Stay Safe!

Tropical Depression Ida is approaching our area. The National Weather Service is calling for widespread rainfall of 3 to 5 inches, with higher amounts likely exceeding 6 inches starting Tuesday night through Thursday morning. Significant flooding and flash flooding are likely Wednesday and Wednesday nights, especially since the ground is saturated from recent heavy rain events. Chester County will be under a Flash Flood Watch from 8 AM on Wednesday until 8 PM on Thursday.

As a result, the Westtown-East Goshen Regional Police Department is cautioning drivers:

Turn around – don’t drown!

• Do not enter standing water on the roadway while operating a vehicle.
• Water may be deeper than it appears and can hide hazards such as washed out road surfaces, electrical wires, etc.
• 12 inches of water can float a car or small SUV; 18 inches of water can carry away large vehicles.
• Obey all barricades, posted signs, etc. which indicate flooded or closed roadways - failure to comply can result in the driver receiving a summary citation.

Flood water creates an extremely high risk for drowning. 

• It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock you off your feet. 
• The unseen floating debris in flood water also produces a very high risk for injury.

Practice electrical safety:

• Assume that all wires are electrical wires that are live
• Don’t go into a basement (or any room) if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged.
• If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping or popping noises – get out

Stay informed.

• Monitor the internet, social media, radio, and television (including NOAA Weather Radio) for weather advisories and flooding alerts.
• If directed to evacuate – do so immediately!
• If you live in a flood-prone area, leave the area immediately if you begin to see water rising.

Check roadway drains near your residence to ensure that they are clear of debris or any item which could obstruct the drains and worsen the anticipated flooding.