Latest news with #Tri-CitiesBest
Yahoo
15-07-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Petersburg flash flooding update: Safety tips
The Petersburg Department of Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services posted a plea on Facebook just before 7 a.m. on July 15 asking drivers to stay off the roads. "Petersburg firefighters, Southside EMS crews, public works and our dedicated 911 dispatchers were running all night long … pulling people from flooded cars, responding to medical emergencies, clearing downed trees, and still answering every call for help," the Petersburg Fire Rescue & Emergency Services Facebook post stated. "They're geared up and ready to keep going today as heavy rain continues." The officials warn that the situation is dangerous. Neighborhoods are flooded, trees and power lines are down, and streets that look safe can turn deadly fast. 'Turn around, don`t drown' NWS extends Flash Flood Warning for Colonial Heights, Petersburg. Stay off the roadways unless absolutely necessary. Never drive through flooded streets. It only takes a few inches to stall or sweep your car away. Keep children and pets away from floodwaters — they hide sharp debris, chemicals, and bacteria. Have flashlights ready and charge your phones in case of more outages. Check on your neighbors, especially seniors and those who need extra help. Slow down and move over for emergency crews working these scenes. The post also points out that not all vehicles stuck in the flood were driven into it. "Many cars were parked right outside homes when water quickly rose. Some streets flood so fast there's no time to react. Show some understanding, it could easily be any one of us," the Facebook post stated. "Stay safe, Petersburg. We're still out here …please do your part by staying home and off flooded roads." Petersburg officials strongly urge citizens not to walk through floodwater or flooded areas. Here's why... Stay out of the water. You can't see hidden hazards like sharp debris, open manholes or sudden drop-offs. Avoid contamination. Floodwater is often mixed with sewage, chemicals and bacteria that can cause serious infections. Don't underestimate moving water. Even shallow water can knock you off your feet, putting you at risk of drowning. Keep children and pets away. They're naturally curious, but flood zones are no place to explore. If your home floods, stay inside if it's safe. Don't wade out unless absolutely necessary — wait for help. Follow Petersburg Fire Rescue & Emergency Services on Facebook for updates. State: James River advisory issued for Hopewell raw-sewage spill could be lifted by Friday Kristi K. Higgins aka The Social Butterfly, an award-winning columnist, is the trending topics and food Q&A reporter at The Progress-Index voted the 2022 Tri-Cities Best of the Best Social Media Personality. Have a news tip on local trends or businesses? Contact Kristi (she, her) at khiggins@ follow @KHiggins_PI on X and @socialbutterflykristi on Instagram. Your support is vital to local journalism. Please . This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Petersburg experiences flash floods: Update, safety tips
Yahoo
15-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Hopewell: Fire causes extensive damage to St. James Catholic Church, under investigation
Authorities in Hopewell are investigating what caused a fire on May 14 at St. James Catholic Church that broke out around 9:41 p.m. Hopewell Fire & EMS responded to it swiftly. The blaze was contained to the building, preventing it from spreading to nearby properties. The church suffered extensive damage. Heavy smoke and flames were visible when firefighters arrived on the scene within four minutes of being dispatched. Crews immediately initiated fire suppression tactics, working efficiently to bring the fire under control. First responders conducted a thorough search of the premises and did not discover any occupants inside. No civilian injuries were reported. Mutual Aid assistance was requested and Chesterfield County Fire & EMS and Colonial Heights Fire & EMS responded to the scene to assist in firefighting efforts as well as fire investigations. 'We're here for people year-round' Petersburg names 2024 Firefighter of the Year. He credits his family as his driving force. You're invited Petersburg: Armed Forces Day celebration with live music, fun activities, food trucks 'Our firefighters acted quickly and professionally to contain the fire and protect lives and property,' Hopewell Fire Chief Ben Ruppert said in a statement. 'We are grateful that no one was hurt and appreciate the teamwork displayed by our department and our neighboring localities.' The Hopewell Fire Marshal's Office is currently investigating the cause of the fire. Further details will be released as they become available. Anyone with tips or information is encouraged to call the Hopewell Fire Marshal's Office at 804-541-2290. Are you a bookworm? Hopewell-Prince George Friends of the Library host book sale: Fill bag for only $2 Kristi K. Higgins aka The Social Butterfly, an award-winning columnist, is the trending topics and food Q&A reporter at The Progress-Index voted the 2022 Tri-Cities Best of the Best Social Media Personality. Have a news tip on local trends or businesses? Contact Kristi (she, her) at khiggins@ follow @KHiggins_PI on X and @socialbutterflykristi on Instagram. Your support is vital to local journalism. Please . This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Hopewell fire: Church suffers extensive damage, under investigation
