AG 2010 12 20 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

thunderstorms could be expected to be low due to the localized nature of the storms, but damage could be severe in those areas directly affected. 6. Severe Winter Storms (a) Severe winter weather is typically associated with much colder climates; however, in some instances winter storms do occur in piedmont North Carolina. The impact of a winter storm in Cabarrus County can be paralyzing. Winter storms produce an accumulation of snow and ice on trees and utility lines resulting in loss of electricity and blocked transportation routes. Frequently, especially in rural areas, loss of electric power means loss of heat for residential customers, which poses an immediate threat to human life. (b) The intensity of winter storms is measured by the temperature and the amount of precipitation accumulated. Wind velocity increases the danger from low temperatures by increasing the wind chill and causing the drifting of snow. (c) Because of the rare occurrence of such an event, Cabarrus County and its municipalities are not completely equipped to handle the demands on public services caused by such events. The county does not provide road clearance in any portion of the county, as this is done by the NC Department of Transportation and the local municipalities. The priority is to clear the main highways and those areas needed for public safety. Municipalities clear streets within their town limits. 7. Wildfires (a) 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. (b) Intensity. There are three types of wildfires: • Surface Fire — This type burns slowly along the floor of a forest. This is the most common type of wildland fire. This type of fire can damage or even kill trees. • Ground Fire — Usually occurs from a lightning strike. This type of fire burns on or below the forest floor. • Crown Fire — This fire is quickly spread by the wind. It tends to jump among the crowns of trees. Wildland fires are generally characterized by very thick smoke. The spread of the fire depends on the weather, terrain, and forest conditions. (c) Increased development in Cabarrus County in recent years has increased the potential impact of wildfires as structures that locate near 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. According to data provided by the North Carolina Forest Service, the Annex A Hazard Identification and Analysis A -5 1 Dece91henr@"ember 5 F -6 Page 109