Commonwealth of Virginia

Office of Governor Bob McDonnell

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 8, 2012

Contact: Jeff Caldwell

Phone: (804) 225-4260

Email:Jeff.Caldwell@Governor.Virginia.Gov

Governor Issues Update on Tonight’s Severe Weather

Power Outages up to 50,000; New Storms Cause More Problems

RICHMOND  – Governor Bob McDonnell issued an update today regarding Virginia’s ongoing recovery from the powerful derecho and thunderstorms that occurred June 29-30 and July 8.  As of 8 p.m., details on the impact of the storms and ongoing recovery efforts are listed below.

“Virginia was once again hit by severe weather today, knocking out power for many and causing more damage,” said Governor McDonnell. “It has been a tough few weeks for many Virginians. They have suffered from record breaking temperatures and an historic storm that brought widespread damage and power outages. Now, many have lost power again. I ask Virginians to remain patient and to continue to help each other get through this latest storm.”

Power Outages as of 8:00 p.m.:

Statewide                                                                    50,778

Dominion                                                                    30,389

·        Northern Virginia                                            18,648

·        Shenandoah Valley/Western Piedmont          5,921

·        Richmond Metro/Tri Cities                             4,587

APCO                                                                         13,189

·        Amherst County                                             3,074

·        Roanoke, City of                                            2,445

·        Lynchburg, City of                                         2,099

Electrical Cooperatives                                               7,200

Fatalities

June 29-June 30th storm-related fatalities: 13

·        Two in Albemarle County; two in Bedford County; one in Chesapeake; four in Fairfax County; one in Loudoun County; one in Montgomery County; one in Richmond and one in Roanoke

Roads Closed

19 closed (1 primary road and 18 secondary roads).

Severe Weather Outlook

Scattered thunderstorms are predicted through most of the week.  Some of these storms may become strong to severe.  Flooding may also become an issue as the week progresses with successive days of showers and thunderstorms with heavy rain.