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Governor Warner Authorizes Local Governments to Designate Mandatory Evacuations for Low-lying Areas
~Citizens in Affected Hampton Roads Areas are
Encouraged to Seek Shelter Locally~
RICHMOND — Based upon the intensity and severity of Hurricane Isabel, Governor Warner has authorized mandatory evacuation for designated coastal jurisdictions in low-lying areas, areas of vulnerable light-construction dwellings, and other risk areas deemed appropriate by local officials.
Designated jurisdictions include: Cities of Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Poquoson, Portsmouth, Suffolk and Virginia Beach and the Counties of Accomack, Gloucester, Lancaster, Mathews, Middlesex, Northampton, Northumberland, Richmond, Westmoreland, and York and the Town of Chincoteague. To allow those evacuees leaving the area time to do so, the evacuation is to be effective at 11 am September 17, 2003.
The specific areas to be evacuated and the location and opening of shelters will be at the discretion of local government, in coordination with surrounding jurisdictions.
Because of the projected track of Hurricane Isabel, citizens are encouraged to seek shelter within their jurisdiction. Due to shelter space shortages, citizens staying within their jurisdiction are encouraged to seek shelter with family and friends. Evacuees leaving the area are encouraged to evacuate early and travel well beyond the projected impact area. Those leaving the area should be aware that major bridges and overpasses will close with the onset of storm force winds (59 mph) and should plan their evacuation accordingly. The National Hurricane Center predicts this will occur around midday, Thursday, September 18th in the Hampton Roads area. |
