Rahall Calls for White House Action to Expedite Federal Resources for Southern West Virginia Counties

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.) Monday afternoon sent an urgent request to President Barack Obama, calling for quick action on the State of West Virginia’s request for a federal disaster declaration for the counties of Lincoln, Logan, and Mingo all of which have been affected by, severe storms, heavy rain, wind driven rain, flooding, high winds, mudslides and landslides beginning on March 15, 2012, and continuing.

“Yesterday, as I toured Logan County with our National Guard and state and county emergency service directors, and met with citizens in storm damaged areas, once again, I witnessed firsthand the response and recovery operations deployed by West Virginia and understand the tremendous need for speedy action,” said Rahall.  “It was disheartening to see so many individuals, families and businesses have been affected, but I am so grateful no lives were lost.  I will do everything possible to get the resources our citizens need on the ground and in full force to help those who are struggling in this aftermath to get their lives back to normal as quickly as possible.”

The initial damage assessments are estimated in excess of $5.6 million throughout the state, which are the affected areas included in this initial request.

“I am working with our Congressional delegation and Governor Tomblin to ensure this declaration is expedited in every way possible, so our communities can get the federal help they desperately need to have a chance to recover from this disaster,” said Rahall.

If the disaster request is approved by the President, federal assistance would be coordinated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and could include debris removal, emergency protective measures and public services, repair of damaged public property, low interest loans needed by communities for essential government functions, individual assistance and public assistance and grants for individuals, households, and businesses in the affected counties.
 

PHOTO:  Rep. Rahall is briefed by state and county officials during a tour of storm damage in the Coal Branch area of Logan on Sunday.  Shown are (left to right) W.Va. National Guard Adjutant General James Hoyer; Sonya Porter, Chief Deputy, Logan County Sheriff’s Department; Logan County Commissioner Willie Akers; Congressman Rahall; Chuck Runyon, W.Va. Department of Transportation; and, Logan County Commission President Danny Godby.

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