Agenda - 10-25-2004-2 - Laserfiche WebLink

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y As the Hazard History table at the end of'this section shows, a number of thunderstorm/high wind storm events and thunderstorm related events (hail and lightning) have been reported in Orange County. Severe Winter Storm Severe winter weather is typically associated with much colder climates; however, winter storms involving extremely cold temperatures, ice storms, and/or heavy snow have occurred in Orange County. The impact of a winter storm in Orange County can be significant. Although equipment such as snow plows is available in the region, winter storms can produce an accumulation of snow and ice on trees and utility lines resulting in loss of electricity and blocked transportation routes. Frequently, loss of electric power means loss of heat for residential customers, which poses an immediate threat to human life, As the Hazard History table at the end of this section indicates, ice storms, heavy snow, and extreme cold has impacted Orange County several times from 1956 to 2004. Wildfire Wildfires occur in North Carolina during the dry spring and summer months of the year, The potential for wildfires depends upon recent climate conditions, surface fuel characteristics, and fire behavior, Wildfires can destroy precious natural resources and forestry essential to the survival of wildlife.. Increased development in Orange County in recent years has increased the potential impact of wildfires as structures that locate neaz vulnerable woodlands become vulnerable themselves. Because wind fuels wildfires, structures in close proximity to potential wildfire fuels are at risk of damage as wind direction and velocity change. The frequency and extent of wildfires in Orange County has historically been quite low, Chemical Spills A chemical spill or HAZMAT (Hazardous material) spill is an accidental and unwanted release of a hazardous chemical from its container. Chemical spills can occur at chemical storage sites or while chemicals are in transit via roadways or railways, Approximately 6,774 HAZMAT events occur each year nationwide. On average, there will be 991 events, Trucks aze responsible for most of the remainder of events, The average distance for trip lengths for gasoline transport is 28 miles; 260 miles is the average trip length for chemical trucks. Even though trucks account for most accidents, it is railway transport that has the greatest potential for concern in many areas. Collisions and derailments can cause very large spills as it is rare that a single car will be damaged, Extremely 14