SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, Oct. 1, 2018 (Gephardt Daily) — Gov. Gary Herbert on Monday activated the Utah National Guard as the possibility of flash floods threatens Utah County.
A news release from the Governor’s Office says Herbert took the action during a meeting with local and public safety officials in Elk Ridge, where he gave the direction to Maj. Gen. Jeff Burton, Adjutant General of the Utah National Guard.
Approximately 200 soldiers with the Utah National Guard’s 204th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade and 300th Military Intelligence Brigade are reporting under State Active Duty, according to the news release.
Herbert issued the following statement:
Members of the National Guard will lend crucial support by building flood berms, placing Jersey barriers, and strategically placing sandbags to guard communities from potential flash flooding. Following these devastating wildfires, there is increased danger of flooding. With heavy rains headed toward Utah, flash flooding is a risk for these communities. In this instance, I would much rather be safe than sorry, and we are putting strong protections in place.
