Richland County Emergency Management

Press Release – Seeking Damage Reports

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PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Amber Burch, 647-8187

PRESS RELEASE

Richland County Emergency Management Seeking Damage Reports

Richland County and the surrounding area have experienced repeated flooding in the past several days. Due to these flood events, there have been many reports of homes being damaged by flood waters and other storm related hazards. At this time, Richland County Emergency Management is working with Great Rivers 211 to collect information from residents regarding these damages. Damage assessment data will be shared with Wisconsin Emergency Management which the Governor’s Office will utilize to request Emergency Aid from FEMA.

If you have experienced damage to your primary residence or business, please dial 2-1-1 to speak with someone to report the extent of the impact to the home or business. If you are renting, you may still report the damage; however try to coordinate with your landlord to ensure that duplicate reports are not being filed. If you are a farmer and have experienced crop damage, Emergency Management encourages to contact your farm service agent as they will be able to better assist you.

For road closure information or other flood-related questions, call 647-8187. Please be patient, as lines may be busy with other callers.

If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call 9-1-1.

Press Relase – Download

Press Release – Food and Clothing Donation Locations Announced

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PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Amber Burch, 647-8187

Press Release #4

Food and Clothing Donation Locations Announced

Due to the scale and anticipated duration of the flooding and recovery in Viola, many local residents have sought information on how to donate to those in need. For those wishing to donate food, any non-perishable food items can be dropped off at the Health and Human Services Front Desk in the Community Services Building in Richland Center on Friday, August 31 through Wednesday September 5th during normal business hours (Mon-Fri 8am-5pm).

Those wishing to donate clothing can drop items off at either Good Will or the Richland Family Thrift Store. Those in need will be provided with a voucher to either place so they will be able to choose the size and style that suits them. For those donating, please follow normal donation rules at either location. For Richland Family Thrift Store, if people have large amounts to donate, it is requested that you go in and speak with a staff member. Otherwise, any small donations (one bag) can be left on the back porch.

Turn Around Don’t Drown

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Flooding is the leading cause of severe weather-related deaths in the U.S. claiming on average nearly 100 lives a year. Most of these deaths occur in motor vehicles when people attempt to drive through flooded roadways. Many other lives are lost when people walk into or near flood waters. This happens because people underestimate the force and power of water, especially when it’s moving. The good news is it is preventable with the right knowledge and tools.

A mere six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. And it only takes 12 to 18 inches of flowing water to carry away most vehicles including large SUVs. If you come to an area that is covered with water, you will likely not know the depth of the water or the condition of the ground under the water. This is especially true at night, when your vision is more limited. Play it smart, play it safe. Whether driving or walking, any time you come to a flooded road, follow this simple advice: Turn Around Don’t Drown.

Here are a few more tips to keep you safe during flooding:

  • Always plan ahead and know the risks before flooding happens. Monitor NOAA’s All-Hazards Radio, or your favorite news source for vital weather related information before, during and even after a disaster.
  • If flooding is expected or is occurring, get to higher ground FAST! Leave typical flood areas such as ditches, ravines, dips or low spots, and canyons.
  • Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams. Turn Around Don’t Drown.
  • NEVER drive through flooded roadways. Road beds may be washed out under flood waters. Turn Around Don’t Drown.
  • Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
  • Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
  • Never cross any barriers that are put in place by local emergency officials. Not only is this dangerous, but many states and communities levy steep fines for people that ignore barricades or other road closure indications.
  • Play it safe, Turn Around Don’t Drown.

Visit noaa.gov for more Turn Around Don’t Drown resources and visit www.weather.gov for the latest weather forecast information.

Richland County Cooling Centers – Urgent News Release #1

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For immediate release:  June 28, 2018

RICHLAND COUNTY COOLING CENTERS

Richland Center, WI:  Due to the extreme heat warnings forecasted for the next two days, the following Richland County cooling centers have been identified by Richland County Public Health.  The Richland County Courthouse will open its lobby and Conference Room 2 from 8:30AM-4:30PM tomorrow.  The Brewer Public Library in Richland Center will be open from 9:00AM-5:00PM tomorrow and from 10:00AM to 2:00PM on Saturday. The Woodman Community/Senior Center will be open from 7:00AM-5:00PM Friday and will be open on Saturday and Sunday as it is hosting events on those days.

Cooling centers have also been opened in Viola.  The Village of Viola Office will be open from 8:30AM-4:30PM tomorrow and will make a conference room available during that timeframe. The Viola Library will be open Friday from 2:00PM-7:00PM and on Saturday from 9:00AM-12:30PM.

In Lone Rock, the Lone Rock Community Hall will be open on both Friday and Saturday for those seeking relief from the heat.  The lower level of the building is air-conditioned.  The Lone Rock Community Hall will be open from early morning to evening both days. Adam Reno can be contacted at 608-604-4527 if questions arise.  Additional phone numbers are posted on the doors of the building for individuals seeking more information.

Officials will monitor the use of cooling centers and the weather to determine the continued need for cooling centers.

For up to date information, visit the Richland County website at https://em.co.richland.wi.us select the Resources tabs for more information on the cooling shelter locations.

Printable Press Release

https://em.co.richland.wi.us/