OK Governor Declares State Of Emergency Due To Earthquakes, Storms

Wednesday, November 9th 2011, 3:03 pm

By: News 9

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin declares a State of Emergency for 20 Oklahoma counties due to earthquakes, tornadoes, severe storms, straight line winds and flooding that began Saturday.

"It's been a tough year for Oklahoma when it comes to weather and natural disasters, but we're doing everything we can to help," Fallin said. "Declaring a state of emergency will help to make sure the state can make necessary emergency purchases and lays the groundwork for any federal assistance we might need to request in the future."

The Governor announced the declaration on Wednesday which includes the following counties: Caddo, Carter, Cleveland, Comanche, Greer, Harmon, Jackson, Johnston, Kiowa, LeFlore, Lincoln, McCurtain, Murray, Okfuskee, Oklahoma, Pottawatomie, Pushmataha, Sequoyah, Tillman, and Washita.

Since Saturday, Oklahoma has experienced four earthquakes of 4.0 magnitude or above, including the 5.6 magnitude quake that broke the state's previous record from 1952.

Additionally, parts of the state experienced tornadoes, straight line winds and heavy rains earlier this week. Some homes and businesses sustained damage as well as roads and bridges. Damage assessments are ongoing.

Under the Executive Order, state agencies can make emergency purchases and acquisitions needed to expedite the delivery of resources to local jurisdictions. The declaration also marks a first step toward seeking federal assistance should it be necessary.

This Executive Order can be amended to include additional counties if needed.