Governor Youngkin delivers remarks on impact of severe storm in Virginia

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Gov. Glenn Youngkin delivered remarks on the impacts of the severe storm moving through Virginia, including reported deaths and rescue efforts provided by Virginia State Police and first responders.

At around 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 27, Youngkin delivered remarks on the impacts of the storm moving through the Commonwealth.

In his statement, Youngkin reported that Virginia State Police’s helicopter unit supported the rescue efforts at Unicoi County Hospital in Tennessee, where more than 50 people were reportedly relocated to the roof of the hospital due to flooding.

Youngkin said state police is continuing to work with Tennessee authorities to move the patients to safety. He also said there are five community evacuation orders in effect in various counties including Augusta County, Whythe County, Pulaski County, Giles County and in Salem City.

“I just ask folks while these are voluntary evacuation orders for particular communities, please adhere to them. It’s for your safety. Your life is too important,” Youngkin said.

Youngkin also commented on the reported death from a storm-related tree fall and building collapse in Craig County, which also reportedly injured two deputies who were on scene to investigate the incident.

“We lift up the family of this victim in our prayers,” Youngkin said.

According to Youngkin, as of around 4 p.m., there is about 241,000 customers without power in Virginia, with a majority located in southwest Virginia.

The governor said while the rain may have subsided in certain parts of Virginia, a vast section of the state remains under a tornado watch .

“We can’t help but have broken hearts today as we’ve seen the incredible damage and the loss of life from this incredibly big and powerful storm all the way from Florida up into Virginia,” Youngkin said.

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