Governor Kelly requests federal disaster assistance for May 19 storms

Governor Laura Kelly has sent a letter to President Joe Biden requesting federal assistance for 14 counties affected by a severe storm system that swept through the state on May 19.

"These storms generated high straight-line winds and heavy rains that resulted in flooding," said Governor Laura Kelly. "The storms left several communities without power and damaged roads and other public infrastructure. I am requesting assistance through the federal Public Assistance Program to help these counties and local communities recover costs associated with responding to and recovering from these damages."

Counties named in the letter include Barton, Ellsworth, Harvey, Hodgeman, Lincoln, Morris, Ottawa, Pawnee, Reno, Rush, Russell, Stafford, Wabaunsee, and Wyandotte. The governor also requested statewide funding for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.

"If received, this federal disaster declaration will assist the impacted communities in rebuilding public infrastructure damaged by the storms, such as roadways, bridges, culverts, and public utilities," said Governor Kelly.