The City of Staunton has been busy this week preparing for heavy rain, potential flooding and power outages from Tropical Storm Debby.
The latest forecast from the National Hurricane center will bring the center of the storm very close to the Interstate 81 corridor with the potential for four to six inches of rain.
Even though Staunton needs rain, too much, too quickly, could still lead to flooding.
The primary areas of concern related to flash flooding are the downtown area including the Wharf.
According to Staunton’s Communications Manager Josh Knight, work began earlier this week when Public Works placed an order for extra fuel and started checking emergency generators and equipment including trucks and chainsaws in advance of the storm.
Parks and Recreation and Public Works have also been clearing storm drain inlets and removing debris near pipes and culverts that may have impeded the flow of runoff, leading to flooding.
The city has started a slow release of water at Lake Tams in Gypsy Hill Park to increase its stormwater retention capacity.
Any low-lying areas and areas near creeks and streams should always pay special attention during potential flooding, Knight said.
Resident preparation
Use the time before the heavy rain to check homes for runoff issues including clogged gutters, disconnected downspouts and any debris covering storm drains near homes.
Now is also a good time to secure items that could be carried away by rising waters or high winds.
In case of a power outage, residents are also encouraged to charge devices today and locate flashlights and batteries.
Sandbags available
The city will provide supplies for residents and business owners to fill sandbags at two locations today from noon to 5 p.m.
- Publics Works at 1911 Craigmont Road
- Montgomery Hall Park soccer fields parking lot
There is a limited quantity available, so please only take what you need.
Owners and occupants equipped with flood shields are encouraged to mount the shields as a precaution.
After the storm, disposal of sandbags will be the responsibility of residents and businesses.
Monitoring conditions
Staunton launched an awareness system last July as part of its flood mitigation strategy. The system provides real-time data, reporting and analysis on local waterways.
The system was installed in response to flash flooding in the downtown area in 2020.
With Debby’s arrival imminent, the city has been updating its stream depth and rain gauge sensors to ensure the reliability of the data.
Residents and business owners may monitor the heavy rain at www.staunton.va.us/floodawareness
The city also recommends that residents subscribe to Staunton Alert Message, the city’s emergency alert system.
Residents may also stay tuned to the city’s Facebook page for updates.
In an emergency, always call 911.
Safety precautions
- Turn around, don’t drown. Flooding is the biggest hazard during Debby to the region. Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways. Most injuries and deaths during flooding occur in vehicles.
- It’s best to stay off the roads this evening if you can. Hidden dangers and flooding become significantly more challenging to see in the dark. If you are on the roads and come to a traffic intersection without power, treat it like a four-way stop.
- Avoid parking in flood-prone or low-lying areas, especially from Thursday evening through Friday morning. Downtown residents are encouraged to park in the upper levels of the New Street or Johnson Street parking garages.
Story updated at 1:15 p.m.
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Crystal Graham
