President Biden approves request for major presidential disaster declaration for Summer Storms

TOPEKA - President Joe Biden has granted Governor Laura Kelly's request for a federal disaster declaration for the state due to damages sustained in multiple Kansas counties because of a severe storm system accompanied by straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding June 26 to July 7, 2024.

"I am grateful that this request for federal assistance has been approved," Governor Laura Kelly said. "These federal funds will go a long way in supporting the restoration work by those in counties impacted by the storms."

The declaration allows for state and local levels of government, as well as certain private nonprofit organizations that provide vital and essential services, such as rural electric cooperatives, to apply for Public Assistance funds for emergency and permanent work for the repair or replacement of infrastructure damaged by the disaster. It also activates the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program statewide for actions taken to prevent or reduce long term risk to life and property from natural hazards.

Counties named in the declaration are Chase, Clark, Comanche, Doniphan, Finney, Geary, Gray, Greeley, Hamilton, Kearny, Meade, Scott, Thomas, and Wabaunsee.