

Even while he was coaching the Packers to a win over the Steelers in Super Bowl XLV, McCarthy has always kept a contingent in Greenfield.

Ali Elwagaa has owned Yesterday's bar on Greenfield Avenue for almost 15 years. He said he's met some of McCarthy's friends and classmates who have always rooted for him to succeed.

Elwagaa said that when the Steelers and Packers played one another in the past, half of the people in the bar would be cheering for the Packers because of McCarthy.

"He always was involved in the community," Elwagaa said. "Every time when there's a break, he stops here and he talks to the people here and sees his friends."

McCarthy graduated from St. Rosalia Academy on Greenfield Avenue and gave money to the school up until it closed in 2018.

Despite the journey that McCarthy's coaching career has taken him on from a graduate assistant at Pitt to more than 160 wins in the NFL and a Lombardi trophy, he's never forgotten his roots.

McCarthy has lost both games he coached against the Steelers in Pittsburgh at Acrisure Stadium and has beaten them just once in five tries overall.

Josh Taylor

Josh Taylor joined the KDKA Sports team in 2015 as an anchor, reporter and producer, after spending more than two years as the weekend sports anchor at KHBS-KHOG in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

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Gov. Shapiro announces $600 million downtown Pittsburgh revitalization plan

PITTSBURGH —Gov. Josh Shapiro says Pittsburgh's future starts downtown. He says nearly $600 million will go to revitalize the Golden Triangle, thanks to an historic plan."This is so unheard of — the state government working together with local government, working together with the private sector, where everybody's got some skin in the game because everybody really gives a damn about this community," Shapiro said as he announced the plan Friday. "It's a big deal."Shapiro sa...

PITTSBURGH —

Gov. Josh Shapiro says Pittsburgh's future starts downtown. He says nearly $600 million will go to revitalize the Golden Triangle, thanks to an historic plan.

"This is so unheard of — the state government working together with local government, working together with the private sector, where everybody's got some skin in the game because everybody really gives a damn about this community," Shapiro said as he announced the plan Friday. "It's a big deal."

Shapiro says the 10-year plan will bring more housing, including affordable housing, revitalize public spaces and improve safety. To name a few improvements, the plan will transform the 8th Street Block civic space, Market Square and Liberty Avenue medians, and Point State Park.

The governor says private sectors and foundations like PPG Industries, the Pittsburgh Steelers, Highmark and the Heinz Endowments are stepping in to help.

"We will work together as our beloved public spaces like Market Square and Point State Park that you heard the governor talk about, underused spaces like that, to be reimagined for better community parks, better recreational space, things that we can bring our families to," Mayor Ed Gainey said.

The commonwealth is investing more than $62 million in the first four years, with the city committing $22.1 million.

Shapiro says nearly $600 million has been committed toward shovel-ready projects that are expected to be done by 2028, and he says more jobs will come to the city.

"We're going to create jobs for artists. We're going to create jobs for construction workers. We're going to create jobs for retail clerks who are going to work in the new establishments that are here. We're going to create jobs for people who clean the buildings, people who do the work in the buildings," Shapiro said. "This is all really, really exciting. After those 3,500 construction jobs, a whole lot of other job growth is going to be spurred on because of this."

Lt. Gov. Austin Davis says the plan will power the entire western Pennsylvania region like an economic engine.

"This is an exciting time for Pittsburgh and for us to think bigger than just the city limits," Davis said. "This is a regional downtown that serves the five-county region, and so, it's not just going to attract people from the city of Pittsburgh, but counties like Lawrence, Beaver and Butler."

Shapiro says he is looking forward for the improvements to start in time for the 2026 NFL draft, which will be held in Pittsburgh.

Historic $600 Million Makeover Planned For Downtown Pittsburgh

A 10-year plan to revitalize Downtown Pittsburgh is in the works. PITTSBURGH, PA —Gov. Josh Shapiro and local elected officials on Friday unveiled details of a historic $600 million plan to reinvent Downtown Pittsburgh.The public-private partnership's initial plans, expected to be completed by 2028, will involve creating about 1,000 new apartments and a hotel in seven current office buildings and renovating three public open spaces: Point State Park and Market Square and a block of 8th Street in the Cultural District....

A 10-year plan to revitalize Downtown Pittsburgh is in the works.

PITTSBURGH, PA —Gov. Josh Shapiro and local elected officials on Friday unveiled details of a historic $600 million plan to reinvent Downtown Pittsburgh.

The public-private partnership's initial plans, expected to be completed by 2028, will involve creating about 1,000 new apartments and a hotel in seven current office buildings and renovating three public open spaces: Point State Park and Market Square and a block of 8th Street in the Cultural District.

The entire Downtown makeover is expected to take a decade to complete.

“Pittsburgh is a great city, and in order for our commonwealth to thrive, we need to ensure downtown Pittsburgh is a hub of innovation, opportunity and culture," Shapiro said in a statement.

"With the commonwealth’s significant support, we have a plan to invest in and revitalize downtown – and help it reach its full potential as a great neighborhood where thousands of Pennsylvanians can live, work, enjoy safe public spaces and contribute to our vibrant culture. Pittsburgh’s elected officials, corporate leaders, sports teams, nonprofits, union workers and artists are all behind this plan – and together, we will write the next chapter of this great city’s story."

With a significant backing of state dollars, seven major mixed-use development and housing projects will be developed using $501.1 million in combined capital to create or preserve nearly 1,000 residential units — nearly a third of those units being affordable for residents with low-to-moderate incomes.

Those projects include:

To complement the new mixed-use residential developments, private and public funding will transform these public spaces:

The state is investing $62.6 million and the City of Pittsburgh is committing $22.1 million through the Urban Redevelopment Authority towards the redevelopment efforts.

A coalition of private sector leaders and regional foundations have committed more than $40 million. They include BNY; Dollar Bank; Duquesne Light; Federated Hermes; FNB Bank; Giant Eagle; Highmark; Pitt Ohio; PNC Bank; PPG Industries; Reed Smith; Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC; K&L Gates; the Buhl Foundation; the Eden Hall Foundation; the Heinz Endowments; the Hillman Foundation; the Jewish Healthcare Foundation; the Pittsburgh Steelers; the Pittsburgh Pirates; and the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Those public and nonprofit dollars are expected to spur an additional $376.9 million in private sector investment from real estate developers Downtown.

Duquesne's Improbable Championship Run Chronicled In New Book

PITTSBURGH, PA — The Duquesne University men's basketball team's championship drought had lasted considerably longer than the Pirates' current one, and that's saying something. So when the Dukes surprisingly won the Atlantic 10 championship in March, the team's fans were as shocked as they were euphoric.The Dukes capturing their first title since 1977 was a historic moment, so much so that the season leading up to it is recounted in a new book. ...

PITTSBURGH, PA — The Duquesne University men's basketball team's championship drought had lasted considerably longer than the Pirates' current one, and that's saying something. So when the Dukes surprisingly won the Atlantic 10 championship in March, the team's fans were as shocked as they were euphoric.

The Dukes capturing their first title since 1977 was a historic moment, so much so that the season leading up to it is recounted in a new book. "47 Years: The Story of the 2023-24 Duquesne Dukes" was published this week and is available on Amazon and at the Duquesne Barnes & Noble.

The 304-page chronicle of the impressive run is a collaboration between noted Pittsburgh sports historian, author and Duquesne graduate David Finoli; Robert Healy III, a full-time faculty member in the Duquesne Media Department since 2014; and jack-of-all-trades Pittsburgh sports journalist Zachary Weiss.

"All three of us had different roles in making this book. As a result, there is a lens for everyone," Weiss told Patch.

"If you want the historical meaning, we've got you covered. If you want to look back at the games and relive the build to history, you're all set. If you want to know about the players, coaches and support staff beyond the box scores, it is well represented here."

The book details how the once-proud Duquesne program fell into disarray and how it was rebuilt by now-retired coach Keith Dambrot. It also provides game-by-game accounts through a season that resulted in the conference championship win against VCU. Additionally, there are detailed biographies of the team's players, coaches and support staff.

"We told a story that almost feels like a Disney movie in a lot of respects," Weiss said. "Writing this book together has been nothing short of a labor of love for all of us."

Mysterious Thunderbird sightings in Pennsylvania examined in TV series

DERRY BOROUGH, Pa. (KDKA) -- The truth behind sightings of a mysterious bird-like creature in Pennsylvania was examined in a TV series.KDKA-TV did some digging with help from a well-known researcher, along with a council member for Derry Borough, because the borough is known for unexplained mysteries."The most prominent reporting usually has to do with its wingspan, which has been said to be as large as a small aircraft," said Nathan Bundy, vice president of Derry Borough Council.The mystery of the Thunderbird ...

DERRY BOROUGH, Pa. (KDKA) -- The truth behind sightings of a mysterious bird-like creature in Pennsylvania was examined in a TV series.

KDKA-TV did some digging with help from a well-known researcher, along with a council member for Derry Borough, because the borough is known for unexplained mysteries.

"The most prominent reporting usually has to do with its wingspan, which has been said to be as large as a small aircraft," said Nathan Bundy, vice president of Derry Borough Council.

The mystery of the Thunderbird of Pennsylvania terrorizing Chestnut Ridge in the westernmost ridge of the Allegheny Mountains soared into the spotlight on the Discovery Channel on Wednesday night. In the series "Lost Monster Files," a group of experts investigate cryptozoologist Ivan Sanderson's lost archive of unexplained creatures.

Bundy said he's looking forward to seeing what clues are uncovered.

Derry Borough is known as the "gateway to the mysterious Chestnut Ridge." Bigfoot was even declared the official cryptid of the town, and officials put up a Bigfoot statue.

"We have sasquatch sightings, multiple sasquatch, albino sasquatch, black panthers, Thunderbirds, and then UFOs," Bundy said.

The most recent Thunderbird sighting in the Derry ridge was reported to legendary researcher and author Stan Gordon in January.

"That section of the Chestnut Ridge has historically been very active for years and years," Gordon said.

Gordon runs a 24-hour sighting hotline that can be reached at 724-838-7768. He's investigated UFO sightings, Bigfoot encounters, Thunderbird and other cryptid reports in Pennsylvania and the greater Pittsburgh area since 1959.

"I've never personally seen a Bigfoot or a UFO or a cryptid. I've interviewed thousands of witnesses. I get reports in here all the time," Gordon said.

"We've had quite a little surge of Thunderbird sightings this year. Off the top of my head, I can think of eight reports that happened since January. In some cases, these huge flying creatures, even in recent months, have been very low altitude, treetop level, in some cases came down within 20 or so feet of vehicles in recent months around the greater Pittsburgh area," Gordon added.

They hope interest in the scary flying creature takes flight and helps keep the unusual stories alive for generations.

"When you get good media coverage, it helps to give credibility to the people who have seen these things, experienced these types of events, who might have been reluctant to talk about it publicly for fear of ridicule," Gordon said.

"People are more comfortable talking about it. It's not sort of this taboo subject, and it is a fun part of the folklore of the area," Bundy said.

The Thunderbird "Lost Monster Files" episode aired at 10:01 p.m. on Wednesday on the Discovery Channel and will be available on Max.

Derry Borough has a few spooky events coming up if you want to visit the town that's been making paranormal headlines:

Jessica Guay

Jessica Guay joined KDKA as a reporter in February 2021. Before joining KDKA, Jessica was a morning anchor and reporter at WJAC in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. She was also an anchor and reporter at WCHS in Charleston, West Virginia, and at WTOV in Steubenville, Ohio.

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