Sussex tallying storm damage, seeks reports

Flooding on River Road in Oak Orchard (Photo: Indian River Volunteer Fire Company)
Flooding on River Road in Oak Orchard (Photo: Indian River Volunteer Fire Company)

GEORGETOWN, DELAWARE (1/26/2016) Sussex County emergency managers are asking property owners and residents affected by this weekend’s coastal storm to submit information on damage to homes and businesses so officials can map the reports to determine what issues the nor’easter left in its wake.

Members of the public who experienced any storm-related damage to their properties can report incidents to the Sussex County Emergency Operations Center by calling 302-856-7366 beginning at 9 a.m. today. Property owners and residents should provide details about the type of damage, what caused it, the location and whether they have insurance.

Damage must be a result of the storm between Friday, Jan. 22, and Sunday, Jan. 24. Only businesses and primary residences, not seasonal homes, are eligible.

“First-hand reports from property owners are critical for us, as emergency managers, to assess the amount of damage that follows an event like this major winter storm,” EOC Director Joseph L. Thomas said. “We know there is the potential for serious flooding damage, particularly along the inland bays and other low-lying areas. So it’s important to get that information in hand quickly to get a clearer sense of the storm’s effects.”

Information collected by the Sussex County EOC will be used for assessment reports that are shared with the Delaware Emergency Management Agency for consideration toward any future federal disaster assistance application.