Flood damage cost estimate $1.8 million

The Swinomish Channel flooding of La Conner homes and businesses Dec. 27 created at least $1.8 million in damage. A total of $2.6 million in self-assessments was filed countywide with the Skagit County Department of Emergency Management by the Jan. 11 deadline.

Twenty-four La Conner home owners reported damage, as did six businesses. Emergency Management staff defined four of the homes as “affected,” based on the forms, classifying them as damaged but still inhabitable.

Department staff will forward the data to state agencies, which will decide whether to seek a presidential declaration. If granted, the declaration qualifies areas for FEMA assistance (Federal Emergency Management Agency).