TUESDAY. SEPTEMBER 11. 2018
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Newport News Prepares for Hurricane Florence
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The City is closely monitoring Hurricane Florence and its potential effects on Newport News. Several steps have been taken and are being taken in preparation for the storm:
- Public Works Stormwater crews are inspecting the storm drain system and clearing debris as needed.
- Construction sites have been secured to prevent loose materials from becoming projectiles.
- Generators for traffic lights, pump stations, city buildings, and water treatment facilities have been inspected and fueled.
- Debris clearing equipment (e.g., chainsaws, excavators, front-end loaders, etc.) is ready.
- Newport News Waterworks is monitoring reservoir levels and has prepared its facilities for substantial rainfall, high winds and storm surge.
Evacuations
Governor Northam has issued mandatory evacuation orders for those living in Zone A. Residents in Zone A should make plans to leave, and it is recommended to shelter with family or friends locally who live outside of any evacuation zone.
Zone information can be found here
or by calling the City’s 311 Center at (757) 933-2311. If you must leave the area, please go north out of the storm’s path and leave as early as possible. As a last resort, city shelters are opening at 12 noon on Wednesday, September 12 (details below).
Shelters
The following shelters will open at noon tomorrow (Wednesday) for those who have no alternative. Residents without transportation to a shelter can call the 311 Center at (757)
933-2311 for options.
- Denbigh High School – 259 Denbigh Boulevard – General Population
- Menchville High School – 275 Menchville Road – Medically Dependent and General Population
- Warwick High School – 51 Copeland Lane – General Population and Residents with Pets – Owners must remain at the shelter with their pets (no drop-offs). Animals must be in cages. Owners will be required to need to provide food, water are required for all pets.
Residents should bring the following to shelters:
- any medications or special needs equipment as well as caregivers;
- air mattresses, blankets, and pillows;
- special items for babies and toddlers, the elderly and handicapped;
- reading materials and games;
- toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.);
- clothing;
- water (at least one gallon per person per day for three days);
- non-perishable food; special diet foods, including foods for seniors and infants;
- first aid kit;
- important documents;
- reading materials and games; and
- battery operated radio, flashlight and extra batteries.
Those without transportation to a shelter can call the 311 Center at (757)
933-2311 for options.
Solid Waste Collection
Solid waste (trash, recycling and bulk waste) will be collected as scheduled on Wednesday, September 12. Collections will not take place on Thursday, September 13, and will instead be picked-up on Monday, September 17. Next week’s regular collections will be delayed one day (i.e., Monday’s collections will take place on Tuesday, Tuesday’s on Wednesday, etc.).
Free Sandbags for Residents
Free sandbags are available for residents to pick up (proof of residency required) on Wednesday, September 12, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 511 Oyster Point Road. Citizens can pick up 20 bags per person, while supplies last. For questions, call 311 at (757)
933-2311.
Stay Informed
Residents can stay informed via:
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Water Tips from Newport News Waterworks
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Newport News Waterworks, a regional drinking water provider serving all of Hampton, Newport News, and Poquoson, and parts of York and James City counties, offers the following tips.
Store water:
Using clean containers, store tap water for drinking, cooking and washing. The American Red Cross recommends one gallon of water per person per day for a three-day period. In addition, bathtubs can be used to store water for cleaning/rinsing.
Conserve water:
During and after the storm, customers are urged to conserve tap water. Until the full effect of the hurricane is known, please monitor usage.
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