FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Feb. 9, 1996
President Clinton promises federal disaster
relief for new flood areas
OLYMPIA -- In a quick response
to Gov. Mike Lowry's request for federal assistance, President
Clinton has declared a major disaster for the current flooding
in Washington state.
"It's critical to get help out to residents and emergency
responders around the state," Lowry said. "I'm extremely
pleased that the president is making the resources of the federal
government available so quickly."
Lowry yesterday requested federal disaster relief for 13 counties
and the Yakama Indian Nation. The governor made the request because
of extensive damage to homes, businesses and public facilities
from the heavy rains, widespread flooding and numerous mud slides.
State and county officials will begin formal assessments as floodwaters
recede.
Victims of the current flood disaster should call (800) 462-9029
(or TDD: 800-462-7585) to begin the process of applying for disaster
assistance.
Counties included in the presidential declaration include Asotin,
Clark, Columbia, Cowlitz, Kittitas, Lewis, Pierce, Skamania, Thurston,
Walla Walla, Whitman and Yakima. King, Snohomish and Wahkiakum
counties will be added to the declaration soon, and other counties
may be added as needed.
No damage assessments are available for the disaster, as many
rivers have not yet crested, and emergency response personnel
are still making assessments. The flooding and windstorms in November
and December, which President Clinton declared a major disaster
Jan. 3, caused approximately $45 million in uninsured damages.
For more information, contact Mark Clemens, Washington State Emergency Management Agency, 360-438-7737 (media only) or the Governor's Communications Office, 360-753-6790.