Federal Disaster Aid Ordered For Micronesia Tropical Storm Recovery
Release Date: July 11, 2002
Release Number: HQ-02-105
» 2002 Region IX News Releases
Washington, D.C. -- The head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that federal disaster funds have been made available for the Federated States of Micronesia to supplement emergency response efforts in the state of Chuuk hit by Tropical Storm Chata'an last week.
FEMA Director Joe M. Allbaugh said the aid was authorized under a major disaster declaration issued by President Bush following a review of the agency's analysis of Micronesia's request submitted this morning for federal relief.
"The swift action taken by the President today addresses the immediate emergency priorities while we continue the process for assessing other assistance needs," Allbaugh said.
Following the declaration, Allbaugh designated the state of Chuuk and affected municipal governments eligible for federal funding to pay 75 percent of the approved cost for debris removal and emergency services related to the storm that occurred over the period of July 2-4, causing damage from floods, mudslides and landslides. The funding also covers the cost of emergency work undertaken by the federal government at the request of the state and municipal governments.
In addition, Allbaugh said federal funds will be available for Micronesia on a cost-shared basis for approved projects that reduce future disaster risks. He indicated that other areas and additional forms of assistance may be designated later based on the results of ongoing damage assessments.
William L. Carwile III of FEMA was named by Allbaugh to coordinate federal recovery operations in the affected area.
Last Modified: Thursday, 28-Aug-2003 13:01:37