Mohave Today

Lake Havasu City has declared a state of emergency in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Mayor Cal Sheehy made the announcement a day before Gov. Doug Ducey declared a state of emergency across the state of Arizona.

Sheehy urged Lake Havasu City residents to remain calm and follow directions from local health services and the Centers for Disease Control. 

“It is not known whether that would be a requirement or not, but we also want to let other governments that are working on this – state and federal – that there is a state of emergency here in Lake Havasu City. I have been saying it, but this is a document that encourages our citizens to follow the guidance of the CDC and to remain vigilant during these unprecedented times,” Sheehy said.

The County of Mohave, which hosts Lake Havasu City, has also declared a state of emergency. Officials in Mohave County and Lake Havasu City are hoping that the proclamation will help increase the chances of relief funding from the state and federal governments.

A press release was made available from the Mayor of Lake Havasu City. In the press release, Sheehy expressed the importance of social distancing, practicing good personal hygiene and to stay home when it is an option. Sheehy also addressed public gathering places, restaurants and bars to implement measures to ensure proper hygiene and effect social distancing. Local businesses were asked to limit their retail business to the sale of only essential items.

Sheehy noted that he was in constant contact with the governor and Sen. Martha McSally’s office in an effort to urge state and federal leaders to act quickly to implement programs that help employees that are being financially impacted by the pandemic.

According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, as of March 26, Arizona has 508 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 8 deaths. Quick action by its leaders and compliance from its residents can be credited with the fact that only two cases have been confirmed in Mohave County.