(Lindenwold, NJ) – The Camden County Department of Public Works (DPW) is working to keep 1,200 lane miles of roadways across the county passable in response to today’s heavy rain and wind. With the passage of Hurricane Isaias through our region this morning and afternoon, DPW crews are monitoring and responding to reports of downed trees and other road blockages throughout the county.
“Our crews are on the roads and working to keep traffic moving this afternoon and as we head into the evening rush hour,” said Freeholder Barbara Holcomb, liaison to DPW. “The system has mostly moved north past our region, but some short periods of rainfall as well as strong winds remain possible throughout the early evening. Our crews have already been dispatched to clear county roadways, and our remaining chippers and chainsaws remain fueled and ready to clear any additional downed trees or limbs that impede travel.”
During extreme weather events, residents are encouraged to stay off the roads and inside, or if need be, proceed with significant caution and avoid low-lying areas where flooding is evident, and avoid any downed power lines.
“Never drive your vehicle into water that covers the roadway,” said Freeholder Jonathan Young, liaison to the Department of Public Safety. “Flood waters are usually deeper than they appear, and flowing water can sweep vehicles off the road with ease. If you are even slightly unsure that your vehicle can safely proceed across the roadway: turn around, don’t drown.”
Due to the inclement weather, Camden County offices closed except for essential personnel at noon. At this time, the Camden County Library System has also suspended all services for the rest of the day.
In the event that the weather causes isolated power outages, please remember to immediately call your utility company so they can identify the location and coordinate crews to restore your power. This storm has the potential to bring down trees and power lines. Residents need to be extra cognizant of any power failures. Below are numbers and contact info for the two power providers in Camden County:
- PSE&G: 1-800-436-PSEG (7734)
- PSE&G website: http://pseg.com/home/customer_service/outage_info/index.jsp
- Atlantic City Electric: 1-800-833-7476
- Atlantic City Electric website: http://www.atlanticcityelectric.com/home/
- South Jersey Gas: 1-800-582-7060
- South Jersey Gas website: http://southjerseygas.com/
As always, please use 911 for emergencies only. If you see a problem on a county road, please call our 24-hour hotline at (856) 566-2980 to report it to the CCDPW.
Continue to check www.camdencounty.com through the storm for weather and road condition updates. Information will also be provided through Facebook and Twitter.