State of Emergency Declared on Colville Indian Reservation

Native News Network Staff in Native Challenges. Discussion »

COLVILLE INDIAN RESERVATION – Last Friday, a severe thunderstorm swept through the Colville Indian Reservation causing downed trees, landslides, road closures and power outages in all four districts which include Okanogan and Ferry Counties. The town of Keller, Washington has been severally impacted by the storm.

Trees have fallen causing power outages in Keller, Washington

The Keller Community Center is the official Evacuation Center. The Center is now the point of contact for anyone who is without electricity, water or home damage causing displacement. The Center will provide meals, refrigerator truck storage (secure) for food items of families without electricity. Water will be available, as well as portable showers, portable toilets and hand washing units.

The Center is equipped with phone service for families to notify relatives.

The tribal health department is on site to assist with any health issues. Medical aid and crisis counseling is going to be available shortly.

This relief is not only for Tribal Members, but for all individuals who have been displaced or affected by the recent storm disaster.

Private property owners need to complete damage reports and submit to the Keller Community center. Reports can also be found at the command office at the Keller Community Center.

Individuals on the reservation are being advised to be aware of danger areas where broken trees and or electric wires are hanging. They should stay away and report these to the Tribe’s safety officials on site. Those hazardous issues are being resolved, but are still in the process. Individuals, who are in a current dangerous position, may contact the Center for assistance at 509.634.7336.

posted July 24, 2012 6:40 am edt