Boil advisory in effect for those with water service; shelter hours extended

As of Sunday, July 1, the Highland County Water Company has issued a boil advisory until further for those customers with service.

In a press release Sunday from Highland County EMA Director Jim Lyle, county water officials said the plant is "running at a fast pace but trying not to overload the system."

Plant operators will update Lyle as the day progresses.

Also, South Central Power and AEP continue to work on area power outages. They still have approximately 3,000 customers without power.

"With the large number of homes and business without power, citizens should take special steps in managing their personal health and safety in its aftermath and the heat wave we are experiencing," Lyle said.

"If you are without electricity for a long period of time, the best course of action is to reach out to friends and family that have electric and cooling capability."

The following cooling shelters are available at:

• Greenfield First Baptist Church, 250 Lafayette St. (now open 24 hours);

• Lynchburg Fire and EMS, state Route 135 south of Lynchburg (open 1-7 p.m.);

• Highland County Joint North Fire District, 200 South St., Leesburg (open 1-7 p.m.);

• Hillsboro First Presbyterian Church, 201 East Main St. (open 1-7 p.m.); and,

• Paint Creek Fire and EMS, 640 North Washington St., Greenfield (open during daytime hours).

Any residents with emergency issues related to the heat, power outages or lack of water may call (937) 393-5880 or the Highland County Sheriff's Office at 393-1421.