Claims News Service, Dec. 18, 3:40 p.m. EST — According to a GuyCarpenter catastrophe report, severe storms swept throughWashington and parts of Oregon on Dec. 14 and 15. The eventresulted in six deaths and extensive damage to homes andbusinesses. Wind gusts of 100 mph on the Oregon and Washingtoncoasts intensified the heavy rain and snow and caused blizzard-likecondition in the mountains.

Approximately 1.5 million homes and businesses experienced poweroutages during the storms. Washington Governor Chris Gregoiredeclared a state of emergency, allowing several counties to spendmoney in order to help victims.

Oregon also sustained significant property and infrastructuredamage due to falling trees caused by the high winds. Officialsreported that there were two storm-related fatalities inOregon.

Insurance companies in both states experienced high callvolumes, but determined that it was too early to assess damagesfrom the storms.

Sources: Associated Press, CNN News, KXLY, The Oregonian, TheSeattle Times

This report was reprinted with permission. For more CAT- ireports and further information on the service, please clickwww.guycarp.com.

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