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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 13, 2008 No. 08-056 CLEANUP UNDERWAY; VOLUNTEERS AND DONATIONS NEEDED Clean up is underway in Dickinson, Riley, Saline and Jackson Counties,
all impacted by the deadly tornadoes that moved through the state June
11th. The storms killed two people, a woman in Dickinson County and a
man in Jackson County bringing the number of deaths in Kansas in 2008
due to tornadoes to four. The first deaths involved a couple killed in
Pratt County when their car was tossed into a field three weeks ago. During the June 11 storm, three people in Dickinson County sustained
critical injuries. One of the victims has been upgraded to stable. Chapman Reopens; Public Meetings Planned The town of Chapman will reopen to the general public Saturday morning
allowing volunteers to come in to help the residents clean up their property.
However, roadblocks will remain in place for another week to help direct
everyone to where they need to go. Volunteers should take the I-70 Chapman exit north of town and watch
for signs directing volunteers where to go. They may also contact the
city of Chapman at 785-922-6582 for additional information. Power remains out to all ears except the north part of town and is expected
to remain out until next Wednesday. Two of three water wells are operating
and were not impacted. Local officials caution residents and volunteers to be careful when removing
debris from any area damaged by the recent tornadoes and storms. Workers
should drink plenty of water, wear gloves and get a tetanus shot. The town will conduct public meetings daily in the tennis courts of the
city park to inform residents about clean up procedures and other important
community information. For residents who still need a place to stay, the shelter in Abilene
will remain open Friday night. Donations Being Accepted Donations are being accepted State Assistance The Kansas National Guard was deployed to assist with security and supply
a generator to run the water supply to ensure firefighters have water.
Gas and power have been shut off in the town as a precaution to prevent
incidents. Local officials have also asked for assistance with removal
of downed trees and power lines from streets. The Kansas Department of
Transportation's Communications on Wheels is operational in Chapman to
support emergency communications needs and serve as the incident command
communication system. The Kansas Highway Patrol's mobile command has also
arrived in Chapman. -30- |
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