Official Storm Update From Gloucester Chief of Police Len Campanello

Below is the only official information being issued by the city in regards to the storm. The protocol in these events is to designate an Information Officer so that there is continuity of information that flows to the public. Any other statements you may have received are unofficial and do not represent the City. Below is the City’s official release as of 950am Saturday: Storm Update from DPW:The snow came down so quickly and heavily creating poor visibility that stalled the snow plowing operation. Please be patient, Public Works is aware of the side streets that are impassible and is working very hard to catch up with plowing efforts. Please be aware that it will take the better part of this weekend to get the roads opened up let alone cleaned up. To help speed this process please abide by the driving ban and stay off the roads. Your cooperation in this matter is greatly appreciated and necessary.Storm Update from Point of Information Officer (PIO): The Mayors Office, Police, Fire, Ems and DPW have been working diligently throughout the night to stay on top of this storm. A storm of this magnitude of course creates widespread issues that must be approached slowly and methodically. Overnight, we experienced several power outages which were address by National Grid in a prioritized manner. We also responded to several calls for stranded motorists, despite the Governors ban on driving. At this time, the ban is STILL IN EFFECT. The City parking ban is also STILL IN EFFECT. PLEASE stay indoors and do not drive. Not only is driving at this point putting people in danger, but it is limiting the resources available from public safety to deal with emergencies. We are also urging, at the highest level, that people stay away from the shoreline, especially the backshore, which as of 9am today has been closed until high tide recedes. There is significant splash-over that is spilling large debris in the roadway. The footbridge is likely at risk as well. An area of seawall at Lanes Cove has also been destroyed and significant property damage is being reported on Salt Island Road. As such, I reiterate that the storm is still ongoing, still dangerous, and it is important to stay inside and off the roadways. The storm will continue todayand may worsen in terms of wind and additional snowfall toward the tail end, causing further issues for Public Safety response. DPW will be continuouslyplowing and getting to the streets that are impassable. As I mentioned yesterday, while the snow will abate today, the storm will continue to cause issues well into Sunday and Monday with clean-up efforts. Cooperation from the residents of Gloucester is essential for the quickest and safest possible return to normal operation and driving. The EOC remains in operation until further notice at AddisonGilbert Hospital and will have a representative from each public safety sector to insure we have no interruptions in communicationsand to properly record the storm and our responses for State analysis. If you experience a power outage, call National Grid directly at 800-465-1212. If it is an emergency such as an arcing wire or a tree on wires, please call the Police Department directly and we will attempt to expedite response. In addition, helpful information can be found 978-281-9775lcampanello