President Biden declares New Year’s flooding in Eastern Kentucky a major disaster

President Joe Biden approved a disaster declaration for Eastern Kentucky counties that were affected by the Dec. 31 to Jan. 2 storms and flooding, the White House announced Sunday.

Federal funding will be available to those impacted in Boyd, Breathitt, Carter, Christian, Clay, Floyd, Green, Johnson, Knott, Lawrence, Owsley, Pike and Taylor counties.

Funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and nonprofits for emergency work following the storm and to repair and replace facilities damaged. Funding is also available for hazard mitigation for Kentucky.

Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency Jan. 1 when a powerful severe weather system that that came through Kentucky generated heavy rain, thunderstorms, tornadoes, hail and strong winds. The storm caused straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides, and mudslides.

Almost a year before, Eastern Kentucky was impacted by widespread flooding causing more than $72 million in damage. Biden declared a state of emergency last April.

Federal Emergency Management Agency named John Brogan as the federal coordinating officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

Anyone who suffered losses as a result of the storms can apply for assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).