President Obama Declares Disaster for Virginia

President Obama declared Thursday that federal disaster aid has been approved for the Commonwealth of Virginia to aid commonwealth and local recovery efforts following the massive flooding that occured during Tropical Storm Lee on Sept. 8 and 9. 

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved federal disaster assistance to help eight local governments – including Prince William County – and the state. 

“This federal disaster assistance will help many of our localities recover the significant costs associated with response and recovery efforts,” said Governor Bob McDonnell in a press release. 

Governor McDonnell requested assistance through the federal Public Assistance program to help Caroline, Essex, Fairfax, King and Queen, King George, Prince William and Westmoreland counties and the city of Alexandria recover costs associated with response and recovery efforts, such as damage to critical infrastructure, debris removal and related emergency services. 

If sufficient damage information is collected, other localities could be added to the declaration.

FEMA also approved the Hazard Mitigation program for use statewide. The Hazard Mitigation program provides funds for projects sponsored by state and local governments that help reduce disaster risks by protecting homes and businesses against future damage.

Earlier this month, Governor McDonnell requested that the Administration make low-interest disaster loans available to homeowners, renters and businesses in Prince William and Fairfax counties. That request was granted Nov. 14.