Oklahoma Governor Henry Tours Tornado-Ravaged Picher

May 11, 2008 -- Oklahoma City - Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry made the following remarks today after surveying tornado-ravaged sections of Picher, Oklahoma. At least six deaths and more than 150 injuries occurred as the result of a tornado that swept through the Ottawa County town Saturday, May 10.

Oklahoma tornado damage: Photo by Matthew Minnix (CC)

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The Governor toured Picher with state Department of Emergency Management director Albert Ashwood, Oklahoma Secretary of the Environment Miles Tolbert, state Department of Public Safety Commissioner Kevin Ward and state Adjutant General Harry M. Wyatt III.

“The extent of damages in Picher is both breathtaking and profound. Like all Oklahomans, my thoughts and prayers are with those who lost loved ones and those who sustained injuries in this tragedy.

“Picher was the most severely hit among several Oklahoma communities ravaged by Saturday’s storms. We will do everything in our power to ensure that those impacted by the tornadoes receive the assistance they need to recover from this ordeal. My office and the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management are working closely with FEMA and members of Oklahoma’s congressional delegation to receive all eligible federal assistance. I have spoken with President Bush, and he has said the federal government stands ready to help the states impacted by yesterday’s tornadoes. Oklahoma already has declared a state of emergency in Ottawa County and we are closely monitoring the situation in other counties.

“I am particularly grateful to the extraordinary men and women who are helping Picher through this difficult time, including the National Guard, law enforcement agencies, medical personnel, civil emergency management officials, the Red Cross and other relief organizations. Everyone involved in this rescue and recovery effort has done amazing work.

“In my tour of the tornado-damaged area, I was struck by the strength and resolve of people who refuse to be cowed by tragedy. Sadly, this community is no stranger to adversity, and there is no adequate preparation to face devastation of this magnitude. But Oklahomans are an exceptional people. We band together and help our friends and neighbors. We forge ahead and persevere, and that is exactly how we will get through this, too.”

Source: Oklahoma Governor