Nov. 17, 2006
Flood damage estimates collected
Millions in flood-related losses around the county
The King County Office of Emergency Management has completed the collection of preliminary flood damage assessments for primary residences and businesses around the county. Work continues through Monday, November 20th to determine damage estimates to public assets. State and Federal inspectors toured the county on Wednesday and Thursday of this week to get a first hand look at the extensive damage to homes and businesses caused by the flood waters. Similar teams will be in region beginning Monday, November 27th to inspect public assets affected by the floods.
As of 12:00 p.m. today, individual homes and businesses have flood losses estimated at $4M; while public assets in the county have an estimated $30M in flood-related losses. These figures are broad estimates of damage. Detailed damage figures will be available as further inspection occurs.
"We remain concerned and dedicated to helping the residents and businesses of King County recover from the most significant flooding our region has seen in over 10 years", said King County Office of Emergency Management director Eric Holdeman. "In cooperation with our state and federal partners, the county is working to ease the burden of this disaster on those impacted citizens", added Holdeman.
The flood damage assessments collected from county residents over the past week have now been submitted to the Washington State Emergency Management Division, to assist Governor Gregoire in requesting federal disaster assistance. Should a federal declaration be announced for this flood event, additional information will be provided on how home and business owners are to file claims with FEMA.
The King County Damage Hotline is now closed. If residents of King County need additional information on flood recovery and assistance they should call the King County Office of Emergency Management at (206) 296-3830.