Tropical Storm Debby remains on track to bring heavy rainfall to central North Carolina this week, with our area at "extreme" flood risk.
The City of Sanford Public Works department is preparing now to be ready to respond to potential impacts, such as downed trees and flooded roadways.
City crews are checking and clearing drains throughout the storm water system to help prevent and mitigate flood conditions in the aftermath of the storm. Staff has also been busy checking equipment and verifying that the department is ready to respond during and after the storm.
In the event of a severe impact, firefighters with the Sanford Fire Department will stay on shift as needed. The Public Works Service Center will remain staffed with multiple employees on call.
As a reminder, drivers should never attempt to pass roads that are covered by water. Turn around, don't drown!
Note these phone numbers for reporting storm damage:
- 919-775-8247 to report downed trees in roadways or on municipal property during regular operating hours.
- 919-775-8268 to report downed trees in roadways or on municipal property after hours or on weekends.
- 800-POWERON to report power outages to Duke Energy (or text OUT to 57801).
- 877-766-6769 to report power outages to Central Electric (or text OUT to 800-446-7752).
Important: Social media will not be actively monitored. Reports made via social media may not be seen by staff. The most efficient way to report storm impacts is by calling the numbers listed.
GFL Environmental has reported that their trucks will operate on a regular schedule for Wednesday. GFL will assess Thursday and Friday pickups as the storm’s impact becomes clearer. In the event of high winds, residents should remove all trash and recycling carts from the curb and secure them as best they can.
The City’s bulk trash and leaf/limb crews will run as they are able. When they are able to run, they will start with that day’s route and make up missed routes if possible. For example, if they have to miss Thursday, on Friday they will start with Friday and address Thursday if they finish Friday’s route early.
Make sure you are subscribed at www.tririverwater.com to receive water and wastewater text/email alerts from TriRiver Water. Update your account information at 919-775-8215 to ensure you receive any emergency water system alerts, such as a boil water advisory.
Should the storm affect service, TriRiver Water will use its phone system to provide recorded updates specific to delays, closures, water and sewer emergencies, and any other emergencies specific to Sanford. In that event, call 919-775-8215 to hear updates.
The City will provide updates about traffic disruptions, service delays, and closures through its mass notification system and social media outlets. Learn more and subscribe at www.sanfordnc.net/emergencies. If you wish to subscribe to emergency text messages only, text SanfordNC to 38276.
For more information about the City of Sanford’s storm response plan, contact the Public Information Office at 919-718-4658.