Preparations continued today in Randolph County as the Black River continues to rise in this latest round of severe weather called a “once in a generation storm” by meteorologist.
On Tuesday, crews could be seen bagging sand, law enforcement and street departments blocking off already flooded roads and some voluntary evacuations on the east side of Pocahontas underway.
The City of Pocahontas/Mayors Office released the following statement on Tuesday afternoon:
Community Update on Flood Response
The recent meeting held today addressed the ongoing flood situation in our community, with projections of the Black River at Pocahontas cresting at 26.5 feet.
We want to assure residents that the community center is currently serving as a shelter for those in need of refuge.
Several key operations are actively underway to mitigate the impact of the flooding:
Poly pipes are being laid to manage water flow.
Sandbagging efforts are ongoing to reinforce flood barriers.
Traffic control measures are being coordinated by the National Guard to ensure safe movement within the area.
Additionally, Nebraska Task Force 1 is on standby and ready to assist with any rescue operations should the need arise.
Our levee system is under constant monitoring and is holding steady at this time. Updates are being reviewed on an hourly basis to ensure we stay ahead of any developments.
In preparation for any emergencies, 911 dispatch has been prepared to moved to an alternate location to ensure uninterrupted service if necessary.
Sandbags are available for pickup at the Airport
Mayor Futrell took a moment to emphasize the importance of fighting misinformation during this critical time. We urge everyone to rely on official sources for updates and to stay informed with the most accurate and timely information available.
The city, county, and emergency response teams continue to work tirelessly to keep our community safe and informed. We are all in this together, and we appreciate your cooperation and patience as we navigate this challenging situation.
Stay safe, and please reach out if you need assistance. 870-892-9867
