Contact: Elaine Tricoli
Phone: (336) 373-2421

Preparations Begin for Possible Effects of Hanna

GREENSBORO, NC – (September 2, 2008) – As if on cue, the City of Greensboro is ushering in National Preparedness Month by preparing for the possible inland effects of Tropical Storm Hanna.

The National Weather Service says the storm’s track is still somewhat uncertain, but warns residents along the southeastern coast of the United States to prepare for a possible landfall by Friday.

The news is potentially troublesome for the Triad area, which, after more than a year of drought, experienced localized flooding last week when the remnants of Tropical Storm Fay moved through the state. As a result of that storm, Field Operations crews responded to more than 40 flood calls and approximately 20 calls to remove downed trees. A number of Greensboro streets were closed due to flooding, including several heavily-traveled areas such as Wendover Avenue and Yanceyville Road. Some residents were evacuated when flood waters neared their homes.

In preparation for Hanna, City crews have inspected all waterways in flood-prone areas for debris or blockages that will cause water to back up and spill over roadways. Transportation crews will put traffic control devices, such as barrels, barricades and cones, in flood areas to offer a head start in blocking off streets if necessary. Water Resources staff are checking and fueling generators at all water and sewer facilities to ensure that they are working properly, and crews will be on alert to respond to sewer overflows and any other issues that arise.

In addition, City emergency officials plan to meet this afternoon to conduct a preliminary review of plans for a coordinated response to any flooding or other emergency situations related to Hanna.

“We pay special attention to inland hurricanes because of the increased risk in urban flooding,” said Marilyn Braun, coordinator of Greensboro Emergency Management. “Of course, September is National Preparedness Month, and being prepared for an inland storm means building your family plan, checking the batteries in your weather radio, communicating with your neighbors, and staying tuned to your local weather channels.”

According to the National Hurricane Center’s website, there are a number of safety precautions to consider when faced with inland flooding:
• If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Stay informed about road conditions through the news media.
• Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water.
• Do not attempt to cross flowing water. As little as six inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Develop a flood emergency action plan.

Emergency preparedness information is always available at www.greensboroready.com and www.readyguilford.com. In addition, special preparedness bookmarks are now available at the Greensboro Public Library.

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The City of Greensboro works in partnership with the community to build an increased quality of life for all residents by fostering an environment where inclusion, diversity, and trust are valued. As the seventh largest employer in Greensboro, the City has a dedicated professional staff of 2700 employees who maintain four core values of honesty, integrity, stewardship, and respect. The City of Greensboro is governed by a council-manager form of government where a mayor and eight council members act as the legislative body. For more information on the City of Greensboro, please visit us online at www.greensboro-nc.gov.