CONCORD - Gov. John Lynch this afternoon declared a state of emergency in Belknap, Carroll, Merrimack, Strafford and Rockingham counties due to damage from severe weather and thunderstorms.

The state Emergency Operations Center in Concord is open. Gov. Lynch is inspecting the damage.

“The situation is still ongoing. I urge all New Hampshire citizens to take sensible precautions and to heed all warnings from public safety officials,” Gov. Lynch said.

The state’s Emergency Management Office recommends:

• Anyone in need of emergency assistance call 911
• Avoid unnecessary travel
• Watch for downed power lines and tree limbs
• Do not drive through standing water
• Continue to monitor local weather reports