Mayor Franklin today declared a state of emergency in two northwest areas of Atlanta impacted by heavy rains and flooding on Saturday night. An estimated 80 to 100 homes in the Washington Park vicinity and certain areas of Vine City were impacted when heavy rains led to flooding that was created by a possible overflow from the combined sewer system.
Based on the recommendation of the recently appointed Commissioner of Watershed Management, Jack Ravan, Interim Public Works Commissioner John Griffin, Police Chief Richard Pennington and Fire Chief Winston Minor, the Mayor has issued an administrative order creating the emergency disaster area.
Mayor Franklin stated, "Our first priority was to make sure that the residents of the impacted areas are safe and that their immediate needs of temporary housing, clothing and medical supplies are met. Though this is a difficult and unfortunate situation, we are relieved that there are no serious injuries or fatalities." The American Red Cross has established relief headquarters at New Jerusalem Baptist Church at 383 Paines Avenue; the hours of operation will be 9:00am through 5:00pm through Wednesday of this week. Flood victims can also contact the Red Cross by phone at 1-866-RC-HELPS.
"After touring the area last night and today, and upon the recommendation of my administrative team, I have taken the first steps necessary to secure potential assistance at the state and federal level for the affected residents and areas," said Mayor Franklin.
The emergency declaration allows the Mayor to cordon off the affected areas; to evacuate residents if necessary; to restrict public access where needed; to board up or secure structures, and within the lawful limits of power to protect the public health and safety of the residents.
The Fulton County Health Department is involved in the relief project and has already begun the process of the placement of larvacide to head off the potential danger of mosquito infestation.