As severe storms continue to batter Monroe County, emergency services are working in concert with local law enforcement to provide refuge for those in need. In a social media post, Monroe County Emergency Services urged the community to stay vigilant and informed as they coordinated with the Monroe County Sheriff's Department to secure potential shelters amidst extreme weather warnings from the National Weather Service.
"We have received several calls and messages in regards to potential shelters for the extreme weather that the National Weather Service has alerted us about," reads the county’s advisory, actively responding to the crisis, found on the Monroe County Emergency Services - 911's Facebook page. The Sheriff's Department has offered the jail lobby as a provisional sanctuary to those displaced by the storm. However, the authorities hope more secure locations will be volunteered by the community.
In an effort to amass a comprehensive list of safe havens, the post further implores local churches, particularly those with basements apt for sheltering residents, to step forward. "If you are aware of any churches who have basements that will be opening their doors for anyone needing shelter in their area, can you please contact our non-emergency dispatch number at 423-442-4357," the emergency services department encouraged the community, reiterating their commitment to safeguard residents.
Emphasizing the severity of the situation, the emergency services reminded residents to look after themselves and their neighbors, underscoring the gravity of the storm. "We most certainly hope that this weather does not become this severe, but in the event it does we will do our best to keep you notified and updated as much as possible," according to the Facebook post, inviting citizens to share the information widely to ensure broad awareness and preparedness within the community.
