Orange County Emergency Services Director Kirby Saunders speaks with 97.9 The Hill News Director Brighton McConnell about the recent anniversary of Tropical Storm Chantal. Emergency responders took on thousands of calls and made dozens of rescues the night of the intense flash flooding. Saunders shares some of his lasting memories from the response, as well as takeaways that the Emergency Services department and county government have from the experience. That includes improve backup options during high volumes for 911 calls, better water gauges at the community’s rivers, and improving regional communication. Saunders also shares his perspective on how Chantal is an example of the importance of getting flood insurance across the county.

On Air Today features interviews and conversations with the latest newsmakers in our community — including local elected leaders, educators, business owners, and anyone else with their finger on the pulse of the greater Chapel Hill community. Here past interviews on-demand on Chapelboro, Spotify, and wherever you get your podcasts.
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On Air Today: Reopening the Eno Arts Mill, One Year After ChantalOrange County is celebrating the reopening of the Eno Arts Mill after a long recovery from Tropical Storm Chantal last year.

Local Governments Facing 'Years-Long' Recovery from Chantal's Floods, But Progress is Being MadeOne year after Tropical Storm Chantal’s significant rainfall flooded several areas in the Triangle, the region’s local governments are still adjusting to its physical and financial impacts.
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Orange County: Revisiting Impact of Chantal's Floods, Reacting to the New State BudgetChair of the Orange County Board of Commissioners Jean Hamilton speaks with 97.9 The Hill News Director Brighton McConnell on Wednesday, July 8. On the heels of the first anniversary of Tropical Storm Chantal’s destructive flooding in the community, Hamilton shares her impressions and lessons learned from the experience of the storm and the county’s […]

Orange County Emergency Services Director Reflects on Chantal Response, Prep for Future FloodsOrange County Emergency Services Director Kirby Saunders joined us to reflect on the county’s response to the floods and preparation for more.
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The Morning News: Remembering Chantal, Remembering Jamezetta BedfordIn today's news: local residents continue picking up the pieces, one year after their homes were damaged by Tropical Storm Chantal.
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The Morning News: One Year After ChantalIn today's news: local businesses discuss their year-long recovery process, on the first anniversary of Tropical Storm Chantal.

Orange County Reports First Fatality From Storm; Shelter Opens for Flood VictimsAs the area continues assessing storm damage and waiting for high waters to recede, Orange County opened a public shelter at Smith Middle School.
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