FEMA Director Reopens Incident Period To Include Recent Wisconsin Storms And Tornado
Release Date: June 21, 2001
Release Number: 1369-20
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West Salem, WI -- The incident period for the Wisconsin disaster declaration has been reopened in response to continuing severe weather and a tornado experienced in the state, the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today.
FEMA Director Joe M. Allbaugh said the action was taken following a letter of request by Governor Scott McCallum that indicated the state sustained severe damages to the public infrastructure, private homes and businesses from the recent severe storms and tornado.
"We're working with local communities to determine the extent of damages," said Al Shanks, of Wisconsin Emergency Management. "The village of Siren, where the tornado struck on Monday, is in Burnett County, which already was designated for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance."
"Our assessments will indicate additional counties where federal assistance will be requested. We want to make sure residents and communities get the help they need to recover from these storms," Shanks said.
The original declaration covered damages resulting from the severe winter storms and flooding occurring between April 10 and May 29. Currently 17 counties are eligible to receive various types of federal and state disaster assistance.
"FEMA will review the damage assessments and determine if assistance should be expanded in certain areas or additional counties added to the declaration," said Tom Davies, of FEMA, who is the federal coordinating officer for the disaster recovery.
Anyone who suffered damages as a result of these storms may call the FEMA toll--free application number, 1--800--462--9029, between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. The TTY number for individuals who are hearing and speech--impaired is 1--800--462--7585.
Last Modified: Thursday, 23-Oct-2003 10:32:56