WSR 08-05-061

PROCLAMATION

OFFICE OF

THE GOVERNOR

[ February 2, 2006 ]


PROCLAMATION BY THE GOVERNOR


     WHEREAS, multiple storm fronts beginning in mid December 2005 produced strong winds and heavy rain that resulted in mudflows, landslides, mountain snows, and high tides capable of producing major coastal erosion, caused extensive damage and continue to impact the citizens and infrastructure of Washington State; and


     These events caused damages affecting lands, rivers, coastal areas, and thousands of items of transportation infrastructure; and


     The cumulative effects of flooding and saturated soil conditions associated with the steady rainfall for 25 days, resulting in erosion, earth movement, mudflows and landslides across the state which affected 12 counties resulted in a State of Emergency Proclamation on January 12, 2006; and


     Since January 12, 2006, Washington State has continued to receive above normal rainfall and the National Weather Service long-range forecast for Washington State anticipates significant additional precipitation; and


     Washington State continues to experience damage to affected lands, rivers, and transportation infrastructure.


     NOW, THEREFORE, I, Christine Gregoire, Governor of the state of Washington, as a result of the above-mentioned situation and under Chapters 38.08, 38.52, and 43.06 RCW, do hereby simultaneously rescind the State of Emergency Proclamation dated January 12, 2006, proclaim that a State of Emergency exists in all 39 counties of Washington State, and direct the supporting plans and procedures of the Washington State Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan be implemented. With this proclamation, I direct all state agencies and departments to utilize state resources and to do everything possible to assist affected political subdivisions in an effort to respond to and recover from the events. Further, I direct the Washington State Emergency Management Department to work with local emergency management offices to collect information on flood related damage to homes, businesses, and public utilities to enable the state to determine whether to issue a full disaster proclamation. Additionally, the Washington State Department of Transportation shall coordinate all event-related assistance to the affected areas.


     Signed and sealed with the official seal of the state of Washington this 2nd day of February, Two Thousand and Six at Olympia, Washington.
By:
Christine O. Gregoire
Governor
BY THE GOVERNOR:
Sam Reed
Secretary of State

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