CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — The Ross County Board of Commissioners on Monday declared a state of emergency after days of heavy rainfall left homes flooded, roads closed and residents displaced across the county.
The board adopted the declaration Sept. 14 following a recommendation from the Ross County Emergency Management Agency and consultation with local officials, the commissioners said in a news release.
Heavy rain has damaged public infrastructure and created hazardous conditions in affected areas, prompting a response from county and local emergency management, law enforcement, fire and EMS crews, highway and public works personnel, state agencies and relief organizations, according to the release.
“Our immediate priority is the safety of Ross County residents and supporting the communities and families affected by this flooding,” the Board of Commissioners said in a statement. “We are grateful for the tremendous response from first responders, public employees, relief organizations, volunteers, and neighbors throughout Ross County. We will continue working together across jurisdictions as we assess the damage and begin the recovery process.”
The declaration formalizes the severity of the flooding and gives the county added flexibility to coordinate resources, request additional assistance, document damage and costs, and support ongoing recovery efforts, the release said.
County officials and partner agencies will continue assessing damage to roads, public infrastructure, homes and businesses. The declaration also authorizes continued coordination with municipalities, townships and the state of Ohio, and allows the county to request further assistance if needed.
Residents are urged to use caution, avoid flooded or closed roadways and follow guidance from local public safety officials as conditions develop, the commissioners said.
The Ross County Board of Commissioners is made up of President Jack A. Everson, Vice President James E. Lowe and Commissioner David Glass.
The information contained in this story was obtained from the Ross County Board of Commissioners.
