Vernonia Gets Good News from Governor and FEMA

The healing process for flood victims will take several months. In the meantime, however, over 1,100 volunteers and several cooperators are working to help residents return to normalcy.

The State Fire Marshal has been on scene for days Photo courtesy: http://vernoniafloodinfo.blogspot.com/

(VERNONIA, Ore.) - One week after Oregon Governor Ted Kulongoski declared a state of emergency, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized a full declaration for federal assistance for flood victims in Columbia County. Kulongoski and members of FEMA personally brought the good news to the people of Vernonia.

The Governor walked the streets of Vernonia and spoke with victims about their needs. On Wednesday, Kulongoski asked President Bush for an expedited federal declaration of emergency.

As of noon today, FEMA began taking applications for federal assistance for flood victims. Those affected should call 1-800-621-FEMA.

The latest tally of those affected by the December 1st winter storm include 297 damaged homes with an initial damage assessment of $13 million, according to Columbia County officials. Another $8 million in damages was assessed for commercial property.

Over 500 people were initially displaced. The Red Cross sheltered 39 people Saturday night.

The healing process for flood victims will take several months. In the meantime, however, over 1,100 volunteers and several cooperators are working to help residents return to normalcy.

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Since the storm struck, 44 dump trucks and loaders each day have joined local residents in hauling more than 1,000 tons of debris to the Old Railroad Grade in downtown Vernonia.

A water rationing advisory that had been in effect throughout the week was officially lifted Saturday night, allowing residents to return to their daily routine of washing clothes and other household chores that many of us take for granted.

Residents with wells are encouraged to test their water supply with a kit provided by Victims Assistance volunteers at City Hall. Water supplied by the city is suitable for drinking. Bottled water is also available at the Vernonia Learning Center courtyard.