CHARLESTON, W. Va. -- Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin continues to work with emergency management personnel around the state to assist in recovery and cleanup efforts following Friday evening's severe storms. He has spent the past two days meeting with local first responders and surveying firsthand the damage around the state.
"I know the past few days have been very trying for folks across West Virginia, and unfortunately, the problems we are facing will not be resolved overnight," said Gov. Tomblin. "I can assure you that our emergency management officials and power companies are working around the clock to get things cleaned up. I'd ask that all West Virginians continue to check on their friends and family, stay off the roads as much as possible, and most important, that everyone remain calm."
Because of the continued power outages and the limited amount of gas stations currently operating due to a lack of power, Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin has asked essential state employees to report for work tomorrow morning, Monday, July 2, 2012. The governor has determined that only those state employees providing essential services are required to report for work on Monday, July 2, 2012. For those employees not required to work tomorrow, the governor has indicated that those employees may report to work tomorrow. If those employees do not report, the governor requests that they avoid unnecessary travel while our emergency crews and utility companies continue to aid our families and neighbors. For more information, state employees can call (304) 558-9117 or (888) 558-9117.
Employees deemed to be providing essential services are those that are designated as such by their respective commissioners, directors, or secretaries; those who work in facilities open on a 24-hour basis; or those who provide services relating to the health, safety, and welfare of our citizens.
The Department of Highways is now reporting all major roads are open, and utility companies are working diligently to restore power as soon as possible. Progress is being made every hour -- current outages are down to 493,00 West Virginias from our initial report of 688,000. The West Virginia National Guard has health and wellness assessment teams on the ground going door to door checking on those affected by the storms.
For updates or a list of cooling stations from our office, please visit our website. We will continue to post new information as we receive it.
