Disaster Emergency Declared

Allegheny County has declared a disaster emergency a a result of the flash flooding that occurred during the powerful storms that moved through area Wednesday night. Between 3 and 4 inches of rain fell on communities in the Pittsburgh region. The county's declaration is also preemptive due to the possibility of additional heavy rainfall today. A flash flood watch is in effect until 2 p.m. Saturday.
Numerous homes and businesses experienced basement and first-floor flooding and some structures sustained major damage to their foundations. There was also extensive damage to roads, bridges, culverts and sewer systems.
In addition, eight municipalities within the county have declared disaster emergencies: Churchill, Forest Hills, North Braddock, Pitcairn, Turtle Creek, White Oak, Wilkins Township and Wilkinsburg.
The disaster declaration enables the county to bypass the standard procurement procedures to hire temporary workers, purchase supplies and rent equipment if needed. The declaration also positions the county to seek federal and state assistance.