President Joe Biden approves disaster declaration for Douglas and Washington counties
President Joe Biden has approved the disaster declaration for Douglas and Washington counties, according to a Nebraska State Patrol spokesperson.
The request, made by Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen on Thursday, helps with emergency relief costs like debris removal and individual assistance after the tornado outbreak in the state last week.
“This approval will allow Nebraskans affected by the Arbor Day tornadoes to get back on their feet as quickly as possible,” Pillen said in a statement. “We know that the road to recovery will be a long one, but this declaration will help expedite processes and funding provided through FEMA, to help people take care of both immediate and long-term needs.”
The Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency have been working together to assess the damage.
More coverage: Nearly 200 homes destroyed by last week's tornado outbreak in Douglas County, according to officials
The preliminary assessments estimated costs in all Nebraska counties affected to be $11.5 million with over $8 million in Douglas and Washington counties.
Pillen also said that additional Nebraska state troopers and Nebraska National Guard members have been requested to assist with security in the impacted counties.
According to the National Weather Service, the tornado that hit Elkhorn also touched down in Bennington and Blair. It was an EF3, with a maximum width of 1,600 yards and it was on the ground for 31 miles. The NWS said it had peak winds of 165 mph.
There were no reported injuries with the tornado that hit Elkhorn, according to the NWS.
The state patrol says homeowners who sustained damage can click here for help.