Gov Justice Orders Activation of SEOC

2/12/2020

Amidst flooding concerns, Gov. Justice orders activation of State Emergency Operations Center

CHARLESTON, WV – Governor Jim Justice has issued a State of Preparedness proclamation ordering the activation of the State Emergency Operations Center. This follows updated rainfall forecasts and briefings from leaders with the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) and the West Virginia National Guard (WVNG).

“Due to last week’s flooding and rainfall, we have an increased threat of flooding across our entire state,” Justice said. “With the health, safety, and property of our citizens at risk, I have ordered the activation of the SEOC with personnel and resources mobilized to respond to areas where this flooding could occur.”

Beginning at 3:00 p.m. on February 12, the SEOC is operating at Enhanced Watch. The coordinating agencies will report to the SEOC until Gov. Justice deems the threat to be neutralized.

The WVNG will be prepositioning two elements of the Swift Water Rescue Team in Gassaway and Dunbar this evening in order to provide rapid response capabilities in the event of rising flood waters. In addition, two liaison officer teams will be embedded with the swift water elements to provide assistance to the local counties who may be impacted.

Remaining WVNG assets, including liaison officer teams, community assistance teams and a medical evacuation crew will continue to be on a four-hour standby throughout the duration of the potential impact period for this weather system.

The SEOC, WVNG and DHSEM Watch Center will perform around-the-clock monitoring of water levels in rivers and streams and organize response to local areas.

Justice asks that all West Virginians remain attentive to weather conditions through local media reports and be sure to follow any instructions issued by emergency officials. For updates, follow DHSEM on social media https://www.facebook.com/WVDHSEM/ and https://twitter.com/WVDHSEM.

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For more information, contact the West Virginia Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management Public Information Officer Lora Lipscomb at: (304) 558-5380 or email: lora.d.lipscomb@wv.gov or the West Virginia National Guard Public Affairs Office at: (304) 561-6762 or email: holli.r.nelson.mil@mail.mil.

Contact Information

Lora Lipscomb, WVDHSEM Public Information Officer