FEMA approves request for major presidential disaster declaration for Severe Storms

President Joe Biden has granted Governor Laura Kelly's request for a federal disaster declaration for the Public Assistance Program due to damages sustained in multiple Kansas counties because of a severe storm with large hail, damaging winds, tornadoes and flooding that occurred April 25-30. The request was sent by Governor Kelly to FEMA on June 26.

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 Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, Chautauqua, Cherokee, Elk, Greenwood, Linn, Morris, Neosho, Pottawatomie, and Wilson.

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