Major Disaster Declared After Disastrous Storm Wipes Out State

President Joe Biden declared the recent severe storm a major disaster in Texas, opening up funding to help with recovery efforts.

7 COUNTIES APPROVED FOR FEDERAL FUNDING

Federal aid will be available to help the state, tribal, and recovery efforts involved "in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding."

The following seven counties have been approved for funding:

• Harris
• Liberty
• Montgomery
• Polk
• San Jacinto
• Trinity
• Walker

Gov. Greg Abbott thanked President Biden's funding approval but added that there were 19 other counties he requested funding for that were denied.

"I thank President Biden and his administration’s assistance as Texas continues to respond to severe weather and flooding across the state. Texas is working around the clock to provide all necessary resources to help Texans move forward from these devastating storms." -Gov. Abbott

STARTING THE RECOVERY

According to stipulation from the White House, the incoming funding could be used for the following:

• Temporary housing and home repairs
• Low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses
• Other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster

Even though only a handful of counties were approved for federal funding Gov. Abbott explains, "The partial approval of my Presidential Disaster Declaration request is a crucial step in the right direction in helping Texans rebuild and recover from recent severe weather events."

HOW TO APPLY FOR ASSISTANCE

If you were affected and live in the several approved counties you can apply for assistance here, or by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or through the FEMA app.