Governor Gary Locke says he was advised early

this morning that the alert level had been raised to "orange, or

high risk.

Locke says -- quote -- "At this time, there is no specific

threat in our state." But the state is taking steps to respond to

the orange threat condition issied for the country as a whole.

He says state officials "immediately raised our state homeland

security level and ordered all state agencies to implement

specific, comprehensive security measures in accordance with this

increased threat level."

Locke says he also urges all businesses in the state, as well as

city, county and tribal governments, to take "appropriate

actions."

He says there will be heightened monitoring of critical

facilities and locations.

Locke urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any

suspicious packages, vehicles or activities.

He adds -- quote -- "Citizens will experience increased

security at airports and borders, and I encourage people to be

understanding and patient."