Sunday, October 9, 2016

Hurricane Matthew Update 10-9-16 @ 5pm

All,

Please see the following update by Bill Sammler at the National Weather Service:
See attached. This will be the final briefing for Matthew. Please note that, on the last page, are links to web pages containing peak wind gusts and rainfall for the event. [Also attached are the peak wind gusts observed

Weather conditions will continue improving across the region through Monday, with several dry days upcoming. Winds will slowly subside overnight most areas, but will continue breezy on Monday near the Bay/Ocean/Sounds, where wind gusts in the 25-30 mph range will still be possible. The coastal flood threat is subsiding as well, as the NNW wind direction is helping water to leave the Chesapeake Bay, and is sufficiently offshore to limit the flood threat in coastal areas.

The biggest concern over the next 1-3 days will be river flooding across the Chowan River Basin (Meherrin, Nottoway, Blackwater and Cashie rivers). Moderate to Major flooding will persist into midweek, with some areas seeing water levels higher than those experienced 2 weeks ago with the remnants of TS Julia.

Crews continue to focus on clearing abandoned vehicles and debris on the major arteries.  There are over 100 reports of downed trees throughout the city (see attached) which will take our Urban Forestry crews many weeks to address.  We are aware of the underpasses on Brambleton and Va Beach Blvd being flooded and a request for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers assistance has been submitted.  Outages are at 30,769 (out of 96,907), 15,000 fewer than a couple hours ago.  Sheltering at Norview HS (and transportation to the shelter) is going well and will remain operational until 11am tomorrow.   As such, the Norfolk EOC will maintain a presence in support.  We’re also doing all we can to continue getting information out to the community (and soliciting information on damages and/or unmet needs).
For a quick glance of flooding (and vehicles driving/stalling in flood waters), check out this video captured and produced by Mr. John Ehlers: https://www.youtube.com/watch?edit=vd&v=kV0z6lTV8T8.  John is currently capturing more video during this afternoon’s high tide and will be putting together a product to be included in a situation report and initial damage assessment to the VEOC.

Lastly, to ensure a safe commute for staff in the morning, City operations for Monday will begin at 10am.

Thanks!
Jim
Director, Norfolk EOC
james.redick@norfolk.gov








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