Bush OK’s El Paso Disaster Area From Rain/Flooding
EL PASO, Texas (AP) – President Bush declared El Paso a disaster area Tuesday, opening the door for federal aid to an area recently ravaged by flooding and rock slides.
City officials believe as many as 300 homes were destroyed in the flooding two weeks ago, when a torrential, all-day downpour dumped about 7 inches of rain on the desert city. Preliminary estimates put the damage at more than $100 million.
“This federal disaster declaration means federal aid can now be provided to help the El Paso community recover from extensive flooding damage,” Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison said. “Eligibility for both public and individual assistance will assist community recovery efforts as well as help individuals and their families who were forced to flee from their homes.”
Assistance, available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency, can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, as well as low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, officials said.
FEMA officials said residents and businesses seeking help can apply by calling (800) 621-3362 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. local time or by visiting FEMA’s site via the link provided.
To read the entire White House statement, click on the link provided.
(Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) AP-NY-08-15-06 1808EDT
