Eastern Shore of Virginia residents were spared the effects of a direct hit by a major hurricane as Joaquin took a track far out to sea. Still, flooding continued to be a serious concern in Accomack and Northampton counties Sunday.
Residents awoke to sixth straight day of rainy, gusty weather -- and to more coastal flood warnings.
The Virginia Department of Emergency Management issued a statement advising coastal communities to be prepared for major flooding to occur Sunday.
A coastal flood warning remains in effect until 6 a.m. Monday for much of the Greater Hampton Roads, Eastern Shore and Northern Neck regions.
The high tide cycle will peak on the Eastern Shore between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday. Tidal flooding will range from 4 feet to 6 feet. Residents in low-lying areas are advised to seek higher ground and secure their residences and businesses in advance.
A high surf advisory remains in effect until 8 a.m. Monday for all coastal areas from Maryland to North Carolina's Outer Banks.
- Chincoteague's Emergency Management Team issued this notice Sunday: The Town of Chincoteague's Emergency Management Team continues to monitor local weather conditions and forecasts.
The Town is still experiencing northeast winds with minor tidal flooding from a weather system typically referred to as a nor'easter.
Winds are forecasted at 25-35mph from the NE today and gusting to over 40mph at times through this afternoon. Increased winds with the saturated grounds could cause some trees to fall. Rain fall will be minimal today and tonight. Tidal flooding is forecasted to be at moderate to major levels this afternoon. Forecasted levels are to be the highest we have seen from this event so far.
Residents and visitors are reminded to be aware of low lying areas, do not drive through standing water as it is not safe to do so as well as it forces additional water heights onto and into homes and businesses. Please be considerate!
The Town is still in a local state of emergency. The purpose of this declaration is to better prepare for higher flooding levels, debris, and any damages incurred; as well as receive help from federal and state agencies if necessary.
Preparedness should focus on impending moderate to major flooding which will begin around the noon hour and continue into mid-afternoon. Please don't drive through standing water. Also, consider moving property out of the usual tidal flooding areas. Power outages are still possible with this event.
VDOT will monitor the causeway and will notify the Town approximately one hour prior to closing, should that be necessary. The Town will notify citizens by our reverse 911 system and other media outlets.
