HAMPTON, Va. — The city of Hampton saw strong winds and flooding from a nor’easter on Monday. The remnants of Hurricane Ian, eventually a post-tropical storm, combined with a cold front to create this storm.
"I have been here years and years cleaning up after the storms," said Hampton homeowner Steve Riss.
Riss has lived off Clark Road most of his life and his house sits on a small hill. He secured his outdoor belongings ahead of time.
Hampton City spokeswoman Robin McCormick said officials opened a shelter at Phenix School on Big Bethel Road. The facility stayed open until 5 p.m. Monday.
"Anybody can come," McCormick said. "If you feel like your house has flooded before we will take you in.”
Sunday night, ahead of major expected flooding, the City of Hampton declared a state of emergency.
The warning encouraged people in low-lying areas to be ready to evacuate to hotels, or friends’ houses inland.
“This storm will be spread over at least two high tide cycles - so while the water will be lower, it will be with us longer,” officials warned.
Flooding is a particular issue for Grandview/Beach Road, Harris Creek, Buckroe Beach, Southwest Branch of the Back River, Hampton River, Tidemill Creek, Indian Creek and Newmarket Creek.
Water from Harris Creek crept up neighborhood streets all Monday afternoon.
Hampton City Schools closed Monday, and City Hall and other local government-run facilities closed starting at noon.
Don't drive through standing water, and report all downed power lines that you see. To be safe, consider all of them "live," and avoid going near them.
The city will post emergency updates on its social media accounts. You can also sign up for the city’s email updates at Hampton.gov/enews, or get information by calling 757-727-8311.
