City officials are strongly encouraging everyone to take precautions with significant rainfall and the possibility of flooding expected over the next several days. Eastern North Carolina is forecast to begin feeling the effects of Tropical Storm Debby tomorrow. The storm is expected to bring gusty winds, heavy rain bands and flash flooding as it moves up the coast. Depending on the storm’s trajectory, we could see rain totals of up to 10 inches.
Residents, visitors and businesses should prepare now for storm impacts:
- Secure outdoor items or bring them inside. This includes retrieving trash and recycling cans as soon as possible after they are serviced.
- Fuel up vehicles and equipment.
- Restock your survival kit in the event of power outages.
- Clear your gutters and other drainage outlets surrounding your property to help mitigate flooding risk.
Two loads of sand have been delivered for residents who wish to fill sandbags. The sand is available on a first-come, first serve basis until it is depleted. Residents must bring their own bags and shovels. The sand deliveries are at Henderson Park (901 Chapman Street) and Seth West Parrott Park behind Kidsville (1225 Pine Tree Drive).
With periods of high intensity and high-volume rainfall expected, we anticipate stormwater drainageways may become overwhelmed along city streets and in low-lying areas that commonly flood during rainfall events. Some of these areas include but are not limited to: Cypress Street (at George Street), Cedar Street (at Pavie Avenue), Murray Street, Pollock Street (at Princess Street), Change Street, Linden Street, portions of Hazel & Washington streets, Dartmouth Lane, Princeton Lane, and the traffic circle at Broad and E. Front streets.
Our stormwater crews are clearing drainage outlets along major corridors and will continue throughout the duration of the storm. Our stormwater lift stations are prepped and ready to respond. These pumps activate automatically as water levels rise. As a reminder, floodwaters can be dangerous, even deadly. They can sweep away cars and people in an instant – turn around, don’t drown. If possible, stay off the roads altogether as conditions deteriorate.
Additional staff and emergency responders are working through the week to respond to power outages, utility damages, debris, flooding and water/sewer issues. Customers can call Utility Control at (252)636-4070 to report these issues 24 hours a day. City of New Bern customers who have a cell phone number associated with their utility account will automatically receive a text message in the event of a power outage. If you have not yet opted in to this service, call (252)639-2750 to register a cell phone number to your account. You can also report a power, water, sewer, stormwater, or other problem using our Report a Problem portal on our website by clicking here. Remember, in an emergency, always dial 9-1-1.
The City’s Emergency Operations Center on Highway 55 has been prepared and stands ready for mobilization should the need arise. In the meantime, City staff are monitoring the latest forecasts on the storm and its effects on eastern North Carolina, as well as getting supplies ready and going over preparedness checklists. Flood resiliency checklists for residents and businesses are available on our webpage by clicking here.
The City will post additional storm updates and information, as necessary, to its social media platforms and website. Follow us on Facebook at CityofNB and Instagram at CityOfNewBern or visit our website at www.NewBernNC.gov. We will also deploy emergency and general notifications, as necessary, through New Bern Alerts. This mass notification system is free to subscribers and sends info via text, email and voicemail. It is never too late to sign up for New Bern Alerts. You can download the myAlerts app to your smartphone or visit our website at www.NewBernNC.gov/
Our National Night Out event scheduled for tomorrow evening at Union Point Park has been postponed due to the storm. It has been rescheduled for October 1 from 5-8pm at the same location. Other announcements regarding cancellations of events or city services (such as trash, recycling, leaf & limb, and bulk waste pickup) will be posted on our social media platforms, website, and through New Bern Alerts.
Take steps now to prepare for Tropical Storm Debby to help protect you, your family and your property. Preparation is key to recovery in the aftermath of the storm.
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