Update: Gov. McDonnell declares state of emergency.

Related: Crazy flooding photos & videos from our readers in Front Royal & Warren County.

Related: (VIDEO) Two people trapped in truck during Happy Creek flood (strong language).

Related: Update on flash floods from Warren County Fire Chief.

Update: Flood aftermath: Criser Rd., Robin Hood Ln., Virginia Ave. & 6th St.

By Steven M. Burke
Interim Town Manager

FRONT ROYAL–The Town of Front Royal would like to summarize the impact of the severe weather event on April 16 to the Town’s infrastructure.

During the rain event, Leach Run and Happy Creek overflowed their banks resulting in numerous road closures throughout the Town. Closures occurred on Commerce Avenue, Happy Creek Road, John Marshall Highway, Main Street, Manassas Street, 8th Street, Water Street, Laura Virginia Hale Place, Prospect Street, Criser Road, Walker Avenue, Anderson Street, and Markham Street. Road flooding has receded following the storm event.

Bridges at 8th Street, Prospect Street, and Criser Road remain closed. Vehicles and pedestrians are advised to avoid these locations. Work to remove debris on 8th Street will commence on Monday, April 18. The bridges on Prospect Street and Criser Road will remain closed to traffic until structural integrity has been confirmed by a bridge inspection. Criser Road will continue to remain closed until guardrail repairs, pavement resurfacing, and other identified deficiencies have been addressed.

Electrical service was disrupted to the Happy Creek area due to a disruption at the Rte. 606 Substation. Service was restored within one hour of the failure.

Two water mains crossing Happy Creek near the Royal Plaza Shopping Center were damaged during the flood event. The breaks were isolated to prevent further water loss and will be investigated when safe access to the creek has been restored. Currently a few businesses have been notified that temporary water service has been provided due to the breaks. Crews will work to improve the temporary service this week.

Sanitary sewer backups occurred at a number of locations due to the rainfall. Crews have responded to those locations that have contacted the Town about backups.

The Town would like to acknowledge the dedication of the men and women in our Police Department, Public Works Department, Energy Resources Department, and the Environmental Service Department for the commitment and service during the severe weather event.

Please refer to local media outlets for future notifications regarding bridge closures or water service.

If you have any questions about this weather event’s impact on the Town, please contact the Town at (540) 635-8007.