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Patrick Declares A State Of Emergency

BOSTON (CBS) – Gov. Deval Patrick declared a State of Emergency and activated the National Guard Wednesday afternoon, as a blizzard slammed Massachusetts.

Gov. Patrick gives update from MEMA Headquarters

WBZ News Radio 1030's Bernice Corpuz reports

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Patrick told reporters the moves were precautionary because about 100,000 customers had lost power across the state.

That number was reduced to 80,000 at 2 p.m., according to the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency.

Gov. Patrick declares State of Emergency

As a result of Patrick's declaration, emergency shelters were opened in Bridgewater, Whitman and Gloucester.

The governor also urged drivers to stay off the road.

The emergency declaration allows the governor to mobilize resources and is the first step in asking the federal government for help.

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