Snow, ice cleanup continues in Pacific Northwest
Officials in the Pacific Northwest are still evaluating the damage and homeowners insurance claims left behind after one of strongest winter storms in the region's history.
The storms last week forced the governors of both Washington and Oregon to declare emergencies, with three people reported killed. By Thursday, nearly 7 inches of snow had already fallen on Seattle, where the previous record was just 2.9 inches.
Over the weekend, winds of up to 50 miles per hour knocked down trees and power lines across the region. At the same time, slightly warmer temperatures caused snow to quickly melt, leading to flooding in many areas.
"The return of severe winter weather has overwhelmed communities across our state," said Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber. "My priority is to ensure the safety of all Oregonians and their properties. With this emergency declaration, I have directed all available state resources to help affected counties in any way possible."
Kitzhaber spent time in the town of Turner last week, according to The Associated Press, where at least 100 homes were damaged. Emergency crews needed to perform dozens of water rescues for area residents.
Related Home Insurance Articles:
- Homes destroyed by Nevada wildfire May 23, 2012
- Researchers hope to better understand tornado damage May 22, 2012
- Total costs from Minneapolis tornado reach $80 million May 21, 2012
- Analysis shows more than $2B of insurance claims from Joplin tornado May 18, 2012
- Recovery continues for Michigan tornado victims May 17, 2012
