Officials issue updates, safety tips after flash floods hit Haitian-heavy North Miami 

Local authorities in North Miami and surrounding areas have initiated emergency measures to address severe flooding that struck the region Thursday, affecting the city with a sizable Haitian community. Through Friday, many residents still couldn’t or leave their homes due to the as waters continued to flow through many roads and their properties.

“As we navigate these challenging times, let us remember that North Miami is a strong, resilient community,” North Miami Mayor Alix Desulme said in a statement.

“We have faced adversity before and emerged stronger. I am here with you, committed to ensuring our city’s safety and rapid recovery.” 

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through the city’s official website, social media pages and emergency alert system as more rain is forecasted by the National Weather Service.

On Thursday, North Miami City Hall and all other city facilities announced they would remain closed until further notice. Parks and Recreation officials have also shut down all city parks and canceled all community programming, including summer camps.

Sanitation services by Waste Pro will continue, with an emphasis on debris removal, conditions permitting. The North Miami Police Department is monitoring road conditions, blocking off vulnerable intersections, and advising residents to avoid standing water.

Public Works crews are ensuring stormwater pump stations remain operational and are coordinating with Miami-Dade County to manage county-operated stations. Blocked storm drains across the city are being cleared to mitigate flooding.

All NoMi Express Trolley and Freebee North Miami services are suspended until further notice, impacting public transportation availability but ensuring safety from potential road hazards.

Countywide emergency measures

In a coordinated effort, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava activated the County’s Emergency Operations Center to a Level 2 Partial Activation. This allows the Department of Emergency Management to mobilize resources to assist the most vulnerable areas, particularly in the northeast of the county, which includes North Miami.

Levine Cava declared a local state of emergency, enabling faster response times and access to state and federal resources. 

Officials underscore the importance of preparedness as the hurricane season approaches. Residents are urged to stay informed and ready, utilizing available resources and information to safeguard their families and properties.

Residents are encouraged to visit the North Miami website and follow official social media channels for more information and real-time updates.

Safety tips from Miami-Dade County

Stay home or indoors, if you can.

Decrease water use in the morning and evening, which are the heaviest usage times, during heavy rain.

Keep manhole covers closed when streets are flooded. We don’t want flooding getting into the wastewater system and we don’t want wastewater getting into our streets so it’s important to keep the manhole covers closed.  

Don’t drive or walk into flood waters: Don’t drive or walk around road barriers, or through large puddles. Hidden debris may be just under the surface that could hurt you or disable your car. It is vital to know what to do if you are driving and hit a flooded road: More than half of the deaths from flooding each year occur in vehicles. Turn around, don’t drown.

Don’t underestimate the power of water: 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car, while 2 feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles. 

Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires: Electrocution is also a major killer in floods. Electrical current can travel through water. Report downed power lines to Florida Power and Light’s customer service number at (305) 442-8770.    

Do not play in standing water: If water is stagnant for extended periods, there is a potential for contamination. Playing or remaining in standing water should be avoided.  

Do not touch an electric appliance if you are wet or standing in water.  

Decrease water use in the morning and evening – which are the heaviest usage times – during heavy rain. 

The post Officials issue updates, safety tips after flash floods hit Haitian-heavy North Miami  appeared first on The Haitian Times.

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Officials issue updates, safety tips after flash floods hit Haitian-heavy North Miami  was first posted on June 14, 2024 at 4:53 pm.