City of Lenoir: Be prepared for flooding, power outages

LENOIR, NC (September 29, 2022) — The latest storm tracker update predicts that Tropical Storm Ian is headed for western North Carolina tomorrow. The storm could bring heavy rain and wind that might cause flooding and power outages in Lenoir and the region.

City of Lenoir staff is preparing to respond as needed.

Public Utilities staff is checking generators to keep water and sewer service running. Public Works and the Fire Department are testing chain saws and getting prepared to clear or close City streets as needed. The Police Department has crews on stand-by to respond.

The most likely impact in Lenoir from Tropical Storm Ian will be heavy rain and wind with possible flooding and power outages caused by falling trees.

Click the following link for the latest updates on Tropical Storm Ian, https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/graphics_at4.shtml.

STORM TIPS

Here are some tips to make sure your family is personally prepared:

• Sign up for CodeRED to receive emergency alerts from Lenoir and Caldwell County. Click the following link to go to the CodRED page, https://www.cityoflenoir.com/codered.
• Have multiple ways to receive emergency info, including watches and warnings. Make sure emergency alerts are enabled on your cell phone and download a weather app.
• Have an emergency plan. Know where you would go if you need to evacuate. Make a plan to stay with family, friends, or at a hotel. Public shelters should be a last resort.
• Gather some emergency supplies or refresh your emergency kit. Visit ReadyNC.gov for information on how to build an emergency kit.
• Download and read the North Carolina Hurricane Guide from ReadyNC.gov.
• Never run a generator inside your home or garage. Carbon monoxide fumes can build up and become deadly. Plug appliances directly into the generator. If you smell gas, leave your home immediately and call your utility provider.
• NC 2-1-1 is an information and referral service and public information portal for residents to obtain real-time communications and resources related to the disaster. Call 2-1-1 or visit NC211.org.

POWER OUTAGES

Residents who lose power can report outages to the following numbers.

• Duke Energy: 800-769-3766 (800-POWERON)
• Blue Ridge Energy: Report outages to 800-448-2383. Report downed power lines at 800-451-5474 or call 911.

Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized as well as trees, limbs or anything in contact with lines. If a power line falls across a car that you’re in, stay in the car and call 911. If you MUST get out of the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.

City staff does not and will not clear trees or limbs off of power lines. Clearing trees and limbs from power lines is the responsibility of the local power companies.

TREES ACROSS ROADS

City staff will remove trees from roads when possible.

If a tree is blocking a road, residents can call 911 to report the location. City of Lenoir Firefighters are trained and equipped to clear trees from roads and open lanes to ensure emergency vehicles can access all residents and businesses in the City. Public Works and other departments can also assist in clearing roads if needed.

City staff will not clear trees from houses or rights of way. However, Fire Department staff will inspect any trees that fall on houses for safety purposes.

FLOODING

Tropical systems often produce widespread heavy rain, which can result in deadly and destructive flash flooding and long-term river flooding. Rainfall amounts are not related to the strength of the storm, but rather to the speed, size and geography of the area. Never drive on flooded roadways.

Turn Around, Don’t Drown!

For current river conditions and forecasts, visit fiman.nc.gov.

READYNC.GOV

ReadyNC is a reference website sponsored by North Carolina Emergency Management, NC Department of Public Safety, and NC Citizen Corps. The website provides news, alerts, and preparedness information for severe weather, disaster situations, and more.

Click the following link to go to the ReadyNC.gov website, https://www.readync.gov/.

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