Cloud County added to disaster declaration

Cloud County is among those added to the state disaster declaration signed by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly on May 9.
There are currently 35 counties included in the state disaster declaration.
The Cloud County board of commissioners declared a state of local disaster emergency during its regular meeting on Monday.
It states in the declaration approved by the commission that certain conditions have caused, or immediately threaten to cause widespread severe damage, injury or loss of life or property in disaster proportion in Cloud County and that such conditions have created obstruction, which endangers health, safety and welfare of persons and property. It will remain in effect for a period of seven days unless terminated or renewed by consent of the governing body.
Concordia has received 6.98 inches of rain in May. That is 4.25 inches above normal.
Since March 1, Concordia has received 10.94 inches of precipitation, 3.75 inches above normal.
There is more rain in the upcoming forecast with a 60 percent chance on Thursday, an 80 percent chance Thursday night, a 50 percent chance on Saturday night and a 60 percent chance on Sunday night and Monday.
The state disaster declaration signed by Kelly authorizes the use of state resources and personnel to assist with response and recovery operations in affected counties that meet certain criteria.
Angee Morgan, deputy director of the Kansas Division of Emergency Management stressed the importance of not underestimating the force and power of water.
“It only takes about a foot of water to float a car,” Morgan said in a statement, “Two feet of rushing water can carry away most SUV's and pickup trucks. Flood waters move more swiftly and can quite easily knock you off your feet and sweep you away. So, please, heed all warning signs and safety barriers. Don't try to wade through flooded areas. Turn around, don't drown.”
Morgan also cautioned against playing in or around a flooded stream and trying to launch a boat or swim in the water.
Flood waters also pose various health risks including infectious diseases, chemical hazards and injuries.
According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, eating or drinking anything that has come in contact with flood waters could cause disease.
Open wounds and rashes exposed to flood water can become infected as well.
Do not allow children to play in flood waters or with toys contaminated with flood waters.
The Kansas Division of Emergency Management's State Emergency Operations Center in Topeka will remain activated with 24-hour staffing to support county requests for assistance with severe weather and flooding.