Damage from recent heavy rains and flash flooding in the Town of Swanzey continues to cause numerous road closures throughout the community. Residents and visitors are urged to use caution during the ongoing weather event and stay home if possible.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued watches and warnings related to floods in central and southern New Hampshire, including Cheshire County. Much of the region already has received between 3 and 5 inches of rain over the past 24 hours, according to NWS, and additional rain showers and thunderstorms are expected this afternoon and early evening.

Barriers have been placed at various impacted roads throughout the town. Drivers are asked to obey barriers and find safe, alternative routes to their destinations if they must travel.

Representatives from the Town of Swanzey will continue to assess damage and conditions throughout the duration of the storm. Anyone who experiences a life-threatening emergency should immediately contact 911. Non-emergency questions, calls, or requests for assistance can be directed to Deputy Emergency Management Director Pam Fortner at 603-352-7411 ext. 103 or pfortner@swanzeynh.gov.

Real-time updates will continue to be posted on the Town of Swanzey and Swanzey Police Department Facebook pages at the following link: https://www.facebook.com/swanzeypd & https://www.facebook.com/townofswanzey.

• Visit www.weather.gov and input your zip code

• Eversource: (800) 662-7764

• Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and most vehicles will begin to float, lose control and possibly stall.
• About 12 inches of moving water can sweep a vehicle away, and 24 inches of water will sweep away SUVs and pick-up trucks.
• If told to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Listen to radio and television for updates.
• Learn more about flood safety and what to do before, during and after a flood at ReadyNH.gov.

• Avoid walking or driving through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown! ®
• If trapped in a building, go to the highest level.
• Avoid camping or parking along streams, rivers, and creeks during heavy rainfall. These areas can flood quickly with little warning.
• Use a stick to determine the firmness of the ground in front you.
• If your vehicle is trapped in rapid waters, stay inside the vehicle. If water is rising inside the vehicle, seek refuge on the roof of the vehicle.
• If floodwaters rise around your vehicle but the water is not moving, abandon the vehicle and move to higher ground.
• Keep copies of important documents in waterproof containers.

• Return home when authorities say it is safe to do so.
• Wait before entering a structure damaged by flooding. Structures that have been damaged by flooding may not be safe to enter. Wait for the building to be inspected before entering.
• Be alert for gas leaks. Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Don't smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames unless you know the gas has been turned off and the area has been ventilated.
• Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible.
• Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards.
• Look out for any mold growth after a flood and learn about the best way to address any issues that you see.
• Photograph damage to your property for insurance purposes.
• Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Do not use appliances or motors that have gotten wet.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them to your local power company.
  
  
  • Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.

• Listen for news reports to learn whether the community's water supply is safe to drink.
  
  
  • Water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage