Washington Disaster News

       Emergency Public Information from the Washington Emergency Management Division

News Releases

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  State EOC Continues to Monitor Winter Storm Activity (46.45 KB)
  
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  Winter Storm Update #2 (101.81 KB)
  
  For immediate release News Release No. 2 Dec. 21, 2008, 9 a.m. Contact: Rob Harper, public information officer Media Line: 800-688-8955 www.wadisasternews.com Winter Storm Update #2 CAMP MURRAY, WASH. - Snowfall and wind speeds Saturday night did not appear as intense as first expected, but have still made a significant impact on Washington. Four city and county emergency operations centers (EOCs) were open as of 8 a.m. Sunday monitoring storm conditions. Puget Sound Energy has reported scattered power outages in Western Washington. There were some major highway road closures due to poor visibility and safety concerns. Please check with the Department of Transportation for closures and approximate reopening times at http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/trafficalerts/. WSP Urges Motorists to Avoid Travel Unless Absolutely Necessary Washington State Patrol troopers around the state responded to more than 750 collisions in the 24 hours ending at 7am Sunday. Although that is about six times the normal number, State Patrol communications centers report that the overnight hours went better than expected. "It appears that people heeded our request to stay at home through the overnight hours," said WSP Chief John R. Batiste. "But conditions are still poor and are likely to remain so for most of the day. We'd urge people to avoid going out on the roads unless it's absolutely necessary." Batiste urged those who must go out to be prepared with food, water and warm clothing or a sleeping bag in their car. During the same 24 hour period troopers responded to nearly 800 stranded motorists. "If freezing rain materializes even we will have trouble getting to you," Batiste said. "You need to be prepared to survive in your vehicle for much longer than on a normal day." Motorists who find themselves stranded are urged to stay with their vehicles. The shelter of the car is good protection against the elements, and those walking outside their vehicles risk being struck by other out-of-control cars. Power Outages and Shelters There were fourteen shelters were open Saturday night - eight in Pierce, one in Cowlitz, four in King, and one in Mason counties. With the amount of snow that has fallen there is still a threat of power outages. During power outages, the use of generators and alternative heat sources raises the public health concern of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death if inhaled. CO is found in combustion fumes produced by small gasoline engines, stoves, generators, lanterns, and gas ranges, or by burning charcoal and wood. It can build up in enclosed or partially enclosed spaces and can quickly poison people and animals. You can find more information at the Emergency Management Web site - http://emd.wa.gov/preparedness/CarbonMonoxideDanger.shtml NEVER use generators indoors or in a garage, carport or basement. Generators can produce large amounts of carbon monoxide that can build up to dangerous levels in minutes. Keep your generator outdoors and well away from windows, doors and air intakes. For proper use of a generator take a look at this video - http://emd.wa.gov/preparedness/videos/video_generatorsafety.shtml Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi, lantern, or portable camping stove inside a home, tent, camper, or any enclosed space.Always open flues when fireplaces are in use.Do not use ovens and gas ranges to heat your home.Do not use unvented gas or kerosene space heaters in enclosed spaces.Install battery-powered CO detectors in your home.Read product directions for other important safety information. How to Recognize CO Poisoning Exposure to CO can cause loss of consciousness and death. The most common symptoms of CO poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. People who are sleeping or who have been drinking alcohol can die from CO poisoning before ever having symptoms.If CO poisoning is suspected, consult a health care professional right away. For more information go to www.doh.wa.gov or www.cdc.gov/co/faqs.htm Exposure to Prolonged Cold -- Know What Signs to Look for in Hypothermia With extended exposure to low indoor temperatures, the very young and elderly are susceptible to hypothermia. A fact sheet (http://www.doh.wa.gov/phepr/generalfactsheets/hypothermia.htm ) by the Washington State Department of Health explains the signs of hypothermia and what action to take should hypothermia occur. Food Safety -- Keep Foods Safe During Power Outages Power outages can affect refrigeration and safe cooking practices. More than 250 diseases can be caused by bacteria found in contaminated raw or undercooked food, such as meat, milk, eggs, fish or shellfish. Proper storage and cooking of these foods can help prevent food-borne illness. A fact sheet (http://www.doh.wa.gov/Topics/Foodpowr.htm ) by the Washington State Department of Health addresses food product safety. Stay off the phone unless there is a critical need. The State Enhanced 911 Office, in cooperation with local telephone carriers, reminds people across the state: To stay off the telephone unless you have a critical need to make a telephone call. Remember a FAX or a computer also uses a telephone line and its use may affect your ability to get immediate help in a life-threatening emergency. DO NOT call 9-1-1 unless you need an emergency response from police, fire or emergency medical personnel. If you experience other types of problems not related to these emergency services, call the appropriate telephone number for those services. DO NOT call 9-1-1 unnecessarily. 9-1-1 lines must be kept open for people who have a true emergency. If you pick up your telephone to make a call and do not hear dial tone, DO NOT HANG UP. Simply wait a few seconds, and you will get dial tone and be able to make your call. # # # #
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  State EOC activated for winter storm (67.21 KB)
  WEMD News Release No 1, Dec.20, 2008
  
  State EOC activated for winter storm CAMP MURRAY, WASH. - The State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) activated to a Phase III Saturday in preparation for supporting local jurisdictions as they respond to winter winds, snow and cold currently sweeping across the state. Washingtonians should consider the following preparedness actions: Stay home tonight and, as conditions permit, tomorrow.Listen to radio and television stations for local information and weather reports. More information is available at the following link.
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  Get ready for wind, snow, cold and power outages (84.26 KB)
  WEMD News Release, Dec. 19, 2008
  
  OLYMPIA - Power outages could be in the offing this weekend. With more winter weather coming our way, Washingtonians need to continue and step up their preparedness efforts today and through this weekend. "We can probably expect and are preparing for widespread power outages," stated Jim Mullen, director, Washington Emergency Management Division. "Coupling this with the continued cold temperatures, I urge everyone to make sure they're ready to go several days without power." Click on the link for preparedness information on power outages, carbon monoxide, driving in winter storm conditions, and how woodstove users can keep warm and reduce polluition at the same time.
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  WSDOT Warns of Winter Driving Conditions Throughout Washington (12.41 KB)
  
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  Winter Weather Preparedness Tips from Washington State (23.75 KB)
  
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  State EOC Returns to Normal Operations (28.67 KB)
  
  For immediate release Contact: Rob Harper News Release No. 5 Phone: 253-512-7005 November 13, 2008 Web address: www.wadisasternews.com State EOC returns to normal operations Camp Murray, WA -- The State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) returned to normal operations at 5:00 p.m. Thursday, November 13, 2008, after 44 hours of Phase II activation due to flooding on numerous Washington rivers. Ten jurisdictions activated their emergency operations centers to monitor and respond to the flood event. Eight jurisdictions declared a state of emergency for this storm series. Flood warnings had been issued for at least 19 different river systems. As of 5:00 p.m., parts of the Snohomish, Snoqualmie, Skykomish, Puyallup, Nisqually and Cowlitz Rivers remained on flood warning. The State Department of Transportation closed several major roadways and bridges, and damage assessment is on-going at this time to determine damages sustained by this event. Many local jurisdictions also closed roadways which were inundated with water. Among the more serious situations occurring as a result of this storm beyond the flooding of river banks, Pierce County sustained a levee breach, and the town of Cosmopolis sustained damage to the Mill Creek Dam. Water remains over some roadways, and citizens are discouraged from attempting to pass through those areas. For a complete list of road closures, information is available at: http://dot.wa.gov The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has closed several beaches to shellfish harvesting. Citizens should check DOH's website for updated information. Homeowners, renters and businesses who have experienced damages as a result of this recent storm series are encouraged to call their local emergency operations center to report their damages. It is imperative that damages be reported immediately to local emergency offices in order for the state to determine whether a Federal Assistance should be sought. When reporting damages, callers should be prepared to supply the following information: Name and address of affected propertyType of insurance (flood)A description of damage, even if uninsured A personal estimate of uninsured losses (it is not necessary for property owners to have a contractor's estimate - a rough estimate is acceptable.) Tax assessor's valuation of the structure (not including the property value) Public facility managers are also encouraged to call their local emergency management officials to report damages sustained to public buildings, (off-system) roadways, or any other public facility. If citizens have questions concerning any damages or whether a specific type of damage is covered, please contact your local emergency management office. Once the deadline passes, recovery will not be available. # # #
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  Flood Damage Assessment Begins (17.04 KB)
  
  For immediate release Contact: Rob Harper News Release No. 3 Phone: 800-688-8955 (media only) November 13, 2008 Web address: www.wadisasternews.com Flood Damage Assessment Begins CAMP MURRAY - Local agencies have begun gathering information to determine the damages from this week's onslaught of storms and floods. Homeowners, renters and businesses who have experienced damages as a result of this recent storm series are encouraged to call their local emergency operations center to report their damages. It is imperative that damages be reported immediately to local emergency offices in order for the state to determine whether a Federal Assistance should be sought. When reporting damages, callers should be prepared to supply the following information: Name and address of affected propertyType of insurance (flood)A description of damage, even if uninsuredA personal estimate of uninsured losses (it is not necessary for property owners to have a contractor's estimate - a rough estimate is acceptable.) Tax assessor's valuation of the structure (not including the property value) Public facility managers are also encouraged to call their local emergency management officials to report damages sustained to public buildings, (off-system) roadways, or any other public facility. If citizens have questions concerning any damages or whether a specific type of damage is covered, please contact your local emergency management office. Once the deadline passes, recovery will not be available. #####
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  State Flood Update #2 (38.69 KB)
  
  For immediate release Contact: Rob Harper News Release No. 4 Phone: 800-688-8955 (media only) November 13, 2008 · 2:20 pm Web address: www.wadisasternews.com State Flood Update #2 CAMP MURRAY -- Scattered showers will come to an end today easing Washington's flood threat, allowing state and local jurisdictions to phase down or end emergency response to this week's storms, floods and landslides. Road Closures Road closures or restrictions are in effect in eight counties as reported by state Department of Transportation (WSDOT) . Drivers can check their route before they go at www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/Update. WSDOT will update this Web site as conditions change. Updated travel information is also available by calling 5-1-1. County Proclamations The following counties have declared states of emergency: Chelan, King, Lewis, Pierce, Skagit, Snohomish, and Whatcom as well as the City of Snoqualmie. By the close of business today, November 13, 2008, all jurisdictions will have returned to normal levels of activation. Flood Status Flood warnings remain in effect on the Snohomish, Snoqualmie, and Skykomish rivers, and for small streams in northwestern Kittitas County. Shelters Emergency officials estimate a small number of people were housed in shelters overnight. Only one shelter remained open today, although nine were open overnight. Public Health Information: Water Systems - Washington State Department of Health (DOH) reports no issues with water systems at this time Shellfish - According to the Department of Health, as of November 13, 2008, there are currently nine shellfish harvesting areas in emergency closure status: Burley Lagoon (Approved) (Pierce County) Elk River (Grays Harbor County) Hammersley Inlet (Mason County) Hood 7,8,9 (Mason County, from the Great Bend to Belfair) North Bay (Mason County) Reach Island (Mason County) Vaughn Bay (Pierce County) All of these areas will be reopened tomorrow. Recreational shellfish beaches near these areas were closed as well and also will be reopened tomorrow. DOH also has been monitoring river levels in nine rivers. Of those nine rivers, only one - the Skokomish - is currently impacting shellfish. All of the other rivers tested have failed to reach shellfish closure levels. Shellfish in markets and restaurants come from areas not impacted by the storm and should be safe to consume. For additional information concerning shellfish harvesting, please check the Washington State Department of Health website at: http://ww4.doh.wa.gov/scripts/esrimap.dll?name=bioview&Cmd=Map&Step=1 Other activities and information: Citizens are reminded that landslides can continue to occur for the next week. If anyone notices anything which may indicate a slide occurring they are encouraged to contact their local EOC or law enforcement agency. With soils saturated from the recent heavy rains, winds could cause trees to fall. # # # #
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  Ecology Investigates Dam Breach Near Cosmopolis.pdf (34.05 KB)
  
  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Nov. 12, 2008 08-292 Ecology inspecting dam breach, will recommend repairs to protect property from further flooding in Cosmopolis COSMOPOLIS - Department of Ecology (Ecology) engineers were inspecting a breach of the Mill Creek Dam this afternoon to ensure temporary repairs are made to prevent further flooding of residences. Trees toppling in heavy rains damaged the concrete and earthen structure when the dislodged root balls collapsed a 3- by-6 foot section of the dam. Ecology is monitoring to make sure the public is cordoned off from the breach area and to make sure the dam is inspected by city staff every few hours. No homes were evacuated and no injuries reported, but city officials said as many as 12 residences in Cosmopolis may have sustained at least some flooding in a 3-by-9-block area where water was "above the sidewalk, " said Police Chief Casey Stratton. It was not immediately known how much of the flooding was caused by the heavy rains or in combination with the breach of the city-owned dam. The reservoir behind the dam is about 3 to 4 acres in size and holds about 6.5 million gallons of water. The lake is used for recreation but collects stormwater run-off from surrounding hills. Cosmopolis Public Works Manager Darrin Raines said water overtopped the earthen portion of the dam about 7:45 a.m. today but the reservoir no longer poses a flood threat. A local contractor has been called in to address the potential for further erosion of the breach. Ecology Dam Safety Engineer Jerald Lavassar said Ecology's priority is to make sure that the dam isn't at risk for a larger break. The Mill Creek Dam is one of more than 1,000 dams that Ecology inspects and regulates in Washington state. ### Media Contact: Dan Partridge, 360-407-7139; cell: 360-480-5722; dpar461@ecy.wa.gov For more information: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wr/dams/dss.html Ecology's Web site: http://www.ecy.wa.gov