UPDATE ISSUED AT 1:19 PM
The New Hanover Emergency Operations Center has identified a source of fuel for the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority. We are working to supply our equipment and generators quickly. There is no immediate threat to water service disruption. We believe that this is a reliable supply that should last us through the duration of the recovery process after Hurricane Florence.
In an abundance of caution, we issued a statement asking CFPUA customers to fill bathtubs and/or containers in the event we did not get needed fuel. CFPUA received several comments and suggestions. Every lead has been helpful and we appreciate your response and help.
STATEMENT ISSUED AT 10:09 AM:
We are in critical need of fuel to keep our water treatment plants running.
We are exploring every avenue to find a fuel source. However, if we do not get the needed fuel within the next 48-hours, we will not be able to continue water service for public health and safety such as fire suppression and other life-sustaining activities. Also, our customers will be without drinking water.
Basically, Wilmington is currently cut off from the rest of the state. Needed resources cannot get here by roads due to extreme flooding. CFPUA is now looking at ways to get fuel via ship or air.
It is with a heavy heart that we share this information with our customers, however, we want to give you as much notice as possible. Please begin to make contingency plans for you and your family. Now is a good time to begin filling up bathtubs and water jugs as a contingency to a loss of water delivery.
CFPUA will provide updates on our fuel status as soon as possible.