BOISE, ID. -- Due to extreme snow conditions in four northern Idaho counties, Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter Thursday declared a disaster emergency for Bonner, Kootenai, Latah and Boundary Counties.

Lamson Family, KREM.com

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The governor’s disaster declaration paves the way for additional state government support to those counties. State support could include additional personnel, equipment and facilities to help the counties deal with threats to public safety and property.

"I applaud these counties' efforts to cope with this weather crisis," said Gov. Otter. “The state stands ready to provide support as needed.”

With this emergency declaration, the Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security has the authority to assign missions to State of Idaho departments and agencies. The bureau will work closely with the counties affected to determine the best methods and sources for handling the emergency.

“Assisting our northern counties in managing disasters like this one are well within the ability of Idaho’s state agencies, and Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security director Col. Bill Shawver and his staff will work to direct available resources in manpower and equipment to the task at hand,” said Maj. Gen. Larry Lafrenz, Idaho Adjutant General.

At this time, the affected counties are working closely with Idaho Bureau of Homeland Security area field officers to determine how to best allocate those resources over the next days and weeks.