Gov. Chris Gregoire has declared a state of emergency allowing the activation of the Washington National Guard, and free up state agencies to take extraordinary steps to help local jurisdictions.

“This is purely a precautionary measure,” Gregoire said. “So far, we haven’t received any requests for state assistance – but we know weather conditions are rapidly changing. I want to make sure we have every resource available to ensure our communities are safe.”

The proclamation:

• Waives hours of service for drivers of trucks hauling intrastate bulk milk shipments from farms to dairy processing facilities and from dairies to processing facilities. ;

• Directs state government to support emergency response activities.

• Allows state agencies to make expenditures and utilize resources to assist local communities in their recovery efforts; and

• Authorizes the Washington National Guard to activate .

The proclamation adds that state actions are to be coordinated through the State Emergency Operations Center at Camp Murray.