[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 37, Number 9 (Monday, March 5, 2001)]
[Page 372]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Remarks on the Earthquake in Washington State in Little Rock, Arkansas

February 28, 2001

    I want to say something about what's taken place in Seattle today. I 
send my prayers and express our country's concern for our fellow 
citizens in Seattle, Tacoma, and Olympia--areas of the State of 
Washington. Those folks were affected by a major earthquake today. Our 
prayers are with those who were injured and their families, and with the 
many thousands of people whose lives have been disrupted.
    Thousands of people in Washington are without power or phone 
service. Airports are closed, and many buildings have sustained 
structural damage. My administration stands ready to help in any way we 
can. I've asked the Director of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, 
Joe Allbaugh, to travel to Seattle to offer our assistance. He is on his 
way in a couple of hours, and he'll be traveling with members of the--
Washington State's congressional delegation.
    I've talked to Director Allbaugh. He told me he felt like Senator 
Murray would be going. And they're reaching out to other members of the 
congressional delegation to travel with him. We will work with State and 
local officials to provide whatever help we can to the people of the 
State of Washington.

Note: The President spoke at 5:20 p.m. at Adams Field airport.