Chief Matthew Grafton
25 Central Street
Stoneham, MA 02180-2044
For Immediate Release
Monday, Sept. 17, 2018
Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 781-533-9398
Email: john@jgpr.net
Stoneham Fire Chief Alerts Residents to Potential Flooding as Storm Nears
STONEHAM — Fire Chief/Acting Emergency Management Director Matthew Grafton seeks to to alert residents about the remnants of Hurricane Florence, expected to strike to the region Tuesday that could cause heavy rainfall and flooding.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a hazardous weather outlook for most of southern New England, including Middlesex County. A flash flood watch will be in effect from 5 a.m. Tuesday to 2 a.m. Wednesday.
The rain is expected to begin early Tuesday and the heaviest rainfall is predicted during the afternoon, with the potential for thunderstorms. The storm should taper off by Wednesday morning, according to the NWS.
“As the remnants of Florence approach our region, we want residents to be aware for the potential for flash flooding and heavy rain Tuesday afternoon,” Chief Grafton said. “If you can, please stay off the roads. But if you must drive, please use caution and avoid driving through areas that are known to flood.”
Chief Grafton would like to offer the following tips to help Stoneham residents prepare for the storm:
- Clear any storm drains of debris.
- Ensure downspouts are pitched away from your home.
- If prone to getting water in your house make sure your sump pump is working properly.
- Be sure to have working batteries for flashlights and battery-powered lanterns to use in the event of a power outage. If you must use candles, keep them away from anything flammable and do not leave them unattended.
- Keep cell phones charged.
- Stay off the roads and stay indoors, if possible.
- Check in on elderly or disabled neighbors.
For all emergencies such as gas emergencies and downed wires, call 911. For outages and non-emergencies call National Grid for gas service at 1-800-233-5325 and Eversource for electric service at 1-800-592-2000.
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