YVOEM

Damage from the January16-23 Weather Event

2012-01-27T11:40:00.000-08:00

(Yakima, WASH-)
The Small Business Administration (SBA) has two loan programs which may assist victims of disasters. These are the Physical Disaster Loan Program, which basically requires that 25 residences and/or businesses suffer uninsured loss in excess of 40%; and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, which can be requested if 5 or more businesses suffer economic harm from the event, even if they’re physically undamaged. (The latter program is not very well known).

I’m attaching a short survey form for use in supporting an EIDL request. If you believe your businesses in Yakima County was affected by the January 16-23 weather event, please report the impact. ###
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ESTIMATED DISASTER ECONOMIC INJURY WORKSHEET FOR BUSINESSAccurate responses to the questions below will assist in evaluating a request for a declaration of
disaster.(Please complete and email to : oem@co.yakima.wa.us or post by standard mail to :Y.V.O.E.M ,128 N. 2nd street, suite 110 Yakima, WA 98901)
1. Name of Business Owner:

Name of Property Owner:

Business/Property Address:

Mailing Address:

Telephone Numbers: Business: ( )________ Home: ( )____________

2. Estimated Adverse Economic Impact:

What period of time was your business affected by the disaster? to

MO/YR MO/YR

Estimate approximate dollar amount of gross sales/receipts for:

Disaster Period $

Corresponding Period Previous Year $

3. Business interruption insurance received or anticipated: $

4. Brief explanation of what adverse economic effects the disaster had on your business:

5. How many persons did you employ prior to the disaster?

How many persons did you employ after the disaster?

If your business also suffered a physical loss, answer the following questions:
6. Estimated dollar loss to:

Real Property (building), if owned: $

Personal property (machinery and equipment,

Furniture and fixtures, inventory, leasehold improvements, etc): $

7. Insurance recovery received or anticipated for physical damage: $

Signature of Business Owner/Representative Date_____________________________

Winter Readiness Reminders

2012-01-18T11:23:00.000-08:00

Yakima, WASH- The State Enhanced 911 Office and local telephone carriers remind citizens in the affected area:

 To stay off the telephone unless you have a critical need to make a telephone call. Remember a FAX or a computer also uses a telephone line and its use may affect your ability to get immediate help in a life-threatening emergency.

 DO NOT call 9-1-1 unless you need an emergency response from police, fire or emergency medical personnel. DO NOT call 9-1-1 unnecessarily. 9-1-1 lines must be kept open for people who have a true emergency.

 If you experience other types of problems not related to these emergency services, call the appropriate telephone number for those services.

 If you pick up your telephone to make a call and do not hear dial tone, DO NOT HANG UP. Simply wait a few seconds, and you will get dial tone and be able to make your call.

Residents in the state should consider the following preparedness actions:

 Listen to radio or television stations for local information and weather reports.

 Do not use charcoal or gas grills to cook or heat indoors.

 If you must travel, assemble an emergency auto kit, stay on main roads, follow traffic instructions.

 If the power goes out, keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep food frozen up to two days.

 Provide assistance to your neighbors, especially the elderly or disabled.

Winter weather could mean power outages and increased chances of carbon monoxide poisoning. That kind of poisoning is the result of poorly ventilated generators or using charcoal or gas grills to cook or heat indoors. For more information about how to prepare for winter storm power outages and avoid carbon monoxide hazards, check these web links from Washington Emergency Management Division:

• http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_infocus_winter2011.shtml

• http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_infocus_winter2011.shtml#COSafety

• http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_infocus_winter2011.shtml#PowerLines

• http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_infocus_winter2011.shtml#FoodSafe

Prevenga el Envenenamiento de Monóxido de Carbón
¿Qué es el monóxido de carbono?

In Spanish /Espaniol

Unwanted Guests

2012-01-09T12:57:00.000-08:00

Northwest Farm and Ranch Report / KayDee Gilkey

January 05, 12

The Northwest’s high quality soil which makes our agriculture so productive is also conducive to cultivating higher quality, and therefore more expensive, marijuana. Drug trafficking organizations have now found it easier, less dangerous, and more profitable to grow closer to their market in the Pacific Northwest, especially in rural areas.

CR Katlin, Homeland Security Planner for the Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management, shares what the challenges are monitoring large geographic area owned by multiple jurisdictions.

"Eastern Washington offers the narco-criminals a vast rural region of private agricultural, tribal, state and federal lands. These mostly un-patrolled sanctuaries are the home of undermanned/ underfunded county and tribal law enforcement agencies. With in Yakima County alone there are 15 municipal jurisdiction, eight counties on the border, one sovereign nation, 806 square miles owned by Feds and 363 square miles owned by state. All this makes for an abundance of jurisdictionally hazy border lands to set up grow operations.”

Katlin says a property owner’s discovery of any unfamiliar fertilizer, garden hoses,camouflage netting, "Keep Out" signs, guard dogs or unusual structures can indicate the presence of a marijuana grow operation. He urges property owners NOT to investigate any suspicious activity but rather to report it immediately to local or state law authorities.

Click on the play button to listen to report.

Download Report: 01-05-12NWFR Unwelcome GuestsWEB.mp3

Is Your Farm or Ranch Disaster-Ready?

2012-01-05T10:13:00.000-08:00

Northwest Farm and Ranch Report/Date: January 03, 12
by KayDee Gilkey
-------------------
No one can predict when disaster or an emergency will strike. However, farmers, ranchers and other business owners can be prepared for possible disruptions by creating a business continuity plan.

KR Catlin, Homeland Security Planner for the Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management, explains some of the pieces of a standard Continuity of Operations Plan (or COOP).

"The things to look for in your COOP plan is to train family or employees on a regular basis about what to do during a disaster or emergency. Acquiring and maintaining needed safety equipment and emergency supplies that you would need for your family or to keep your operation going. Showing your family or employees how to be prepared at work and at home so they are better equipped to help the farm respond and recover from an emergency or disaster. You need to Identify the key assets, people, or resources that if lost would shut your operation down; and then plan on how to eliminate some of that risk if they are lost. Also you need to conduct and assess regular evaluations by just sitting down with family/ employees and asking, 'what would you do?' to determine the readiness of your farm or facilities."

Catlin stresses it is important to consider your region and what type of disasters would most likely impact your business and then plan accordingly. A free online resource www.readyrating.org is designed to help interested businesses develop COOP plans.

Click on the play button to listen to report.
Download Report: NWFR01-03-12COOPweb.mp3

Anatomy of a Disaster

2011-12-09T14:38:00.000-08:00

Yakima, WASH-
From time to time our office is asked, "what type of assistance is there for disaster victims"? Unfortunately there is no easy answer to this question. Every disaster must meet certain criteria for certain levels of governmental assistance. Below is a basic guide on what may be available:

Immediate Emergency Help: The American Red Cross, Salvation Army and other volunteer organizations can and will provide immediate aid in the way of clothing, emergency food, medical assistance, emergency shelters, clean-up help, transportation help and furniture. This assistance is available upon request from individuals or government agencies. American Red Cross: 509-457-1690, Salvation Army: 509-453-3139.

Federal Disaster Assistance:

This can be provided through the Stafford Act when the President declares a major disaster. The request must be made from the governor of the affected state, to the President. The governor must receive the request by the local jurisdiction impacted by the disaster. Assistance provided includes minimal assistance for housing repairs, housing replacement, rental assistance and help with medical, dental, and funeral expenses, vehicle repair/replacement, transportation, and certain other personal property losses.

Registration: When the president declares a disaster, that includes the Individuals and Households Program, FEMA sets up a toll-free registration number (800-621-3362) where individuals and households can begin to apply for immediate assistance. Internet registration can also be made at www.fema.gov/assistance/ or www.disasterassistance.gov . If you do not register, you will not get help.

Individual and Household Program consists of Housing Assistance (HA) and Other Needs Assistance

HA assists eligible individuals/households with housing needs like financial assistance to rent alternative housing, repair owner occupied private residences and to replace owner occupied private residences ONA awards are available to qualified individuals/ households who have serious, disaster-related needs and expenses for which assistance from other federal, state, or voluntary agencies disaster programs are unavailable or inadequate. These needs typically fall into the categories of medical, dental, and funeral expenses, as well as personal property, transportation, and other necessary expenses or serious needs. This program is only available when the president declares a disaster.

In the absence of insurance, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has two loan programs that could help a community in lieu of a presidential declaration. SBA Physical Loss Disaster Loans program provides low interest loans to eligible individuals and businesses that have incurred disaster damage. Loans are intended to help victims repair or replace damaged property to a pre-disaster condition.SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL): EIDL provides low-interest loans to eligible small businesses that have suffered substantial economic injury, regardless of physical damage. It provides loans for operating expenses until business recovers. For more information about SBA loans, go to: www.sba.gov/financialassistance/.

Farm Service Agency Loans: The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) provides emergency loans to help farmers and ranchers recover from physical and production losses, to repair or replace farm property and supplies, or repay farm operating debts incurred during the disaster year. For more information about FSA loans, go to: www.fsa.usda.gov/FSA and click on State Offices.

NOV. 9 Emergency Alert Test

2011-11-04T10:55:00.002-07:00

Washington D.C. - The first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System will be carried out on November 9, 2011. For more information about the test or access to the participant reporting system, please click here.

The FCC, in conjunction with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Weather Service (NWS), implements the EAS at the federal level. The President has sole responsibility for determining when the EAS will be activated at the national level, and has delegated this authority to the director of FEMA. FEMA is responsible for implementation of the national-level activation of the EAS, tests, and exercises. The NWS develops emergency weather information to alert the public about imminent dangerous weather conditions. Unlike the 60 second test of years past this test will be 3 minutes long. Television and radio broadcasts will be stopped during this time period.

Hazardous Materials Response

2011-11-04T10:53:00.000-07:00

CEMP ESF #10 Hazardous Materials Response has been updated. It is consistent with guidance provided by the SERC. It is ready for review and comments by stakeholders. Contact Charles Erwin at 509.574.1905. An electronic copy will be provided.

Disaster Assistance Available for Small Businesses

2011-10-20T13:55:00.000-07:00

Yakima, WASH– Small, non farm businesses in 26 Washington counties are now eligible to apply for low-interest disaster loans from the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA). “These loans offset economic losses because of reduced revenues caused by the combined effects frosts, freezes, extreme cold, high winds and excessive snow that occurred in the following 15 primary Washington counties from November 10, 2010 through March 25, 2011,” announced Alfred E. Judd, Director of SBA’s Disaster Field Operations Center-West.

Primary Washington counties: Benton, Chelan, Clallam, Douglas, Franklin, Grant, Island, King, Kittitas, Klickitat, Okanogan, Skagit, Snohomish, Walla Walla and Yakima;

Neighboring Washington counties: Adams, Columbia, Ferry, Jefferson, Kitsap, Lewis, Lincoln, Pierce, Skamania, Whatcom and Whitman;

“SBA eligibility covers both the economic impacts on businesses dependent on farmers and ranchers that have suffered agricultural production losses caused by the disaster and businesses directly impacted by the disaster,” Judd said.

Small, non farm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private, nonprofit organizations of any size may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred.

“Eligibility for these loans is based on the financial impact of the disaster only and not on any actual property damage. These loans have an interest rate of 4% for businesses and 3% for private, nonprofit organizations, a maximum term of 30 years, and are available to small businesses and most private, nonprofits without the financial ability to offset the adverse impact without hardship,” Judd said.

By law, SBA makes EIDLs available when the U. S. Secretary of Agriculture designates an agricultural disaster. Secretary Tom Vilsack declared this disaster at the request of Governor Chris Gregoire.

Businesses primarily engaged in farming or ranching are not eligible for SBA disaster assistance. Agricultural enterprises should contact the Farm Services Agency (FSA) about the U. S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) assistance made available by the Secretary’s declaration.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure Web site at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.

Disaster loan information and application forms are also available from SBA’s Customer Service Center by calling SBA toll-free at (800) 659-2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA’s Web site at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing may call (800) 877-8339. The deadline to apply for these loans is June 13, 2012.

For more information, visit SBA’s Web site at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance. SBA Field Operations Center - West, P.O. Box 419004, Sacramento, CA 95841

###

Prepare/ Update Your Emergency Plan This October

2011-10-04T11:25:00.000-07:00

OCT. 4, 2011-Yakima, WASH.

As we approach fall/ winter weather Yakima Valley O.E.M. reminds you that when a major disaster occurs, it is unlikely that emergency response services will be able to immediately respond to everyone’s needs. It is important to be prepared to take care of your family. Plan to be on your own for at least three days.

This month start to prepare for any emergency if you have not done so already. You can do it by:

• Designate an out-of-area contact person. Try to select someone that is far enough away to not be affected by the same emergency. Provide this person with the names and contact information of the people you want to keep informed of your situation. Instruct family members to call this person and tell them where they are. Long distance phone service is often restored sooner than local service.

• Duplicate important documents and keep copies off-site, either in a safety deposit box or with someone you trust. Documents may include: passport, drivers license, social security card, wills, deeds, financial statements, insurance information, marriage license and prescriptions.

• Inventory valuables, in writing and with photographs or video. Keep copies of this information off-site with your other important documents.

• Make a family plan . Involve all key people in planning.

• Check your home for potential safety hazards.

• Put together a disaster kit . Plan to have supplies for yourself and your family for at least 3 days following a disaster.

• When planning, consider the special needs of kids, disabled, seniors, family members that don’t speak English and pets.

Learn more at our website: http://www.yakimacounty.us/oem/checklist.htm

federal disaster loans for residents/ business affected by White Swan Fire

2011-07-25T11:00:00.001-07:00

(CONFEDERATED TRIBES OF THE YAKAMA NATION-WHITESWAN, WASH.)

U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION NEWS RELEASE -- Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to Washington residents and business owners affected by the White Swan Fire that occurred February 12 - 13, 2011, in Yakima County, announced U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Karen G. Mills. SBA acted under its own authority to declare a disaster following the July 1 denial of the state’s appeal for a major disaster declaration.

The disaster declaration makes SBA assistance available in Yakima County and the neighboring Washington counties of Benton, Grant, King, Kittitas, Klickitat, Lewis, Pierce and Skamania.

“The U. S. Small Business Administration is strongly committed to providing the most effective and customer-focused response possible to assist those residents and businesses affected by the White Swan Fire with Federal disaster loans,” said Mills. “Getting our businesses and communities up and running after a disaster is our highest priority at SBA.”

“Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and private, non-profit organizations whose property was damaged or destroyed by the disaster,” said SBA’s Seattle District Director Nancy Porzio. “Beginning Wednesday, July 20, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the following Disaster Loan Outreach Center to issue loan applications, answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each individual complete their application,” Porzio continued. The center will be open on the days and times indicated. No appointment is necessary:

Yakima County
Disaster Loan Outreach Center
Wilbur Memorial United Methodist Church
80 Curtis Street
White Swan, WA 98952

Open Wednesday, July 20, 1:00 pm to 5:30 pm
and Thursday, July 21, 9:00 am to 5:30 pm
Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property.

Businesses of any size and private, non-profit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets. SBA can also lend additional funds to homeowners and businesses to help with the cost of making improvements that protect, prevent or minimize the same type of disaster damage from occurring in the future.

For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. EIDL assistance is available regardless of whether the business suffered any property damage.

Interest rates can be as low as 2.563 percent for homeowners and renters, 3 percent for private, non profit organizations and 4 percent for businesses, with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

Applicants may apply online using SBA’s secure Web site at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.

Disaster loan information and applications are also available by calling (800) 659-2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or on the SBA Web site at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance. Hearing impaired individuals may call (800) 877-8339.
The filing deadline to return applications for property damage is September 19, 2011. The deadline to return economic injury applications is April 19, 2012.

Yakima County Small Stream Flood Advisory

2011-03-31T12:15:00.001-07:00

Yakima County Small Stream Flood Advisory

(YAKIMA, WASH)

THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN PENDLETON :

* SMALL STREAM FLOOD ADVISORY FOR RAIN AND MELTING SNOW IN...

YAKIMA COUNTY IN SOUTH CENTRAL WASHINGTON….UNTIL 1115 AM PDT FRIDAY

* NUMEROUS SMALL STREAMS AND CREEKS ACROSS WESTERN YAKIMA COUNTY

HAVE SEEN RAPID RISES WITH MINOR FLOODING REPORTED ON COWICHE CREEK

AND WENAS CREEK.

ADDITIONAL RAINFALL OF 0.50 TO 1 INCHES IS EXPECTED ALONG THE CREST

OF THE CASCADES. THE RAIN AND MILD TEMPERATURES WILL CONTINUE TO

CAUSE INCREASED RUNOFF WITH MINOR FLOODING POSSIBLE ON THE SMALL

STREAMS AND CREEKS ACROSS WESTERN YAKIMA COUNTY. THE WATER LEVELS

ARE EXPECTED TO DECREASE BY LATE FRIDAY.

DO NOT ATTEMPT TO TRAVEL ACROSS FLOODED ROADS. FIND ALTERNATE ROUTES. IT TAKES ONLY A FEW INCHES OF SWIFTLY FLOWING WATER TO CARRY VEHICLES AWAY.

WHITE SWAN RECOVERY

2011-02-15T13:39:00.000-08:00

-White Swan, Confederated Tribes of the Yakama Nation/ Washington State

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management has received calls regarding questions and concerns about the White Swan Fire. While we supported efforts at the fire, we would like to remind readers that it did not occur directly with in our jurisdiction. It happened with in the confines of the Confederated Tribes of the Yakama Nation.

The Nation managed the incident. Our office and numerous valley First Responders supported the Yakama Nation, just like the Nation has and would support the cities of the valley in similar circumstance. The Yakama Nation as a sovereign entity, is in charge of this event. All questions regarding recovery efforts need to be directed toward the Tribe and the Yakima Nation Office of Emergency Management.

If people would like to show there support to the victims of the White Swan Fire we have a list of donation sites and support events.Several places are accepting donations of money, clothing and other useful items for families affected by Saturday’s fire. Officials say the greatest needs are for children’s clothing and diapers. Locations and fundraisers include:

--Toppenish Armory, 326 S. Division St. The armory also will be serving breakfast, lunch and dinner today.

--White Swan Methodist Church.

--Winter House in White Swan.

--The Trading Post in White Swan.

--EZ bucks in Toppenish and Wapato.

--Top Stop in Toppenish.

--The Yakama Nation has set up a bank account at Bank of America called White Swan Fire Relief Fund.

--The Wapato High School boys and girls basketball teams will hold a spaghetti fundraiser dinner from 5:30-8 p.m. today in the Wapato High School cafeteria.

Rivers Crest and Stay High-Update on Weekend Flooding

2011-01-18T12:57:00.000-08:00

Yakima, WASH- Jan. 18, 2011

   As the Valley begins to dry out from a wet weekend, the Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management asks all citizens to be mindful of flood safety.

   Yakima County rivers have crested and while river levels will stay high for the following day, they should then begin to recede.  Any non-agricultural business/ property damage that occurred as a result of the local flooding this weekend should be reported the Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management at 509-574-1920.

   Yakima Office of Emergency Management reminds you of what you should be doing before, during, and after a flood:

Before

• Find out if you live in a flood-prone area and identify earthen, irrigation, hydro-electric, etc. dams, that are upstream from your area, and could be the source of potential problems.

• Know the terms "Flood Watch", "Flood Warning", and "Urban and Small Stream Warning".

• Plan what you would do if asked to evacuate.

• Consider purchasing flood insurance.

• Take steps to flood proof your home.

• Keep all insurance policies and your household inventory in a safe place.

During

• Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, local radio or television stations for information.

• Be aware of streams, drainage canals and areas known to flood suddenly.

• People living in low-lying areas are encourage starting moving property away from the river bank and keep an eye on river levels. Motorists are also reminded not to drive through flooded areas, but instead to “turn around, don’t drown”.

• Livestock owners should also make sure higher ground is available for their animals, if living in flood prone areas.

• Secure your home. If time permits, secure items located outside the house.

• If instructed, turn off utilities at the main switches or valves.

• Fill your car with fuel.

• Fill the bathtub with water in case water becomes contaminated or services are cut off. Sterilize the bathtub first.

• Stay away from flood waters.

• Do NOT attempt to drive over flooded roads. The depth of water is not always obvious. The road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.

After

• Stay away from flood waters.

• Stay away from moving water. Moving water six inches deep can sweep you off your feet.

• Be aware of areas where flood waters have receded and may have weakened road surfaces.

• Stay away from and report downed power lines.

• Stay away from disaster areas unless authorities ask for volunteers.

• Continue listening to the radio for event and assistance information.

• Consider health and safety needs. Wash your hands frequently with soap and clean water if you come in contact with flood waters.

• Throw away food that has come in contact with flood waters.

• Call your insurance agent.

• Take photos of or videotape your belongings and your home.

• Don't throw away damaged goods until an official inventory has been taken.

• Report damages of property or business to local Emergency Management Office.

Report any Damage to Property

2011-01-18T09:42:00.001-08:00

Yakima, WASH- Jan. 18, 2011

Flood Warnings have been cancelled by Pendleton Weather for the Naches river.(see below). While flooding in Yakima County was limited to a few locations, the Office of Emergency Management would like to ensure all incidents of damage to property/ business are recorded.

Reporting such incidents does not obligate citizens to participate in any state/ federal programs. The estimates of damage will be tallied up on county and state reports. If a specific threshold is reached possible funds could be made available to offset economic damages.

Any non-agricultural business/ property damage that occurred as a result of the local flooding this weekend should be reported the Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management at 509-574-1920.

Reported damage can qualify private businesses and public infrastructure for numerous relief fund programs if a certain threshold is reached. The thresholds marks vary from program to program. The first step in establishing what the county or the state will qualify for is to get an accurate estimate of what damage has occurred.

Category: Safety
Events: Flood
ResponseType: None
Urgency: Immediate
Severity: Extreme
Certainty: Observed
Audience:
EventCode: FLW
Effective: 2011-01-17T19:20:49-00:00
Onset: 2011-01-17T19:20:49-00:00
Expires: 2011-01-17T20:20:49-00:00
SenderName: State Emergency Operations Officer
Headline: Floow Warning--CANCELLED
Description: From NWS-Pendleton: the Flood Warning for the Naches River near Cliffdell is cancelled. ts/df
Instruction: From NWS-Pendleton: the Flood Warning for the Naches River near Cliffdell is cancelled. ts/df

Heavy Precipitation Forecasted for Yakima Valley

2011-01-13T10:12:00.000-08:00

Yakima, WA-
Heavy precipitation is forecast from today into the weekend for our area. The big questions will be if it changes from snow to rain, how warm it will get, and whether rain will continue into Monday. The Pendleton Weather Office issued a hydrological outlook for possible small stream flooding in the Blue Mountains (Walla Walla area).

Though the NW River Forecast Center did not show much "river rise" in the forecast today, we recommend checking again as we get closer to the weekend.

Those living in flood prone areas should follow the weather reports, and keep an eye on the creek or river conditions local to their area.

#

Links:

River Forecast Center, http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/ - also the “Discussion” link now includes maps with temperature and precipitation forecasts.

Pendleton NWS Office, http://newweb.wrh.noaa.gov/pdt/

Bureau of Reclamation Yakima Status, http://www.usbr.gov/pn/hydromet/yakima/yakstats.txt

Long term forecast from the Pendleton NWS Office:
.LONG TERM...THURSDAY THROUGH SATURDAY NIGHT...THE MAIN FORECAST

CONCERN WITH THE EARLY PART OF THE EXTENDED IS THE HIGH SNOW LEVELS

AND THE HEAVY RAIN POTENTIAL. A VERY MOIST SYSTEM WILL CONTINUE TO

MOVE THROUGH THE AREA ON THURSDAY. SNOW LEVELS WILL ALSO BE ON THE

RISE WITH MOST OF THE AREA RECEIVING RAIN WITH THIS SYSTEM.

PRECIPITATION TOTALS OF AROUND AN INCH ARE POSSIBLE ALONG THE

CASCADE CREST AND AROUND A HALF INCH OF ADDITIONAL PRECIPITATION ON

THURSDAY FOR THE BLUE MOUNTAINS. WILL NEED TO MONITOR THE SITUATION

FOR RISES IN THE LOCAL RIVERS. THE RIDGE OF HIGH PRESSURE OFF THE

WEST COAST WILL THEN BUILD NORTHWARD...PUSHING THE MOISTURE STREAM

NORTH INTO MAINLY WASHINGTON BY FRIDAY. THERE IS UNCERTAINTY HOWEVER

IN HOW FAR NORTH THE MOISTURE WILL BE PUSHED...THEREFORE HAVE LEFT A

CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION ACROSS PORTIONS OF OREGON WITH THE BETTER

CHANCE FOR THE NORTHEAST MOUNTAINS (UNDER UPSLOPE FLOW) AND IN

WASHINGTON WHERE THE BAND OF MOISTURE WILL BE LOCATED. BY FRIDAY

NIGHT...ANOTHER DISTURBANCE WILL MOVE THROUGH THE NORTHWESTERLY

FLOW...BRINGING A ROUND OF RAIN FOR THE ENTIRE REGION. SNOW LEVELS

WILL REMAIN 5000-6000 FEET INTO THE WEEKEND. PRECIPITATION WILL

REMAIN POSSIBLE ON SATURDAY...BUT THE NEXT DISTURBANCE WILL PUSH

THROUGH THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST SATURDAY NIGHT FOR AN INCREASED THREAT

OF RAIN AND HIGH ELEVATION RAIN AND SNOW. DMH

SUNDAY THROUGH MONDAY NIGHT...MODELS CONTINUE TO INDICATE WIDESPREAD

MOISTURE ACROSS THE INTERIOR PACIFIC NORTHWEST. AND ALTHOUGH IT IS

TOO SOON TO TELL...MODELS ARE BEGINNING TO INDICATE A FAVORABLE

PATTERN FOR DOWNSLOPE WINDS. SINCE WIND DRIVEN EVENTS DON`T USUALLY

HAVE HIGH CONCENTRATIONS OF PRECIPITATION...THIS PRESENTS A

CHALLENGE FOR POPS. AS IT STANDS HAVE KEPT POPS IN THE LIKELY

CATEGORY FOR THE EAST SLOPES OF THE CASCADES AND CHANCE TO LIKELY

ALONG THE MOUNTAINS OF NORTHEAST OREGON. THE LOWER ELEVATIONS HAVE

BEEN REDUCED 20 TO 30 POPS SINCE THAT IS THE AREA MOST LIKELY TO SEE

WIND AND LITTLE TO NO RAIN. RIGHT NOW THE BEST CHANCE FOR STRONG

WINDS LOOKS TO BE MONDAY AFTERNOON BUT THIS COULD CHANGE FROM DAY TO

DAY. HIGH TEMPERATURES CONTINUE TO LOOK WELL ABOVE FREEZING FOR THE

EXTENDED AND MAY EVEN REACH THE LOWER 50S ACROSS THE FOOTHILLS AND

THE LOWER COLUMBIA BASIN...AS STRONG SOUTHERLY WIND KEEPS WARM AIR

ADVECTION OVER THE AREAS. WEBER

2011-01-10T14:22:00.000-08:00

The Washington State Fusion Center

From time to time our office is asked, “what should I do if I see something that might jeopardize homeland security?”. If it is something that local law enforcement will not act upon, report it to the Washington State Fusion Center. Below is some more information:

The Washington State Fusion Center supports activities to detect, deter, and prevent terrorism. This is accomplished through information collection, integration, analysis, reporting, and dissemination of analytical reports and other information across Federal, State, and Local government agencies, public officials, and private sector critical infrastructure key resource partners.

If you see something, say something! Report suspicious activity immediately to local authorities by calling
9-1-1.The Washington State Fusion Center would like to receive reports of activity and incidents that are reasonably indicative of pre-operational planning related to terrorist activity. {Explanation of reporting categories}

Contact us directly via the Interactive Suspicious Activity Reporting Form {Form Click Here}, WSFC Intake Hotline: 1-877-843-9522, e-mail: intake@wsfc.wa.gov, or fax: 206-262-2014

With your help, we can stop a crime or a terrorist plot.

Submit a tip form: (click here)

2010-11-23T20:04:00.001-08:00

Winter tips for the loss of power

With cold weather upon us, please keep these tips in mind:

§ Use alternative heat sources safely.

§ Do not burn anything inside without adequate ventilation.

§ Never use gas ovens, gas ranges, barbecues, hibachi, and most portable or propane heaters for indoor heating. These units burn up oxygen, create deadly carbon monoxide, and are a likely cause of fire.

§ Have firefighting materials on hand: dry powder, fire extinguisher, heavy tarp or blanket, and water.

§ Use portable generators only as independent sources of power.

§ Do not connect generators to your home’s main service panels.

§ Make sure generators are used where there is good ventilation.

§ Keep doors to refrigerators and freezers shut to conserve heat.

§ Use foods that can spoil rapidly first.

§ “If in doubt, throw it out”.

Lastly and most important, we ask that you please check on your neighbors to make sure they are being taken care of .

2010-11-15T11:07:00.001-08:00

POSSIBLE HIGH WIND WARNING

(8:00 AM)-NOV.15 2010,Yakima,WA.

The National Weather Service Pendleton has issued a possible High Wind Warning for Yakima county. With winter fast approaching all community members should be prepared for the possibility of harsh weather. For more information on proper winter preparedness you can visit: http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_prepare_year.shtml

Effective: 2010-11-15

Description: High Wind Warning issued for Monday at 7:00 pm thru Tuesday at 10:00 am. for Yakima, Klickitat, Benton, Franklin, Walla Walla, Columbia, and Kittitas.

JOIN MRC !

2010-09-20T14:31:00.001-07:00

The MRC is a partner program with Citizen Corps, a national network of volunteers dedicated to ensuring hometown security. MRC units are community-based and function as a way to locally organize and utilize licensed volunteers who want to donate their time and expertise to prepare for and respond to emergencies. MRC volunteers supplement existing emergency and public health resources. Types of licensed Volunteers Needed:

• Pharmacist • Physicians/PAs • Dental Health Providers • EMT/Paramedics • Veterinarians • Nurses/CNAs •

(Once a member volunteers they will only be called upon during an emergency. Time commitments would consist of possibly of yearly meeting and “Just-in-Time” training before members are deployed.)

YAKIMA COUNTY MEDICAL RESERVE CORPS APPLICATION

Complete and email to kr.catlin@co.yakim.wa.us or mail by standard post (to MRC Coordinator, room 110, 128 North 2^nd street Yakima, WA 98901)

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM

PERSONAL INFORMATION

Volunteer Name: ____________________________________________ Home Phone: ___________________________

Office Phone: _________________________Pager: ____________________ Cell Phone: _________________________

Address: ________________________________________________ City ____________________ Zip ______________

Date of Birth: Driver’s License Number:

Email Address:

Affiliations? (School, agency, clinic):________________________________________________________________

EXPERIENCE

Current (Most Recent) Employer: ___________________________________ Supervisor: ________________________

Position: ________________________ Address __________________________________________________________ Phone: _________________________

r Full Time

r Part Time

r Retired

r Other: ________________

If less than one year at current employment, please provide second employer information:

Employer: _______________________________________ Supervisor: ________________________________

Position: ________________________

Address ___________________________________________________________ Phone: _________________________

r Full Time

r Part Time

r Retired

r Other: ________________

PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION: (mark or circle all that apply)

r Administrative/Support Duties

r Computer or Communications

r Dentist

r Emergency Medical Technician: Basic Intermediate Paramedic

r Environmental Health Specialist

r Health Educator

r Health Technician Type ____________________

r Interpreter

r Mental Health Practitioner

r Medical Assistant

r Media/Communications

r Nurse: RN LPN Nurse Practitioner Do you have prescriptive authority? Yes No Area of Specialty:__________________________

r Nurse Assistant

r Pharmacist

r Phlebotomist

r Physician: Area of Specialty: ___________________________ Board Certified? Yes No

r Physician Assistant

r Veterinarian

Professional License Type/Number: _________________________________Expiration Date: ______________________

Other Qualifying License(s) (commercial, equipment etc.) __________________________________________________

Brief description of what you want your role to be in the YC MRC:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

OTHER SKILLS

Are you CPR certified? Yes No

Are you first aid certified? Yes No

Other ____________________________________________________________________________________

Language Fluency: q English q Spanish q Sign Language q Other ______________________

Please list any other special disaster training, certification, or skills that you would like us to be aware of:

LEVEL OF PARTICIPATION AND ACTIVATION

Tier One ______ (Activation for Only large-scale events)

Tier Two ______ (Pre-event training as well as the Tier One Activation)

Tier Three _____ (Would like to be considered for a leadership role as well as level Tier Two Activation)

Do you volunteer for another emergency organization? Yes No If so, which is your priority? _________

RESPONSE JURISDICTION (Select the farthest distance you would be willing to respond)

Are you willing to deploy outside your local jurisdiction? ___Yes ___No

___Within Yakima County ___ Within WA St. ___Nationally

EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION

Emergency Contact Name: ______________________________________ Relationship: _________________________

Day Phone: _______________________ Evening Phone: _____________________ Cell Phone: ____________________

Applicants are advised that the Yakima County MRC intends to conduct a criminal background check.

Have you ever been convicted of a drug offense? q Yes q No

Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offense? q Yes q No

Have you ever been convicted of a motor vehicle offense (other than speeding tickets)? q Yes q No

Other than the above, are there any other convictions on your personal record? q Yes q No

Details: ___________________________________________________________________

All of the information that I have supplied is correct to the best of my knowledge. I do hereby give the Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management (YVOEM) or their designee permission to inquire into my background, references, driving record, present and previous employment, licenses, certifications and criminal history. I further give permission to the holder of any such records to release the same to the YVOEM or their designee. I hold the YVOEM or their designee harmless of any liability, whether civil or criminal, which may arise as a result of the release of the information about me. I also hold harmless any individual agency, business or corporation that provides information to the YVOEM or their designee.

I understand that I am a volunteer and will not be paid for any of my services.

_____________________________________________________ ______________________________________

SIGNATURE DATE

For questions please contact Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management MRC Coordinator at (509)574-1908

Please send your completed application packet to:

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management MRC Coordinator: 128 North 2nd Street, WA 98901

(Back ground Check form)

Yakima Valley Medical Reserve Corps Supplemental Information

For completion of background checks, please supply the following:

Personal References:

Name: ________________________ Contact Ph #: _____________________

Personal References:

Name: ________________________ Contact Ph #: _____________________

Signature _______________ Date

Yakima Valley Medical Reserve Corps

Background Check Effective Date: ______________

Policy

The Yakima Valley MRC will complete a background check on all applicants to the MRC Team. Record check information is confidential.

Purpose

To comply with the WA Department for Public Health’s recommendation for criminal record checks on team members and to define guidelines that constitute denial of team membership. Record checks protect the citizens in the community as well as team integrity.

Procedure

All applicants/potential volunteers shall be provided with a criminal background check request form for completion as part of the application process and return it to the MRC Coordinator.
The services of a potential volunteer shall be evaluated on a case-by-case basis for violations that may show on a criminal record check.
The following violations constitute grounds for denial of membership of applicants to the team. The services of an applicant shall not be accepted if the criminal record check shows :

Registration as a sex offender
Conviction of a felony

The following violations will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis as outlined below in #5. The services of an applicant may not be accepted if the criminal record check shows:

Conviction of a misdemeanor in the past 5 years
Conviction of a criminal violation in the past 2 years
Conviction of DUI in the past 5 years
Current EPO or DVO in place

Case-by-Case Review: Evaluation will determine if past conduct is compatible with working as a MRC volunteer. Consultation may include Yakima Valley MRC Coordinator, Yakima County Health Department Director, Citizen Corp Advisory Board, Emergency Management Director and the Yakima County Attorney. The volunteer shall be given the opportunity to provide evidence of mitigating circumstances prior to a decision being made concerning qualifications to serve.

6. Appeal: Any volunteer whose services are rejected as a result of information received from the criminal record check may appeal such decision if the volunteer believes the decision was based on inaccurate information.

Training for Yakima Community Readiness on the 9/11 Anniversary

2010-08-26T10:34:00.001-07:00

Training for Yakima Community Readiness on the 9/11 Anniversary

A FEW SEATS LEFT FOR THE CLASS!!:

* If another 9/ 11 event took place would most Americans be ready? September 10-12 citizens from around the Yakima Valley will be getting together to ensure they will be ready to help family and neighbors; no matter what the disaster might be. For one evening on Friday, and two days (Saturday / Sunday) the Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management will be hosting a COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM (CERT) training course. Since 1993 when this training was made available nationally by Federal Emergency Management Agency, communities in 28 States and Puerto Rico have conducted CERT training.

As CERT members the participants will be taught how to respond to disasters in their neighborhoods, until trained emergency responders can arrive. Such skills as basic first aid, debris removal, and urban search and rescue will be taught. The class will run 6:30-8:23 on Friday the 10^th and then 8:00-5:00 on Saturday-Sunday. There is no cost for the class, but participants must bring their own leather gloves and leather work boots for the safety exercises. While many families take the class together, the course is suited for kids twelve or older.

Are You Ready? NEXT CLASS WILL START SEP. 10, 11&12 2010

Get involved in your community by joining Yakima County CERT:

Email us @ OEM@CO.YAKIMA.WA.US to get signed up today(include name, phone number and you will be contacted as the class date draws near).

Our Mission:

To educate citizens to be better prepared to take care of themselves, family, friends and neighbors in the event of a disaster, of any type, until trained emergency responders can arrive. To establish Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs) as a resource for first responders during disasters and emergencies and to perform projects that improve a community’s preparedness.

KEEPING READY

2010-08-04T11:35:00.001-07:00

KEEPING READY

(08/03/10)SUNNYSIDE,WA- Ever wondered what would happen if the Nuclear Power Plant at Hanford had a catastrophic release of radiological material ?

To prepare for this scenario the Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management presented a challenging table top exercise for jurisdictions and agencies within the 50 mile Ingestion Zone. In Yakima County this area includes Grandview, Granger, Mabton, Sunnyside, Toppenish, Zillah, and the unincorporated areas. The cities of Grandview, Granger, Mabton, Sunnyside, as well as Yakima County all had employees participating. Agency representatives from the Washington State Department of Agricultural, Washington State Department of Emergency Management, Educational Service District 105 and the Yakima County Health District participated as well.

The exercise presented a low stress learning environment that provided instruction and allowed participants to look at their individual jurisdictional issues in the event of a nuclear material release.

2010-07-29T16:18:00.001-07:00

CLASS STARTS SOON!

Our Mission:

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

What is a CERT Member?

A CERT member is a person who is trained to respond to a disaster in their neighborhood (such skills as basic first aid, debris removal, and urban search and rescue are taught). A group of 10 or more members from a neighborhood, apartment complex, business, community group or similar residential area comprise a team. Persons not affiliated with a team may serve as individuals.

Who may join a CERT?

Anyone who is interested in helping his or her neighborhood prepares for a disaster and provides assistance afterward. Team training is preferred however persons may be trained even if they are not affiliated with a team.

Are You Ready?

NEXT CLASS WILL START SEP. 10, 11&12 2010

Get involved in your community by joining Yakima County CERT:

Email us @ OEM@CO.YAKIMA.WA.US to get signed up today (include name, phone number

and you will be contacted as the class date draws near).

Phone: (509) 574-1908 / Fax: (509) 574-1901

Emailing: CosUL_PCL

2010-05-23T20:59:00.001-07:00

Volunteer for MRC

2010-05-12T12:25:00.000-07:00

Join the Yakima Valley Medical Reserve Corps

• The MRC was founded after President Bush’s 2002 State of the Union Address, in which he asked all Americans to volunteer in support of their country. It is a partner program with Citizen Corps, a national network of volunteers dedicated to ensuring hometown security.

• MRC units are community-based and function as a way to locally organize and utilize volunteers who want to donate their time and expertise to prepare for and respond to emergencies. MRC volunteers supplement existing emergency and public health resources.

• MRC volunteers include medical and public health professionals such as physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, veterinarians, and epidemiologists.

Types of Volunteers Needed:

• Pharmacist • Physicians/PAs • Dental Health Providers • EMT/Paramedics • Veterinarians • Nurses/CNAs •
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YAKIMA COUNTY MRC APPLICATION

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM/ PERSONAL INFORMATION

Volunteer Name: ____________________________________________
Home Phone: ___________________________

Office Phone: _________________________Pager: ____________________
Cell Phone: _________________________

Address: ________________________________________________ City ____________________ Zip ______________

Date of Birth: Driver’s License Number:

Email Address:

Affiliations? (eg., school, agency, clinic):________________________________________________________________

EXPERIENCE

Current (Most Recent) Employer: ___________________________________ Supervisor: ________________________

Position: ________________________ Address __________________________________________________________ Phone: _________________________

 Full Time

 Part Time

 Retired

 Other: ________________

If less than one year at current employment, please provide second employer information:

Employer: _______________________________________ Supervisor: ________________________________

Position: ________________________

Address ___________________________________________________________ Phone: _________________________

 Full Time

 Part Time

 Retired

 Other: ________________

PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION: (mark or circle all that apply)

 Administrative/Support Duties

 Computer or Communications

 Dentist

 Emergency Medical Technician: Basic Intermediate Paramedic

 Environmental Health Specialist

 Health Educator

 Health Technician Type ____________________

 Interpreter

 Mental Health Practitioner

 Medical Assistant

 Media/Communications

 Nurse: RN LPN Nurse Practitioner Do you have prescriptive authority? Yes No Area of Specialty:__________________________

 Nurse Assistant

 Pharmacist

 Phlebotomist

 Physician: Area of Specialty:___________________________ Board Certified? Yes No

 Physician Assistant

 Veterinarian

Professional License Type/Number: _________________________________
Expiration Date: ______________________

Professional License Type/Number: _________________________________
Expiration Date: ______________________

Other Qualifying License(s) (commercial, equipment etc.) __________________________________________________

Brief description of what you want your role to be in the YC MRC:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

OTHER SKILLS

Are you CPR certified? Yes No

Are you first aid certified? Yes No

Other ____________________________________________________________________________________

Language Fluency: English  Spanish Sign Language Other ______________________

Please list any other special disaster training, certification, or skills that you would like us to be aware of:

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

LEVEL OF PARTICIPATION AND ACTIVATION

Tier One ______ (Activation for Only large-scale events)

Tier Two ______ (Pre-event training as well as the Tier One Activation)

Tier Three _____ (Would like to be considered for a leadership role as well as level Tier Two Activation)

Do you volunteer for another emergency organization? Yes No If so, which is your priority?_________

RESPONSE JURISDICTION (Select the farthest distance you would be willing to respond)

County of Residence _____ State of Washington _____ United States _____

EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION

Emergency Contact Name: ______________________________________
Relationship: _________________________

Day Phone: _______________________
Evening Phone: _____________________
Cell Phone: ____________________

Applicants are advised that the Yakima County MRC intends to conduct a background check.

Have you ever been convicted of a drug offense?  Yes  No

Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offense?  Yes  No

Have you ever been convicted of a motor vehicle offense (other than speeding tickets)?  Yes  No

Other than the above, are there any other convictions on your personal record?  Yes  No

Details: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________________

All of the information that I have supplied is correct to the best of my knowledge. I do hereby give the Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management (YVOEM) or their designee permission to inquire into my background, references, driving record, present and previous employment, licenses, certifications and criminal history. I further give permission to the holder of any such records to release the same to the YVOEM or their designee. I hold the YVOEM or their designee harmless of any liability, whether civil or criminal, which may arise as a result of the release of the information about me. I also hold harmless any individual agency, business or corporation that provides information to the YVOEM or their designee.

I understand that I am a volunteer and will not be paid for any of my services.

_____________________________________________________ ______________________________________

SIGNATURE DATE

------------------------------------------------------------------

Confidentiality Statement

Yakima Valley Medical Reserve Corps

The Yakima Valley Medical Reserve Corps provides services to our community that may be sensitive in content. Per HIPPA (Privacy Act) regulations, we request to you sign and return the following document to your unit coordinator for placement in your file, indicating that you will keep information to which you have access confidential and not discuss it with anyone other than the staff person with whom you are working.

Confidentiality Pledge

I, ___________________________________ certify that I have read the following statement as listed below and agree to comply with the terms.

I realize that, as a Registered Emergency Worker in the State of Washington, the Department of Emergency Management and the Public Health Department for the Yakima Valley Medical Reserve Corps, I may acquire knowledge of confidential information from files, case records, missions, conversations, etc. I agree that such information is not to be discussed or revealed to anyone not authorized to have the information.

Signature: _______________________________________ Date: ____________

IRIS # : __________________

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Photograph and Media Consent

The Yakima Valley Medical Reserve Corps

The Yakima Valley Medical Reserve Corps may take photos, videos or otherwise document volunteers in action during trainings, exercises and or actual events. Such photographs may be used on the website, in newsletters and other publications without compensation to the volunteer or his/her representatives.

This consent does not apply to photos required for security identification.

Please choose the appropriate section:

The Yakima Valley Medical Reserve Corps has my permission to use my photo as stated above.

Signature: _______________________________________ Date: ____________

The Yakima Valley Medical Reserve Corps does not have my permission to use my photo as stated above.

Signature ___________________________________ Date ___________________

For questions please contact Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management MRC Coordinator at (509)574-1908

Please send your completed application packet to:

kr.catlin@co.yakima.wa.us

or

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management MRC Coordinator: Room b-10, 128 North 2nd Street, WA 98901

SR 410 Nile Valley Landslide Open House

2010-04-08T08:23:00.000-07:00

SR 410 Nile Valley Landslide

Next Steps-“Open House”

BUILDING A PERMANENT HIGHWAY

OPEN HOUSE

6 to 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, April 15, 2010

Nile Valley Community Church

60 Bedrock Lane, Naches, WA

www.wsdot.wa.gov/projects/sr410/landslide

VOLUNTEER CONTACT INFORMATION

2010-03-11T10:57:00.001-08:00

VOLUNTEER INFORMATION

With this update we are also asking for your assistance with a community exercise on Thursday, April 22, 2010. We will facilitate Operation Eagle Eye Part #4 to test the different response agencies’ ability to respond to an act of terrorism. To make the scenario as realistic as possible for the emergency responders we need volunteers of all ages to act in a wide variety of roles. Volunteer actors will be given certain roles to play, and instruction before the exercise starts. The exercise will last about 6 hours. Lunch and snacks will be provided.

Our office needs help from volunteers in our community to make this exercise successful. If members of your group are interested in participating as actors, please fill out the attached form, and return to us by April 10, 2010. Mail, fax or cut-and-past it to an email or Word document and send to helga.staffan@co.yakima.wa.us . You may also call Helga Staffan@ (509) 574-1920. For more information about Operation Eagle Eye see the post below.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management

128 N. 2^nd Street, Yakima, WA 98901

Phone: 509-574-1920 Fax: 509-574-1901 Email: helga.staffan@co.yakima.wa.us

VOLUNTEER CONTACT INFORMATION

Please fill out one for each person.

Last Name: _________________________

First Name: _______________________________

Title: __________________________

Organization: __________________________________

Mailing Address: _________________________

City/Town: _________________

Zip: _______

Work Phone: _________________

Fax: ______________

Home Phone: ________________

Cell Phone: _____________

Email Address: ___________________________________________________

Additional information for Operation Eagle Eye #4 exercise, April 22, 2010.

Are you willing to be an actor for the exercise:

________Yes

_______No

Any additional information:

Please return this contact information to our office by April 10, 2010

Operation Eagle Eye

2010-03-11T10:40:00.001-08:00

*Operation Eagle Eye*

Preliminary Event Scenario-YVOEM Training Exercise

…….THIS IS A TRAINING EXERCISE……..…….THIS IS A TRAINING EXERCISE……..…….THIS IS A TRAINING EXERCISE……..…….THIS IS A TRAINING EXERCISE……..…….THIS IS A TRAINING EXERCISE……..…….THIS IS A TRAINING EXERCISE……..

Scenario

There is a two day energy rally in Yakima. It is advocating the use of a new technology for nuclear fission to produce electrical energy. The process has failed twice killing ten people at the only test reactor located in Russia. Very little information has been reported on the accidents. The group says it has fixed the problems and is ready to build a working plant on the Hanford Reservation here in the US. Opponents claims the organization has completely sacrificed safety and cannot meet their claims. The rally is well attended with over 3800 signed in. The event is being seen as a potential shot in the arm economically by hotels and businesses in Yakima.

A significant number of scientific, environmental and two known radical activist groups have denounced the process as unsafe and unreliable. There are several environmental groups busing protestors into town to protest the event. There are approximately 2500 protesters being reported in town awaiting guidance by their parent groups. This is an informal report being made to the national media’s in town to cover the event.

The two known radical groups are People Against Fission (PAF) and Militia Against Spontaneous Atom Splitting (MASAS). Although there are undoubtedly others these are the known radical groups against the new technology. MASAS being the most violent having claimed responsibility for a bomb at the test reactor that caused one of the deadly failures in Russia. Both groups have vowed to disrupt and if possible stop the rally in a flamboyant manor to draw attention to what they believe is an unsafe technology that could kill millions of people and potentially destroy the world.

The rally starts Friday morning and ends in the afternoon on Saturday. It includes several speakers from Russia, one from China, and an a scientist who has defected from North Korea. The North Korean scientist is the most controversial with his absolute assurance the technology which he says he developed is completely safe. He claims the system does not even require a containment vessel to work.

Soon after starting Saturday an unknown group of perpetrators unleashes an air born pathogen. As the audiences stampedes out, the perpetrators take numerous audience members hostage.

Medical Reserve Corps

2010-02-03T13:27:00.000-08:00

An Introduction to the Medical Reserve Corps

http://www.medicalreservecorps.gov/

The Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) is a national program with a local, community-based emphasis. Its mission is to support community efforts to utilize local medical and health volunteers during emergencies and at other times of community need.

• The MRC was founded after President Bush’s 2002 State of the Union Address, in which he asked all Americans to volunteer in support of their country. It is a partner program with Citizen Corps, a national network of volunteers dedicated to ensuring hometown security.

• MRC units are community-based and function as a way to locally organize and utilize volunteers who want to donate their time and expertise to prepare for and respond to emergencies and promote healthy living throughout the year. MRC volunteers supplement existing emergency and public health resources.

• MRC volunteers include medical and public health professionals such as physicians, nurses, pharmacists, dentists, veterinarians, and epidemiologists. Many community members—interpreters, chaplains, office workers, legal advisors, and others—can fill key support positions.

• MRC units are provided specific areas to target that strengthen the public health infrastructure of their communities by the U.S. Surgeon General. These are outlined priorities for the health of individuals, and the nation as a whole, which also serve as a guide to the MRC. The overarching goal is to improve health literacy, and in support of this, he wants us to work towards increasing disease prevention, eliminating health disparities, and improving public health preparedness.

FW: JAN 14-Thursday 6 PM HWY 410 Meeting

2010-01-11T12:31:00.001-08:00

JAN 14-Thursday 6 PM HWY 410 Meeting

(JAN 10-OEM Yakima, WA)

We will be having a meeting JAN 14^th Thursday 6 PM at the Nile Valley Church. Responder agencies will be answering community questions regarding the future/ present situation of the HWY 410 Landslide site.

~Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management

H1N1 (swine flu) vaccine widely available

2010-01-08T10:42:00.001-08:00

H1N1 (swine flu) vaccine widely available

Getting vaccinated now will protect you if disease levels rise again

OLYMPIA H1N1 (swine flu) vaccine is widely available � more than 2 million doses have been shipped to Washington. Vaccine is available at pharmacies and medical offices to anyone who wants it.

�Now that more vaccine is available, it's the perfect time to protect yourself and your family. I got my own vaccination December 22 when access was expanded,‖ says Secretary of Health Mary Selecky. �Flu activity in our state has dropped, but some H1N1 disease is still circulating. Flu viruses are always unpredictable and we don't know what will happen next.‖

Vaccination is the best protection against H1N1 and seasonal flu. Everyone can benefit from a flu shot; however, it's crucial for many people at high risk for complications. This includes children and young adults, pregnant women, and anyone with a chronic medical condition. Washing your hands, coughing and sneezing into your sleeve, and staying home when you're sick are also important ways to stay healthy this flu season.

National Influenza Vaccination Week starts Sunday, January 10 � highlighting the importance of people getting vaccinated even this time of the flu season. It's a reminder that vaccination is a quick and easy way to stay healthy.

People should check with their health care providers about getting vaccinated. Many local health agencies (http://www.doh.wa.gov/h1n1/h1n1_getvaccine.htm), retail pharmacies, and grocery stores also have vaccine. Large retail pharmacies are now getting vaccine directly from the federal government to help make it more available. This offers another great opportunity for the public to find vaccine. H1N1 vaccine availability January 7, 2010

The state Department of Health provides information about vaccine and where to find it online. The agency's H1N1 Web site (www.doh.wa.gov/h1n1/default.htm) offers tips on how schools, businesses and people at home can stay healthy as this year's flu season continues. The agency also posts H1N1 updates on Twitter (http://twitter.com/wa_deptofhealth).

###

HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK

2009-12-30T16:22:00.000-08:00

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hazardous Weather Outlook

HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK...UPDATED

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE PENDLETON OR

255 PM PST WED DEC 30 2009

UPDATED FOR WINTER WEATHER TOMORROW

ORZ041>044-049-050-501>506-WAZ024-026>030-501-502-311415-

EASTERN COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE OF OREGON-NORTH CENTRAL OREGON-

CENTRAL OREGON-LOWER COLUMBIA BASIN OF OREGON-GRANDE RONDE VALLEY-

WALLOWA COUNTY-FOOTHILLS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF OREGON-

NORTHERN BLUE MOUNTAINS OF OREGON-

SOUTHERN BLUE MOUNTAINS OF OREGON-

NORTHERN WHEELER AND SOUTHERN GILLIAM COUNTIES-JOHN DAY BASIN-

OCHOCO-JOHN DAY HIGHLANDS-

EASTERN COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE OF WASHINGTON-KITTITAS VALLEY-

YAKIMA VALLEY-LOWER COLUMBIA BASIN OF WASHINGTON-

FOOTHILLS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF WASHINGTON-

NORTHWEST BLUE MOUNTAINS-

EAST SLOPES OF THE CENTRAL CASCADES OF WASHINGTON-

EAST SLOPES OF THE SOUTHERN CASCADES OF WASHINGTON-

255 PM PST WED DEC 30 2009

THIS HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK IS FOR CENTRAL AND NORTHEAST OREGON

AS WELL AS SOUTH CENTRAL AND SOUTHEAST WASHINGTON.

.DAY ONE...TONIGHT

AIR STAGNATION ADVISORY TODAY AND TONIGHT

YAKIMA VALLEY

VERY LIGHT OR CALM SURFACE WINDS AND A STRONG SURFACE BASED

TEMPERATURE INVERSION WILL MAINTAIN A STABLE AIRMASS AND STAGNANT

AIR CONDITIONS...WHICH WILL TRAP AIR POLLUTANTS IN THE YAKIMA

VALLEY. AN AIR STAGNATION ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT FOR THE YAKIMA

VALLEY UNTIL 10 AM PST THURSDAY MORNING. PLEASE REFER TO PDXNPWPDT

FOR DETAILS.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...THURSDAY THROUGH TUESDAY

WINTER MIX THURSDAY

EAST SLOPES OF THE CENTRAL CASCADES OF WASHINGTON, EAST SLOPES

OF THE SOUTHERN CASCADES OF WASHINGTON, EASTERN COLUMBIA RIVER

GORGE OF WASHINGTON, KITTITAS VALLEY, YAKIMA VALLEY, LOWER

COLUMBIA BASIN OF WASHINGTON, EASTERN COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE OF

OREGON, NORTH CENTRAL OREGON, CENTRAL OREGON, LOWER COLUMBIA

BASIN OF OREGON, NORTHERN WHEELER AND SOUTHERN GILLIAM

COUNTIES

SNOW THURSDAY

NORTHWEST BLUE MOUNTAINS, GRANDE RONDE VALLEY, WALLOWA COUNTY,

NORTHERN BLUE MOUNTAINS OF OREGON, SOUTHERN BLUE MOUNTAINS OF

OREGON, JOHN DAY BASIN, OCHOCO-JOHN DAY HIGHLANDS

FREEZING RAIN THURSDAY

FOOTHILLS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF WASHINGTON, FOOTHILLS OF

THE BLUE MOUNTAINS OF OREGON

WINTER MIX FRIDAY

EAST SLOPES OF THE CENTRAL CASCADES OF WASHINGTON, EAST SLOPES

OF THE SOUTHERN CASCADES OF WASHINGTON

SNOW FRIDAY

NORTHWEST BLUE MOUNTAINS, NORTHERN BLUE MOUNTAINS OF OREGON,

SOUTHERN BLUE MOUNTAINS OF OREGON

A STRONG PACIFIC WEATHER SYSTEM WILL MOVE INTO THE REGION THURSDAY

MORNING AND CONTINUE THROUGH THURSDAY NIGHT INTO NEW YEARS DAY. THIS

SYSTEM WILL BRING WARMER AIR WITH IT...RESULTING IN A WINTRY MIX OF

PRECIPITATION. THE FROZEN OR FREEZING PRECIPITATION WILL CHANGE OVER

TO ALL RAIN IN LOWER ELEVATIONS BY EARLY NEW YEARS DAY. WINTER

STORM WARNINGS HAVE BEEN ISSUED FOR THE EAST SLOPES OF THE SOUTHERN

WASHINGTON CASCADES...THE COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE...NORTH CENTRAL

OREGON...CENTRAL OREGON...LOWER COLUMBIA BASIN...YAKIMA VALLEY...AND

KITTITAS VALLEY. HEAVY SNOW ACCUMULATIONS WITH SOME ICE

ACCUMULATIONS ARE LIKELY THESE AREAS. THE HEAVIEST ICE ACCUMULATION

WILL BE IN THE COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE WITH ONE QUARTER TO ONE HALF

INCH POSSIBLE. IN THE FOOTHILLS OF THE BLUE MOUNTAINS FREEZING RAIN

WITH ICE ACCUMULATION LESS THAN ONE QUARTER INCH IS EXPECTED. OTHER

AREAS WILL RECEIVE ADVISORY SNOW AMOUNTS. PRECIPITATION WILL

DECREASE TO SHOWERS IN MOST AREAS BY 10 PM THURSDAY. TERRAIN EFFECTS

WILL KEEP LIKELY SNOW INTO FRIDAY IN THE BLUES AND EAST SLOPES OF

THE WASHINGTON CASCADES. PLEASE REFER TO PDXWSWPDT FOR MORE DETAILS.

AN ACTIVE WET BUT WARMER WEATHER PATTERN WILL THEN PERSIST THROUGH

THE REST OF THE WEEKEND INTO NEXT WEEK WITH ONE PACIFIC WEATHER

SYSTEM AFTER ANOTHER CROSSING THE REGION THROUGH A WEAK RIDGING

PATTERN.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

SPOTTER ACTIVATION WILL BE LIKELY.

WEATHER SPOTTERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO REPORT SIGNIFICANT WEATHER

CONDITIONS ACCORDING TO STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES.

GRAPHICAL FORECASTS OF WEATHER HAZARDS OUT TO SEVEN DAYS

ARE DISPLAYED ON THE WORLD WIDE WEB AT:

WWW.WRH.NOAA.GOV/PDT/CURRENTHAZARDS/HWO.HTML

Hwy 410 Chinook Pass Landslide Situational Update and Report

2009-12-16T09:15:00.000-08:00

Hwy 410 Chinook Pass Landslide Situational Update and Report

Meeting Summary

1. Potential Flood Issues;

Terry Keenhan with the Yakima Public Services Flood Control Zone District (FCZD) reported the new channel was designed to handle a 100 year flood and he anticipates it will. They expect to see some changes in the channel as the river flow works on new channel. The group discussed how the river would be monitored. Terry advised anyone wishing to monitor the river should check the Cliffdel Gage on the National Weather Service
website http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1UH

The FCZD will be monitoring the gage as will others throughout the winter. The FCZD will also be monitoring the new channel watching for changes or potential problems.

The flood Stage for the Naches River, at Cliffdel, after being adjusted down for the reduced channel capacity during the event and construction has been returned to pre landslide levels.

A question was asked if there were going to be any impacts on the upstream or downstream river channel. Upstream there are no changes expected but it will be monitored. Downstream however significant river structures were installed to protect the area of the Woodshed Restaurant, the Nile Loop Road Bridge, and residents down river. Some changes will take place but nothing significant is expected. Don Whitehouse advised after spending a significant amount of time in the area he was impressed with the Counties channel design and how it moved the river away from the highway and other structures. Don also reported some significant boulders were removed from under the Nile Loop Rd Bridge that should improve high water flows moving through the area.

As far as the monitoring of the river on a regular basis the group had consensus that we would return to normal operations. In other words there would be no specific monitoring of river flow in the new channel other than those planned by the FCZD. We would monitor gages and receive reports as we would for any other portion of the river systems in the valley. There was a comment that normally if we get into a flood fight the Corps of Engineers would be available to assist and that would be the case here as well.

There was one caveat; no one can fully predict what Mother Nature will do! Being prepared is still prudent in this event.

2. Landslide Safety

Isabella Sarikhan a Geologist with the Department of Natural Resources provided a brief overview of the slide and their studies so far. There are still a lot of unknowns. She reported they were not sure if all of the energy in the slide had been expended or if it had stopped moving. She indicated the slide could be unstable for quite some time meaning potentially years. Isabella advised one of the WSDOT drill holes indicated movement so they were not sure yet.

Don Whitehouse briefed the group on the drilling operation. There are 24 drill holes planned with 16 – 17 complete. The movement Isabella talked about was in drill hole #15 that is about 200 feet deep. The movement observed was about an inch. The radar monitoring the slide did not detect any movement so no one is sure what is happening yet. This was a very deep slide being deeper than originally thought. The drill holes on the upper portions of the slide are about 500 feet deep and on the lower end 300 feet. The drilling is anticipated to be complete in the 2nd week of January. Once complete the holes will be checked weekly for movement. If none is detected the monitoring will be bi-weekly then monthly and so on. If there is movement detected the monitoring will again be more often.

The ground radar installed shortly after the slide occurred has not detected any movement other than some minor rock falls at the upper scarp. The WSDOT intends to keep the radar in place until their work is completed on the slide for safety of their crews. Once the work is complete they intend to remove the radar. Last month the bill for the radar was $83,000 so this is not a cheap piece of equipment.

Because of the depth of this slide there does not appear to be a mechanical fix to stabilize it. A is or is not decision is needed before a decision on a permanent fix can be made.

A question was asked about blasting the remaining portions of the slide to stabilize the area. This was reported as a rumor that has been circulating in the valley. The answer given was there will be no blasting for many reasons.

3. Sightseers

It was discussed that it would be difficult to keep everyone out of the area because of its size and terrain features. There was very little concern of the slide moving and causing issues with people. There was concern for safety of those going to the area because the terrain is rugged and now there is snow. Private property was discussed and Frank Freshwater said he would contact the owner and help with their issues. The public message we should be putting out is don’t go there. Especially near the scarp at the top where there is continual rock fall and many unknowns.

There are safety messages and signs in access areas. The signs provide a clear message don’t go there. There is private property in the area and if there are people intending to go they should have permission.

The conversation went into possibilities of another event. Isabella, DNR Geologist, advised there was little probability of another major slide in the near future. However, energy will more than likely build up and there will be another slide as there has been in the past. This may take several decades though.

4. Temporary Hwy 410 Detour Route

Don Whitehouse advised their work on the Temporary Detour is complete for this winter. In the spring there will be some need for additional signage, stripping, and barricades to accommodate the summer traffic with Chinook Pass open.

A question was asked about additional white markers on the Nile Loop Road. Don advised the road is built to state standards and did not think there was going to be any more. If this was a county road there would be no markers at all was reported.

5. Permanent Hwy 410 Update

WSDOT anticipates a geotechnical report sometime in early summer. This will determine the options available to install a permanent fix. The options as they are known now are 1. Build up the area around the toe to facilitate the new road. 2. Go over the top of the slide building up the approaches and not excavating the slide itself. 3. Cross the river with a new bridge follow the far valley floor and build another new bridge to get back across the river. The most desirable is #1 because it would be the easiest and would cost less. The least desirable is #3 because it is complicated and expensive. Whatever the decision will be it will be a long process because of the required environmental review and request for funding. If all goes well, and if all goes well, a year from now contracts will be issued for the road around the slide with anticipated construction year of 2011.

6. Other issues

Because of the desire to keep the affected residents informed and answer their questions a public meeting at the Nile Valley Church was set for the 2nd Thursday January 14th at 1800 hrs.

The group discussed how fortunate we all were in this event. Things turned out very well. Change the scenario and have, what history tells us was coming, a high water event or flood and what happened in the Nile Valley would change significantly.

H1N1 (Swine Flu) Vaccine Availability

2009-12-10T13:22:00.000-08:00

For Immediate Release Contact:

Jessica Brown, PIO, 509-249-6516

Marisol Oviedo, PIO (habla español)

509-249-6513

Date: December 10, 2009

H1N1 (Swine Flu) Vaccine Availability Expanding to the GeneralPublic in Yakima County Starting Monday December 14th

The Yakima Health District (YHD) has advised its H1N1 vaccine providers that they may begin

administering vaccine to the general public starting Monday, December 14th, 2009. The decision

to expand availability is a result of more H1N1 vaccine coming into our community along with

waning demand among residents who originally qualified to receive the vaccine. Since the H1N1

vaccine situation varies from county to county, expansion decisions are being made by officials

within each local health jurisdiction individually. Therefore, vaccine availability may vary from

county to county during this transition phase.

While the overall number of H1N1 cases has declined dramatically from levels seen in the fall,

health officials in Yakima County are still seeing severe cases requiring hospitalization, as well

as deaths from the illness. Residents who fall into one of the original CDC target groups

(pregnant women, healthcare workers, emergency medical responders with direct patient contact,

household contacts and caregivers of infants less than 6 months old, all persons aged 6 months

through 24 years old, and persons 25 through 64 years old with underlying health conditions) are

still strongly encouraged to receive an H1N1 vaccination if they have not already.

As of December 10th, Yakima County has been allocated 61,920 doses of H1N1 influenza

vaccine. The vaccine has been distributed through approximately 90 sites throughout the county

including doctor’s offices, community health centers, and pharmacies. Each vaccine provider

determines the best method of providing H1N1 vaccine at their site. While some sites may begin

offering vaccine to the general public on Monday, others may reserve vaccine for high risk

patients within their practices who have yet to receive it.

YHD recommends that residents contact their regular healthcare provider to determine if they are

offering H1N1 vaccine. For residents who cannot access H1N1 vaccine through their regular

healthcare provider, a list of locations offering vaccine to the general public is available on the

YHD website (www.yakimapublichealth.org). Information is also available on YHD’s H1N1

information lines (249-6533 or 249-6511 for Spanish).

###

2009-2010 Influenza (H1N1) Season Update

2009-12-02T09:41:00.000-08:00

2009-2010 Influenza Season Week 46 ending November 21, 2009

Yakima, WASH-

All data are preliminary and may change as more reports are received.

Synopsis:

During week 46 (November 15-21, 2009), influenza activity continued to decrease in the U.S.

• 1,880 (20.5%) specimens tested by U.S. World Health Organization (WHO) and National Respiratory and Enteric Virus Surveillance System (NREVSS) collaborating laboratories and reported to CDC/Influenza Division were positive for influenza.

• Over 99% of all subtyped influenza A viruses being reported to CDC were 2009 influenza A (H1N1) viruses.

• The proportion of deaths attributed to pneumonia and influenza (P&I) was above the epidemic threshold for the eighth consecutive week.

• Thirty-five influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported. Twenty-seven of these deaths were associated with 2009 influenza A (H1N1) virus infection, seven were associated with an influenza A virus for which the subtype was undetermined, and one was associated with a seasonal influenza A (H1) virus infection that occurred in March.

• The proportion of outpatient visits for influenza-like illness (ILI) was 4.3% which is above the national baseline of 2.3%. All 10 regions reported ILI above region-specific baseline levels.

• Thirty-two states reported geographically widespread influenza activity, Puerto Rico and 17 states reported regional influenza activity, the District of Columbia and one state reported local influenza activity, and Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands reported sporadic influenza activity.

Quick Facts for the Public on Antiviral Treatments for 2009 H1N1

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Here are a few questions to consider asking your health care provider about flu antivirals

• Do I need antiviral treatment if I have flu symptoms?

• When should I call back if I don’t feel better?

• What do I do if my child is prescribed oseltamivir and can’t swallow capsules? Click here for instructions on how to open capsules and mix the medicine with liquids.

Treatment Is Important for High Risk Groups

People in high risk groups should talk to their health care provider as soon as possible if they think they may have the flu because they have a greater chance of getting serious flu complications than other persons. Flu antiviral drugs can make you feel better, shorten the time you are sick, and prevent serious flu complications, especially if treatment is begun within 2 days of getting sick. Flu antiviral drugs must be prescribed by a physician.

Don’t Delay Treatment

If your doctor prescribed Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) or Relenza® (zanamivir) for you, don’t delay filling the prescription, and start taking the medication as soon as you get it. This way you will get the most benefit. It’s very important that antiviral drugs be started as soon as possible for the flu, ideally within 2 days of getting sick.

Don’t Confuse Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) with Theraflu®

Tamiflu® is the brand name and oseltamivir is the generic name of a prescription antiviral drug used to treat the flu and should not be confused with Theraflu®, which is an over-the-counter medication. Antiviral drugs are not sold over-the-counter. You can only get them if you have a prescription from your health care provider.

Side Effects of Flu Antiviral Drugs

The most common side effects of oseltamivir (Tamiflu®) are nausea and vomiting, which can also be symptoms of the flu. Nausea and vomiting can be minimized by taking the medication with food. The most common side effects of zanamivir (Relenza®) are dizziness, sinusitis, runny or stuffy nose, cough, diarrhea, nausea, or headache, also symptoms that can be due to the flu. Zanamivir may also cause wheezing and trouble breathing in people with lung disease; therefore, persons with a history of asthma or another lung disease should not be prescribed zanamivir.

Treatment May Be Needed Even if Test Results are Negative

Your health care provider may diagnose you with flu based on your symptoms and their clinical judgment or they may choose to use an influenza diagnostic test. Health care providers can use rapid flu tests (15 minutes or less) to test a specimen from your nose or throat in their offices. Unfortunately, these tests are less than perfect in telling who really has the flu. Therefore, you could still have the flu, even though your rapid flu test result is negative. Health care providers may prescribe antivirals if they suspect flu, even if the rapid flu test is negative.

More Information

• What To Do If You Get Sick: 2009 H1N1 and Seasonal Flu
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/sick.htm

• 2009 H1N1 and Seasonal Flu: What You Should Know About Flu Antiviral Drugs http://www.cdc.gov/H1N1flu/antivirals/geninfo.htm

• Influenza Diagnostic Testing During the 2009-2010 Flu Season http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/diagnostic_testing_public_qa.htm

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 24, 2009

2009-11-24T12:56:00.000-08:00

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 24, 2009

Naches, WASH-11/24/09

This will be our last weekly posting regarding the HWY 410 Landslide. If potentially hazardous events unfold and the community needs information, our office will make a posting.
The Nile community, Yakima county, Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management, and WSDOT can take pride in what was accomplished. This incident was a reflection of what community preparedness, government partnership, and all around disaster response should be.

NWS Pendleton Forecast for 8 Miles SE Cliffdell, WA

Use this link to check: NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell. http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en

NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdell http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1

WSDOT Update

WSDOT and contractor crews are getting closer to making their deadline to have the SR 410 winter-durable detour finished by Thanksgiving. Starting on Monday, Nov. 23, crews will start paving the 4,000-foot-long section of the detour. Paving should be complete by Wednesday, Nov. 25. However, crews will still have some work to finish. On Monday, Nov. 30, crews will install guardrail, signs, and guideposts.WSDOT reminds motorists to please drive with caution and be prepared for delays associated with construction operations. WSDOT, Yakima County, our agency partners, and Selland Construction have accomplished remarkable feats within one month. Because of these partnerships, and the patience and understanding of Nile Valley residents, drivers have a safe, reliable, and durable transportation route around the Nile Valley landslide. Chinook Pass is closed for the season from Morse Creek (five miles east of the summit) to Crystal Mountain Boulevard (eight miles northwest of the summit). Access to the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort from SR 410 remains open. WSDOT is seeking federal emergency funding for the landslide emergency response, detour construction, and river channel work. The total cost is estimated to be as much as $8 million.

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you: There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.

-NEW-Applicants may also apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure Web site at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.

Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained from SBA’s Customer Service Center by calling toll-free (800) 659‑2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA’s Web site at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance.

Hearing impaired individuals may call (800) 877‑8339. Yakima County Public Services Flood Control Zone District Flood Preparedness Information http://www.yakimacounty.us/SurfaceWater/FloodPreparedness.htm

WSDOT Website with road and slide information http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management Blog http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/

NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell. http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdell http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1 WA

State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 23, 2009

2009-11-23T13:40:00.000-08:00

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 23, 2009

Naches, WASH-11/23/09

Bureau of Reclamation

The Bureau of Reclamation plans to make several incremental increases in Bumping Reservoir outflows beginning Monday morning, Nov 23. These increases will begin reaching the Naches River at Cliffdell sometime after 12:00 hours (noon) Monday and begin reaching the work site sometime after 15:00 hours (most likely later) Monday afternoon. Each 50 cfs increase will increase the stage on the Naches River at Cliffdell by about 3/4 inch or less. The total increase will likely be 150 to 300 cfs based on conditions and the NWS forecast at the time. They will plan to make additional adjustments Tuesday or Wednesday, November 24 or 25.

Upcoming Events-

The Department of EMS will be having a “Holiday Yard Sale” inside the Glenwood Square Mall hallways on December 11th & 12th. Donations of gift items, and arts and crafts, that are to be sold during the event, are being accepted now through December 10th at the EMS office. All proceeds go to their Nile Valley Community Fund. They are located at: Yakima County Department of Emergency Medical Services Glenwood Square Mall, 5110 Tieton Drive, Suite 370, Yakima, Washington 98908-Tel. (509) 966-5175 Fax (509) 966-5176.

NWS Pendleton Forecast for 8 Miles SE Cliffdell, WA

A large scale weather system will be working through the Pacific Northwest over the next several days. The warm front ahead of the system will push through tonight with snow levels rising to 5000 feet with a mix of rain and snow overnight. Then snow levels fall back to 3000 feet by late Friday and lower through the weekend as several more parts of the system work through. The active pattern continues into early next week.

Tonight - snow level 5000 feet, precipitation 0.10 to 0.25 Friday - snow level back to 3000 feet, precipitation 10 to 0.25 Friday night - Saturday night - snow levels 1500-2000 feet, precipitation of 0.50 to 0.75 Sunday - snow level 1500-2000, precipitation 0.20.

Naches River near Cliffdell-
Currently around 620 cfs. It is expected to rise to between 720-750 cfs (near flood stage) by Friday morning and decrease back to around 630 by Friday night and slowly recede during the coming weekend.

WSDOT Update

WSDOT and contractor crews are getting closer to making their deadline to have the SR 410 winter-durable detour finished by Thanksgiving. Starting on Monday, Nov. 23, crews will start paving the 4,000-foot-long section of the detour. Paving should be complete by Wednesday, Nov. 25. However, crews will still have some work to finish. On Saturday, Nov. 28, crews will install guardrail, signs, and guideposts.WSDOT reminds motorists to please drive with caution and be prepared for delays associated with construction operations. WSDOT, Yakima County, our agency partners, and Selland Construction have accomplished remarkable feats within one month. Because of these partnerships, and the patience and understanding of Nile Valley residents, drivers have a safe, reliable, and durable transportation route around the Nile Valley landslide. Chinook Pass is closed for the season from Morse Creek (five miles east of the summit) to Crystal Mountain Boulevard (eight miles northwest of the summit). Access to the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort from SR 410 remains open. WSDOT is seeking federal emergency funding for the landslide emergency response, detour construction, and river channel work. The total cost is estimated to be as much as $8 million.

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you: There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.

-NEW-Applicants may also apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure Web site at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained from SBA’s Customer Service Center by calling toll-free (800) 659‑2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA’s Web site at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance. Hearing impaired individuals may call (800) 877‑8339. Yakima County Public Services Flood Control Zone District Flood Preparedness Information http://www.yakimacounty.us/SurfaceWater/FloodPreparedness.htm WSDOT Website with road and slide information http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management Blog http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/

NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell. http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdell http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1 WA

State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 19, 2009

2009-11-19T11:59:00.000-08:00

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 19, 2009

Naches, WASH-11/19/09

TO NIGHT

Community Update meeting at the Nile Valley Community Church at 6 PM. Contact Steve Nevens at 658-2304 or stevenevens98937@gmail.com.

Also

Nile Community Appreciation Night Don and Kathy Forgey have donated the use of the American Homestead Event Center located at 5870 State Route 410,Naches WA, (Mile Post maker 111), to host the Nile Community Appreciation Night to thank the government agencies, construction companies, power, trucking outfits, construction workers, supplier's, and all the people who worked so hard to restore the valley. They will be having a Community Pot Luck Dinner starting at 6:00 PM, with live entertainment featuring Don Forgey, Paul Wilson and Tom Tyo. Anyone wishing to help organize this event please contact Steve Nevens at 658-2304 or stevenevens98937@gmail.com.

USFWS Update

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service were successful yesterday in saving more than 500 fish. When the county’s river diversion is complete the fish removal teams will use several techniques to safely catch fish stranded in the old river channel and release them back into unobstructed waters.

WSDOT Update

WSDOT is working with the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to remove stranded fish in collaboration with fish biologists from nine other agencies and groups. This work started on Nov. 18 and will wrap-up on Nov. 19. Fish removal teams are using several techniques to safely catch fish stranded in the old river channel and release them back into unobstructed waters six miles up stream.WSDOT shifted traffic onto the new 4,000-foot-long section of the SR 410 detour on Nov. 16. After the traffic shift, Yakima County crews cut through the old temporary detour road in two places to divert the river around the landslide to minimize erosion risks.

WSDOT reminds motorists to please drive with caution and be prepared for delays associated with construction operations. WSDOT, Yakima County, our agency partners, and Selland Construction have accomplished remarkable feats within one month. Because of these partnerships, and the patience and understanding of Nile Valley residents, drivers have a safe, reliable, and durable transportation route around the Nile Valley landslide. Chinook Pass is closed for the season from Morse Creek (five miles east of the summit) to Crystal Mountain Boulevard (eight miles northwest of the summit). Access to the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort from SR 410 remains open. WSDOT is seeking federal emergency funding for the landslide emergency response, detour construction, and river channel work. The total cost is estimated to be as much as $8 million.

Disaster Assistance

The U. S. Small Business Administration, announced that SBA will make low-interest working capital loans available to small businesses that suffered economically from the landslide that occurred October 10 near the community of Nile in Yakima County. Small, non-farm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private, non-profit organizations of any size may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred. “Eligibility for these working capital loans is based on the financial impact of the disaster only and not on any actual property damage. These loans have an interest rate of 4 percent, a maximum term of 30 years, and are restricted to small businesses without the financial ability to offset the adverse impact without hardship,” said Nancy Porzio, SBA’s Acting Regional Administrator. Small, non-farm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private, non-profit organizations of any size may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred. “Beginning Tuesday, November 17, from 9 am to 1 pm, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at a SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center to issue loan applications, answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each business owner complete their application,” Porzio continued. The center will be open on the days and times indicated. No appointment is necessary. The center is located at: Niles Valley Community Church Near the corner of Hwy 410 & Bedrock Lane 60 Bedrock Lane Naches, WA

NWS Pendleton Forecast for 8 Miles SE Cliffdell, WA

Most of the precipitation will be in the form of snow at the higher elevations, the exception is Thursday night, when warm air ahead of the front will cause snow levels to rise to 4000-4500 feet...but they will decrease to below 3000 feet by Friday night.

Thursday - snow level 3500 feet, precipitation 0.25 - 0.50 inches Thursday night - snow level 4000-4500 feet, precipitation 0.25 to 0.40 inches Friday - snow levels falling to 3000 feet, precipitation 0.50 inches Friday night - Monday, snow levels 2000 - 2500 feet.

The river has fallen below 750 cfs and is expected to decrease to 625 cfs by late Thursday. There is a rise to 700 cfs expected by late Friday, then slowly falling off through the weekend, reaching 600 cfs by late Monday..

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you: There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.

-NEW- Applicants may also apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure Web site at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained from SBA’s Customer Service Center by calling toll-free (800) 659‑2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA’s Web site at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance. Hearing impaired individuals may call (800) 877‑8339. Yakima County Public Services Flood Control Zone District Flood Preparedness Information http://www.yakimacounty.us/SurfaceWater/FloodPreparedness.htm WSDOT Website with road and slide information http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management Blog http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/ NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell. http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdell http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1 WA State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 18, 2009

2009-11-18T12:12:00.000-08:00

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 18, 2009

Naches, WASH-11/18/09

USFWS Update
Today, Nov. 18, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) will coordinate a stranded fish removal effort in collaboration fish biologists from nine other agencies and groups. When the county’s river diversion is complete the fish removal teams will use several techniques to safely catch fish stranded in the old river channel and release them back into unobstructed waters.

WSDOT Update
Yakima County diverts river channel around landslide. Another major shift is in store for people who depend on an all-weather route through the Nile Valley, 22 miles west of Yakima. Due to forecasted flooding, WSDOT shifted traffic onto the 4,000-foot-long SR 410 detour on Monday, Nov. 16 at 8 p.m. after crews finished working for the day. After traffic was shifted, Yakima County started cutting through the current temporary detour in two places to divert the river away from the base of the landslide. Diverting the river around the landslide minimizes landslide erosion risks; a proactive measure to combat eventual increases in river flows. Diversion of the Naches River into the new river channel started on Tuesday, Nov. 17. The new detour moves the roadway away from the river channel and landslide, following the western edge of the Nile Valley. WSDOT reminds motorists to please drive with caution and be prepared for delays associated with construction operations. “WSDOT and our agency partners, along with Nile Valley residents and construction crews, have accomplished truly remarkable feats within a one month time frame,” said WSDOT Regional Administrator Don Whitehouse. “Because of these partnerships, drivers have a safe, reliable, and durable transportation route around the Nile Valley landslide.” “Everyone worked together under an incredibly tight timeline and against all odds to divert the river away from the slide to protect lives, property, infrastructure, and natural resources,” said Yakima County Public Services Director Vern Redifer. “That we have been successful is a testament to the professionalism and dedication of all those involved.” Chinook Pass is closed for the season from Morse Creek (five miles east of the summit) to Crystal Mountain Boulevard (eight miles northwest of the summit). Access to the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort from SR 410 remains open. WSDOT is seeking federal emergency funding for the landslide emergency response, detour construction, and river channel work. The total cost is estimated to be as much as $8 million.

Disaster Assistance

The U. S. Small Business Administration, announced that SBA will make low-interest working capital loans available to small businesses that suffered economically from the landslide that occurred October 10 near the community of Nile in Yakima County. Small, non-farm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private, non-profit organizations of any size may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred. “Eligibility for these working capital loans is based on the financial impact of the disaster only and not on any actual property damage. These loans have an interest rate of 4 percent, a maximum term of 30 years, and are restricted to small businesses without the financial ability to offset the adverse impact without hardship,” said Nancy Porzio, SBA’s Acting Regional Administrator. Small, non-farm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private, non-profit organizations of any size may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred. “Beginning Tuesday, November 17, from 9 am to 1 pm, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at a SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center to issue loan applications, answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each business owner complete their application,” Porzio continued. The center will be open on the days and times indicated. No appointment is necessary. The center is located at: Niles Valley Community Church Near the corner of Hwy 410 & Bedrock Lane 60 Bedrock Lane Naches, WA

Upcoming Events

Nile Community Appreciation Night Don and Kathy Forgey have donated the use of the American Homestead Event Center located at 5870 State Route 410,Naches WA, (Mile Post maker 111), to host the Nile Community Appreciation Night to thank the government agencies, construction companies, power, trucking outfits, construction workers, supplier's, and all the people who worked so hard to restore the valley. They will be having a Community Pot Luck Dinner starting at 6:00 PM, with live entertainment featuring Don Forgey, Paul Wilson and Tom Tyo. Anyone wishing to help organize this event please contact Steve Nevens at 658-2304 or stevenevens98937@gmail.com.
The Department of EMS will be having a “Holiday Yard Sale” inside the Glenwood Square Mall hallways on December 11th & 12th. Donations of gift items, and arts and crafts, that are to be sold during the event, are being accepted now through December 10th at the EMS office. All proceeds go to their Nile Valley Community Fund. They are located at: Yakima County Department of Emergency Medical Services Glenwood Square Mall,5110 Tieton Drive, Suite 370,Yakima, Washington 98908-Tel. (509) 966-5175 Fax (509) 966-5176.

NWS Pendleton Forecast for 8 Miles SE Cliffdell, WA

REST OF TODAY...MOSTLY CLOUDY WITH RAIN LIKELY. HIGHS 39 TO 49. WEST WIND 10 TO 20 MPH WITH HIGHER GUSTS. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 70 PERCENT. TONIGHT...MOSTLY CLOUDY. A CHANCE OF SNOW SHOWERS IN THE EVENING...THEN SNOW SHOWERS LIKELY OVERNIGHT. COLDER. SNOW ACCUMULATION AROUND 1 INCH. LOWS 24 TO 29. WEST WIND 5 TO 15 MPH. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 70 PERCENT. WEDNESDAY...MOSTLY CLOUDY WITH A 50 PERCENT CHANCE OF RAIN SHOWERS. SNOW LEVEL 2000 FEET. HIGHS 35 TO 42. SOUTH WIND 5 TO 15 MPH.

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you: There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.

-NEW- Applicants may also apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure Web site at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained from SBA’s Customer Service Center by calling toll-free (800) 659‑2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA’s Web site at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance. Hearing impaired individuals may call (800) 877‑8339. Yakima County Public Services Flood Control Zone District Flood Preparedness Information http://www.yakimacounty.us/SurfaceWater/FloodPreparedness.htm WSDOT Website with road and slide information http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management Blog http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/ NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell. http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdell http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1 WA State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 17, 2009

2009-11-17T12:48:00.000-08:00

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 17, 2009

Naches, WASH-11/17/09

WSDOT Update
Yakima County diverts river channel around landslide. Another major shift is in store for people who depend on an all-weather route through the Nile Valley, 22 miles west of Yakima. Due to forecasted flooding, WSDOT shifted traffic onto the 4,000-foot-long SR 410 detour on Monday, Nov. 16 at 8 p.m. after crews finished working for the day. After traffic was shifted, Yakima County started cutting through the current temporary detour in two places to divert the river away from the base of the landslide. Diverting the river around the landslide minimizes landslide erosion risks; a proactive measure to combat eventual increases in river flows. Diversion of the Naches River into the new river channel started on Tuesday, Nov. 17. The new detour moves the roadway away from the river channel and landslide, following the western edge of the Nile Valley. WSDOT reminds motorists to please drive with caution and be prepared for delays associated with construction operations. “WSDOT and our agency partners, along with Nile Valley residents and construction crews, have accomplished truly remarkable feats within a one month time frame,” said WSDOT Regional Administrator Don Whitehouse. “Because of these partnerships, drivers have a safe, reliable, and durable transportation route around the Nile Valley landslide.” “Everyone worked together under an incredibly tight timeline and against all odds to divert the river away from the slide to protect lives, property, infrastructure, and natural resources,” said Yakima County Public Services Director Vern Redifer. “That we have been successful is a testament to the professionalism and dedication of all those involved.” Chinook Pass is closed for the season from Morse Creek (five miles east of the summit) to Crystal Mountain Boulevard (eight miles northwest of the summit). Access to the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort from SR 410 remains open. WSDOT is seeking federal emergency funding for the landslide emergency response, detour construction, and river channel work. The total cost is estimated to be as much as $8 million.

USFWS Update

On Wednesday, Nov. 18, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) will coordinate a stranded fish removal effort in collaboration fish biologists from nine other agencies and groups. When the county’s river diversion is complete the fish removal teams will use several techniques to safely catch fish stranded in the old river channel and release them back into unobstructed waters.

Disaster Assistance

The U. S. Small Business Administration, today announced that SBA will make low-interest working capital loans available to small businesses that suffered economically from the landslide that occurred October 10 near the community of Nile in Yakima County. Small, non-farm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private, non-profit organizations of any size may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred. “Eligibility for these working capital loans is based on the financial impact of the disaster only and not on any actual property damage. These loans have an interest rate of 4 percent, a maximum term of 30 years, and are restricted to small businesses without the financial ability to offset the adverse impact without hardship,” said Nancy Porzio, SBA’s Acting Regional Administrator. Small, non-farm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private, non-profit organizations of any size may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred. “Beginning Tuesday, November 17, from 9 am to 1 pm, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at a SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center to issue loan applications, answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each business owner complete their application,” Porzio continued. The center will be open on the days and times indicated. No appointment is necessary. The center is located at: Niles Valley Community Church Near the corner of Hwy 410 & Bedrock Lane 60 Bedrock Lane Naches, WA Upcoming Events- Nile Community Appreciation Night

Don and Kathy Forgey have donated the use of the American Homestead Event Center located at 5870 State Route 410,Naches WA, (Mile Post maker 111), to host the Nile Community Appreciation Night to thank the government agencies, construction companies, power, trucking outfits, construction workers, supplier's, and all the people who worked so hard to restore the valley. They will be having a Community Pot Luck Dinner starting at 6:00 PM, with live entertainment featuring Don Forgey, Paul Wilson and Tom Tyo. Anyone wishing to help organize this event please contact Steve Nevens at 658-2304 or stevenevens98937@gmail.com. The Department of EMS will be having a “Holiday Yard Sale” inside the Glenwood Square Mall hallways on December 11th & 12th. Donations of gift items, and arts and crafts, that are to be sold during the event, are being accepted now through December 10th at the EMS office. All proceeds go to their Nile Valley Community Fund. They are located at: Yakima County Department of Emergency Medical Services Glenwood Square Mall,5110 Tieton Drive, Suite 370,Yakima, Washington 98908-Tel. (509) 966-5175 Fax (509) 966-5176.

NWS Pendleton Forecast for 8 Miles SE Cliffdell, WA

REST OF TODAY...MOSTLY CLOUDY WITH RAIN LIKELY. HIGHS 39 TO 49.
WEST WIND 10 TO 20 MPH WITH HIGHER GUSTS. CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION
70 PERCENT.
TONIGHT...MOSTLY CLOUDY. A CHANCE OF SNOW SHOWERS IN THE
EVENING...THEN SNOW SHOWERS LIKELY OVERNIGHT. COLDER. SNOW
ACCUMULATION AROUND 1 INCH. LOWS 24 TO 29. WEST WIND 5 TO 15 MPH.
CHANCE OF PRECIPITATION 70 PERCENT.
WEDNESDAY...MOSTLY CLOUDY WITH A 50 PERCENT CHANCE OF RAIN
SHOWERS. SNOW LEVEL 2000 FEET. HIGHS 35 TO 42. SOUTH WIND 5 TO
15 MPH.

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you: There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.>

-NEW- Applicants may also apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure Web site at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela. Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained from SBA’s Customer Service Center by calling toll-free (800) 659‑2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA’s Web site at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance. Hearing impaired individuals may call (800) 877‑8339.

Yakima County Public Services Flood Control Zone District Flood Preparedness Information http://www.yakimacounty.us/SurfaceWater/FloodPreparedness.htm WSDOT Website with road and slide information http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management Blog http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/

NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell. http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdell http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1 WA

State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 13, 2009

2009-11-13T11:50:00.000-08:00

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 13, 2009

Naches, WASH-11/13/09

Disaster Assistance

The U. S. Small Business Administration, today announced that SBA will make low-interest working capital loans available to small businesses that suffered economically from the landslide that occurred October 10 near the community of Nile in Yakima County. Small, non-farm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private, non-profit organizations of any size may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred.

“Eligibility for these working capital loans is based on the financial impact of the disaster only and not on any actual property damage. These loans have an interest rate of 4 percent, a maximum term of 30 years, and are restricted to small businesses without the financial ability to offset the adverse impact without hardship,” said Nancy Porzio, SBA’s Acting Regional Administrator.

Small, non-farm businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and most private, non-profit organizations of any size may qualify for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) of up to $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses which could have been met had the disaster not occurred. “Beginning Tuesday, November 17, from 9 am to 1 pm, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at a SBA Disaster Loan Outreach Center to issue loan applications, answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each business owner complete their application,” Porzio continued. The center will be open on the days and times indicated. No appointment is necessary. The center is located at:

Niles Valley Community Church
Near the corner of Hwy 410 & Bedrock Lane
60 Bedrock Lane
Naches, WA

Upcoming Events- Nile Community Appreciation Night

Don and Kathy Forgey have donated the use of the American Homestead Event Center located at 5870 State Route 410,Naches WA, (Mile Post maker 111), to host the Nile Community Appreciation Night to thank the government agencies, construction companies, power, trucking outfits, construction workers, supplier's, and all the people who worked so hard to restore the valley. They will be having a Community Pot Luck Dinner starting at 6:00 PM, with live entertainment featuring Don Forgey, Paul Wilson and Tom Tyo. Anyone wishing to help organize this event please contact Steve Nevens at 658-2304 or stevenevens98937@gmail.com.

The Department of EMS will be having a “Holiday Yard Sale” inside the Glenwood Square Mall hallways on December 11th & 12th. Donations of gift items, and arts and crafts, that are to be sold during the event, are being accepted now through December 10th at the EMS office. All proceeds go to their Nile Valley Community Fund. They are located at: Yakima County Department of Emergency Medical Services Glenwood Square Mall,5110 Tieton Drive, Suite 370,Yakima, Washington 98908-Tel. (509) 966-5175 Fax (509) 966-5176.

The Power Poles

The power poles on the far side of the valley are now up and conducting electricity.

NWS Pendleton Forecast for 8 Miles SE Cliffdell, WA

Friday / Friday night - Snow level 1500-2000 feet, 0.25-0.40 inches precipitation
Saturday-/Saturday night - snow level 2000-3000 feet,
Sunday / Sunday night - snow level 4000-4500 feet, 0.10 to 0.25 inches precipitation
Monday/ Monday night - snow level 5000-5500 feet, 0.25 precipitations.
Tuesday -/Wednesday - snow level 4000-5000 feet Thursday - 3500-4000

The Naches River at Cliffdell is forecast to remain around 350 cfs through the 16th (Monday). Then rise to about 400 cfs on Tuesday, and crest at around 425 cfs at Wednesday and then slowly recede.
Homeless Anyone who declares to be homeless as a result of the landslide can go to the one-stop Housing Resource Center at 107 South 6th Street for assistance. We are prepared to identify Nile residents as a priority as long as we have resources.

WSDOT Update

Starting Thursday or Friday (Nov. 12 or 13), crews will be hauling, placing, and compacting a gravel base for the realigned section of the SR 410 detour. A 4,000 foot section of the detour is being built across the valley and away from the river and landslide. There is much construction activity in the area, and drivers should use caution and expect delays associated with this work.

Over the weekend contractor, Selland Construction finished building most of the access trails on the landslide so WSDOT geotechs could bring in off-road drill rigs. For the next several months geotech crews will be drilling into the landslide to collect rock and soil samples. Geotechs will also be installing instruments to monitor movement and ground water levels in the landslide. This information will help them better understand the stability of the landslide and is an important start toward determining the ultimate location for a permanent SR 410.

WSDOT closed Chinook Pass for the season on Sunday, Nov. 8 due to heavy snow and unavoidable avalanche danger. Chinook Pass is closed from Morse Creek (five miles east of the summit) to Crystal Mountain Boulevard (eight miles northwest of the summit). Access to the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort from SR 410 remains open.

WSDOT is seeking federal emergency funding for the landslide emergency response, detour construction, and river channel work. The total cost is estimated to be as much as $8 million.

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you: There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.

-NEW-
Applicants may also apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via SBA’s secure Web site at https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela.

Disaster loan information and application forms may also be obtained from SBA’s Customer Service Center by calling toll-free (800) 659‑2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA’s Web site at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance. Hearing impaired individuals may call (800) 877‑8339.

Yakima County Public Services Flood Control Zone District Flood Preparedness Information http://www.yakimacounty.us/SurfaceWater/FloodPreparedness.htm

WSDOT Website with road and slide information http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management Blog http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/

NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell. http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdell http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1 WA

State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 12, 2009

2009-11-12T13:08:00.000-08:00

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 12, 2009

Extra Generator?
Nile Community Organizer Steve Nevens is looking for generators that could be borrowed for the winter. If you have one that could be loaned out, Steve can be contacted at 658-2304.

Upcoming Events
There will be a community appreciation night on November 21st. It will be the Nile Communities way of saying thank you to everyone who has helped out during the disaster. Time and location will be announced soon.

The Department of EMS will be having a “Holiday Yard Sale” inside the Glenwood Square Mall hallways on December 11th & 12th. Donations of gift items, and arts and crafts, that are to be sold during the event, are being accepted now through December 10th at the EMS office. All proceeds go to their Nile Valley Community Fund. They are located at: Yakima County Department of Emergency Medical Services Glenwood Square Mall,5110 Tieton Drive, Suite 370,Yakima, Washington 98908-Tel. (509) 966-5175 Fax (509) 966-5176.

The Power Poles
According to the Nile Fire Department the power poles on the far side of the valley are now up and conducting electricity.

NWS Pendleton Forecast for 8 Miles SE Cliffdell, WA

There appears to be a brief break from precipitation Thursday night with a weak ridge. By late Friday, another low pressure system is expected to move into Washington with more high elevation snow and rain for the lower sites.

For Saturday and beyond, the models are indicating a flat ridge with the snow level dropping each day. With the flat ridge, several weather disturbances will move through the ridge with most of the moisture getting wrung out over the Cascades with normal late fall precipitation. Snow levels for Sunday through Tuesday will drop to 4000-4500 feet.

Through Wednesday night - snow levels 3000-3500 feet, precipitation 0.10 to 0.25 inches. Thursday - snow levels 2500-3000 feet, precipitation 0.10 to 0.25. Thursday night through Friday night - snow level 1500-2500, precipitation 0.25 to 0.40 inches

The Naches River near Cliffdell will see declining levels through the next week with flow at about 340 cfs on the 17th. Then we will see an increase to about 400 cfs on the 19th and 20th.

Homeless
Anyone who declares to be homeless as a result of the landslide can go to the one-stop Housing Resource Center at 107 South 6th Street for assistance. We are prepared to identify Nile residents as a priority as long as we have resources.

WSDOT Update

Starting Thursday or Friday (Nov. 12 or 13), crews will be hauling, placing, and compacting a gravel base for the realigned section of the SR 410 detour. A 4,000 foot section of the detour is being built across the valley and away from the river and landslide. There is much construction activity in the area, and drivers should use caution and expect delays associated with this work.

Over the weekend contractor, Selland Construction, finished building most of the access trails on the landslide so WSDOT geotechs could bring in off-road drill rigs. For the next several months geotech crews will be drilling into the landslide to collect rock and soil samples. Geotechs will also be installing instruments to monitor movement and ground water levels in the landslide.This information will help them better understand the stability of the landslide and is an important start toward determining the ultimate location for a permanent SR 410.

WSDOT closed Chinook Pass for the season on Sunday, Nov. 8 due to heavy snow and unavoidable avalanche danger. Chinook Pass is closed from Morse Creek (five miles east of the summit) to Crystal Mountain Boulevard (eight miles northwest of the summit). Access to the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort from SR 410 remains open.

WSDOT is seeking federal emergency funding for the landslide emergency response, detour construction, and river channel work. The total cost is estimated to be as much as $8 million.

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you: There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.

Yakima County Public Services Flood Control Zone District Flood Preparedness Information
http://www.yakimacounty.us/SurfaceWater/FloodPreparedness.htm

WSDOT Website with road and slide information
http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management Blog
http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/

NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell.
http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en

NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdell
http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1

WA State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 10, 2009

2009-11-10T13:25:00.000-08:00

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 10, 2009

Upcoming Events
There will be a community appreciation night on November 21st. It will be the Nile Communities way of saying thank you to everyone who has helped out during the disaster. Time and location will be announced soon.

The Department of EMS will be having a “Holiday Yard Sale” inside the Glenwood Square Mall hallways on December 11 & 12. Donations of gift items, and arts and crafts, that are to be sold during the event, are being accepted now through December 10 at the EMS office. All proceeds go to their Nile Valley Community Fund.

Veteran’s Day

County Offices will be closed. Tell a Veteran thank you for their service!

NWS Pendleton for 8 Miles SE Cliffdell, WA
There continues to be a large trough of low pressure off the NW coast that will bring in periods of showers through Thursday, as is moves into Oregon. There appears to be a brief break from precipitation Thursday night with a weak ridge. By late Friday, another low pressure system is expected to move into Washington with more high elevation snow and rain for the lower sites.

For Saturday and beyond, the models are indicating a flat ridge with the snow level dropping each day. With the flat ridge, several weather disturbances will move through the ridge with most of the moisture getting wrung out over the Cascades with normal late fall precipitation. Snow levels for Sunday through Tuesday will drop to 4000-4500 feet.

Through Wednesday night - snow levels 3000-3500 feet, precipitation 0.10 to 0.25 inches. Thursday - snow levels 2500-3000 feet, precipitation 0.10 to 0.25. Thursday night through Friday night - snow level 1500-2500, precipitation 0.25 to 0.40 inches

The Naches River near Cliffdell will see declining levels through the next week with flow at about 340 cfs on the 17. Then we will see an increase to about 400 cfs on the 19 and 20.

Cell Tower
This question is being asked again. The cell tower or COW (cell on wheels) is a temporary solution. US Cellular is doing this to assist the community in its hour of need. There is talk of a permanent towers being installed by 2011 or 2012.

Homeless
Anyone who declares to be homeless as a result of the landslide can go to the one-stop Housing Resource Center at 107 South 6th Street for assistance. We are prepared to identify Nile residents as a priority as long as we have resources.

WSDOT Update

Since Friday, Nov. 6, Chinook Pass has received more than three feet of snow. More snow is forecast which will only increase the avalanche danger. The SR 410 Chinook Pass closure points are at Morse Creek (five miles east of the summit) and at Crystal Mountain Boulevard (eight miles northwest of the summit). Access to the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort from SR 410 remains open. Additionally, WSDOT and Mount Rainier National Park staff agreed to close SR 123 (Cayuse Pass) for the season. SR 123 is closed within Mount Rainier National Park from the 4,675-foot Cayuse Pass summit at the junction of SR 410 and SR 123 to Steven Canyon Road. WSDOT and contractor crews are still working hard seven days a week, 14 hours a day despite cold, rainy, and sometimes snowy conditions in order to open the SR 410 winter-durable temporary detour to traffic by Thanksgiving. Today, crews are graveling the 4,000 foot section of the detour, which is being built across the valley and away from the river and landslide. Drivers will experience delays associated with this work. On Thursday, Nov. 5, crews finished paving the western two-and-a-half miles of Nile Loop road. Over the weekend our contractor, Selland Construction, finished building a majority of the access trails on the landslide. WSDOT getotech crews will start using the trails today to bring in off-road drill rigs and start drilling into the landslide to collect rock and soil samples. Geotechs will also be installing instruments to monitor movement and water accumulation in the landslide. This information will help us better understand the stability of the landslide and is an important start toward determining the ultimate location for a permanent SR 410.It will take geotechs about three months to finish their drilling operations on the landslide.WSDOT closed Chinook Pass for the season on Sunday, Nov. 8 due to heavy snow and unavoidable avalanche danger. Chinook Pass is closed from Morse Creek (five miles east of the summit) to Crystal Mountain Boulevard (eight miles northwest of the summit). Access to the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort from SR 410 remains open.

Gov. Gregoire Asks Federal Officials for More Time

The Washington Governor is asking federal officials for more time to assess damage from the Oct. 11 Nile Valley landslide for a possible federal disaster declaration. The request to the Federal Emergency Management Agency for a 30-day extension until Dec. 9 is likely to be approved, state officials said. At the same time, Gregoire asked the federal Small Business Administration to declare an economic injury disaster for businesses that have suffered losses as a result of the slide.

Five businesses along State Route 410 suffered substantial economic injury from the slide, which initially closed off access for motorists and residents.
The anticipated disaster declaration would make businesses eligible for low-interest loans to deal with their losses. Both letters went out yesterday, according to a governor's spokeswoman.

Rob Harper, public information officer for the state Emergency Management Division, said the additional time will allow for a better review of the impacts the slide had on public roads and other facilities. "We have to look more at the public sector piece of that and figure out what is going to be the extent of the work," he said.

Cost of such work must reach a threshold of $7.6 million before a request can be made for a federal disaster declaration. The state Emergency Management Division already has concluded that the uninsured loss of nine homes isn't sufficient for the owners to receive federal help.

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you: There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.
(NEW) Yakima County Public Services Flood Control Zone District Flood Preparedness Information
http://www.yakimacounty.us/SurfaceWater/FloodPreparedness.htm
WSDOT Website with road and slide information
http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management Blog KR Catlin is updating this daily
http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/

NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell.
http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en

NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdell
http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1

WA State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV.9, 2009

2009-11-09T13:35:00.000-08:00

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 9, 2009

NWS Pendleton Forecast for 8 Miles SE Cliffdell, WA
This Afternoon: Rain likely. Cloudy, with a high near 45. South wind around 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Tonight: Showers likely, mainly before 10pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31. South southwest wind between 3 and 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Tuesday: A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 45. West southwest wind around 7 mph. Tuesday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 29. Southwest wind around 6 mph. Veterans Day: A chance of rain showers. Snow level 3200 feet. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 42. Southwest wind between 3 and 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%.Wednesday Night: A chance of snow showers. Snow level 3300 feet. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 27. Chance of precipitation is 40%

Cell Tower
This question is being asked again. The cell tower or COW (cell on wheels) is a temporary solution. US Cellular is doing this to assist the community in its hour of need. There is talk of a permanent towers being installed by 2011 or 2012.

Department of EMS Starts Fund
Local elected officials and others are working hard to find additional funding sources for the Nile residents and gain access to support that they so desperately need. The staff of the Department of EMS is hoping to provide some immediate assistance. An account has been established and is located at the Yakima Valley Credit Union entitled the “Nile Landslide Fund”. Monetary donations to the Nile Landslide Fund will be managed by the Assistant Fire Chief Steve Smith.

In addition, the Department of EMS will be having a “Holiday Yard Sale” inside the Glenwood Square Mall hallways on December 11th & 12th. Donations of gift items, and arts and crafts, that are to be sold during the event, are being accepted now through December 10th at the EMS office.

Homeless
Anyone who declares to be homeless as a result of the landslide can go to the one-stop Housing Resource Center at 107 South 6th Street for assistance. We are prepared to identify Nile residents as a priority as long as we have resources.

WSDOT Update
Due to heavy snow accumulation on the roadway, WSDOT crews temporarily closed Chinook Pass just after 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, Nov. 7. WSDOT avalanche forecasters assessed the stability of the hillside on Sunday morning, Nov. 8 and determined the avalanche risk is too great to allow traffic to safely cross Chinook Pass and Cayuse Pass.

Since Friday, Nov. 6, Chinook Pass has received more than three feet of snow. More snow is forecast which will only increase the avalanche danger. The SR 410 Chinook Pass closure points are at Morse Creek (five miles east of the summit) and at Crystal Mountain Boulevard (eight miles northwest of the summit). Access to the Crystal Mountain Ski Resort from SR 410 remains open. Additionally, WSDOT and Mount Rainier National Park staff agreed to close SR 123 (Cayuse Pass) for the season. SR 123 is closed within Mount Rainier National Park from the 4,675-foot Cayuse Pass summit at the junction of SR 410 and SR 123 to Steven Canyon Road.

WSDOT and contractor crews are still working hard seven days a week, 14 hours a day despite cold, rainy, and sometimes snowy conditions in order to open the SR 410 winter-durable temporary detour to traffic by Thanksgiving. Today, crews are graveling the 4,000 foot section of the detour, which is being built across the valley and away from the river and landslide. Drivers will experience delays associated with this work.

On Thursday, Nov. 5, crews finished paving the western two-and-a-half miles of Nile Loop road. Over the weekend our contractor, Selland Construction, finished building a majority of the access trails on the landslide. WSDOT getotech crews will start using the trails today to bring in off-road drill rigs and start drilling into the landslide to collect rock and soil samples. Geotechs will also be installing instruments to monitor movement and water accumulation in the landslide. This information will help us better understand the stability of the landslide and is an important start toward determining the ultimate location for a permanent SR 410.It will take geotechs about three months to finish their drilling operations on the landslide.

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 6, 2009

2009-11-06T09:26:00.000-08:00

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 6, 2009
Naches, WASH-NOV. 6, 2009

Department of EMS Starts Fund
Local elected officials and others are working hard to find additional funding sources for the Nile residents and gain access to support that they so desperately need. The staff of the Department of EMS is hoping to provide some immediate assistance. An account has been established and is located at the Yakima Valley Credit Union entitled the “Nile Landslide Fund”. Monetary donations to the Nile Landslide Fund will be managed by the Assistant Fire Chief Steve Smith.

In addition, the Department of EMS will be having a “Holiday Yard Sale” inside the Glenwood Square Mall hallways on December 11th & 12th. Donations of gift items, and arts and crafts, that are to be sold during the event, are being accepted now through December 10th at the EMS office.

Briefing for the W.V. O. A. D.
Steve Nevens and K.R. Catlin provided a briefing on the needs of the citizens of the Nile Valley to the Washington Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster by tele-conference on Wednesday the 4th. The physical meeting of the organization was taking place in western Washington. The tele-conference provided an opportunity to bring in possible private resources from the west side of the state.

Cliffdell River Gauge
At 8 AM this morning the gauge for the river was reading 490 cfs. This is well below what was predicted yesterday. To ensure there is no confusion on what the “More Durable Road” and the “Temporary Road” can withstand, the following is what was discussed at last night’s community meeting.

The “Temporary Road” which is the current SR 410 detour would become a concern at river levels of 1,700 cfs. The “More Durable Road”, which is under construction at the edge of the valley, will be the future SR 410 detour, is being built to meet the 100 year flood

Cell Tower

This is a reminder that the US Cellular tower is temporary. US Cellular is providing this service to assist the community in a time of need. A big "Thank You" goes out to them! Long range plans for permanent towers could be acted upon by 2011 or 2012.

Follow-up on Activity Behind the Barricade
An emergency order from the Washington Department of Natural Resources says any excavation at the Simmons and Son gravel pit could set off another landslide and poses "an immediate danger to the public health, safety or welfare or the environment." The Federal Mine, Safety & Health Administration also issued a similar order, prohibiting anyone from entering the mine site. According to the DNR order, the owners of the site had started clearing away debris from the toe of the landslide in preparation to begin mining again.

Homeless
Anyone who declares to be homeless as a result of the landslide can go to the one-stop Housing Resource Center at 107 South 6th Street for assistance. We are prepared to identify Nile residents as a priority as long as we have resources.

WSDOT Update
Conditions: Chinook Pass-Restrictions Eastbound: Compact snow and ice.Traction tires required, chains required on vehicles over 10,000 gross vehicle weight. Oversize vehicles prohibited. Restrictions westbound: Traction tires required, chains required on vehicles over 10,000 gross vehicle weight. Oversize vehicles prohibited.

The current SR 410 emergency access route on Nile Loop Road is open to all drivers. The route detours around the closed four-mile section of SR 410 between mileposts 104 and 108. Drivers will encounter delays associated with construction this week in several locations. Crews have started paving a two-and-a-half mile section of the west end of the SR 410 detour on Nile Loop Road. Information updates are available at 509-577-1635 or 5-1-1.

On Thursday, Nov. 5 WSDOT and contractor crews started building rough access trails to access the landslide that demolished SR 410 with millions of cubic yards of debris three weeks ago. These trails will allow geotechnical experts to bring in off-road drill rigs. Geotechs anticipate moving the drill rigs onto the slide early next week to collect rock and soil samples and to install instruments to monitor movement and water accumulation in the landslide. This information will help them better understand the stability of the landslide and is an important start toward determining the ultimate location for a permanent SR 410. Contractor crews finished paving and striping the western two-and-a-half miles of Nile Loop Road. Crews are still working seven days a week, 14 hours a day to build a 4,000 foot section of the detour across the valley and away from the river and landslide. WSDOT's contractor, Selland Construction, Inc., is using 21 pieces of heavy equipment and 12 dump trucks as they work to complete the winter-durable temporary detour by Thanksgiving. Drivers using the detour route may experience delays associated with construction activities.

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you: There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.
(NEW) Yakima County Public Services Flood Control Zone District Flood Preparedness Information
http://www.yakimacounty.us/SurfaceWater/FloodPreparedness.htm
WSDOT Website with road and slide information
http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management Blog KR Catlin is updating this daily
http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/

NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell.
http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en

NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdell
http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1
WA State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 5, 2009

2009-11-05T10:17:00.000-08:00

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 5, 2009

Naches, WASH- NOV.5, 2009

Nile Community Meeting
Today, November 5th at 6 PM, there will be a community update meeting at the Nile Community Church.

Be Advised!
The Naches River near Cliffdell gage site, the river is expected to rise to near 800 cfs by late Friday afternoon. This is twice what the river has been running at. Our office will be following the situation closely.

NWS Pendleton Report for Nile/ Clifdell

(This was given to us from Marilyn Lohmann at NWS Pendleton)

Current trends indicate that the rain will be moving into the region by late Thursday along the warm front. Rain is expected overnight Thursday with a cold front to move through Friday morning. Behind the front, we will continue to see west to southwest flow with periods of rain through Friday; the precipitation is expected to become more showers Friday night and Saturday as a cool trough of low pressure moves over the area. Currently, the models are indicating a flat ridge on Sunday and
into Monday with the next system to move into the area Tuesday.

Thursday night - 0.50-0.90 inches of rain expected. Snow level 5000 ft.
Friday - 0.25-0.50 inches precipitation. Snow level 4500-5000 ft Friday night - 0.10-0.25 inches precipitation. Snow level 3400-4000 ft Saturday - 0.25-0.35 inches precipitation. Snow level 3500-4000 ft.

For the Naches River near Cliffdell gage site, the river is expected to rise to near 800 cfs by late Friday afternoon. It is then expected to slowly recede to about 660 cfs by late Saturday and fall further to 630 by late Sunday and to near 600 by late Monday.
The trend is then to fluctuate between 550 to 600 Tuesday and Wednesday.

If you have any questions please call 541-276-7832 ext239

Homeless
Anyone who declares they to be homeless as a result of the landslide can go to the one-stop Housing Resource Center at 107 South 6th Street for assistance. We are prepared to identify Nile residents as a priority as long as we have resources.

WSDOT Update
Conditions: State Route 410 is open with detour between milepost 104 to milepost 108. The emergency detour route has been opened to all drivers, and is a rough, gravel-surfaced road. Crews continue work on portions of the detour and drivers on this emergency route could experience long delays due to construction activities. WSDOT could close the roadway for the safety of drivers at anytime. Information updates are available at 509-577-1635 or 511.Key Issues This Week:
• Complete subgrade on detour route
• Paving the detour route
• Continued work on re-channelization of the river

Light rain/snow are forecast for today and Friday. Depending on the weather, crews will finish paving the western tow-and-a -half miles of Nile Loop Road by the end of this week. WSDOT's contractor, Selland Construction, Inc., is using 21 pieces of heavy equipment and 12 dump trucks as they work to complete the winter-durable temporary detour by Thanksgiving.
Drivers using the detour route may experience delays associated with construction activities.

WSDOT is seeking federal emergency funding for the landslide emergency response, detour construction, and river channel work. The total cost is estimated to be as much as $8 million.

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you: There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.

(NEW) Yakima County Public Services Flood Control Zone District Flood Preparedness Information
http://www.yakimacounty.us/SurfaceWater/FloodPreparedness.htm
WSDOT Website with road and slide information
http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management Blog KR Catlin is updating this daily
http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/

NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell.
http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en

NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdell
http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1

WA State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

Community Update Meeting November 5th

2009-11-04T16:05:00.000-08:00

Community Update Meeting on the HWY 410 Landslide
Naches, WASH-NOV.4 , 2009
There will be a citizens meeting at the Nile Community Church at 6 P.M. on Thursday, November 5th. Updates will be shared with Nile Valley residents by various state and county agencies. For more information Steve Nevens can be contacted by phone at the Nile Community Church (658-2904) or by email stevenevens98937@gmail.com .

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 4, 2009

2009-11-04T09:40:00.000-08:00

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 4, 2009
Naches, WASH-NOV. 4, 2009

Nile Community Meeting
Thursday November 5th at 6 PM, there will be a community update meeting at the Nile Community Church.

Mail Boxes
A rumor has been going around that the contractors would be giving each resident on the Nile Valley Loop road a new mail box. It was confirmed this is not the case. New “posts” for mailboxes have been installed in some places, but there is no contracted agreement to give residents new mail boxes.

Temporary Cell Tower

It is up and working!

NWS Pendleton Report for Nile/ Clifdell

(This was given to us from Marilyn Lohmann at NWS Pendleton)

Wednesday - It should be dry with weak ridging over the area.
Wednesday night- a warm front will approach the coast with precipitation spreading inland overnight.
Thursday and Thursday night - The warm front will be over the region and bring a good dose of precipitation. Snow levels will still be fairly high about 6500 feet Thursday lowering to about 4000 feet by Friday morning. Precipitation amounts of 0.25 inches are expected Thursday and then 0.50 to 0.90 Thursday night.
Friday - A cold front move through with snow level around 4000-4500 feet. The Cascade crest could see another 0.50 to 0.60 of precipitation with the snow level 3500-4000 feet Friday night. Saturday - the upper flow become more southwest ahead of a low pressure area that will move through Saturday night/Sunday.
Could see 0.25 to 0.50 precipitation during this time with snow levels around 4000 feet.
Sunday - Cool with showers up to 0.25 inches. snow level 4000 feet.
Monday/Tuesday - another system looks to be heading inland with west to southwest flow. However snow levels remain 3500-4000 feet with most of the precipitation as snow.
The models have been slowing down each new run, so I have lower confidence in the timing for Monday/Tuesday.

In regards to the river...the flow is expected to rise quickly on Friday, reaching about 680 cfs by late Friday. It will remain between 650 and 680 through Sunday with a little drop and another rise through the period. The river is then expected to decrease to about 525 cfs by late next Tuesday as the colder air keeps the runoff locked up in snow.

If you have any questions please call 541-276-7832 ext239

WSDOT Update
Conditions:
State Route 410 is open with detour between milepost 104 to milepost 108. The emergency detour route has been opened to all drivers, and is a rough, gravel-surfaced road. Crews continue work on portions of the detour and drivers on this emergency route could experience long delays due to construction activities. WSDOT could close the roadway for the safety of drivers at anytime. Information updates are available at 509-577-1635 or 511.

Key Issues This Week:
• Complete subgrade on detour route
• Paving the detour route
• Continued work on re-channelization of the river

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you:
There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.
(NEW) Yakima County Public Services Flood Control Zone District Flood Preparedness Information
http://www.yakimacounty.us/SurfaceWater/FloodPreparedness.htm

WSDOT Website with road and slide information
http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management Blog KR Catlin is updating this daily
http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/

NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell.
http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en

NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdell
http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1

WA State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community-NOV. 03, 2009

2009-11-03T13:06:00.000-08:00

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update
Naches, WASH- NOV. 03, 2009

Nile Community Meeting
Thursday November 5th at 6 PM, there will be a community update meeting at the Nile Community Church.

Pendleton Weather
2 DAY FORCAST

Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 49. West northwest wind at 7 mph becoming east southeast.

Tuesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 29. Calm wind.

Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 49. Light and variable wind.

Wednesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Cell Service Update
Yesterday evening the US Cellular COW was up and working at the Woodshed. You should have service on US Cell, Verizon, Sprint and Nextel phones. Thanks US Cell!!

WSDOT Update
Conditions:
State Route 410 is open with detour between milepost 104 to milepost 108. The emergency detour route has been opened to all drivers, and is a rough, gravel-surfaced road. Crews continue work on portions of the detour and drivers on this emergency route could experience long delays due to construction activities. WSDOT could close the roadway for the safety of drivers at anytime. Information updates are available at 509-577-1635 or 511.

Key Issues This Week:
• Complete subgrade on detour route
• Start paving detour route
• Continued work on re-channelization of the river
Good weather is forecasted for this week, which means crews will be paving the western two-and-a-half miles of Nile Loop Road. Crews have already poured 1,800 tons of asphalt. WSDOT hopes to have paving complete by the end of this week. WSDOT's contractor is using 21 pieces of heavy equipment and 17 dump trucks as they work to complete the detour by Thanksgiving.
Other:
The region investigated the feasibility of using Pyramid Pass and the Little Naches
Road as an emergency evacuation route to reach the west side but determined this
is not a safe or feasible emergency route. With the minimal snowfall this last
week, the route has proven to be unsafe for use.

The Public Assistance (PA) Program.
At the request of a letter from Yakima County to the WA State Governor, the Public Assistance section will be working with the County to complete an Initial Damage Assessment to determine if a joint FEMA-State Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDA) is needed.
The PA damage thresholds are as follows:
• Yakima County $718,937
• WA State $7,603,416
-----------------------------
The State is starting the process to determine the extent of the damages which occurred in your County to public facilities during the incident period October 10, 2009 – to be determined.

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you:
There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.
(NEW) Yakima County Public Services Flood Control Zone District Flood Preparedness Information
http://www.yakimacounty.us/SurfaceWater/FloodPreparedness.htm
WSDOT Website with road and slide information
http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm
WA State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-Nov.2,2009

2009-11-02T09:22:00.000-08:00

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-Nov.2,2009
NACHES, WASH-
Pendleton Weather

Today: Mostly sunny, with a high near 48. Light south wind.

Tonight: Partly cloudy, with a low around 29. West northwest wind between 6 and 8 mph.

Tuesday: Sunny, with a high near 49. West northwest wind at 7 mph becoming east southeast.

Tuesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 29. Calm wind.

Wednesday: Mostly sunny, with a high near 49. Light and variable wind.

Wednesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Thursday: A 20 percent chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 55.

Thursday Night: A chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Friday: A chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 50.

Friday Night: A slight chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 37.

Saturday: A chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 49.

Saturday Night: A chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 35.

Sunday: A slight chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 49.

Cell Service Update
The Office of Emergency Management has been “spurring” US Cellular for updates. Basically the time line they have promised for results has not materialized. In our conversations with them it has been explained that they are running into problems with making all the parts of system interface and work properly. We will continue to monitor the situation.

WSDOT Update
Conditions:
State Route 410 is open with detour between milepost 104 to milepost 108. The emergency detour route has been opened to all drivers, and is a rough, gravel-surfaced road. Crews continue work on portions of the detour and drivers on this emergency route could experience long delays due to construction activities. WSDOT could close the roadway for the safety of drivers at anytime. Information updates are available at 509-577-1635 or 5 1 1.Weather Today: Partly cloudy.

Key Issues Next Week• Complete subgrade on detour route
• Start paving detour route
• Continued work on re-channelization of the river

Road Design and Construction
Concurrent with the initial construction activities, the design of the 4,000-foot realigned detour section near the southwest Nile Valley wall was completed early in
the week. WSDOT and the contractor, Selland, are working 14 hour days, seven
days a week, to complete the construction of the SR 410 temporary detour to
provide a roadway that will withstand winter weather and increasing river flows.
The subgrade for the realigned section is 60% complete. Paving of the 2.5 mile
north section was delayed due to weather conditions, but we are optimistic that the
paving will be completed next week. As many as 32 contractor employees are on
the job, with an equipment list that includes 10 scrapers, five trackhoes, 17 dump
trucks, two backhoes, and four dozers. Fifteen of the 17 truck drivers are local to
the area.

Real Estate Activities
There are no changes from last week as all of the right-of-way for the new
temporary SR 410 detour on the southwest side of the valley, six parcels in total,
has been either purchased by Yakima County, or Rights of Entry have been
obtained to construct the new road.

Hydrology
WSDOT continues to support efforts by Yakima County and the U. S. Army Corps
of Engineers to construct the new Naches River channel prior to the anticipated
elevated river flows this winter. The new channel should be completed prior to
Thanksgiving. We are also conducting new analysis for a flood model for the Nile
Valley that will be available by mid November. The new flood model will allow
planning for future flood impacts based on the new channel.

Resource Agencies - Environmental
WSDOT continues to coordinate and communicate with resource agencies as we
construct the SR 410 detour road along the south valley wall. Actions include:

• Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will remove
stranded fish within Carmack Ditch.
• Washington State Department of Ecology will de-commission domestic
Wells of purchased homes.
• WSDOT will consult with U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and
National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) regarding the Endangered
Species Act.
• WSDOT will coordinate with the Yakama Nation and Department of
Archeology and Historic Preservation (DAHP) for an archaeological survey
on the SR 410 detour road and recommended cultural monitoring.

Geology
Monitoring the Slide
The GroundProbe radar unit arrived in Yakima as scheduled on Friday, October
23, 2009. The radar unit was set up at the Eagle Rock field site that afternoon and
was operational and collecting data that evening.

This monitoring site provides a clear and unobstructed view of the landslide area. A
communication link (via the Internet) between the radar unit and WSDOT’s
Geotechnical Division in Olympia will allow engineering geologists to monitor
radar output from their Olympia location. If the slide begins to move, the system
will immediately notify workers and engineers.

To date there appears to be no significant movement within the main body of the
landslide, although active rock fall from the bedrock rim and some minor raveling
of steeper slopes within the landslide is being detected.

Test Hole Drilling:
A comprehensive geotechnical site investigation plan has been completed. The
plan calls for drilling deep test holes at nine locations along three critical geologic cross-sections. The holes will be instrumented with slope inclinometer casing to monitor for ground movement within the test hole and piezometers to measure the location of groundwater. This information will provide the necessary subsurface information to fully develop the landslide failure models that are needed for further geotechnical stability analysis. The Geotechnical Division plans on meeting with region personnel early next week to make arrangements for a drill access road and drill pad construction. Once these are constructed, test hole drilling can commence.

Site Mapping:
Detailed surface mapping of the landslide was completed last week. Engineering
geologists from the Geotechnical Division spent three days mapping prominent
landslide features onto post-landslide air photo base maps utilizing mapping-grade
GPS to provide locations of these features. The data from this effort is being
compiled and analyzed for the purposes of developing a preliminary landslide
failure model that can be used for future geotechnical stability analysis. This
model won’t be complete until the planned test boring program has been
completed.

Supplementing this geologic field work, a draft landslide timeline has been
completed based on eyewitness account and University of Washington seismic
records of the landslide failure. The draft timeline confirms that the landslide
failed in a number of sections beginning in the late morning of Saturday, October
10, 2009, and culminating in the massive landslide failure in the early morning of
Sunday, October 11, 2009, a time period of approximately 18 hours. To complete
this timeline, additional interviews with eyewitnesses are planned once they are
located.

Other
The region investigated the feasibility of using Pyramid Pass and the Little Naches
Road as an emergency evacuation route to reach the west side but determined this
is not a safe or feasible emergency route. With the minimal snowfall this last
week, the route has proven to be unsafe for use.

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you:
There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.

(NEW) Yakima County Public Services Flood Control Zone District Flood Preparedness Information
http://www.yakimacounty.us/SurfaceWater/FloodPreparedness.htm

WSDOT Website with road and slide information
http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management Blog KR Catlin is updating this daily
http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/

NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell.
http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdell
http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1

WA State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

Nile Valley HWY 410 Landslide Update/OCT. 30-NOV.1st ,2009

2009-10-30T15:06:00.000-07:00

Nile Valley HWY 410 Landslide Update

Naches, WASH- OCT. 30-NOV.1st ,2009

Nile Community Meeting

Thursday November 5th at 5:30 there will be a community update meeting at the Nile Community Church.

Enjoy Trunk-o-Treating tonight 6:00 PM-7:30 PM!

Office of Emergency Management

Helga in our office is short one “estimated economic impact for business” worksheet. If she gets one more she can forward them to the State. Once at the State it could mean low interest business loans for area commerce to assist them with the financial impact of the landslide. If you apply, you are not committed to take anything. Helga may be reached at 509-574-1920.

National Weather Service in Pendleton

The request from the National Weather Service in Pendleton is to post their two main office numbers on the web site. The weather office is staffed 24 hrs/ day and anyone who answers the phone can provide forecast information.
541-276-7832, or 541-276-4493
Tonight, a cold front will be moving onto the coast with the East Slopes still in the warm sector. We are expecting precipitation to increase overnight ahead and along the front with the heaviest precipitation expected from about midnight through Saturday noontime. The front is expected to be through the area by Saturday afternoon, with the precipitation tapering off to showers instead of steady rain. Some showers will continue Saturday night and Sunday...mainly along the crest. With the warming air moving in last night, the snow that fell has melted with rises seen on the Naches and tributaries. These rising are expected through late this afternoon with the gage at Cliffdell reaching about 550 cfs, then steady or drop back a bit overnight and then rise to about 650 cfs by late Saturday and slowly fall back to around 400 cfs by late Sunday.

WSDOT

Crews working seven days a week to build SR 410 temporary detour by Thanksgiving.
WSDOT and contractor crews continue work on the SR 410 winter-durable temporary detours using the five-mile Nile Loop Road.
Crews are working seven days a week, 14 hours a day, to build a 4,000 foot section of the detour across the valley away from the river and landslide. Crews are not paving the western three miles of the detour on the Nile Loop Road due to weather. WSDOT hopes to have the temporary detour open to all drivers by Thanksgiving.
The current SR 410 emergency access route on Nile Loop Road detours around the closed four-mile section of SR 410 between mileposts 104 and 108. WSDOT will keep Chinook Pass open until heavy snows create unavoidable avalanche danger.
For transportation related updates, call our project hotline: (509) 577-1635. For other matters, please contact Yakima County at (509) 574-1900.

Conditions:State Route 410 is open with detour between milepost 104 to milepost 108. The emergency detour route has been opened to all drivers, and is a rough, gravel-surfaced road. Crews continue work on portions of the detour and drivers on this emergency route could experience long delays due to construction activities. WSDOT could close the roadway for the safety of drivers at anytime. Information updates are available at 509-577-1635 or 5 1 1.Weather:Overcast with light rain, road is bare & wet

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you: There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.

WSDOT Website with road and slide information
http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management Blog KR Catlin is updating this daily
http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/

NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell.
http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en

NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdel
http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1

WA State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml
Generators:
http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/downloads/pdf/fswy24.pdf
http://www.cpsc.gov/generator.html (web page, not printable flyer)
Power outage web site (multiple topics):
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/poweroutage/needtoknow.asp
CO poisoning after an emergency web site:
http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/cofacts.asp
Kerosene heaters:
http://nasdonline.org/document/1098/d000884/unvented-portable-kerosene-heaters-safety-considerations.html (has a 3 page handout)
State EMD publications web site:
http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_infohouse.shtml
http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/documents/piy_water.pdf (good water flyer)

Hwy 410 Chinook Pass Briefing -OCT. 29th, 2009

2009-10-29T16:23:00.000-07:00

Hwy 410 Chinook Pass Briefing -

Naches, WASH-OCT. 29th, 2009

There is a rumor up here that the slide has moved 42 this week . Any truth to this? No . According to DOT officials this afternoon there has been some minor rock falls on the upper end of the slide but they have no evidence of any movement. See DOT Report below for additional information.
Yakima County Public Services
Rock continues to be hauled for the future armoring of the Lower Nile Road Bridge and Flood Structures that are being built. A contract has been executed to remove a barn and other buildings that remain in the flood way and or new channel. The wells left from the removal of homes are being decommissioned. A fence is being installed on the Flood Berm built by the Corps of Engineers for safety. There will also be a fence installed on the west side of the channel. These fences are for your safety so please respect them. Public Services is working hard to get ahead of the coming high water.

WSDOT

Road construction continues on the More Durable Road. WSDPT Brad White advises they have encountered some soft spots but are working around them. Brad also advised they have the Ground Probing Radar in place and the data acquired so far indicates there has been no movement of the slide sense Saturday when it was installed. A feature not yet installed because of technical issues is the radar will be capable of alerting officials if it sees any movement day or night. The WSDOT will begin drilling on the slide itself in the coming weeks to gather information on what happened and what the future will bring.

Cell Coverage
We have not received an update on the Cell Coverage today. We talked to Todd Krienke late yesterday 5:30 or so and from what he said they were going to try to get their service at the Woodshed on line today. As of this afternoon nothing has been done.

Heavy Equipment Behind the Barricade
No new information on this issue. The Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management has received reports today of activity behind the barricade. After investigating it we found out the Simmons’s family had crossed the barricade to salvage materials from their rock quarry. Family members stated that had received the proper permits to re-enter the area and were told their doing so would not endanger the slide area.

Response Agencies War-game Worst Case Scenario for Nile Valley

In the aftermath of the Highway 410 Landslide in Nile Valley 12 agencies met to conduct a table top exercise on what could happen if the Nile Valley was cut off for an extended period of time.
*A cadre of 12 agencies made up of public and private entities met to brainstorm the possible problems that could arise in the Nile Valley this winter if it was cut off as a result of complications from the OCT. 11th landslide. The meeting was held at the Yakima County Public Service Facility on 18th Street.

*Various scenarios that could arise were addressed as well as which specific roles the numerous agencies would fill if an emergency arose.

*One re-occurring theme brought up in the session was the need for the local residents to be ready for the 30-40 days of possible isolation in the Nile Valley. All agencies echoed the same message that all their planning will only achieve half of the needed results if the local residents of the Nile Valley are not prepared.

*The agencies and private companies included 211-People For People, ALS Ambulance , Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management, Yakima Sheriff’s Department, Washington State Department of Transportation, US Forest Service, Yakima Co. GIS, Yakima Co. Surface Water, Yakima Co. Public Services, Nile Valley CERT, Nile/ Cliffdell Fire Department, Washington State Department of Emergency Management.

Informational Websites that are potentially pertinent to you: There is a lot of information out there. Please take a look and see if any applies to you.

WSDOT Website with road and slide information
http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/News/2009/10/23-WSDOT+begins+building+SR+410+detour.htm

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management Blog KR Catlin is updating this daily
http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/

NOAA National Weather Forecast for 8 miles east of Cliffdell.
http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=46.86394700508323&lon=-120.95947265625&site=pdt&smap=1&marine=1&unit=0&lg=en

NOAA (Weather Service) river gauge at Cliffdel
http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/river/station/flowplot/flowplot.cgi?CLFW1

WA State Emergency Management Personal, Family, and Pet Preparedness Information http://www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_personal_preparedness.shtml

OCT. 28 2009-Hwy 410 Nile Valley Update

2009-10-28T12:22:00.000-07:00

Now that the road is open things are starting to get back to normal. Please do not become complacent about the potential to be isolated this winter!
OCT. 28 2009
Chinook Pass SR410/

Conditions:State Route 410 is open with detour between milepost 104, to milepost 108, due to a landslide in the area. The emergency detour route has been opened to all drivers, and is a rough, gravel-surfaced road. Crews continue work on portions of the detour and drivers on this emergency route could experience long delays due to construction activities. WSDOT could close the roadway for the safety of drivers at anytime. Information updates are available at or 5 1 1.

Cell Coverage
Verizon Wireless has removed their Cell On Wheels (COW) as of this morning. This has created some issues with the construction work on the More Durable Road and the River Channel . US Cellular is working hard to get theirs up and running Todd Krienke advise he will have six trucks in the area working to get their work done today. They are still waiting for the T-1 Connection so no specific time to activation yet.

Medications
It would be wise to make sure to have at least a five day supply of medication in your vehicle if you drive out of the Nile Valley. If the worst happens and the Valley is cut off you could find yourself without the medications you stock piled at home. A five day supply would give you time to contact the doctor and the pharmacists to re-order more medications.

Heavy Equipment Behind the Barricade
The Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management has received reports today of activity behind the barricade. After investigating it we found out the Simmons’s family had crossed the barricade to salvage materials from their rock quarry. Family members stated that had received the proper permits to re-enter the area and were told their doing so would not endanger the slide area.

NWS Pendleton, OR-Point Forecast: 11 Miles SE Cliffdell -Wednesday Night: A chance of rain showers before 11pm, then a chance of rain and snow showers. Snow level 3300 feet. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 34. Calm wind becoming south southwest around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%.Thursday: Rain likely. Cloudy, with a high near 45. South southwest wind between 5 and 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Thursday Night: Rain likely before 11pm, then rain and snow likely. Snow level 4800 feet lowering to 3600 feet. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31.

We are striving for a Disaster resilient community. From what I have seen so far we are getting there. Keep up the good work.

HELPFUL WEBSITES FOR LATEST HWY410 LANDSLIDE RELATED INFO · To view the latest river stages and forecasts, select from left hand menu, River and Lakes AHPS or follow link below. · http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=pdt Either click on Cliffdell Icon or select from drop down menu. Shows the latest river stage data and forecast/trend out 7 days. To view graphical forecasts including amount of precipitation expected and possible amount of snow. From left hand menu, select "Weather Forecasts" and click on region of interest. The amount of precipitation expected is under "QPF" and is included out 72 hours. · To view precipitation received at differing stations, from the main NWS Pendleton Web page www.wrh.noaa.gov/pdt Select Observations and then you can use the clickable Mesonet map site to view locations.
The Northwest River Forecast Center Web page http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/ Can see at a glance, with colored icons, sites that are approaching action or warning stages. You can also use this site to see current and forecast river conditions as well as the hydrological discussion, and other features. · http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/ , or Yakima County Hot line (509) 574-1900 · WSDOT Transportation Hot line (509- 577-1635) and SR 410 Landslide Web Page www.wsdot.wa.gov/projects/SR410/Landslide For State Road conditions call 511

HWY 410 Landslide Update OCT. 26, 2009

2009-10-26T09:37:00.000-07:00

HWY 410 Landslide Update- OCT. 26, 2009

Naches, WASH-

Nile Fire
· Nile fire reports they may have a slower Fire and EMS response because of the road detour. With the potential of a power outage the Fire Department wants everyone to pay attention to Carbon Monoxide poisoning from generators or stoves.

· Everyone needs a fire safety plan in place for their homes.

· Prepare now. Top off fuel, tanks propane, make sure your generator works, be prepared!

Power Outage Safety
There are some things we can’t control – like severe weather, accidents and other unpredictable situations. Your safety during a power outage – and at all times – is important to us.

Read on to find out more about how to stay safe during power outages.

In the house
· Never use kerosene or propane heaters inside without proper ventilation. They create dangerous fumes. Also, don’t use charcoal in your house or garage.

· Preserve body heat by wearing multiple layers of clothing. Add a hat and blankets to stay warm. Blankets and towels around your windows and doors help keep the heat in.

· Protect you pipes during freezing weather by wrapping them with insulation. Also, leave faucets dripping so water won’t freeze and crack the pipes.

· Your full freezer should keep food frozen and safe for about two days when kept closed.

· If someone in your home is on life support, be sure to have a back-up system and a plan of action for an outage.

Downed lines
· Call us immediately at 1-877-548-3768 (1-877-LITESOUT) if you see a downed power line. Don’t touch it.

· Keep everyone, including pets, out of the area. You cannot look at a downed line and determine if it’s "live."

· Do not touch a person if a power line is touching them. Immediately call 911.

· If a power line falls across your vehicle, stay in the car and wait for emergency personnel to cut the power. If your vehicle is on fire and you are in imminent danger and you must get out of the vehicle, JUMP – with both feet together—as far from the car as possible. If a part of your body touches the car and the ground at the same time, you could be electrocuted.

Generator safety
· One idea to help prepare you for a power outage is to purchase a portable electric generator. If you use one, please do so with caution since generators can pose serious safety hazards when improperly used or installed. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

· Never plug your generator into an outlet, and don’t connect a generator directly to your home’s main fuse box or circuit panel.

· If you must provide temporary power to your home’s wiring system, the generator must be connected through an approved transfer switch that will isolate your house from our system. The switch must comply with the National Electric Code and local building codes. These include permits, inspection and installation by a licensed electrician.

· To temporarily power an appliance, plug it directly into the generator.

· Use properly sized and grounded extension cords and keep cords hidden so they don’t present a tripping hazard.

· Always properly ventilate a portable generator. Gasoline-powered generators produce carbon monoxide and the fumes can be deadly.

· Make sure that the total electric load on your generator won’t exceed the generator’s rating.

Conditions:State Route 410

410 is still open with detour between milepost 104, to milepost 108, due to a landslide in the area. The emergency detour route has been opened to all drivers, and is a rough, gravel-surfaced road. Crews continue work on portions of the detour and drivers on this emergency route could experience long delays due to construction activities. WSDOT could close the roadway for the safety of drivers at anytime. Information updates are available at 509-577-1635 or 5 1 1.Weather:Rain. Roadway is bare & wet.

Cell Service

Todd Krienke from US Cell advises they will move their COW( cell tower on wheels) to a location near the Woodshed. They will be moving it Monday but did not give a time for activation it takes awhile to get it working. US Cellular also said that when the COW was set up and working US Cellular will be adding equipment to provide coverage further up the canyon. Over the next few weeks cell coverage should improve dramatically for the Hwy 410 corridor on the US Cellular system. Verizon who has had their COW at Carroll Flats for the last two weeks on generator will be shutting down Tuesday 10-27 to remove the site before the weather will not allow its removal. More to follow.

HELPFUL WEBSITES FOR LATEST HWY410 LANDSLIDE RELATED INFO

· To view the latest river stages and forecasts, select from left hand menu, River and Lakes AHPS or follow link below. · http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=pdt Either click on Cliffdell Icon or select from drop down menu. Shows the latest river stage data and forecast/trend out 7 days. To view graphical forecasts including amount of precipitation expected and possible amount of snow. From left hand menu, select "Weather Forecasts" and click on region of interest. The amount of precipitation expected is under "QPF" and is included out 72 hours.

· To view precipitation received at differing stations, from the main NWS Pendleton Web page www.wrh.noaa.gov/pdt Select Observations and then you can use the clickable Mesonet map site to view locations.

· http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/ , or Yakima County Hot line (509) 574-1900

· WSDOT Transportation Hot line (509) 577-1635 and SR 410 Landslide Web Page www.wsdot.wa.gov/projects/SR410/Landslide For State Road conditions call 511

Nile Valley Community Update for OCT. 23-25, 2009

2009-10-23T12:54:00.000-07:00

Nile Valley Community Update for OCT. 23-25, 2009
Naches, WASH-
Local information will be posted on reader boards located at Fire Station 10 (next to the Woodshed), Nile Community Church, Fire Station 11, and at Gold Creek.

HELPFUL WEBSITES FOR LATEST HWY410 LANDSLIDE RELATED INFO

· To view the latest river stages and forecasts, select from left hand menu, River and Lakes AHPS or follow link below.
· http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=pdt
Either click on Cliffdell Icon or select from drop down menu. Shows the latest river stage data and forecast/trend out 7 days. To view graphical forecasts including amount of precipitation expected and possible amount of snow.
From left hand menu, select "Weather Forecasts" and click on region of interest.
The amount of precipitation expected is under "QPF" and is included out 72 hours.

· To view precipitation received at differing stations, from the main NWS Pendleton Web page www.wrh.noaa.gov/pdt
Select Observations and then you can use the clickable Mesonet map site to view locations.

The Northwest River Forecast Center Web page http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/
Can see at a glance, with colored icons, sites that are approaching action or warning stages. You can also use this site to see current and forecast river conditions as well as the hydrological discussion, and other features.

· http://www.yak-oem.blogspot.com/ , or Yakima County Hot line (509) 574-1900

· WSDOT Transportation Hot line (509) 577-1635 and SR 410 Landslide Web Page www.wsdot.wa.gov/projects/SR410/Landslide For State Road conditions call 511

COMMUNITY NEWS
· Please complete the C.E.R.T information form and return to Pam Brown

· Create a Disaster Supply Kit with enough provisions to last at least 30 days. See Yakima Valley Emergency Management Office Family Emergency Planning Guide.

· If you heat with propane consider using the Top Off program to keep your tanks full.

· Now is a good time to complete maintenance work on your generator and to have additional fuel stored in proper containers and in a safe location.

· Please help the church replenish the food bank. Dottie 658-2507 or Keith 658-2904.

· Please make frequent checks on your neighbors to make sure they are OK and to watch their property if they are gone .

· The Community Pumpkin Patch “Trunk or Treat” Halloween Party is still on for next Friday Oct 30, 2009 from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at Jim Sprick Park. Bring the whole family.

· Visit our local restaurants for a great meal and a warm friendly welcome.

NOAA WEATHER FORECAST
· The storm is expected to move in through early Friday night. At this time,
precipitation amounts are fairly light for the East Slopes for tonight and early Friday. Currently, one of the models is indicating a 3-6 hour period of precipitation for the upper basin of up to .45 inches. The other models have about half of that amount. The forecast for the Cliffdell site bumps up at little more than currently indicated when the River Forecast Center updates on Friday, but we don't see any indication of a significant rise. In addition, on Friday night, the snow level will be lowering to 5000 feet. Saturday looks to be dry with another system moving in Sunday.
In the 6 to 10 day outlook, Oct 28 through Nov 1, it's calling for warmer than
normal and normal to slightly above normal precipitation.

Have You Had A Job Or Business Related Impact Due To The Disaster?
Contact Yakima Work Source at 509-575-2720 or at http://www.cw1stop.org/ for information regarding unemployment, food, child care, health care, clothing, shelter and financial assistance.

HWY 410 Landslide Update

2009-10-22T15:36:00.000-07:00

Naches, WASH-OCT.22 , 2009

Public Meeting Today at the Nile Valley Church- 5:00 PM

Washington State Patrol

WSP is still on site, working with the DOT to maintain traffic flow and patrol the area to insure compliance with flaggers and safety signage.

National Weather Service
These are the sites we watch the river for changes. They are public sites so you can look as well.

Home Page
http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/pdt/

To view the latest river stages and forecasts, select from left hand menu, River and Lakes AHPS or follow link below.

http://ahps2.wrh.noaa.gov/ahps2/index.php?wfo=pdt
Either click on Cliffdell icon or select from drop down menu.
Shows the latest river stage data and forecast/trend out 7 days.
To view graphical forecasts including amount of precipitation expected and possible amount of snow.
From left hand menu, select "Weather Forecasts" and click on region of interest.
The amount of precipitation expected is under "QPF" and is included out
72 hours.

To view precipitation received at differing stations, from the main NWS Pendleton Web page
www.wrh.noaa.gov/pdt

Select Observations and then you can use the click-able Mesonet map site to view locations.
The Northwest River Forecast Center Web page
http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/
Can see at a glance, with colored icons, sites that are approaching action or warning stages.
You can also use this site to see current and forecast river conditions as well as the hydrological discussion, and other features.

Washington State DOT
The Nile Road is open to all traffic expect delays. Still working on property acquisition for the interim road. While waiting they are continuing to build up the Nile Road near the lower end to a height of a 100 year flood. They are also working on a monitoring system to insure we are warned in the event the slide moves again. They will be testing this on Saturday we are told. They have in coordination Yakima County Flood Control District lowered the level of the pool behind the slide about a foot.

Yakima County Public Services
Public Services continues to acquire property to establish an interim Nile Road. Once the needed property has been acquired which I understand is very close WSDOT will have the green light to start construction. Then the race is on to see if the road can be built before Mother Nature smacks us again. Just to give you an idea of how important this road is the current flow in the river is between 4-500 CFS. The Yakima County Flood Control Zone District puts the average flow in November at 2000 CFS. This means there were some days there was more some less. The current channel is reported to be capable of carry about 1700 CFS. If one does the math there will be problems with the temporary (Original) Nile Road that has been built up.

Yakima Sheriff’s Office
YSO will have a reduced presence. They will have extra patrols working the area along with WSP.

Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management
Incident Action Plans continue to be developed for the potential isolation of the area. These plans will be living documents adapting to the changing environment presented by the slide and weather in the future. KR Continues to be available at the Nile Church from 11:00 to 3:00 each day. If you have questions stop by.

The CERT Team has received about 500 survey forms that they developed to begin to identify the situation of the residents in the valley. They will have a table at the Public Meeting Tomorrow Night. Please stop by and help your community prepare for what experts believe is coming.

The above information is excerpts from information gleamed from e-mails discussions and phone conversations with Jim Hall(Director of the Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management today. As with any situation, things change fast. If you have questions about this incident please call 574-1900 before “assuming” what has been said is totally accurate.

The Nile communities disaster resilience is a thing to be proud of ! The Office of Emergency Management can not say this enough; prepare now. We (government agencies) will not be able to help everyone if the worst happens. Please do not be caught surprised !

Community Update Meeting on the HWY 410 Landslide

2009-10-21T14:41:00.000-07:00

Community Update Meeting on the HWY 410 Landslide

Naches, WASH-OCT. 21, 2009

There will be a citizens meeting at the Nile Community Church at 5 P.M. on Thursday, October 22. Information will be shared with Nile Valley residents on how they should be preparing for the upcoming flood season as well as information on what the local response agencies, the County and the Department of Transportation will be doing.

For more information Steve Nevens can be contacted by phone at the Nile Community Church (658-2904) or by email steve.nevens@chinookpasslions.com .

How to Help the Nile Valley

2009-10-21T09:04:00.000-07:00

How to Help the Nile Valley

Naches, WASH-OCT. 21, 2009

Businesses in the area have been greatly impacted. Area restaurants, stores, and resorts could desperately use your business. Many of these local businesses employ residents from the Nile Valley.
The Nile Valley Church needs to replenish their food bank. Those wishing to donate food may contact 658-2507. Also the Red Cross has set up a bank account under the name: Nile Valley Landslide Victims Fund at the Banner Bank. Any monetary donations to the valley residents who have lost their homes and/or property will go into this named fund. If donations are made just to the Red Cross the money will go to the headquarters of the Red Cross. It is imperative that individuals wanting to donate to the victims of this incident, make sure their donations go into the " Nile Valley Landslide Victims Fund". Donations can be made at any Banner Bank branch.

NEED HELP?

2009-10-21T08:55:00.000-07:00

Naches, WASH-Oct. 21, 2009.
Citizens in the Nile Valley needing assistance with food, clothing, and shelter may contact the American Red Cross Yakima Office at 457-1690. Those needing social services are urged to dial 211 for possible resources.

Governor Office Wants to Hear Insurance Issues

2009-10-21T08:17:00.000-07:00

Governor Office Wants to Hear Insurance Issues
Naches, WASH-OCT. 21, 2009
The Yakima Office of Emergency Management has received information from the Governor’s Office that the Governor wants to hear about insurance issues people in the Nile Valley are experiencing. There may be nothing they can do, but it may be worth a phone call or filling out a form so they are aware of the situation.

Write Governor Gregoire a Letter:
Governor Chris Gregoire
Office of the Governor
PO Box 40002
Olympia, WA 98504-0002

Give Governor Gregoire's Office a Call:
Governor's Office 360-902-4111

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Fax Governor Gregoire a Letter:
360-753-4110

Caution! Stay Away From Landslide Area

2009-10-20T16:42:00.019-07:00

Naches, WASH-
Oct. 20/ 2009.
The Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management cautions the public not to venture into the path of the landslide. The land slide is unstable and those doing so risk their own and others well being. Caution!

Detour Route Now Open

2009-10-20T16:32:00.000-07:00

Emergency detour route now open to all drivers
Naches,WASH-
FROM THE OFFICE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONOn Oct. 20 we lifted the 'residents only' restriction on the emergency detour route around the landslide. The route is now open to all drivers.

Drivers should be aware that the current emergency route, which detours around a four-mile section of SR 410 between mileposts 104 and 108, is a rough, gravel-surfaced road. We could close the roadway for the safety of drivers at anytime if landslide activity or an increase in river flows is detected. While keeping the roadway open is important for residents and businesses along the SR 410 corridor, we will not compromise motorist safety.

Drivers should check for updates before using the emergency route. The most reliable access to the restaurants, homes, cabins, and stores along the SR 410 corridor is from the west over Chinook Pass. We will try to keep Chinook Pass open until heavy snows create unavoidable avalanche danger.

For the safety of drivers and pedestrians, the four-mile section of SR 410 between mileposts 104 and 108 remains closed due to the instability of the landslide.

WSDOT and contractor crews continue work on temporary route and build channel to divert river water
The emergency route on Nile Loop Road is just the first of several steps to re-establish this transportation corridor around the landslide. The river and weather continues to pose challenges, and we estimate that the emergency repairs on Nile Loop Road will only last several weeks before the roadway is damaged by the river.

We understand the urgency to re-establish a roadway before winter. We continue to survey, design, and work with property owners to get permission to build a winter-durable SR 410 detour. The new detour will likely follow the west edge of the Nile Valley floor and connect the Rattlesnake Creek Bridge with the east junction of Nile Loop Road and SR 410.

We're working with our contractor, Selland Construction, Inc., of Wenatchee to build a wider channel that will reduce the velocity of the river near the emergency route on Nile Loop Road. Crews are placing large boulders and trees along side Nile Loop Road to slow erosion long enough for WSDOT to build a temporary road that will withstand the winter months and the rise and fall of the river.

Economic Recovery Effort

2009-10-20T09:35:00.000-07:00

Economic Recovery Effort
Naches, WASH- The Yakima Valley Office of Emergency Management is asking all residents who received damage to property or a business to report this information to our office at 509-574-1920. This information can be used to find financial relief for citizens of the Nile area. The community is encouraging residents to give business to the local restaurants and stores in the Nile Valley.

WASHINGTON STATE DOT REPORT

2009-10-20T08:08:00.000-07:00

Naches,WASH-
WASHINGTON STATE DOT REPORT:
OCT. 20/2009-SR 410 - State Route 410 remains closed from milepost 104 to milepost 108 due to a landslide in the area. There is no thru traffic in the closed area, except for local residents as well as services vehicles (i.e. garbage,propane,mail) . Road closure points are staffed around the clock; local residents will need to provide ID to get though. SR 410 west of the closure point is open from the west via Chinook Pass. Contractor crews are on site, working to repair a temporary route for local access. Information updates are available on the Hotline at 509 577-1635.

2009-10-20T07:53:00.000-07:00

OCT 20 HIGHWAY 410 LANDSLIDE UPDATE

Phone Numbers
EMERGENCY 9-1-1
WSDOT INFO. LINE 577-1635
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT OFFICE 574-1900
NILE/CLIFFDELL FIRE DEPT. 658-2445
YSO - (NON EMERGENCY) - 574-2500
WSP - (NON EMERGENCY) - 575-2320

NACHES,WASH-
Nile Fire Department: continues to organize the community for the current landslide situation and the potential future isolation of the area from and high water event. The department has and is hosting several meetings with officials and the community to ensure this coordination takes place. They have also become a significant source of information within the community.

State DOT: Is continuing to coordinate the construction of the temporary road over the existing Nile Road. Channel work continues with the removal of the log cabin and cleaning the channel. As of 1400 today they are beginning to allow some water to flow in the new channel as they watch the area for changes. They have advised everything they do in the area is a balancing act between the slide and moving material on the toe. Too much movement may set off the slide again. Simultaneously DOT is continuing their efforts to design and redirect the Nile Road some distance from the river. Crews are still working feverishly to allow two way traffic on the Nile Road. It should be coming soon. For more information call the DOT Hotline at 577-1635 for the latest.

Yakima County Public Services: Continuing to work on the river channel with state DOT. They have purchased several pieces of property from emergency funds to assist with this effort. The Flood Control Zone District, a part of Public Services, is working hard on modeling the effects of a high water event and identifying who will be threatened.

Emergency Management: The Emergency Management office continues to man the 574-1900 help line. The phone is being answered by volunteers to support the Nile Community. One staff person has been stationed at the Nile Church from 11:00am to 3:00 pm weekdays. Please stop by and talk with KR Catlin. He is there to listen to your needs and help you with questions.

CERT: Volunteers led by Pam Brown from the Hwy 410 Chinook Pass area are organizing to support the community. If you see someone in a Green Vest with the CERT logo say thank you and let them know what your needs are.

Washington State Patrol: WSP is manning the Hwy 410 Lower Nile Road intersection only allowing residence and service vehicles to pass through the construction area.

Yakima Sheriff’s Office: Lt Brian Winter reports YSO has moved their road position from the Nile Road at the Rattlesnake to the Hwy 410 Upper Nile Road intersection. This is to better control local access. Again they are only allowing residents and service vehicles into the construction area.

YVOEM

Damage from the January16-23 Weather Event

Winter Readiness Reminders

Unwanted Guests

Is Your Farm or Ranch Disaster-Ready?

Anatomy of a Disaster

NOV. 9 Emergency Alert Test

Hazardous Materials Response

Disaster Assistance Available for Small Businesses

Prepare/ Update Your Emergency Plan This October

federal disaster loans for residents/ business affected by White Swan Fire

Yakima County Small Stream Flood Advisory

WHITE SWAN RECOVERY

Rivers Crest and Stay High-Update on Weekend Flooding

Report any Damage to Property

Heavy Precipitation Forecasted for Yakima Valley

JOIN MRC !

Complete and email to kr.catlin@co.yakim.wa.us or mail by standard post (to MRC Coordinator, room 110, 128 North 2nd street Yakima, WA 98901)

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION FORM

PERSONAL INFORMATION

EXPERIENCE

EMERGENCY CONTACT INFORMATION

Personal References:

Signature ___________________________________ Date ____________________

Yakima Valley Medical Reserve Corps

Purpose

Procedure

Training for Yakima Community Readiness on the 9/11 Anniversary

KEEPING READY

Emailing: CosUL_PCL

Volunteer for MRC

SR 410 Nile Valley Landslide Open House

VOLUNTEER CONTACT INFORMATION

*Operation Eagle Eye*

Medical Reserve Corps

FW: JAN 14-Thursday 6 PM HWY 410 Meeting

H1N1 (swine flu) vaccine widely available

HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK

Hwy 410 Chinook Pass Landslide Situational Update and Report

H1N1 (Swine Flu) Vaccine Availability

2009-2010 Influenza (H1N1) Season Update

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 24, 2009

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 23, 2009

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 19, 2009

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 18, 2009

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 17, 2009

HWY 410 Landslides/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 13, 2009

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 12, 2009

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 10, 2009

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV.9, 2009

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 6, 2009

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 5, 2009

Community Update Meeting November 5th

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-NOV. 4, 2009

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community-NOV. 03, 2009

HWY 410 Landslide/ Nile Community Update-Nov.2,2009

Nile Valley HWY 410 Landslide Update/OCT. 30-NOV.1st ,2009

Hwy 410 Chinook Pass Briefing -OCT. 29th, 2009

OCT. 28 2009-Hwy 410 Nile Valley Update

HWY 410 Landslide Update OCT. 26, 2009

Nile Valley Community Update for OCT. 23-25, 2009

HWY 410 Landslide Update

Community Update Meeting on the HWY 410 Landslide

How to Help the Nile Valley

NEED HELP?

Governor Office Wants to Hear Insurance Issues

Caution! Stay Away From Landslide Area

Detour Route Now Open

Economic Recovery Effort

WASHINGTON STATE DOT REPORT

Complete and email to kr.catlin@co.yakim.wa.us or mail by standard post (to MRC Coordinator, room 110, 128 North 2^nd street Yakima, WA 98901)

Signature _______________ Date

Operation Eagle Eye