Lake Jackson officials expect longterm power outages

FROM THE CITY OF LAKE JACKSON: Tropical force winds will reach Lake Jackson today (Friday 9/12/08) at noon. 60 mph winds will reach the City around 4:00 p.m. this afternoon as hurricane forces winds will reach Lake Jackson about 1:00 a.m. (Saturday 9/13/2008). Rainfall of over 12 to 13 inches is expected. The storm force for the beach area is forecast from 6-10 feet. We do not anticipate surge to affect Lake Jackson. We do expect extensive long term power outages in the City. We expect to see a lot of trees downed as hurricane force winds are expected to last for up to 12 hours. Once the storm passes the City crews will work to clear streets and get service facilities working. We will also begin damage assessment activities. Restoring essential services will take some time. Only critical employees and contractors will be permitted back into the City and they must have the proper credentials to return. We will work tirelessly to restore essential services to allow for our citizens to return as soon as we determine it is safe. Please be patient and continue to monitor the storm. We will notify you when it is safe to return. Until then, please stay where you are.