Mayor Kruzan Urges Caution As Flooding Recedes

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 4, 2008

For more information, please contact:
Danny Lopez, Communications Director, 349-CITY, lopezd@bloomington.in.gov


[Crews are busy cleaning and repairing damage from Wednesday night's storm.|image:3000,right]
Bloomington, IN - Wednesday's squalls brought heavy flooding to streets and businesses, leaving commuters temporarily stranded in their cars and shop owners sweeping water onto sidewalks across town. As waters receded and City of Bloomington Police and Fire helped residents sort through the debris, Mayor Mark Kruzan contacted local media outlets to ask for caution and reminded the community that City departments are working to address the situation.

"The flooding was a result of excessive rainfall over a very short span of time," Kruzan said Wednesday night. "The drains became clogged with branches and leaves and this caused the flooding, but it has receded as quickly as it came and our teams are going to be working tonight to be sure that we avoid similar challenges should more rain come."

City of Bloomington Police and Fire Departments received countless emergency calls immediately following the storm around 5pm, though most calls were due to car or home alarms being activated. Two calls of lightening strikes were called in as well, though no fires broke out and units were able to focus on the effort of navigating traffic issues. There were no reports of serious injuries related to the flooding, and while it receded quickly, Mayor Kruzan urged residents to be calm and use common sense.

"Water on the roads can cause dangerous driving conditions, and downed power lines should be avoided at all cost," Kruzan reiterated. "Pavement on some streets has lifted, as well, so commuters need to be smart and careful when on the roads. Our primary responsibility is the safety of the people of Bloomington, and while the situation may be under control, dangerous conditions may still exist. Use caution at all times."

Kruzan also specifically thanked all emergency agencies from the county and surrounding townships for all their assistance.

"We literally couldn't have done it alone, and all our community partners were there for us," Kruzan stated.

Should you need additional information, please contact 349-CITY.

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