Kentucky has received approval for a presidential disaster declaration. Governor Steve Beshear was notified late Friday that President Barack Obama has authorized federal assistance for Kentucky and its citizens in designated counties that suffered significant damage during the April flooding event.
"Kentucky has been hit hard by historic weather events these past few months, and the damage has been overwhelming in some communities," said Gov. Beshear. "I appreciate the quick decision by FEMA, which will assist those individuals and local governments impacted by the April as they repair damages from that flooding event."
The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals, governments and certain non-profit organizations under FEMA's Individual Assistance and Public Assistance programs.
Residents who suffered damage in the following counties may be eligible for federal assistance under FEMA's Individual Assistance program: Bath, Bourbon, Carter, Elliott, Franklin, Jefferson, Lawrence, Madison, Rowan, and Scott Counties.
"Through a cooperative effort of our local, state, and federal partners, the Governor presented a compelling request for assistance. I appreciate their effort and hard work," said Michael E. Dossett, Director of Kentucky Emergency Management. "In the near future, FEMA will establish Disaster Recovery Centers where storm victims can apply for assistance. Locations and hours of operation will be announced."
Public Assistance Program benefits (assistance for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities) are available for Bath, Bourbon, Breathitt, Bullitt, Clark, Elliott, Estill, Franklin, Jefferson, Johnson, Lawrence, Lee, Lewis, Madison, Magoffin, Metcalfe, Morgan, Owsley, and Wolfe Counties.
Gov. Beshear has also submitted a third disaster request for the March snowstorm which caused flooding, landslides, and historic snowfall amounts in some Kentucky counties. That request is pending approval.
(story provided by Kentucky Emergency Management)
