    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1996, Book I)]
    [February 9, 1996]
    [Page 200]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 200]]

    Statement on the Floods in Oregon and Washington
    February 9, 1996

        Our hearts and prayers go out to the thousands of people in Oregon
    and Washington who have been inundated by the devastating floods and
    those who are waging a brave fight to keep the water from pouring over
    the river banks.
        In an effort to provide quick action in their urgent time of need,
    today I have signed Federal disaster declarations for Oregon and
    Washington. These declarations will give help to individuals, including
    temporary housing, family grants, and low-interest loans. We are also
    providing funds to help rebuild the State and local infrastructure.
        I have asked FEMA Director James Lee Witt to go to both Oregon and
    Washington, survey the damage, and lead the Federal response and
    recovery efforts.
        The people of Oregon and Washington have demonstrated a remarkable
    amount of courage and resilience in this difficult time. I know they
    cannot recover alone. We are with them for as long as it takes.
        Finally, let me take a moment to express my deepest sympathies to
    the families and friends of those who have lost their lives during this
    natural disaster. Our thoughts and prayers are with them.