City of Worcester, MA

Worcester Flood Update

For Immediate Release: 10/22/2016 7:54 am

Worcester, MA (October 22, 2016) - Worcester DPW and Street Dept. workers continue to address issues related to last night's flash-flooding. Water has begun to recede in several areas however some streets remain impassable. Public Safety Officials continue to urge residents to use extreme caution while travelling through the City. Manhole covers have been replaced as identified, however some may remain lifted. Residents are asked to call (508) 929-1300 to report uncovered manholes. Individuals are also reminded to be cognizant of downed wires.

The City of Worcester's Division of Public Health and Division of Inspectional Services are advising all City residents to take precautions when dealing with water as a result of severe flash flooding last evening. Due to this weather event, residents may be impacted by local flooding in their homes and neighborhoods. The flooding may have caused raw sewerage overflow and as such, residents are advised to treat all standing water as if it may be contaminated. In an effort to mitigate illness, proper procedures are advised.

Prior to undertaking cleanup efforts, take proper precautions:

• Always wear protective gloves, eyewear, and boots. Rain gear is also advisable.
• Avoid direct contact with sewage material, and be particularly careful of your face and eyes. Goggles are recommended when using a hose and/or any chemicals.
• Protect all cuts and scrapes. Immediately wash and disinfect any wound that comes in contact with sewage.

The following steps should be taken to mitigate health risks from a building contaminated with sewage:

• Any excess water should be removed from the property by pumps, wet vacs or mopping. Dehumidifiers and active ventilation should also be used when available.
• All solid waste should be collected and disposed.
• All upholstered furniture and mattresses should be discarded, other contaminated furniture should be removed and cleaned or discarded.
• The affected areas should be washed with a detergent solution to remove sewage-related contamination, then disinfected and allowed to dry.
• Wash, disinfect or discard any clothing and supplies immediately after use.

When proceeding with cleanup operations, remember that those individuals whose immune systems are in some way compromised or who are otherwise susceptible due to age, medication or underlying illness are considered to be at greater risk of contracting infections than those individuals who are healthy.

Electricity was being restored throughout the evening. Those who experienced power outages for more than four hours should check all food products for spoilage.

Customer Service will open at 8:00 AM today, Saturday. Residents in need of non-emergency assistance are encouraged to call (508) 929-1300.

For more information, please visit:

• http://www.mass.gov/eea/agencies/massdep/water/wastewater/flooding-and-sewage-back-ups-home-care-guide.html
• http://www.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/cleanupwater.html