September 15, 1999
Mayor Announces Preparations for High Winds and Flooding Resulting from Hurricane Floyd
(Washington, D.C.) Mayor Anthony A. Williams today announced preparations by the District of Columbia government for possible high winds and flooding resulting from Hurricane Floyd. The Mayor also called on residents and businesses to take appropriate preparations. "Keeping our citizens and our children safe is my paramount concern. This is a very serious storm," said Mayor Williams. "I strongly advise District residents and parents to take all precautions necessary to be safe. I applaud Superintendent Ackerman's decision to close schools, putting the safety of our children first." The District is taking the following actions: · Superintendent Arlene Ackerman has decided to close all District of Columbia Public Schools. · A "liberal leave" policy will be in effect for all non-essential District government personnel. · Businesses are encouraged to adopt a similar "liberal leave" policy. · Street construction and repair projects will be suspended. · Parking will be restricted along snow emergency routes. · The Department of Public Works will be sandbagging in flood prone areas. (more) District officials are in close contact with the National Weather Service and the National Hurricane Center to track and monitor the progress of the storm and its potential impact on the District. District employees should be aware that the "liberal leave" policy could be upgraded to a government shutdown if conditions warrant. Residents, and businesses are strongly advised to monitor radio and television stations for the most up-to-date information on the storm and possible government shutdown. Residents should call 727-1000 if they need services from the District Government. The city is also coordinating with the D.C. National Guard, Military District of Washington, the American Red Cross, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Park Service, PEPCO, WMATA, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to deploy additional resources as needed.
The Mayor is activating his Emergency Operations Center at the D.C. Emergency Management Agency to coordinate the emergency response efforts.
