Biden Authorizes Federal Aid for Virginia Counties Affected by Post-Tropical Cyclone Helene
President Biden has authorized federal aid for Virginia counties affected by Post-Tropical Cyclone Helene, allowing FEMA to coordinate relief efforts. The assistance targets recovery in several Southwest Virginia counties, where significant damage and loss of life occurred. Governor Glenn Youngkin has expressed gratitude for the federal support and emphasized ongoing recovery efforts.
President Joe Biden has authorized federal assistance for several counties in Virginia that are currently dealing with the aftermath of Post-Tropical Cyclone Helene. This decision, as announced in a statement from the White House, enables the Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to coordinate relief efforts aimed at mitigating the hardships faced by local residents due to the emergency conditions. The federal aid specifically targets recovery initiatives in several counties within Southwest Virginia, including Grayson, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise, and Wythe, as well as the City of Galax. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin expressed his gratitude for the federal support, highlighting the severe impact Hurricane Helene has had on communities in Southwest Virginia. Governor Youngkin stated, “Hurricane Helene’s impacts were felt across Southwest Virginia and the impacts are heart-wrenching. Immediately, we went to work to request additional federal assistance on top of the state and local assistance that we are already providing. Thank you to President Biden, Senator Warner, Senator Kaine and Congressman Griffith for their support and continued coordination to provide assistance to Virginians in need.” In his recent visit to the affected areas, Gov. Youngkin observed restoration efforts focused on re-establishing power, communications, and water supply after the storm wreaked havoc throughout the region, including flooding houses and damaging critical infrastructure. The hurricane, which has already claimed the lives of at least 44 individuals across Florida and the southeastern United States, also resulted in the first storm-related fatality in Virginia—a tragic incident involving a tree fall and building collapse in Craig County, situated northwest of Roanoke. Expressing his sorrow for the victims, Governor Youngkin remarked, “We are heartbroken for all Virginians and Americans who have suffered in the wake of Hurricane Helene. We’re incredibly proud of our brave first responders from around the Commonwealth who have saved countless lives, and we are deeply grateful to those working tirelessly to restore electricity, communication, and food supplies.” Residents affected by the storm can access assistance by visiting VAemergency.gov or by calling 211 for support.
Post-Tropical Cyclone Helene has significantly impacted various regions of Virginia, primarily in the Southwest area where severe destruction has occurred. As the storm moved through, it left many communities grappling with the loss of infrastructure, power outages, and the unfortunate loss of life. Government officials are mobilizing resources to aid recovery operations, reflecting the commitment to addressing the needs of affected individuals and families in the region.
In summary, President Biden’s approval of federal assistance for Virginia counties impacted by Post-Tropical Cyclone Helene underscores the administration’s commitment to disaster relief and recovery efforts. The response includes coordination among various levels of government and highlights the ongoing challenges faced by local communities in the wake of this severe weather event.
Original Source: www.wjla.com
