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  • Governor's Office, 360-902-4111

Governor Gregoire Proclaims Emergency Due to Flooding

For Immediate Release: November 6, 2006

OLYMPIA - Governor Chris Gregoire today proclaimed a state of emergency in 18 counties due to widespread flooding. The proclamation covers Chelan, Clallam, Clark, Cowlitz, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, King, Kitsap, Lewis, Mason, Okanogan, Pacific, Pierce, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston, Wahkiakum and Whatcom counties.

�I hope all Washingtonians will take steps to prepare themselves and their families and to be extremely cautious when they are on the roads this evening,� said Governor Gregoire. �Flooding has already caused extensive damage and submerged roadways can be very dangerous for drivers. Landslides and high winds pose additional threats and we should all be very cautious over the next several days.�

The proclamation directs Washington state government to support emergency response activities in the 18 counties, allowing state agencies to make expenditures and utilize resources to assist local communities. It also authorizes the Washington National Guard to activate their resources and the Washington Emergency Management Division to coordinate all state assistance.

State actions are coordinated through the State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) in Olympia. Representatives from the state Military Department, the Washington National Guard, Agriculture, Health, Ecology, Fish and Wildlife, Transportation, Washington State Patrol and the American Red Cross are in operation at the EOC.

The Washington Emergency Management Division recommends that residents in flood prone or flood watch areas consider the following preparedness actions:


  • Listen to radio or television stations for local information and weather reports.
  • Be aware of streams, drainage channels and areas known to flood suddenly.
  • Do not walk or drive through floodwaters.
  • Secure your home. If time permits, also secure items located outside the house.
  • If instructed, turn off utilities at the main switches or valves.
  • Fill your car with fuel.
  • Fill the bathtub with water in case the water supply becomes contaminated or services are cut off. Sterilize the bathtub first.
  • When deep flooding is likely, permit the floodwaters to flow freely into your basement to avoid structural damage to the foundation and the house.



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