In the aftermath of a powerful storm that swept through Lincoln, Nebraska, leaving a trail of destruction, the city is now faced with a major cleanup effort. As of the latest reports, nearly 500 downed trees have been reported across Lincoln, prompting city officials to host a press conference to update residents on the ongoing recovery efforts.

During the press conference, Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird, alongside other key officials including Director of Transportation and Utilities Liz Elliott, Lincoln Police Chief Michon Morrow, Lincoln Fire Chief David Engler, Lincoln Electric System CEO Emeka Anyanwu, and Director of Parks and Recreation Maggie Stuckey-Ross, addressed the significant challenges posed by the storm.

According to Stuckey-Ross, the number of downed trees reported during this storm is unlike anything experienced so far this year. The Parks and Recreation team alone received 401 reports of downed trees, with an additional 83 reports coming in within just the first hour of Thursday's workday.

To ensure efficient management of the cleanup process, Stuckey-Ross urged residents to use the UPLNK app to report any downed trees or branches they come across. The removal of tree debris will be prioritized based on the following criteria: blocked arterial streets, residential streets, and driveways; trees with limbs hanging dangerously; blocked sidewalks; and tree debris in the public right of way between the curb and sidewalk.

For residents seeking assistance with the removal of tree debris from private property, Stuckey-Ross advised contacting their refuse haulers or utilizing designated disposal sites, which will accept debris free of charge until August 19. These locations include Holmes Lake Park, Seng Park, Woods Park, Oak Lake Park, and Hoefling Enterprises.

It is important to note that Van Dorn Park and West Lincoln Park are temporarily unavailable as disposal sites due to specific issues. However, efforts are underway to address the power lines and transformer problems affecting West Lincoln Park.

The storm not only took a toll on the city's trees but also resulted in a surge in emergency calls. Lincoln Fire and Rescue (LFR) reported responding to 246 calls on Wednesday, a stark contrast to their average of 83 calls per day. Lincoln Police Department (LPD) also witnessed an overwhelming increase in calls, receiving over 1,800 calls between 4 p.m. and midnight on Wednesday.

Despite losing power to the 911 center, LPD maintained uninterrupted services by utilizing emergency generators for nearly eight hours. Both LPD and LFR worked tirelessly throughout the night to ensure efficient emergency response and support for residents.

The storm caused significant power outages, affecting approximately 30,000 customers in Lincoln. Lincoln Electric System (LES) crews are diligently working to restore power to the remaining 6,700 customers still without electricity as of Thursday morning. In a collaborative effort, crews from Grand Island and Hastings have also joined LES's repair endeavors through the LES Mutual Aid Network.

LES advises residents to report outages or downed power lines at 888-365-2412 or through the LES website. Additionally, Director Elliott expressed gratitude to Omaha Public Power District crews for their efforts in restoring power to Lincoln's wellfields in Ashland, which are currently operating at 75% capacity and expected to fully regain power by late Thursday or early Friday.

In light of the storm's impact on the city's infrastructure, Lincoln Transportation and Utilities (LTU) recommends that residents voluntarily postpone all outdoor water use, including residential and commercial irrigation systems, until Friday night.

Acknowledging the exceptional nature of this storm, Mayor Gaylor Baird emphasized the city's commitment to swiftly recover from its aftermath. Describing it as an "all-hands-on-deck" response, she assured the community that with the support of residents, Lincoln will overcome the challenges and ensure everyone's safety and well-being.

As the cleanup efforts continue, city officials and utility crews are working diligently to restore normalcy to Lincoln. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant, report any issues promptly, and cooperate with the ongoing recovery processes.