MASON COUNTY, Wash. — The Mason County Board of Commissioners declared a state of emergency Wednesday following "extensive damage" from last week's snowstorm and just ahead of forecasted heavy rain that could bring further destruction to the county.
The emergency declaration allows the county to mobilize resources to help the community, activate emergency resources, contract with outside agencies, incur debts and also allows departments to forgo certain procedures and formalities in their extreme weather response.
Over the next 24 hours, there's a greater potential for roofs to collapse under the weight of heavy snow and falling rain forecast to fall after midnight, according to the Hoodsport Fire Department.
Roofs collapsed on four structures due to heavy snow so far, according to Chief Ryan Spurling with the Mason County Sheriff's Department.
Others have been removed from homes that are in danger of collapsing, according to Fire Chief Michael Sexton with the Lake Cushman Fire Department.
There are no reported injuries. Those who have been displaced are staying at the fire station for the night. The Red Cross is helping to coordinate shelter.
Dozens of people who live in subdivisions around Lake Cushman are trapped in their neighborhoods due to extensive snowfall, downed trees and power lines.
The emergency declaration also cited extensive damage to county infrastructure, roads, bridges, private roads, homes, businesses and farmlands.
Nearly 50 miles of US 101 between Hoodsport and State Route 104 in Jefferson County remains closed as the Washington State Department of Transportation attempts to repair powerlines and remove debris from the highway following heavy snow.
Although just five miles of the roadway are impassable, terrain, winter conditions and lack of available space for vehicles to turn around require the department to close down the whole stretch of road.
Those who notice their homes starting to show signs of collapse are asked to collect their warm clothes, medications or special medical equipment, wallets and purses, evacuate the home and call 911.