Please remember to check on folks that are vulnerable which includes the elderly and homebound. With expectations of up to 7 inches or more of rain, we may see flooding in areas that rival those of the past.
As Chief Roddy told me this morning, be proactive, not reactive. Pack for an extended stay at work or someone's house. Be ready with extra food, water and blanket in your vehicle, and never estimate the power of even a foot of fast-moving water.
Our Chattanooga Police, Fire and Public Works departments, along with other rescue personnel, stand ready for extended shifts.
Chief Hyman reported his department is prepared, along with extra water rescue resources and staff. Our Public Works department is identifying and marking known hot spots, including flooding of roads and low lying areas. They have emergency teams ready to clear catch basins and will be monitoring flood elevations in real time. South Chickamauga Creek is expected to rise to 18-20 ft. In addition, special preparations are being made at Moccasin Bend Treatment facility to capture and treat as much water as possible.
I was reminded during morning conversations to encourage folks to please call 911 in case of an emergency and to check the Chattanooga Public Works Facebook and Twitter pages for the latest road closures in the city.
Thousands of dedicated people are working hard for your safety, but please be careful out there over the next several days. Don't take any unnecessary risks and please prepare in advance.
Remember to:
- Call 911 for help - they are linked to all emergency personnel and departments.
- Never drive around barricades.
- Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.
- Stay off bridges over fast-moving waters.
- Do not touch electrical equipment.
- Avoid wading in floodwater, which can contain debris and contaminants.
- Do not drive unless an emergency. Limit your activity.
- Be prepared with extra water, protein bars and blankets in your vehicle.
- Be prepared for a power outage with candles, food, water, etc.
- Keep your emergency radio tuned to EAS, NOAA for emergency instructions.
- Be a good neighbor, check on the elderly and those homebound.
Darrin Ledford, District 4
Chattanooga City Council