State Requests Federal Disaster Assistance for April Tornadoes, Severe Storms

Gov. Kevin Stitt requested an expedited disaster declaration Sunday from the federal government for McClain and Pottawatomie counties after April tornadoes and severe storms damaged the towns.

If the request is approved, those who suffered damage could be eligible for federal assistance from the U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest loans for individuals and businesses to repair or replace damaged property.

The State’s request includes federal funding to assist state agencies with debris removal and costs associated with responding to the storms.

Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security reports an estimated $9 million dollars in response and debris removal costs in McClain and Pottawatomie counties alone. 

Damage assessments conducted by officials found more than 2,000 homes and apartments impacted including at least 231 that sustained major damage or were destroyed.