For Immediate Release:
Tuesday, April 17,
2007
Governor Issues Emergency Disaster Declaration for Wind
and Flood Damage
Montpelier,
Vt. As a result of severe wind and flooding, Governor Jim Douglas this morning issued
an Executive Order declaring a State of Emergency for all counties of
Vermont.
The
order allows the state to expedite the arrival of utility crews from other
states and Canadian provinces to assist with restoring power. It will also form the basis for an
application for federal disaster relief funding.
As a result of excessive rainfall and heavy snow, combined with
excessive winds from the April Noreaster&that caused flooding and extensive
utility damage that is considered ongoing at this time due to extended power
outages, road damage and damage to public and private property throughout the
State, I hereby declare a State of Emergency for the State of Vermont, the
Governors Executive Order reads.
I further order and direct the activation of the Vermont Emergency
Operations Plan and authorize the use of state resources to alleviate hardship
and suffering of citizens and communities impacted by the storm and resulting
damage and power outages, the Governor said.
Governor Douglas is also urging Vermonters to continue to use caution,
assist neighbors with special needs, avoid downed power lines and report outages
to their utility company.
Vermonters with questions or concerns can call Vermont Emergency
Management at (800) 347-0488.
###