Last Updated on September 29, 2022 10:59 am
Ashe County Emergency Management Coordinator Patty Gambill is asking residents to prepare for the impact of storm Ian.
“We are asking citizens to prepare for potential flooding and gusty winds from the remnants of Hurricane Ian. The track still has some uncertainties but the current forecast indicates our area could receive 4-8″ of rainfall Friday night and Saturday.”, Gambill said in a statement released on Thursday morning.
“If you live within the 100 year or 500 year floodplain, along the river or a stream please keep an eye on the water levels, particularly if you could potentially become isolated by flood waters when bridges or roads are covered. We are asking citizens to do the following as part of their preparation: Have enough supplies, food, water, medicines, diapers etc. on hand for a minimum of five days without electricity. Several areas of the county could become isolated and unreachable. Be aware of alternate routes to take in the event a road is closed or a bridge is out. Ensure any pets, livestock or other confined animals within the floodplain or near any time of stream are relocated. Move Recreational Vehicles and any un-anchored items well outside of the 100 and 500 year floodplains.”, she also stated.
She added, “If you must receive weekly or daily medical procedures, consider staying closer to where you receive the treatments. If you require a medical device that is electricity dependent, ensure you have a battery back-up and plenty of batteries and/or a generator. Have extra oxygen bottles and other necessary supplies. IF you own or manage a vacation rental that is located on a stream or that could become isolated by flood waters overtopping low water bridges/roads make sure your renters are aware of the situation and have supplies on hand.”
A Facebook group titled “Hurricane Ian – Ashe County” has been set up for residents to post flood photos, videos and storm related information. That group page can be found at this link.
