The City of Erie has declared a State of Emergency after severe thunderstorms left thousands of residents without power and damaged properties across the area.<\/p>\n
Crews have been working across the city since early Thursday morning to clean up the damage from the storm, with officials adding that clearing streets from curb to curb to allow residents and first responders to pass through safely is their top priority.<\/p>\n
Officials also said crews will keep working on clearing streets while they assess the broader impact of the storm to figure out any additional needs.<\/p>\n
Until then, city officials are advising not to clear any fallen trees themselves, and to stay away from any downed power lines, adding that crews will be along to clear them. If it’s safe to do so, they’re also advising residents to take immediate steps to protect their property from further damage, take photos or videos to document the damage and contact their insurance for assistance.<\/p>\n
\u00a0Erie County officials respond after overnight storm damage\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n If a tree or large branch is down in a city boulevard, residents should report it\u00a0by calling Matthew Falcone at\u00a0814-923-3597\u00a0for assessment and removal.<\/p>\n If a tree on private property is leaning or otherwise presents a potential hazard, residents should contact\u00a0Matthew Falcone at 814-923-3597\u00a0or a certified arborist to have the tree assessed.<\/p>\n The\u00a0city\u00a0said they’re aware of\u00a0numerous\u00a0downed power lines and are working with\u00a0Penelec\u00a0to have them addressed as quickly and safely as possible. Downed power lines should be treated as if they’re live and downed lines should be reported to 911.<\/p>\n Trash collections around the city are also staying on their regularly scheduled pickup days, with crews catching up on any pickups missed during the storm.<\/p>\n