President Donald Trump has approved a request from Idaho Governor Brad Little for a federal disaster declaration for north-central Idaho after major flooding caused by massive rainfall during April this year.
The Presidential Disaster Declaration makes federal funding available to State, tribal, and eligible local governments, as well as certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides.
“This money will be critical in helping to assist with infrastructure repairs,” said Jerry Zumalt, Idaho County Disaster Management Coordinator. “The damage caused by the flooding, and mudslides cannot be overstated – it affects everything from school bus safety, to families getting to work, to commercial traffic that relies on these roadways. We are appreciative of Governor Little and the Idaho Office of Emergency Management for their efforts to secure this federal aid.”
Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch, and Representative Russ Fulcher applauded the president for quick action on the declaration. Governor Brad Little says the state of Idaho is grateful.
“The devastation caused by the late spring flooding in these areas was heartbreaking,” Little said. “We are grateful President Trump recognized the breadth and scope of the damage, and that he will make federal funds available to begin repair work.”
Disastrous flooding in Adams, Idaho, Latah, Lewis and Valley Counties caused significant damage to the area, as well as to the Nez Perce Reservation.
Idaho Office of Emergency Management Director Brad Richy said “These counties have been hit hard the last few years with repeated flood disasters. IOEM looks forward to continuing to working with FEMA and the local jurisdictions to help them get back on the road to recovery from these events.”
