NEWS RELEASE From Pocomoke City Hall

NEWS RELEASE

POCOMOKE CITY STATEMENT REGARDING HURRICANE IRENE

August 26, 2011

Contact: Russell W. Blake, City Manager, 410-957-1333

Pocomoke City officials are encouraging local residents to take all necessary precautions well in advance of the approaching hurricane. Although mandatory evacuation has not been ordered at this time, officials say residents in lower areas should consider relocating to higher areas for the weekend. In advance of the storm, residents should also take normal precautions including securing yard furniture and arranging for supplies of food, batteries, water, and other emergency items.

During this storm, which should begin affecting us late Saturday afternoon, residents are being asked to stay indoors as much as possible. According to Mayor Bruce Morrison, “I encourage all residents to use common sense during the height of the storm on Saturday night and Sunday. Travel will be very difficult, if not impossible, in certain areas due to expected high water levels and the possibility of fallen trees in the roadways.” Mayor Morrison added that City crews will be on standby throughout the hurricane. These crews will include ambulance services, fire department, police department, public works, and water and sewer utilities. From Saturday afternoon through Sunday afternoon, volunteer fire crews, along with City ambulance crews will be staged at the fire department in case of emergencies, and extra staff will be on duty.

Mayor Morrison added “Our emergency plans are now in effect. We are asking the cooperation of all residents to stay indoors during this storm. Residents are also asked to report trees that may fall into the roadways, power lines that may be down, or other general emergencies by calling 410-957-1600, or 443-735-0033”.

Worcester County has announced that the evacuation and temporary shelter site for Pocomoke City will be Pocomoke High School. The temporary shelter will be open beginning at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday. Sleeping cots will be provided, and there will be a designated pet area at the school.

After the storm has passed, City crews will be out clearing debris and restoring services as quickly as possible. According to Mayor Morrison, “The City Council, City Manager, staff and I are taking this hurricane event very seriously. We are committed to providing the best possible services to the public both during and after the storm”.

**News Release addition:**
 The Shelter at the Pocmoke High School is available at 5 pm on FRIDAY, make sure you bring a carrier and proof of vaccination with your pet.

Plus, bring bedding for you and loved ones, cots WILL NOT be provided.

God Bless our community and keep the Eastern Shore safe as we "face the storm."