Eastern Washington U.S. Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers joined Washington U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell in sending a letter to President Biden in support of Governor Jay Inslee’s request this week for a Major Disaster Declaration for Washington state as a result of the significant damages incurred by the Gray and Oregon Road Fires in Eastern Washington.
In the letter, the delegation wrote that between August 18 and September 4, the Gray and Oregon Road Fires ignited and rapidly expanded throughout Eastern Washington. Combined, the fires burned more than 22,400 acres and forced entire towns to evacuate. Over 710 structures were destroyed, including 366 homes. In addition to extensive physical damages, the fires also claimed two lives.
They concluded their letter by saying they fully support Governor Inslee’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration for the Gray and Oregon Road Fires that includes Individual Assistance and assistance through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
