FEMA tours Irene damage in Montco

UPPER DUBLIN TWP., Pa. - September 2, 2011 FEMA got a firsthand look Friday at the impact of the storm in Montgomery County.

Inspectors from FEMA toured the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Irene in Upper Dublin and Huntingdon Valley.

They looked for any possible structural damage done to the Loch Alsh Dam in Upper Dublin Township.

County officials are concerned that any possible damage would hamper efforts already underway to further fortify the dam.

"With the reconstruction they were concerned with being able to continue the work after the storm that's why they were trying to bring the water down," said Jason Wilson, Montgomery County Emergency Planner.

Fortunately, Hurricane Irene did not bring enough rain to overflow the dam.

However, local officials have already started working to add measures that will hopefully ensure the dam will stay secure.

"The township is working on flood retarding structures. They would be situated elsewhere in the township but they would try to prevent the impact on our residents and other municipalities during these weather related events," said Greg Breyer, Upper Dublin Fire Services Director.

For Montgomery County to receive funding from FEMA, the inspectors must determine that at least $2.5 million worth of damage was done county wide.

The county hopes to hear back from FEMA within the next two weeks.