Welcome to Skagit County

Number: 19
Date: November 8, 2006
Time: 1:12 p.m.
From: Skagit County Public Works
Contact: Dan Berentson, 360-419-3461

Flood Information – Skagit River Flood Information

SKAGIT COUNTY - The Skagit River continues to drop slowly and should fall below flood stage later this afternoon. Many road closures are still in effect.

Skagit County Emergency Management is requesting assessments for damage of private property, including land, businesses, homes and other personal property damaged in this flood.

Following a flood of this magnitude, it is important to have approximate damage assessments as soon as possible to report the extent of damage to the Governor’s office.

Skagit County has a DAMAGE REPORT HOTLINE at 360-428-3260 available from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, this week, and Monday through Friday next week.

The Skagit County Board of Commissioners will consider a resolution to provide non-commercial solid waste disposal vouchers in flood affected areas. Also, they will consider free tetanus shots for employees and volunteers as well as free well water tests. People with rural wells should get them tested immediately as soon as water clears the well head. They should call the Skagit County Health Department for information at 360-336-9380.

SKAGIT COUNTY – USGS current gauge readings

Skagit at Concrete 25.7 feet at 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 9, 2006
Skagit at Mt. Vernon 28.69 feet at 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 9, 2006
To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net

Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will continue to monitor conditions throughout the event.

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Date:           November 8, 2006
Time:           6:00 p.m.
From:           Skagit County Public Works
Contact:        Don McKeehen, PIO 360-428-3250

Flood Information – Update on River Levels – PIO Closing

SKAGIT COUNTY – USGS current gauge readings 

Skagit at Concrete         29.01 feet at 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 8, 2006
Skagit at Mt. Vernon      32.27 feet at 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, November 8, 2006
To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net

The Public Information Desk at the Emergency Operations Center will be closed as of 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, November 8, 2006. Beginning Thursday morning, requests for information can be directed to the Skagit County Communications Director, Dan Berentson, at 360-419-3461.

Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will continue to monitor conditions throughout the event.

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Date:           November 8, 2006
Time:           2:00 p.m.
From:           Skagit County Public Works
Contact:        Don McKeehen, PIO 360-428-3250

Flood Information – Update on River Levels

SKAGIT COUNTY – USGS current gauge readings 

Skagit at Concrete         29.55 feet at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 8, 2006
Skagit at Mt. Vernon      32.64 feet at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 8, 2006
To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net
Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the event.

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Date: November 8, 2006
Time: 11:30 a.m.
From: Skagit County Public Works
Contact: Don McKeehen, PIO 360-428-3250

DAMAGE ASSESSMENT INFORMATION REQUESTED

SKAGIT COUNTY – Skagit County Emergency Management officials are requesting assessments for damage to private property, including land, homes, businesses, and other personal property from the flood event of November 2006. Following a flood of any magnitude, it is imperative for officials to get approximate damage assessments as soon as possible, in order to report the extent of damages to the Governor’s office.

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Date: November 8, 2006
Time: 8:30 a.m.
From: Skagit County Public Works
Contact: Don McKeehen, PIO 360-428-3250

Flood Information – Road Closures

SKAGIT COUNTY – The following roads are currently closed:

Lafayette from Sterling to District Peter Anderson Road
The South Skagit Highway has been closed at Milepost 14 to Pressentin Road
South Skagit Highway from Highway 9 to West Gilligan and Old Day Creek
Cape Horn Drive, Highway 20 at the Lyman Hamilton Road to Pinelli Road
Lyman Hamilton Highway, Lyman City limits East to Hamilton Cemetery Road
Third Street from Sterling to end
Martin Road from Highway 530 for ½ mile
Baker Lake Road at Burpee Hill Road is closed due to a slide
Cabin Creek Road from Lyman Hamilton Road
Lyman Hamilton Road from Healy to the Town of Hamilton
Cockreham Island Road West end Cockreham Island & Lyman Hamilton Highway to Cockreham Island and Healy Road
Howey Road from South Skagit Highway to end
Thunderbird Lane is closed from Thunderbird Lane to the end
Cape Horn Drive from the South Skagit Highway
Dalles Road, Highway 20 to Grassmere Road
Swan Road from Mud Lake Road to Nookachamps Bridge
Healy Road from Lyman Hamilton Road to Highway 20
Francis Road from Thilberg-Highway 9 to Hoag Road
Fruitdale Road from Hoehn Road to River Road
West Gilligan Road
River Road from Township to Fruitdale
Sterling Road from Lafayette Road to end
Township Road from Dunlop Road to River Road
Utopia Road from Hoehn Road to end
Pressentin Road from Cape Horn Road to end
Beaver Lake Road from Mile Post 1.5 near Fonk Road to Beaver Lake Quarry Dearinger Park Road from the County line to end

Babcock Road from Highway 9 to Mud Lake Road

USGS current gauge readings
Skagit at Concrete 32.19 feet at 06:30 a.m., Wednesday, November 8, 2006
Skagit at Mt. Vernon 33.24 feet at 06:30 a.m., Wednesday, November 8, 2006
To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net

Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the event.

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Date:           November 7, 2006
Time:           10:30 p.m.
From:           Skagit County Public Works
Contact:        Dan Berentson, PIO 360-428-3250
Flood Information

Skagit River Flood Information
SKAGIT COUNTY – The Skagit River in Mount Vernon appears to have crested this evening at 33.86 feet at 8:30 p.m.
At Concrete, the river has reached a plateau and is holding steady at just under 35 feet. The National Weather Service continues to project that the river will continue dropping, and fall below flood stage Wednesday afternoon.
The National Guard is conducting traffic control and security at Cape Horn and Shangri La. The United States Army Corps of Engineers is working on several flood repair projects in Skagit County.
The Red Cross Shelter at the Hamilton Baptist Church is still open. The shelter at Sedro-Woolley High School will be open until 8:00 a.m. Wednesday morning.
The Skagit County Board of Commissioners will consider a resolution to provide non-commercial solid waste disposal vouchers in flood affected areas. Also, they will consider free tetanus shots for employees and volunteers as well as free well water tests. People with rural wells should get their tested immediately as soon as water clears the well head. They should call the Skagit County Health Department for information at 360-336-9380.

There are many road closures in Eastern Skagit County. The public is advised not to drive through standing water. It is extremely dangerous and the number one cause of fatalities during flood events.

To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net
Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the event.

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Date: November 7, 2006
Time: 8:00 p.m.
From: Skagit County Public Works
Contact: Dan Berentson, PIO 360-428-3250
Flood Information

River crest prediction drops at Mount Vernon to 34 feet at 10:00 p.m.
SKAGIT COUNTY – The Skagit River in Mount Vernon crest prediction has dropped to 34 feet at approximately 10:00 p.m. At 7:00 p.m., the river gauge measured 33.82 feet at Mount Vernon

At Concrete, the river appears to have reached a plateau and is holding steady at just under 35 feet. The National Weather Service continues to project that the river will resume dropping, and fall below flood stage Wednesday afternoon.

The National Guard is conducting traffic control and security at Cape Horn and Shangri La. The United States Army Corps of Engineers is working on several flood repair projects in Skagit County.

The Red Cross Shelter at the Hamilton Baptist Church is still open. The shelter at Sedro-Woolley High School will be open until 8:00 a.m. Wednesday morning.

The Skagit County Board of Commissioners will consider a resolution to provide non-commercial solid waste disposal vouchers in flood affected areas. Also, they will consider free tetanus shots for employees and volunteers as well as free well water tests. People with rural wells should get their tested immediately as soon as water clears the well head. They should call the Skagit County Health Department for information at 360-336-9380.

There are many road closures in Eastern Skagit County. The public is advised not to drive through standing water. It is extremely dangerous and the number one cause of fatalities during flood events.

To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net

Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the event.

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Date:           November 7, 2006
Time:           4:10 p.m.
From:          Skagit County Public Works
Contact:      Don McKeehen, PIO 360-428-3250

Flood Information
SKAGIT COUNTY – The Skagit River in Mount Vernon continues to rise. At 3:30 this afternoon, the river was at 33.42 feet, heading towards a projected crest of 36 feet at 10:00 p.m. tonight.

At Concrete, the river appears to have reached a plateau and is holding steady at just under 35 feet. The National Weather Service continues to project that the river will resume dropping, and fall below flood stage Wednesday afternoon.

To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net
Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the event.

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Posted 11/7/06 3:15 pm Dike District 17 is requesting volunteers: 30-40 are people needed for sandbag duty. Report to 106 Stewart Rd. Mount Vernon. This is located on the south side of the river between I-5 and the Riverside bridge.

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Date: 11-07-06 1:45 p.m.
Contact: Erica Work, Public Information Officer
Phone: (360)336-6277 or (360)661-6434
Fax: (360)336-6247

(Mount Vernon, WA) - Volunteer sandbaggers finished building a temporary levee in Mount Vernon about noon today. The wall is protecting the downtown business core from flooding. The Skagit River is expected to crest at 10:00 p.m. today at 36.4 feet, which is expected to cause minor flooding on the river revetment adjacent to downtown Mount Vernon.

Approximately 1500 volunteers worked through the night Monday and on Tuesday morning to build the 1400-foot long wall. More than 135,000 sandbags were used in the effort.

The Westside Bridge (West Division Street at the Skagit River) reopened to traffic at 8:00 a.m. Tuesday morning. The Mount Vernon library has resumed normal operating hours.

Volunteers are no longer needed for the sandbagging efforts. During the flood fight, volunteers from King, Whatcom, and Snohomish counties joined Mount Vernon area residents in building the temporary levee. Several local restaurants donated food and beverages to feed volunteers working during the 24-hour flood fight.

Mount Vernon's Emergency Operations Center has been closed. Questions regarding current conditions in Mount Vernon can be referred to the phone numbers above.

The levee in downtown Mount Vernon will remain in place for several days until the predicted storm systems move through the Northwest.

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Date:           November 7, 2006
Time:           11:45 a.m.
From:           Skagit County Public Works
Contact:        Don McKeehen, PIO 360-428-3250
Flood Information – Revised Crest
SKAGIT COUNTY – Due to heavier than predicted rains, the National Weather Service has revised its crest prediction for the Skagit River in Mount Vernon. The new prediction is for a crest of 36.0 feet at 10:00 p.m. tonight. The previous crest level was 34.9 feet at 4:00 p.m. this afternoon.

USGS current gauge readings 
Skagit at Concrete              35.31 feet at 10:45 a.m., Tuesday, November 7, 2006
Skagit at Mt. Vernon           31.75 feet at 10:45 a.m., Tuesday, November 7, 2006
To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net
Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the event.

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Date:           November 7, 2006
Time:           10:30 a.m.
From:           Skagit County Public Works
Contact:        Don McKeehen, PIO 360-428-3250
Flood Information – Road Closures
SKAGIT COUNTY – The following roads are currently closed:
The South Skagit Highway has been closed at Milepost 14 to Pressentin Road
Cape Horn Drive, Highway 20 at the Lyman Hamilton Road to Pinelli Road
Lyman Hamilton Highway, Lyman City limits East to Hamilton Cemetery Road
Third Street from Sterling to end
Martin Road near Rockport
Baker Lake Road at Burpee Hill Road is closed due to a slide
Cabin Creek Road from Lyman Hamilton Road
Lyman Hamilton Road from Healy to the Town of Hamilton
Cockerham Island Road West end Cockreham Island & Lyman Hamilton Highway to Cockreham Island and Healy Road
Howey Road from South Skagit Highway to end
Thunderbird Lane is closed from Thunderbird Lane to the end
Cape Horn Drive from the South Skagit Highway
Dalles Road, Highway 20 to Grassmere Road
Swan Road from Mud Lake Road to Nookachamps Bridge
Healy Road from Lyman Hamilton Road to Highway 20
Francis Road from Thilberg-Highway 9 to Hoag Road
Fruitdale Road from Hoehn Road to River Road
West Gilligan Road
River Road from Township to Fruitdale
Sterling Road from Lafayette Road to end
Township Road from Dunlop Road to River Road
Utopia Road from Hoehn Road to end
Pressentin Road from Cape Horn Road to end

USGS current gauge readings 
Skagit at Concrete              35.74 feet at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 7, 2006
Skagit at Mt. Vernon           31.43 feet at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 7, 2006
To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net
Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the event.

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Date:           November 7, 2006
Time:           9:00 a.m.
From:           Skagit County Public Works
Contact:        Don McKeehen, PIO 360-428-3250
Flood Information
SKAGIT COUNTY – The flooding situation in Skagit County has significantly improved. The River crested in Concrete at 39.77 feet at approximately 12:30 this morning. The river is expected to crest in Mount Vernon at 4:00 p.m. today at 34.9 feet.   Tonight’s expected minus tide may allow for a faster run-off of water from the river.
The West Mount Vernon bridge (SR-536) has been re-opened as of 8:00 this morning.
Planned evacuations for the lowlands and the cities of Sedro-Woolley, Burlington, and Mount Vernon have been cancelled.
The National Guard provided 150 troops in the Kent area ready for deployment to Skagit County. The majority of these troops are no longer needed. A small contingent (25-35) may be deployed to relieve those already on site. These troops will be assisting with flood fight efforts through Friday, November 11. Also, State Patrol Troopers that were en-route to Skagit County have been placed on stand-by until approximately 1:00 p.m. this afternoon, when it is expected that they will be released.

USGS current gauge readings 
Skagit at Concrete              37.23 feet at 7:30 a.m., Tuesday, November 7, 2006
Skagit at Mt. Vernon           30.28 feet at 7:30 a.m., Tuesday, November 7, 2006
To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net
Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the event.

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Number: 8
Date: November 7, 2006
Time: 5:50 a.m.
From: Skagit County Public Works
Contact: Dan Berentson, PIO 360-428-3250

Flood Information

SKAGIT COUNTY – The Skagit River has crested at Concrete at 39.77.
The revision for Mount Vernon calls for a crest of 34.9 feet at approximately 4:00 p.m. today. The previous prediction was for a peak of 38.07 feet at 4:00 a.m. Wednesday.
The Mayor of Mount Vernon, Bud Norris, has declared a Civil Emergency for the City of Mount Vernon. The flood fight has been extended to around-the-clock emergency operations. The City continues to put out an immediate call for volunteers to assist with sandbagging efforts in the downtown business area. Volunteers are asked to sign in at Mount Vernon Fire Department Station #1 at 901 South 2nd Street.
Persons interested in volunteering in other areas should call 360-336-9400.
No evacuations of nursing homes in flood affected areas are currently scheduled.
The American Red Cross has opened shelters at the Hamilton Baptist Church, the Concrete Catholic Church, and the Sedro Woolley High School.
The West Mount Vernon bridge is one lane only, open to emergency vehicles only.

The following roads are closed.
Highway 20 is closed east of Marblemount, milepost 101 to 103, milepost 106 to 107, milepost 125 to 171.
The South Skagit Highway has been closed at Milepost 14.
Cape Horn Drive, South Skagit Highway
Lyman Hamilton Highway
Rockport Cascade Road is closed at SR 530.
SR 530 is closed at milepost 55 and milepost 65 for water over the road.
Martin Road near Rockport is closed due to water over the road.
Baker Lake Road at Burpee Hill Road is closed due to a slide.
Cabin Creek Road from Lyman Hamilton Road is closed due to water over the road.
Lyman Hamilton Road from Healy to the Town of Hamilton is closed due to water over the road.
Cockerham Island Road
Whitmarsh Road in Burlington.
Thunderbird Lane is closed due to water over the bridge.
Cape Horn Drive from the South Skagit Highway is closed due to water over the road.
Dalles Road, Highway 20.
Swan Road from Mud Lake Road.
Healy Road
Francis Road
Fruitdale Road
West Gilligan Road
River Road
Sterling Road
Township Road
Utopia Road
Pressentin Road

School closures were announced last night. Sedro-Woolley, LaConner, Conway, and Concrete School Districts will be closed today, Tuesday, November 7, 2006. Washington School in Mount Vernon will be closed and the remaining Mount Vernon schools will have limited transportation. Burlington-Edison School District is operating on schedule.
USGS current gauge readings

Skagit at Concrete 39.23 feet at 4:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 7, 2006
Skagit at Mt. Vernon 29.24 feet at 4:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 7, 2006
To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net
Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the event.

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Date: November 7, 2006
Time: 5:50 a.m.
From: Skagit County Public Works
Contact: Dan Berentson, PIO 360-428-3250

Flood Information

SKAGIT COUNTY – The Skagit River has crested at Concrete at 39.77.
The revision for Mount Vernon calls for a crest of 34.9 feet at approximately 4:00 p.m. today. The previous prediction was for a peak of 38.07 feet at 4:00 a.m. Wednesday.
The Mayor of Mount Vernon, Bud Norris, has declared a Civil Emergency for the City of Mount Vernon. The flood fight has been extended to around-the-clock emergency operations. The City continues to put out an immediate call for volunteers to assist with sandbagging efforts in the downtown business area. Volunteers are asked to sign in at Mount Vernon Fire Department Station #1 at 901 South 2nd Street.
Persons interested in volunteering in other areas should call 360-336-9400.
No evacuations of nursing homes in flood affected areas are currently scheduled.
The American Red Cross has opened shelters at the Hamilton Baptist Church, the Concrete Catholic Church, and the Sedro Woolley High School.
The West Mount Vernon bridge is one lane only, open to emergency vehicles only.

The following roads are closed.
Highway 20 is closed east of Marblemount, milepost 101 to 103, milepost 106 to 107, milepost 125 to 171.
The South Skagit Highway has been closed at Milepost 14.
Cape Horn Drive, South Skagit Highway
Lyman Hamilton Highway
Rockport Cascade Road is closed at SR 530.
SR 530 is closed at milepost 55 and milepost 65 for water over the road.
Martin Road near Rockport is closed due to water over the road.
Baker Lake Road at Burpee Hill Road is closed due to a slide.
Cabin Creek Road from Lyman Hamilton Road is closed due to water over the road.
Lyman Hamilton Road from Healy to the Town of Hamilton is closed due to water over the road.
Cockerham Island Road
Whitmarsh Road in Burlington.
Thunderbird Lane is closed due to water over the bridge.
Cape Horn Drive from the South Skagit Highway is closed due to water over the road.
Dalles Road, Highway 20.
Swan Road from Mud Lake Road.
Healy Road
Francis Road
Fruitdale Road
West Gilligan Road
River Road
Sterling Road
Township Road
Utopia Road
Pressentin Road

School closures were announced last night. Sedro-Woolley, LaConner, Conway, and Concrete School Districts will be closed today, Tuesday, November 7, 2006. Washington School in Mount Vernon will be closed and the remaining Mount Vernon schools will have limited transportation. Burlington-Edison School District is operating on schedule.
USGS current gauge readings

Skagit at Concrete 39.23 feet at 4:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 6, 2006
Skagit at Mt. Vernon 29.24 feet at 4:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 6, 2006
To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net
Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the event.

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Number: 7
Date: November 6, 2006
Time: 11:50 p.m.
From: Skagit County Public Works
Contact: Dan Berentson, PIO, Skagit County Public Works 360-428-3250

Flood Information

SKAGIT COUNTY – The National Weather Service has revised its predictions for the Skagit River flood crest. The river is now expected to crest in Concrete at 40.5 feet at approximately 4:00 a.m. Tuesday. The previous prediction was for a crest of 43.83 feet.

The revision for Mount Vernon calls for a crest of 36 feet at approximately 4:00 a.m. on Wednesday. The previous prediction was for a peak of 38.07 feet at 4:00 a.m. Wednesday.

The Mayor of Mount Vernon, Bud Norris, has declared a Civil Emergency for the City of Mount Vernon. The flood fight has been extended to around-the-clock emergency operations. The City continues to put out an immediate call for volunteers to assist with sandbagging efforts in the downtown business area. Volunteers are asked to sign in at Mount Vernon Fire Department Station #1 at 901 South 2nd Street.

Persons interested in volunteering in other areas should call 360-336-9400.
Evacuation of nursing homes in flood affected areas will be decided at a 7:00 a.m. briefing in the morning.
The communities of Cedar Grove, Shangra La, Cape Horn, Hamilton and lower areas of Concrete have been notified to evacuate.

The American Red Cross has opened shelters at the Hamilton Baptist Church, the Marblemount Chamber of Commerce, the Grassmere Fire Hall, the Concrete Catholic Church, and the Sedro Woolley High School.

The West Mount Vernon bridge will be one lane only after 12 midnight, open to emergency vehicles only.

The following roads are closed.
Highway 20 is closed east of Marblemount, milepost 101 to 103, milepost 106 to 107, milepost 125 to 171.
The South Skagit Highway has been closed at Milepost 14.
Cape Horn Drive, South Skagit Highway
Lyman Hamilton Highway
Rockport Cascade Road is closed at SR 530.
SR 530 is closed at milepost 55 and milepost 65 for water over the road.
Martin Road near Rockport is closed due to water over the road.
Baker Lake Road at Burpee Hill Road is closed due to a slide.
Cabin Creek Road from Lyman Hamilton Road is closed due to water over the road.
Lyman Hamilton Road from Healy to the Town of Hamilton is closed due to water over the road.
Cockerham Island Road
Whitmarsh Road in Burlington.
Thunderbird Lane is closed due to water over the bridge.
Cape Horn Drive from the South Skagit Highway is closed due to water over the road.
Dalles Road, Highway 20.
Swan Road from Mud Lake Road.
Healy Road
Francis Road

School closures were announced this evening. Sedro-Woolley, LaConner, Conway, and Concrete School Districts will be closed Tuesday, November 7, 2006. Washington School in Mount Vernon will be closed and the remaining Mount Vernon schools will have limited transportation. If closures are necessary it will be announced Wednesday morning. Burlington-Edison School District is operating on schedule.

USGS current gauge readings

Skagit at Concrete 39.46 feet at 11:30 p.m., Monday, November 6, 2006
Skagit at Mt. Vernon 28.63 feet at 11:30 p.m., Monday, November 6, 2006
To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net

Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the event.

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Date: 11-06-06 10:00 p.m.
Contact: Erica Work, Public Information Officer
Phone: (360)336-6277 or (360)661-6434
Fax: (360)336-6247

(Mount Vernon, WA) – The Mayor of Mount Vernon, Bud Norris, has declared a Civil Emergency for the City of Mount Vernon. The flood fight has been extended to around-the-clock emergency operations. The City continues to put out an immediate call for volunteers to assist with sandbagging efforts in the downtown business area. Volunteers are asked to sign in at Mount Vernon Fire Department Station #1 at 901 South 2nd Street. Sandbaggers need to be at least 14 years old, and should dress for inclement weather. Volunteers should wear work gloves, if possible. The sandbagging operation will continue through the night and will be reassessed Tuesday morning at 8:30 a.m.

The Mount Vernon library will be closed tomorrow due to flood fight operations in the area. The Westside Bridge (West Division Street at the Skagit River) will be closed to all non-emergency traffic beginning at 12:00 midnight tonight (Monday). Area residents may not cross the bridge until further notice.

Citizens are asked to stay out of the downtown core unless they are reporting as volunteers for the flood fight. Downtown streets need to remain open for trucks delivering sand, sandbags, and other supplies for the flood fight.

Media representatives will be directed to a parking lot just north of West Division Street on the east side of the Skagit River. Access to the lot is off of Freeway Drive, on the north side of Scott’s Bookstore. This location is on the east bank of the Skagit River. Media may also access the revetment on West Montgomery Street off of South First Street. Both locations allow access to the Skagit River and sandbagging operations.

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Date: November 6, 2006
Time: 8:30 p.m.
From: Skagit County Public Works
Contact: Dan Berentson, PIO, 360-428-3250

Flood Information
In the previous release it was incorrectly stated that Burlington-Edison Schools would be closed Tuesday, November 7. Burlington-Edison Schools will be open on schedule.

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Date: November 6, 2006
Time: 8:30 p.m.
From: Skagit County Public Works
Contact: Dan Berentson, PIO, Skagit County Public Works 360-428-3250

Flood Information

SKAGIT COUNTY – The National Weather Service has revised it’s predictions for the Skagit River flood crest. The river is now expected to crest in Concrete at 43.83 feet at approximately 4:00 a.m. Tuesday. The previous prediction was for a crest of 46 feet.

The revision for Mount Vernon calls for a crest of 38.07 feet at approximately 4:00 a.m. on Wednesday. The previous prediction was for a peak of 37.79 feet at 4:00 p.m. Tuesday afternoon.

Although the crest in Mount Vernon isn’t predicted until 4:00 a.m. on Wednesday, the gauge is predicted to reach 37 feet by 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday and is projected to stay near 37 feet for a period of 24 hours, cresting at 38.07 feet during that period.

20 volunteer sandbaggers are needed at Dike District 17 at 111 Stewart Road in Mount Vernon. Persons interested in volunteering in other areas should call 360-336-9400.

Evacuation of nursing homes in flood affected areas has been accomplished or will be completed by 10:00 a.m. Tuesday.

The communities of Cedar Grove, Shangra La, Cape Horn, Hamilton and lower areas of Concrete have been notified to evacuate.

The American Red Cross has opened shelters at the Hamilton Baptist Church, the Marblemount Chamber of Commerce, the Grassmere Fire Hall, the Concrete Catholic Church, and the Sedro Woolley High School.

The West Mount Vernon bridge will be one lane only after 12 midnight, open to emergency vehicles only.

The following roads are closed:
Highway 20 is closed east of Marblemount, milepost 101 to 103, milepost 106 to 107, milepost 125 to 171.
The South Skagit Highway has been closed at Milepost 14.
Cape Horn Drive, South Skagit Highway
Lyman Hamilton Highway
Rockport Cascade Road is closed at SR 530.
SR 530 is closed at milepost 55 and milepost 65 for water over the road.
Martin Road near Rockport is closed due to water over the road.
Baker Lake Road at Burpee Hill Road is closed due to a slide.
Cabin Creek Road from Lyman Hamilton Road is closed due to water over the road.
Lyman Hamilton Road from Healy to the Town of Hamilton is closed due to water over the road.
Whitmarsh Road in Burlington.
Thunderbird Lane is closed due to water over the bridge.
Cape Horn Drive from the South Skagit Highway is closed due to water over the road.
Dalles Road, Highway 20.
Swan Road from Mud Lake Road.

School closures were announced this evening. Sedro-Woolley, LaConner, Conway and Concrete School Districts will be closed Tuesday, November 7, 2006. Washington School in Mount Vernon will be closed and the remaining Mount Vernon schools will be announced later this evening.

USGS current gauge readings:
Skagit at Concrete 39.42 feet at 7:30 p.m., Monday, November 6, 2006
Skagit at Mt. Vernon 27.84 feet at 7:45 p.m., Monday, November 6, 2006
To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net
Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the event.

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Date: November 6, 2006
Time: 6:00 p.m.
From: Skagit County Public Works
Contact: Don McKeehen, PIO, 360-428-3250

Flood Information
SKAGIT COUNTY – The National Weather Service has revised it’s predictions for the Skagit River flood crest. The river is now expected to crest in Concrete at 43.83 feet at approximately 4:00 a.m. Tuesday. The previous prediction was for a crest of 46 feet.

The revision for Mount Vernon calls for a crest of 38.07 feet at approximately 4:00 a.m. on Wednesday. The previous prediction was for a peak of 37.79 feet at 4:00 p.m. Tuesday afternoon.

The American Red Cross has opened shelters at the Hamilton Baptist Church, the Marblemount Chamber of Commerce, the Grassmere Fire Hall, the Concrete Catholic Church, and the Sedro Woolley High School.

Highway 20 is closed east of Marblemount, milepost 101 to 103, milepost 106 to 107, milepost 125 to 171.
Rockport Cascade Road is closed at SR 530.
SR 530 is closed at milepost 55 and milepost 65 for water over the road.
Martin Road near Rockport is closed due to water over the road.
Baker Lake Road at Burpee Hill Road is closed due to a slide.
Cabin Creek Road from Lyman Hamilton Road is closed due to water over the road.
Lyman Hamilton Road from Healy to the Town of Hamilton is closed due to water over the road.
Thunderbird Lane from Thunderbird is closed due to water over the bridge.
Cape Horn Drive from the South Skagit Highway is closed due to water over the road.
USGS current gauge readings

Skagit at Concrete 37.84 feet at 5:00 p.m., Monday, November 6, 2006
Skagit at Mt. Vernon 26.84 feet at 4:45 p.m., Monday, November 6, 2006
To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net

Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the event.

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Posted 11/6/06 5:30 pm Mount Vernon has requested volunteers to help with sandbagging the revetment. Volunteers are asked to report to Fire Station 1 on Second Street in downtown Mount Vernon as soon as possible. Plan to work well into the night.

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11/6/06 2:28 PM Marblemount Chamber of Commercel has been open as a shelter: 59831 SR 20 Marblemount, WA Date: November 6, 2006

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Time: 2:00 p.m.
From: Skagit County Public Works
Contact: Don McKeehen, PIO, 360-428-3250

Significant Flood Event Predicted for Skagit River
SKAGIT COUNTY – The Skagit River is currently at flood stage at Concrete, with a predicted peak of 46 feet at 4:00 a.m. Tuesday morning. During the 2003 flood, river levels reached a then record of 42.2 feet at Concrete. For Mount Vernon, the current prediction is for a peak of 38 feet at 4:00 p.m. Tuesday afternoon. During the 2003 flood, river levels in Mount Vernon reached 36.19 feet. Flood stage in Concrete and Mount Vernon is 28 feet. This is predicted to be a significant flood event.
The Skagit County Emergency Operations Center is recommending schools in the Skagit Valley be closed Tuesday, November 7, 2006. This includes all schools except those located on Fidalgo Island.
Highway 20 is closed east of Marblemount, at milepost 106. Alternate route is the Rockport Cascade Road.
Martin Road near Rockport is closed due to water over the road.
Baker Lake Road at Burpee Hill Road is closed due to a slide.
Cabin Creek Road from Lyman Hamilton Road is closed due to water over the road.
The Skagit County Board of Commissioners signed a resolution declaring an emergency effective 12:00 Noon, November 5, 2006.
The Skagit County Sheriff’s Office is suggesting that residents evacuate in the following areas: Cockreham Island, East Rockport, Shangri La, Cape Horn, Cedar Crest and the lower areas in Concrete.
Dike District 1 has requested volunteers at the McLean Road Fire Station west of Mount Vernon at 3:00 p.m. today. Volunteers are requested to sign in.
All Skagit County Parks east of Hamilton including the entire length of the Cascade Trail are closed. The Conway Boat Launch is also closed.

USGS gauge readings (as of 1:00 p.m., November 6, 2006)

Skagit at Concrete 34.42 feet
Skagit at Mt. Vernon 25.12 feet
To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net
The American Red Cross has opened a shelter at the Hamilton Baptist Church.
While there are roads currently closed in Skagit County, there may be some water on roadways in rural areas related to drainage issues. The public is advised to not drive through standing water on roadways and obey “closed road” signs.
Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions throughout the event.
Skagit County Department of Emergency Management has requested assistance for the National Guard to assist with evacuations.
County Sheriff’s Department advises the public to stay away from flood prone areas. It is important for public safety vehicles to operate without traffic impediments.
On the Samish River and tributaries, residents are advised to keep a close watch on possible flood waters. For those who may need sandbags, please contact your local fire department.

County and other officials and work crews continue to monitor the situation closely and take appropriate actions as necessary. Additional news releases will be issued as new information warrants. For updated Skagit River information call 419-3425, visit www.skagitcounty.net on the web or listen to local radio stations.

SKAGIT RIVER AT FLOOD STAGE IN CONCRETE
SKAGIT COUNTY – The Skagit River is currently at flood stage at Concrete, with a predicted peak of 40.1 feet at 4:00 a.m. Tuesday morning. For Mount Vernon, the current prediction is for a peak of 34.78 feet at 4:00 p.m. Tuesday afternoon. Flood stage in Concrete and Mount Vernon is 28 ft.

USGS gauge readings (as of 8:15 a.m., November 6, 2006)

Skagit at Concrete 29.95 feet
Skagit at Mt. Vernon 22.80 feet
To check flood conditions call Skagit County Flood Information Hotline at 360-419-3425 or check the National Weather Service Links at www.skagitcounty.net

The American Red Cross has opened a shelter at the Hamilton Baptist Church.
Currently there are no road closures in Skagit County but there may be some water on roadways in rural areas related to drainage issues. Skagit County Public Works and Department of Emergency Management staff will be monitoring conditions through the evening.

The public is advised to not drive through standing water on roadways and obey “closed road” signs.
County Sheriff’s Department advises the public to stay away from flood prone areas. It is important for public safety vehicles to operate without traffic impediments.

On the Samish River and tributaries, residents are advised to keep a close watch on possible flood waters. For those who may need sandbags, please contact your local fire department.

County and other officials and work crews continue to monitor the situation closely and take appropriate actions as necessary. Additional news releases will be issued as new information warrants. For updated Skagit River information call 419-3425, visit www.skagitcounty.net on the web or listen to local radio stations.

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