President Authorizes Disaster Aid For Alabama Storms
Release Date: May 12, 2003
Release Number: HQ-03-112
» More Information on Alabama Severe Storms, Tornadoes and Flooding
Washington, D.C. -- Federal disaster aid has been authorized by President Bush to help families and communities in Alabama recover from the effects of tornadoes and other extreme weather that struck the state early last week, the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today.
Michael D. Brown, FEMA director and undersecretary for the Emergency Preparedness and Response Directorate, a part of the Department of Homeland Security, said the President took the action under a major disaster declaration issued today after receiving FEMA's analysis of the state's request for federal relief. The declaration covers damage to private and public property from severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that began May 5.
"President Bush understands how devastating these storms have been and has made the federal resources available to help people recover from them," Brown said. "We will do all that we can to make sure everyone in need of assistance receives it as quickly and efficiently as possible."
Following the declaration, Brown designated the following 16 counties eligible for aid to stricken residents and business owners: Bibb, Blount, Calhoun, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Jackson, Jefferson, Madison, Marshall, Morgan, Shelby, St. Clair, Talladega, Tuscaloosa and Walker.
The assistance, to be coordinated by FEMA, can include grants to help pay for temporary housing, 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, Brown said federal funds will be provided for the state and affected local governments in the counties of DeKalb, Jackson, Limestone and Madison to pay 75 percent of the approved costs for debris removal, emergency services related to the disaster, and the restoration of damaged public facilities. The declaration also makes cost-shared funding available to the state for approved projects that reduce future disaster risks.
Brown indicated that additional counties may be designated for aid later if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments. He named Gracia Szczech of FEMA to coordinate the federal relief effort.
Szczech 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 Tuesday, May 13, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 03-Jun-2003 11:34:46