The 1,000 Year Event
Torrential rain, thunderstorms, floods, and even a tornado, combined to devastate West Virginia—Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin (Alpha Rho–West Virginia '71) led the recovery by Jesse S. Lyons (Delta Alpha–Western Carolina ’98)
KAJ_Fall16_18-43_Feat_P4.indd 38
ON JUNE 23, 2016, AFTER TORRENTIAL
JUNE 24, 2016
thunderstorms, an historic fl od hit areas of West Virginia and nearby parts of Virginia, resulting in 23 deaths. Rivers crested well over fl od stages, entire homes were fl oded to the roof, and entire small communities were swept away. In just half a day, 8 to 10 inches of rain fell and accounted for the seventh Deadliest fl od in West Virginia history. At helm of the state was KA alumnus and Governor, Earl Ray Tomblin. There are 55 counties in West Virginia. Governor Earl Tomblin (Alpha Rho–West Virginia ’71) declared a state of emergency, which has since been extended multiple times, in 44 of them and ordered the deployment of over 400 members of the West Virginia National Guard. Search and rescue teams were called to action and canvassed the state. President Barack Obama declared West Virginia a major disaster area, and ordered aid for the victims. And this was just the beginning. Gov. Tomblin and his team went to work interacting with the federal government for assistance, coordinating local and statewide responses needed from every department, and early on, they began looking to the future on how to best assist West Virginia in recovering from such a devastating
1 Day Post-Disaster
FALL 2016
38
`` Governor Tomblin Addresses West Virginians on Flooding Damage and Response `` State Emergency Operations Center opens `` Focus is on search and rescue `` The Division of Forestry is working to assist with clearing downed trees `` The Division of Highways currently reports 60 road closures `` The Department of Health and Human Resources is working with healthcare providers to address specific needs, including affected nursing homes `` Several groups, including the Red Cross, Salvation Army and VOAD, are setting up shelters and assisting those in need.
“We understand many counties continue to experience significant problems and some waters continue to rise. Joanne and I are thinking continually about those affected by this disaster, and our thoughts and prayers are with those who lost loved ones. I appreciate the tireless efforts of first responders across the state, many of whom have volunteered to travel long distances to help those in the most affected areas.” JUNE 25
2 Days Post-Disaster `` Governor Tomblin Announces Approved Federal Disaster Declaration for Three Counties JUNE 27
4 Days Post-Disaster `` Governor Tomblin Pledges Assistance to Communities Affected by Flooding
THE K APPA ALPHA JOUR NAL
11/17/16 3:10 PM