Henry seeks major disaster declaration

Gov. Brad Henry has asked President Bush to issue a major disaster declaration for five northern Oklahoma counties hit by severe storms and flooding since Sept. 11.

Friday, September 19th 2008, 3:47 pm

By: News 9

Associated Press

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Gov. Brad Henry has asked President Bush to issue a major disaster declaration for five northern Oklahoma counties hit by severe storms and flooding since Sept. 11.

Federal assistance was sought Friday for individuals and businesses in Alfalfa, Grant, Kay, Major and Woods counties.

About 200 homes and businesses were damaged by heavy rain from Tropical Depression Lowell.

He said much needs to be done to help residents of the area to recover.

If approved residents would be eligible for assistance for housing repairs or temporary housing. They could also get low-interest loans to repair or replace damaged property, disaster unemployment assistance, and grants for serious needs and necessary disaster expenses unmet by other programs.

Henry said more counties may be added to the request after damage surveys are completed.