Storm Cleanup Continues in Alexandria

Severe storms leave thousands in the dark; no injuries reported.

Violent thunderstorms moved through the area Saturday, leaving more than 17,000 Alexandrians without power as wind gusts as high as 80 miles per hour moved through the region downing trees and power lines across the city.

Power was fully restored by Monday evening while cleanup crews continue to clear downed trees and debris. Throughout the DC region, more than 200,000 homes were without power over the weekend.

“As of yesterday [Monday] afternoon, all Alexandrians now have their lights back on,” said Mayor Justin Wilson in a city update. “Saturday's storm wreaked havoc on our community as it toppled numerous trees, which took power lines down with them. Dominion Virginia Power crews worked throughout our City to restore power to those who had been impacted.”

Cooling centers were open around the city over the weekend during regular hours, including many libraries and Charles Houston and Chinquapin Park rec centers.

No injuries were reported and no major roadways are closed at this time.

The Department of Transportation and Environmental Services is asking residents to set their large collections of debris on the curbside in front of their homes and leave clearance above and around their piles of debris.

Do not place debris in one pile. Place tree limbs and other larger pieces of yard waste next to trash cans and without blocking vehicles or pedestrians. Place smaller pieces in paper bags or containers with City-issued ‘Yard Waste’ stickers so crews can identify it.

The city anticipates two weeks of collection days to clear residential debris. More information on how to properly prepare yard waste is available at alexandriava.gov/YardWaste.

A downed tree next to a house on Janneys Lane.

 

There are different requirements for disposal of debris such as shingles, gutters and metal flashing that came off buildings during the storm. Visit alexandriava.gov/RefuseCollection for guidance on how to handle larger pieces of debris.

To report debris, down traffic signals, flooding, or other non-emergency situations, call 703-746-4444. If you have an emergency, call 911.

Alternatively, the City recommends using the Alex311 Website, Alex311 Mobile App, and @AlexandriaVA311 on Twitter and Facebook for faster reporting and quick assistance during weather-related emergencies.

www.alexandriava.gov