President Trump declares 'state of disaster' in Michigan counties affected by flooding
President Donald Trump has declared a state of disaster for Isabella, Midland, Bay and Gladwin counties in response to damage caused by thunderstorms and flooding on June 23.
The declaration will allow FEMA to return to areas affected by the flooding to set up operations that allow residents and business owners to apply for federal assistance, said Isabella County administrator Margaret McAvoy. Federal assistance will help alleviate the costs of repairs, temporary housing and loans that cover uninsured property losses.
The declaration does not cover damage done to public property.
Trump's declaration will also give communities the opportunity to apply for hazard mitigation assistance from FEMA. Hazard mitigation assistance programs are designed to reduce or eliminate risk to people and property caused by future natural disasters.
Gov. Rick Snyder submitted the state of disaster declaration to the white house on June 24. The presidential declaration comes after preliminary damage assessments were done by FEMA in the aftermath of the flooding.
