By Frank Phillips

DLC Media News

BRAZIL – On Monday morning, Clay County Commissioners signed a Declaration of Emergency following storms that have plagued the Wabash Valley since Thursday. Commissioner Paul Sinders said the county will not cut limbs until Duke Energy has been there to assess the situation.

Cristina Carrico of the Clay County Emergency Management Agency said the declaration is based on similar declarations for Sullivan County and the City of Terre Haute.

There is also a number residents can call to report emergencies. It is 2-1-1.

The declaration states:

EMERGENCY DECLARATION

Authority

Clay County, Indiana

July 2, 2023

Severe storms occurring on June 29, 2023, set conditions for: excessive rain, wind damage, downed power lines and trees, and public structural damage., as well as life safety issues.

Whereas Clay County, Indiana has been impacted by or is immediately threatened by severe storms, high winds and a potential for widespread power outages.

Now, therefore, we, the Clay County board of Commissioners, declare that a local disaster emergency exists in the county and that we hereby invoke and declare those portions of the Indiana Code which are applicable to the conditions and have caused the issuance of this proclamation, to be in full force and effect in the county for the exercise of all necessary emergency authority for protection of the lives and property of the lives and property of the people of Clay County and the restoration of the local government with a minimum of interruption.

Reference is hereby made to all appropriate laws, statutes, ordinances, and resolutions, and particularly to section 10-14-3-29 of the Indiana Code.

All public offices and employees of Clay County are hereby directed to exercise the utmost diligence in the discharge of duties required of them for the duration of the emergency and in execution of emergency and in execution of emergency laws, regulations, and directives—state and local.

All agencies involved will cooperate with the Clay County Emergency Management Agency in order for goals to be reached.

All citizens are called upon and directed to comply with necessary emergency measures, to cooperative with public officials and disaster services forces in executing emergency operations plans, and to obey and comply with the lawful directions of properly identified officers.

The Clay County Emergency Management Director, and/or his or her designee, is authorized to activate and furnish aid and assistance to the residents of Clay County as needed.

All operating forces will direct their communications and requests for assistance and operations directly to the Clay County Emergency Operating Center.

This Declaration shall continue not to exceed seven (7) days from the date hereof.

Christina Carrico,

Responding for Rob Gambill, (Emergency Management Agency Director)

Paul Sinders, Commissioner

Bryan Allender, Commissioner

Marty Heffner, Commissioner