County Scales Back Response, Watching River Levels
Signage was being put together for the shelter set up at the Meigs County Council on Aging. The shelter has now been placed in idle while officals monitor river levels. Photo by Madalyn Wood.
MEIGS COUNTY, Ohio – Officials are stepping back response to possible flooding of the Ohio River for now, but will continue to monitor the situation.
The Robert E. Byer Emergency Operation Center (EOC) has been open throughout the day monitoring the Ohio River rising in Meigs County and providing support to the jurisdictions and residents of the county.
While stepping back, Emergency Management Director Jamie Jones said there will be someone monitoring the situation throughout the night at the EOC. Director Jones said the response crew can be called back quickly, however.
As the day has progressed the Meigs County Commissioners have issued a disaster declaration for Meigs County along with Ohio Governor John Kasich declaring a disaster declaration for multiple Ohio counties.
As of 4 p.m. on Feb. 24, 2018, the Ohio River at Belleville Locks and Dams is measuring 34.27 feet, Racine Locks and Dams measured 38.74 feet, and Pomeroy measured 42 feet. The expected crest for all three locations will occur between Monday, Feb. 26 and Tuesday, Feb. 27. The current predicted crest for Bellville Locks and Dams is 39.6 feet, Racine Locks and Dams 45.4 feet and Pomeroy 49 feet.
The evacuation center that was established at the Meigs County Council on Aging has been placed in an idle status but is still available to residents if needed. Residents needing to utilize the center are asked to call 740-992-4726 to arrange the accommodations.
Anyone interested in making monetary donations for flood relief can drop checks off, or mail them to the Meigs County Auditors Office, 100 East Second Street, Pomeroy Ohio 45769. Please write Flood Donations in the memo line. Those that would like to donate cleaning supplies are asked to call 740-992-4732.
