BISMARCK, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Governor Doug Burgum has declared a statewide flood emergency.

Burgum said it’s because of the threat of significant spring flooding across the state. He said the National Weather Service predicts the possibility of significant river and tributary flooding in the Red River and Devils Lake basins, as well as high water in the southern James River basin.

“All signs point to a high potential for significant floods that could overwhelm local response capabilities across the state, and the devastating flooding we saw today along the Yellowstone River shows just how quickly these situations can arise,” Burgum said. “This emergency declaration is an essential step in making sure that state personnel and equipment are available and ready to respond when significant flooding threatens the safety of people and property, and toward pursuing a federal disaster declaration that could bring additional assistance to local residents and political subdivisions.”

Burgum also toured flooded areas in western McKenzie County, due to ice jams on the Yellowstone River. There, more than 50 homes have water, and 110 residents have been displaced.

The Governor has activated the North Dakota State Emergency Operations Plan and directed all state agencies, including the North Dakota National Guard, to maintain high readiness levels with flood response resources.