It is not easy keeping the water flowing to your faucet and sewage flowing away from your home when the power is out.
To say Ferndale City Crews and Water System Staff have been very busy for the past couple days during the power outage would be an understatement. Some have reported to have been going over 24 hours without sleeping and eating.
When key city water “lifts” and pumps lost power early yesterday, August 29th, crews had to scramble to locate and position stationary gas generators at each location to keep water pressure from falling. As of this morning crews had spent the night responding to everything else plus keeping the generators running and fueled.
Staff at the water plant were busy as well monitoring the ever-changing system readings and coordinating efforts with that of the crews out in the field.
Public Works Staff say that it is possible to see a drop in water pressure while the generators remain in place. Fortunately, that should only last for a few minutes. If you experience a pressure drop that lasts longer than 30 minutes, you are advised to contact the city (if during regular hours) or call 911.
In addition to keeping the water and sewer flowing, keeping the roads clear of debris and buildings safe were some other challenges to be dealt with. Here are some pictures, courtesy of Ferndale Public Works staff, of what they encountered.
