WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. – City, county, state and federal lawmakers and officials gathered with Whatcom County residents to recount how the “Super Bowl Flood” developed and what those affected can do to seek relief.
Hundreds attended the two hour meeting at Nooksack Valley High School on Saturday.
Mayors of the hard-hit towns of Everson and Sumas described the damage that they say affected more than 100 homes and businesses.
Whatcom County and Washington State Emergency Management had specific information and recommendations for people who suffered damage from the flood, including:
- Anyone with damage should report it promptly, no matter how insignificant. A complete accounting is necessary for accurate applications for state and federal assistance. All damage should be reported to (360)788-5311.
- Property owners should not delay repairs. Pictures of damage will be sufficient for relief applications.
- All repairs must be done in compliance with existing codes.
- Floodwater was found to be unhealthy but not a “hazardous material” that would require special disposal of affected items.
- Most debris in Sumas can be left for curbside pick-up.
- All questions should be directed to Whatcom Emergency Management at the special phone line set up for this event: (360)788-5311.
People and some elected officials hinted at river management issues they say could alleviate flooding but those weren’t addressed at this meeting.