Gov. Gibbons tours Wells following earthquake, Reid and Ensign issue statements

This afternoon, Gov. Jim Gibbons and Department of

Public Safety Director Jerry Hafen will visit Wells Nevada to tour the

earthquake damage.

They are expected to arrive at approximately 12:30 p.m.

at the Elko Regional Airport.

Following their arrival, they will receive a briefing at incident command before

touring the damage.

Nevada Sens. Harry Reid and John Ensign released the following statements today in response to the large earthquake near Wells this morning.

"Throughout the day, it has become clear that there is significant damage caused by this large earthquake near Wells," said Reid. "I am sending staff to the area today to meet with community leaders and first responders to assess the damage and determine what options are available to help those who have been affected. We are also looking into any recovery assistance that may be available through FEMA."

"My thoughts today are with the people of Wells and Elko County," said Ensign. "We have been briefed on the conditions on the ground by state emergency management officials and will receive updates from the staff I have dispatched to the area. We will work to secure any available federal assistance, and I encourage residents to contact my office if we can be of help during this difficult time."