City of Cartersville Responds to Overnight Storm: Power Outages, Structure Fires, and Debris Management
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cartersville, GA – August 30, 2024 – The City of Cartersville faced a strong storm overnight, resulting in significant disruptions, including structure fires, widespread power outages, structure damage, and extensive debris. The city's Fire, Electric, and Public Works departments have been working diligently to address the aftermath and ensure the safety and well-being of our residents.
Electric Department Response
The storm had a considerable impact on the city’s electrical system, causing power outages for nearly 25% of our customer base. Electric Director Tom McKee stated, "At the peak of the storm, we had lost power to approximately 2,300 customers. Our crews worked through the night to restore service, and we were able to bring almost all affected customers back online in time for the morning commute. Currently, fewer than five customers remain without power, and our fresh crews are completing the final restorations."
Mr. McKee also noted that while they have worked to restore the electric system, some of the affected homes may have additional damage that needs to be repaired by the homeowner before the city can fully restore power.
Fire Department Response
Cartersville Fire Department (CFD) units began receiving fire alarm calls at 10:01 PM last night as the storm swept through the area, resulting in multiple incidents across the city. Fire Chief Hagen Champion reported, "Our crews were dispatched at 10:13 PM to 360 Old Mill Rd., the location of Cornerstone Worship Center, and arrived on the scene in less than two minutes to find heavy fire and smoke coming from the roof, with approximately 75% of the structure involved. Our firefighters, along with Bartow County Fire and Emergency crews, worked for over five hours to extinguish the fire, with around 20 firefighters on the scene."
In addition to the fire at Cornerstone Worship Center, there were several other significant incidents, including a wind turbine fire at 100 Tellus Dr. The storm also caused extensive structural damage throughout the city, with fallen trees on structures, building and roof collapses, wind damage, and other incidents affecting various homes and businesses.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported among firefighters or civilians during these suppression efforts. However, the building at Cornerstone Worship Center is a total loss, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.
Public Works Department Notice: Storm Debris
In the wake of last night’s storm, the city has seen widespread damage to trees. The Public Works Department is asking residents to place any storm debris at their curb line for pickup. A significant amount of debris is expected over the next few days, and while the department is committed to removing it as quickly as possible, they ask for patience as this process may take some time.
Drivers are urged to exercise caution this morning as smaller branches may still be in the roadways. The department is working to sweep the streets where debris is heaviest, but this, too, will take some time
The City of Cartersville is thankful that the storm damage was not any worse and want to thank our community for their understanding and patience as our teams work to clean up from the storm. Your safety and service restoration are our top priorities, and we encourage all residents to report any hazards or outages through our MyCartersville app or contacting us at 770-387-5602.
[End of Press Release]
