THUNDER BAY – WEATHER – The Colorado Low that impacted Northwestern Ontario with rain and snow also impacted the State of Nebraska.
The state was hit hard with widespread flooding that has damaged state infrastructure and caused damage to homes, businesses, and farms.
“As snow and rain pass, many communities have experienced devastating flooding. This could last for quite some time,” said Governor Ricketts. “Nebraskans should watch the weather and waterways in their communities closely in the coming days, and be prepared for historic levels of flooding even if it has not hit their community yet. As Nebraskans know, conditions can change quickly, and everyone needs to be prepared.”
Following a declaration of emergency Tuesday evening, NEMA opened the State Emergency Operation Center (SEOC) in response to hazardous conditions caused by blizzards and flooding impacting the majority of the state.
Over the past several days, Nebraska has experienced historic flooding and extreme weather conditions in nearly every region of the state. The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has been working with local, state, and federal officials to provide assistance to the counties in need while gauging the total damage and impact.
Governor Pete Ricketts, U.S. Senator Ben Sasse, and State Senators visited Fremont, Niobrara, and Lynch as they surveyed the impact of historic flooding. They joined members of the Nebraska National Guard to get an aerial view of flooding impact as they travelled to thank Red Cross volunteers in Fremont, address a community meeting in Niobrara, and receive a briefing in Lynch.
Nebraskans looking to support response efforts should contact their local emergency manager and the Nebraska Red Cross. A directory of local emergency managers can be found by clicking here. Information about the Red Cross can be found by clicking here.
To keep up-to-date on road closings, visit the Nebraska Department of Transportation’s traveller information website at http://www.511.nebraska.gov/. Anyone that becomes involved in an emergency situation, please call 9-1-1 immediately for assistance.
