As of 7am this morning, the Phoenixville Streets Department crossed one item off their to-do list—the opening of the Mont Clare to Phoenixville Bridge. Bridging Montgomery and Chester Counties, this bridge is an important means of transportation for people who live and work in both counties.

Additionally, Montgomery County officials have released updated information on the County’s response to the remnants of Hurricane Ida.

Even though the storm has moved out of the area, many sections of Montgomery County are still underwater or severely damaged.

The death toll from the storm has now risen to four Montgomery County residents.

Three fatalities are currently under investigation by the Montgomery County Coroner and a fourth Montgomery County resident died in Bucks County and was pronounced by the Bucks County Coroner.

Due to the severity of the damage from this storm, the County has issued a disaster declaration, which will enable the collection of any potential subsequent reimbursement for storm-related response and damage.

The National Weather Service has investigated an area that sustained significant damage during the storm last night and has determined that an EF-2 tornado with winds of up to 130 miles per hour touched down in Upper Dublin Township and Horsham Township. 

The Schuylkill River at Norristown and the Perkiomen Creek at Graterford crested at record levels on Thursday but water is now beginning to recede.

Residents can opt-in to receive updates on storm recovery by texting MontcoIda to 888-777. 

Individuals needing a place to stay may go to the Red Cross shelter at the Norristown Area High School, located at 1900 Eagle Drive, Norristown, PA 19403. This shelter also accepts pets.

If possible, pet owners should bring food, a crate, a sheet or blanket, and a bowl. These items will be supplied if a pet owner is unable to provide them. 

Physical donations are currently not being accepted by Montgomery County or our Red Cross shelter partners. Please do not drop off donations of any kind at the shelter at Norristown Area High School or other shelters that may become operational in the coming days.

Anyone who has experienced property damage must report the damage to both the County and your township or borough.

Residents can report damage to the County by visiting here to get a link to the County’s form. Township and borough contact information is also available on this webpage. Only one submission per household is needed.

The Hurricane Ida Crisis Cleanup Hotline has been established for residents who have sustained damage and need help with cutting fallen trees, removing affected drywall, flooring, and appliances, tarping roofs, and mold remediation. Call the Hotline at (844) 965-1386.

Many Montgomery County bridges and roads are closed as a direct result of Hurricane Ida. Residents should not drive or walk past closure signs as flooded roads are unsafe.

Due to storm damage, County Parks, Trails, and Historic Sites situated along waterways are closed through Monday, September 6, and may be closed longer depending on the damage.

This includes Lock 60; Upper Valley Schuylkill Park (The lower parking lot, boat slip, fishing pier, and Schuylkill East Trail entrance are all closed but the upper lot is open); Lower Perkiomen Valley Park; and Central Perkiomen Valley Park.

The County’s Ardmore and Pottstown COVID-19 testing sites will resume operation today, Friday, September 3, 2021.

Hurricane Ida updates will continue to be posted on the County website here.