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August 3, 2002
MIDDLETOWN DECLARES LOCAL STATE OF EMERGENCY
Severe storm causes extensive power outages and blocked roads
Last night the Township of Middletown, along with other area municipalities,
was hit
with a severe storm that included excessive wind, rain and lightning causing
flash flooding. As a result, extensive Power outages have occurred in
broad areas of the Township. In addition, downed electrical. lines and trees,
branches and debris have caused streets to be obstructed and impassable and
public safety to be at an elevated risk.
The area of the township that sustained the most damage is from Kings Highway
and
Route 35 south and east of Route 35 to the Navesink River. GPU has reported that
some
150,000 customers are without power. Middletown residents living in this area,
as well as other parts of town, are among those who have lost electric service.
"As a result of this situation, the Township of Middletown has declared a
local state of
emergency," said Mayor Patrick W. Parkinson. "Township public work crews
were deployed Friday night to remove large branches and trees obstructing
roadways. They will continue to work with GPU to assist in the clearing of down
electrical wires and tree parts until all streets are safe for travel and power
is restored," he added.
"The police department is fully aware of each neighborhood's need for service
restoration.
We ask for residents' cooperation in refraining from calling police headquarters
unless there is an emergency. Customers without electrical service are requested
to call GPU at 1-800-545-7738 to report their power outage," said Police Chief
John F. Pollinger.
"Residents are urged to use caution when traveling area roads. Do not drive
down roads
that are impassable or go around barricades. Down power lines and large tree
"limbs are still exist on some roadways," he added.
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