ONSLOW COUNTY, N.C. (WITN) – Three states of emergency have been issued in Onslow County as Tropical Storm Debby approached North Carolina.
Jacksonville and Onslow County first issued their declarations, quickly followed by Richlands.
The declarations allow city and county employees to go onto private property to remove debris that may be clogging storm drains or streams, while certain worker safety rules are suspended for first responders and other emergency workers.
Onslow County’s state of emergency expires at 10:00 p.m. Saturday, Richlands at 12:01 a.m. Sunday, while Jacksonville’s continues until written notice is given.
Jacksonville says to expect the heaviest rains from Debby to arrive tomorrow night and continue into Thursday.
According to Jacksonville Fire Chief Tee Tallman, it is important to drive slowly during the storm and to not go around roadway barricades. If you see high water, Chief Tallman says to turn around and avoid going near downed power lines.
“Just be cautious about walking out to check on things you know there still may be hanging limbs or stuff like that too as well,” Chief Tallman said.
Jacksonville closures and modifications as of 7:00 PM Tuesday
- City offices – City offices will remain open normal hours Wednesday, August 7 and will remain open as weather allows.
- At this time Jacksonville Sanitation will continue a regular pick-up schedule.
- Jacksonville Transit– Service will operate on a normal schedule as weather conditions allow. When weather condition worsen, busses for Jacksonville Transit will not operate in sustained winds greater than 45MPH and routes may be modified to avoid flooded roadways.
- Recreation– All outdoor activities and events have been cancelled until further notice. The “British Invaders” Concert is rescheduled for 6PM, August 30. Recreation Centers will be open regular hours for indoor activities.
- City Storm Prep– City crews are preparing for emergency operations. Streets Division employees are working to minimize the possibility of flooding. Staff is working with businesses on New Bridge Street to prepare for any flooding and getting a pump for standing water, and the City has fueled all service vehicles in preparation.