President Declares Major Disaster For Minnesota Floods 

Release Date: June 14, 2002
Release Number: HQ-02-079

» More Information on Minnesota Severe Storms, Flooding and Tornadoes

Washington, DC -- Federal disaster aid has been made available for people in Roseau County victimized by storms and flooding under a major disaster declaration issued for Minnesota by President Bush, the head of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today.

FEMA Director Joe M. Allbaugh, who designated the county eligible for the aid immediately after the declaration, said the President took the action this afternoon following a review of the agency's analysis of the state's expedited request for federal relief submitted yesterday. The declaration covers damage to private property from severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that struck the northwestern part of the state beginning June 9.

"Families in Roseau County have been especially hard hit by these devastating floods," Allbaugh said. "The President's immediate response ensures that they will receive the help needed to get them on the road to recovery as fast and efficiently as possible."

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.

Additionally, Allbaugh said the declaration makes cost-shared funding available to the state for approved projects that reduce future disaster risks. He indicated that more counties and additional forms of assistance may be designated later based on the results of further damage assessments.

C. Michel Butler of FEMA was named by Allbaugh to serve as the federal coordinating officer for the recovery. Butler said affected residents and business owners in Roseau County 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 Saturday, June 15, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 19-Aug-2003 14:50:28