FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

8/11/2020 - 11AM

At approximately 1:00pm on Monday, August 10, 2020, severe weather with damaging gusts in excess of 90 miles per hour and sustained winds of 50+ miles per hour struck Scott County.  Scott County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) and Scott Emergency Communication Center (SECC) received reports of downed trees blocking roadways, downed power lines causing widespread power outages, downed semi-trailers on area highways, and numerous types of property damage.  Due to downed power lines, power outages in excess of 24 hours are likely in many areas of Scott County. 

City crews will continue the cleanup process and ask for patience as they assess and respond to widespread downed trees and other damage.  Downed power lines will continue to impact the cleanup.

Damage Assessments to Begin

Scott County crews are beginning to conduct damage assessments throughout Scott County.  They will be gathering pictures of damage to use for future phases of the severe weather response.  Residents should not be surprised when they see Scott County staff out doing this work. 

Please note:

• These workers will NOT be going on private property.
• These workers will NOT be asking individuals for any private information. 
• All workers will have Scott County identification on them. 

Tips for Residents

Scott County EMA encourages residents to be cautious when assessing storm damage and beginning the cleanup process:

Beware of Potential Hazards

• Do not enter damaged buildings until you are told that they are safe.
• If you smell gas or suspect a leak, leave your house/building and contact emergency authorities right away. Don’t turn on the lights, light matches, smoke, or do anything that can cause a spark. Don’t return to the building until you’re told it’s safe to do so.
• Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines.
• Wear proper clothing when walking on or near debris, including boots and gloves.
• Be careful around sharp objects, including nails and broken glass.
• Use the proper safety precautions when operating generators, chainsaws, or other power tools.
• Take steps to prevent heat illnesses and dehydration.

Power Outage – Food Safety

• According to the USDA, a refrigerator will keep food safe for up to 4 hours during a power outage.  Keep the door closed as much as possible.  Discard refrigerated perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and leftovers after 4 hours without power.
• A full freezer will hold a safe temperature for approximately 48 hours (24 hours if it is half full and the door remains closed). Food may be safely refrozen if it still contains ice crystals or is at 40°F or below
• For more information, visit: https://www.foodsafety.gov/food-safety-charts/food-safety-during-power-outage

Damage Clean-Up

• Beware of predatory contractors, including roving, out of town individuals going door to door to solicit services.
• Take the time to check references or otherwise vet any contractor before you hire.
• For damage to overhead power lines to your home or business, check with the utility or your local building department to determine the party responsible for cleanup.
• Consult your insurance company.  They may have the answers you are looking for.