Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Governor Culver Urges Iowans To Be Prepared For Potential Severe Weather
(Des Moines) Governor Chet Culver and Lt. Governor Patty Judge want to ensure that Iowans have the most up-to-date information regarding another impending storm that is set to enter Iowa later tonight and early tomorrow.
“The safety of Iowans is my number one job,” Culver stressed. “I will be proactive and will take every step needed to ensure we are prepared to help Iowans.”
“With a forecast for another ice storm and high winds, the situation could deteriorate quickly and leave even more Iowans without power,” Culver said. “We want Iowans to know they should take this forecast seriously and be prepared to take all necessary precautions.”
Local and state emergency management officials have opened 62 shelters in Iowa and are prepared to open other facilities. In addition, National Guard armories stand ready to open up for those displaced, if needed.
At 6:00 p.m. today, 81,000 Iowa households were without power. Utility crews continue to work extraordinary hours to bring power back to Iowans and are being supported by other crews from around the country.
While state and local officials continued to monitor the weather and oversee recovery efforts, the state legislature today began initial work on a bill to provide disaster assistance grants to those who have been affected by the storm. Quick action is expected by the legislature, and the Governor hopes to sign the legislation as soon as possible.
“As our state recovers from this storm, state government has an obligation to provide assistance to those affected,” said the Governor. “I am glad the General Assembly has taken up disaster relief legislation, and I look forward to signing this bill to help support recovery efforts in the state.”