News Flash

Aug. 4, 2020 — Tropical Storm Isaias has passed Hampton Roads, but residents are reminded to use caution venturing outside and driving. Although the sun is shining, there are reports of 46 trees fallen across roads, live wires hanging in places, and about 16 intersections without power for traffic lights. More than 20,000 Hampton households are without power. Pictured is damage in the Wythe area of Hampton. 

Public Works has begun clearing debris, and Dominion Energy is working to restore power. To report downed trees and other damage, contact 311 at 311@hampton.gov or 727-8311. Power outages should be reported directly to Dominion Energy at dom.com or 866-366-4357. 

Tuesday’s trash and recycling pickups will happen Wednesday, and city buildings are closed all day Tuesday because of the storm. 

Previous reporting

Aug. 3, 2020 — The storm Isaias is expected to bring tropical storm force winds across Hampton Roads, beginning overnight and increasing Tuesday morning. Hampton could see wind speeds of 40-50 mph and gusts up to 60 or 70 mph, especially in waterfront areas.

Intense winds are the primary concern from this storm. Residents should take precautions to secure outdoor items or take them inside. Tuesday’s trash and recycling pickups will be delayed until Wednesday. People should not have cans or bulk waste at the street after Monday’s pickup, due to the high wind levels predicted.

“We could see trees down and power-line issues around rush hour Tuesday morning,” said Mike Dutton of the National Weather Service in Wakefield. The earliest potential impacts are the threat of tornadoes, which can occur ahead of the storm, potentially overnight, he said. Residents are urged to have alerts set on radios or phones. 

The rain estimate for Hampton has decreased some, with the most likely rain amount being 1.5 to 3 inches. However, that will fall over a short time period, maybe 6 hours, so some minor flash flooding in low-lying areas is possible. There may be some tidal flooding along the Chesapeake Bay as well. Get more local information from the National Weather Service.

City buildings will not be open Tuesday, to keep residents and employees from going out during the worst of the storm. 

Also Tuesday’s streetsweeping will  be delayed. The route scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 4, will be swept Wednesday, Aug. 5.  Similarly, the sweeping route scheduled for Aug. 5 will instead be swept on Friday August 7.

Since costal flooding is not expected to be a major issue, the city will not be opening a shelter in advance of the storm; however, Hampton is prepared to open shelters later if there is widespread damage. Anyone with particular needs should contact 311 (727-8311).

Both the state and Hampton have made declarations of emergency, which allows for special actions and opens the way for potential federal funding.