Date of release: August 27, 2020
Pictured: Public Works Department Right-of-Way Maintenance Personnel Jonathan Whorton and Bryce Stewart are using a pump truck to clean a catch basin on Clay Street.
Several City of Paducah departments are spending today preparing so that they can respond quickly and effectively as the remnants of Hurricane Laura are expected to create significant weather for our region. The storm system will be moving across the Paducah area on Friday, August 28 with the expectation that it will bring strong wind gusts in addition to torrential rain and flash flooding.
City Manager Jim Arndt said, “I am proud of our City team and their dedication to serving the community especially during times of need. Since this storm system will bring wind, heavy rain, and flash flooding, we want to be prepared so that we can respond quickly to protect our citizens.”
The Public Works Department has been cleaning out catch basins in flood prone areas and checking drainage structures in local creeks to make sure they are free from debris. Public Works crews also have been loading trucks with barricades and other equipment so that they are ready for quick deployment.
The Police Department is increasing the number of telecommunicators on duty in the 911 Communications Center in anticipation of a higher call volume during and after the storm. The Police, Fire, and Public Works departments also are ready to increase staffing and make operational adjustments if needed.
As a reminder, do not walk, swim or drive through flood water. Turn Around, Don’t Drown! Just six inches of moving water can knock down a person, and one foot of moving water can sweep away a vehicle. To prepare for the storm and the possibility of a power outage, an emergency supply kit is recommended. For more information, visit https://www.ready.gov/kit.
To view the latest forecast from our local National Weather Service Office, visit https://www.weather.gov/pah/.
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