President Declares Major Disaster For Texas 

Release Date: July 4, 2002
Release Number: HQ-02-100a

» More Information on Texas Severe Storms and Flooding

Washington, D.C. -- The head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that federal disaster aid has been made available for Texas to supplement state and local recovery efforts in areas struck by severe storms and flooding.

FEMA Director Joe M. Allbaugh said the assistance was authorized under a major disaster declaration issued for the state by President Bush. The declaration covers damage to private property from severe storms and flooding beginning June 29 and continuing.

"These floods have affected thousands of residents in central Texas. Following the President’s swift action, FEMA stands ready to help them recover from these devastating floods," said Allbaugh.

Immediately after the President's action, Allbaugh designated the following counties eligible for aid to stricken residents and business owners: Bandera, Bexar, Blanco, Comal, Gillespie, Hays, Kendall, Kerr, Medina and Uvalde.

The assistance, to be coordinated by FEMA, can include grants to help pay for temporary housing, emergency home repairs and other serious disaster-related expenses. Low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration also will be available to cover residential and business losses not fully compensated by insurance.

In addition, Allbaugh said federal funds will be provided for the state on a cost-shared basis for approved projects that reduce future disaster risks. He indicated that damage surveys are continuing and more counties and additional forms of assistance may be designated later based on the results of the assessments.

Sandra Coachman of FEMA was named by Allbaugh to coordinate the federal relief effort. Coachman said those who sustained losses in the counties designated for aid to affected residents and business owners can begin the disaster application process by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers will be available starting tomorrow from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.

Last Modified: Wednesday, 13-Aug-2003 14:54:32