News Release

Office of Governor Brad Henry State of Oklahoma State Capitol – Oklahoma City OK 73105 405-521-2342

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – 5/8/2007

Oklahoma City – Gov. Brad Henry today declared a State of Emergency for all 77 Oklahoma counties in the wake of tornadoes, torrential rains and flooding that have impacted much of Oklahoma since Friday, May 4.

The declaration provides a formal mechanism for local governments to seek reimbursement for recovery costs through the state’s disaster public assistance program should conditions warrant. It also serves as a prelude to a federal disaster request, should one be necessary.

“It is still far too early to say whether damages in the state will be eligible for federal assistance, but this is the first step in case of that eventuality,” Gov. Henry said. “In the meantime, the State Emergency Operations Plan has been activated and our emergency management officials are closely monitoring the situation.”

The State Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains activated due to the severe weather threat and the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) remains in contact with emergency managers in the affected areas.

The Governor urged Oklahoma motorists to be particularly cautious during the recent spate of storms.

“It is important to practice caution and avoid driving into high waters,” he said. “Flash flooding is the most prevalent cause of weather-related deaths in the nation. It pays to be careful.”