Gov. Pillen issues emergency declaration for counties impacted by winter storm

Gov. Jim Pillen has declared a state of emergency for more than 20 counties impacted by last Wednesday’s winter storm.

The combination of rain, sleet, hail, heavy snow, and high winds resulted in closures across multiple roadways, including Interstate 80.

A press release from the Governor’s Office stated that conditions also did considerable damage to trees and power lines, resulting in a loss of electricity across multiple service areas. The heaviest damage occurred in the eastern part of the state.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the peak outage was reported Thursday afternoon with 119,199 customers without power. That had been reduced to just over 29,000 customers as of Friday.

Pillen’s proclamation will allow Nebraska’s adjutant general to take any steps necessary and to utilize funds for protecting lives and property impacted by the storm.

Counties covered by the emergency declaration include Burt, Butler, Cass, Clay, Colfax, Cuming, Dodge, Douglas, Fillmore, Gage, Jefferson, Lancaster, Platte, Polk, Nuckolls, Saline, Sarpy, Saunders, Seward, Thayer, Thurston, Washington, Wayne and York.

It is possible the list of counties will change as NEMA continues to receive damage assessment data from local emergency management agencies.

Initial damage estimates exceeded $21 million.

Pillen reiterated his appreciation to those who have been aiding in the recovery efforts.

“From state troopers who assisted stranded motorists, to snow removal crews and now those involved in repairing downed lines to re-establish our power grid – a lot of people have stepped up very quickly to ensure that our safety has been the number one priority,” Pillen said in a statement.

Once all damage assessments are completed, steps will be undertaken to seek a federal disaster declaration.