OLYMPIA — Gov. Jay Inslee has declared a state of emergency for Okanogan County following severe rainstorms earlier this month that resulted in flash floods and mudslides that blocked two state highways.
On Aug. 21, severe storms produced extreme rainfall over fire damaged areas, resulting in flash flooding, landslides and slope erosion.
Debris blocked large sections of State Route 153 and State Route 20, resulting in road closures, limited access and detours during the busy summer tourism season.
The cost to fix the roads is estimated at more than $800,000.
The proclamation directs state agencies to do everything reasonably possible to assist affected areas. The proclamation will also help in an effort to secure federal highway dollars to repair the road.
