FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:  Gerald Campbell, Lee County Emergency Management
               (239)477-3600

BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS EXTENDS STATE OF LOCAL EMERGENCY

Fort Myers, FL (August 28, 2003) In a regular session held Tuesday, Lee County Board of County Commissioners extended the declared state of local emergency for Lee County due to continuing heavy rains and the resulting localized flooding.

The major impact of this declaration is the release of public money from the Lee County All Hazards Fund for limited use in making emergency repairs to private roads. Authorization to repair private roads is limited to providing "emergency access".

By emergency access we mean repairing roads to the extent necessary to make them passable for emergency vehicles (fire, ambulance and law enforcement). Fire and Lee County Emergency Management officials are working closely with County Department of Transportation staff to assess and repair roads based on "life safety" needs and priorities.

Please recognize that these are limited repairs made for very specific life safety reasons. Roads that are adequate for emergency vehicles may still be difficult to travel in passenger vehicles.

Weekend Weather Questionable

A tropical wave is expected in the area over the weekend with the potential for more heavy rainfall. Saturated soil combined with full ditches, creeks, lakes and other natural receptors mean that additional rainfall may to lead to increased flooding.

Persons currently experiencing flooding or those in low-lying areas should monitor weather conditions closely. Be prepared to take defensive actions and/or move to a safer area should conditions worsen. Water may cover roads. Do not drive into flowing water if you cannot see the roadway.

Sandbags and sand are available at several local fire stations. Call the business number for your local fire department to find a location near you. Sandbags are first-come, first-served. You must fill and haul your own. DO NOT CALL 911 FOR SANDBAGS.