205 W 5th Ave Ellensburg, WA 98926-2887
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Kittitas (pronounced 'KITT-i-tass') County is located in central Washington State. It spans from the lush forested Cascade Mountains to the upper Yakima River Valley plains and the Columbia River.
Kittitas County, WA - 01/10/2022 - The impact of last week’s massive snow event in Kittitas County is continuing to unfold.
The impact of last week’s massive snow event in Kittitas County is continuing to unfold. The county's Department of Public Works is still working aggressively to clear public roadways throughout the county, though many private roads and driveways remain snowed in. From the beginning of this event in the evening of Wednesday 1/5, the Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office formed emergency response plans focused on helping people in danger. Using snowmobiles, tracked UTV’s and patrol vehicles, deputies have evacuated people who requested it; delivered medication to those who needed it; responded to reports of crime; and worked with Kittitas Valley Fire and Rescue to address medical emergencies. We continue to look for and respond to reports of people in danger or dire need, and we’ll continue to work for their safety. Reports of snow damage to private property have been limited, though significant, and scattered. The most dramatic evacuation was of 35 people from an apartment building in Roslyn that was structurally threatened by snow accumulation. Temporary shelter was made available to those residents in Cle Elum. Most traffic accidents and collisions on county roads have been minor (thank you to everyone for slowing down!). Potential flooding is the next significant hazard as this massive snow melts. Now is the time to prepare for potential high water by ensuring that downspouts and culverts are clear. Move snow where it won’t create problems for homes and property and remove valuable or vulnerable property from known flood zones. The Department of Public Works is prepared to stage thousands of sandbags to be filled by property owners if and when local flooding happens. The devastating floods on the west side of the state triggered a statewide declaration of emergency by the Governor. Such a declaration does not, at this point, release any additional state or federal funds to either private parties or local governments. The county is prepared to declare an emergency if and when such a declaration is needed and beneficial. The residents of Kittitas County have stepped up to meet one another’s needs. We ask that they continue to find ways to help friends and loved ones, neighbors, and others who need assistance. We’ve heard great stories of people looking for opportunities to help those who are stuck, stranded, or scared. Keep looking out for one another, and if you need us, call us—we’re always here!
Kittitas County, from the Cascades to the Columbia, and online at http://www.co.kittitas.wa.us
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Contact: Chris Whitsett509-962-7615christopher.whitsett@co.kittitas.wa.us
