News Release - Governor Requests Federal Disaster Declaration

State Requests Federal Disaster Assistance for April Tornadoes and Severe Storms

OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Kevin Stitt requested an expedited major disaster declaration today from the federal government for McClain and Pottawatomie counties as a result of damages from tornadoes and severe storms on April 19.

If the request is approved, those who suffered damage may be eligible for federal assistance for housing repairs or temporary housing, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest loans for individuals and businesses to repair or replace damaged property, and grants for serious needs and necessary disaster expenses not met by other programs.

Additionally, the State’s request includes federal funding to assist municipalities, counties, tribal nations, state agencies, and other eligible applicants in the two counties with debris removal and costs associated with responding to the storms.

Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (ODEMHS) reports an estimated $9 million dollars in response and debris removal costs in McClain and Pottawatomie counties alone. Aerial damage assessments conducted by FEMA and spot checked by ODEMHS and local officials found more than 2,000 homes and apartments impacted, including at least 231 that sustained major damage or were destroyed.

Damage assessments are ongoing and additional counties could later be added.

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