Mandatory Evacuation of Southeast Wilmington is Underway; Transportation Assistance Telephone Line Now Open through 6 p.m

Posted on  10/28/2012 10:12 am

Wilmington Mayor James M. Baker said today that the MANDATORY evacuation of the southeast section of Wilmington is underway with Hurricane Sandy approaching.

Approximately 3,000 residents and business owners have been directed to leave this portion of Wilmington where major flooding is likely to occur overnight Sunday into Monday threatening the safety of citizens. Many residents have already found shelter with family and friends.

Residents who do not have shelter plans in place are advised to call the City’s Office of Constituent Services at 302.576.2489 now through 6 p.m. to make arrangements for transportation to a shelter. The City will provide the transportation.

Mayor Baker said the evacuation of Southeast Wilmington must be completed no later than 6 p.m. this evening to ensure the safety of residents. Residents are urged to act now. Please do not wait to make your evacuation plans. The Mayor said the time to act is now.

MANDATORY evacuation is underway for the southeast portion of the City bounded by Vandever Avenue, Northeast Boulevard, Church Street, Front Street and South Market Street. This area is further bounded to the south by the City line just past the South Market Street Bridge and the Delaware River to the east.

The City’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) will be fully operational Monday morning at 8 a.m. Once open, the City will lead its emergency response to the hurricane from this location throughout the duration of the storm.

Beginning Monday at 8 a.m., citizens may call 302.576.2489 for any non-emergency issue related to the hurricane or to ask questions.

All emergency calls should be directed to 911 as is always the case.

Further advisories will be issued as conditions warrant.