Early this morning 911 began to get numerous reports of flooding issues in western Schuylkill and other areas. The most significant impact is in the Pine Grove Borough, Pine Grove Twp, Tremont Twp, Porter Twp, Frailey Twp and Tremont Borough areas. The local fire stations in those areas are all activated, as well as water rescue teams from Schuylkill Haven, Mahanoy City and Ryan Township. Additionally, high wheel vehicles from local fire stations are being utilized to move stranded residents to places of relative safety. A request has been sent to the state for additional high wheel vehicles to assist with moving residents.
Residents are temporarily being sheltered at local fire stations and will be moved to the Pine Grove High School which has been established as a regional shelter The American Red Cross is sending an advance team to Pine Grove to assist with sheltering.
Many local roadways are closed due to flooding and poor drainage. These roadways include SR 125 in north Pine Grove, SR 443 in south Pine Grove and east of Pine Grove Borough, SR 645, SR 501 in the area of Mexico Road, Molleystown Road. We are urging people to avoid travel at this time and to consult PA511 for up to date information on impacted roadways. There have been a number of individuals who have attempted to drive through flooded roadways and have become stranded and required rescue. Please TURN AROUND, DON’t DROWN! Driving into a flooded roadway put you and the first responders in danger.
There are no current reports of power outages or impact to critical infrastructure. There are numerous reports of flooded residential basements. The Schuylkill County Emergency Operations Center is opened as of 0730 hours. The 911 Center is fully staffed. We are monitoring conditions and future weather forecast.