Following the Governor’s Emergency Declaration, James City County declared a local state of emergency at 2:51 p.m. on Sept. 10. The declaration is a precautionary move in the event it becomes necessary for the County to take further action.
County officials continue to monitor Hurricane Florence and are making needed preparations.
It is too soon to know the track Hurricane Florence will take, but all models are agreeing that Virginia can expect significant impacts in the form of coastal storm surge, catastrophic inland flooding, high winds and possible widespread power outages.
VDOT crews are clearing drainage structures in advance of the storm and will have crews and personnel available 24/7 to respond to damaged roadways and downed trees.
Cancellations and Closings
The Neighborhood Forum previously scheduled for Sept. 12 has been canceled.
The Chesapeake Bay and Wetlands Meeting scheduled for Sept. 12 has been postponed until the Oct. 10 meeting.
Harvest Festival scheduled for Sept. 15 has been canceled. It will not be rescheduled.
What You Can Do Now
Sign up for www.jccalert.org
Check your emergency plan and supplies – www.ready.gov/hurricanes and www.vaemergency.gov/hurricanes
Check on your neighbors, especially the elderly and those without access to the Internet.
All commercial building owners are encouraged to inspect (flat and low slope) roof drains and to make sure they are clear. Obstructed roof drains, both primary and overflow, could lead to significant structural damage.
Where to Find Information
www.jamescitycountyva.gov
www.jccalert.org
www.facebook.com/jamescitycounty
www.twitter.com/jamescitycounty
Local media
Know Your Zone
Evacuation zones designated A through C are in place in James City County. In the event of a storm or other emergency, residents of one or more zones may be directed to evacuate depending on tides, storm intensity, path, and other factors.
It is easy to find out if you live in one of the zones. Visit www.KnowYourZoneVA.org and enter your address on the New Zone Evacuation Map.
Zone information is also available for those without Internet service by calling 757-253-6612 during regular office hours. Please leave a message.
Shelters
County officials anticipate opening shelters. Information about shelters will be available through JCC Alert, social media and local media as it becomes available.
Residents who feel unsafe in their homes should first try to stay with friends or family before resorting to a shelter.
If shelters are opened, one will be pet-friendly. Pets must be inside crates or carriers.
Media Contact:
Renee Dallman, Public Information Officer
757-272-3337; renee.dallman@jamescitycountyva.gov