President Joe Biden has declared a major disaster in California as the state continues to be battered by severe winter storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides.
The latest storm system is expected to bring heavy lower-elevation rain, significant mountain snow, and strong winds, with another surge of Pacific moisture expected on Monday.
As a result of the declaration, federal aid will be made available to supplement state, tribal, and local recovery efforts in the affected areas.
The aid will be available to individuals in the counties of Merced, Sacramento, and Santa Cruz. The assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
Thank you, @POTUS for having the back of Californians as we continue to be impacted by intense winter storms.
Serious winds and rain are still anticipated throughout the state. Stay safe and remain vigilant. https://t.co/V2DcoKuv0U
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) January 15, 2023
In addition, federal funding will be available to state, tribal, and eligible local governments, as well as certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work in the counties of Merced, Sacramento, and Santa Cruz. Hazard mitigation measures will also be funded on a cost-sharing basis throughout the state.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has named Andrew F. Grant as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Damage assessments are ongoing in other areas and additional areas may be designated for assistance after the assessments have been completed.
Residents and business owners who have sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance. The severe weather conditions have caused significant damage and disruption to the state, and the federal aid will be crucial in helping the affected communities to recover.
Californians, along with state, federal, and local agencies, are working to combat the impact of winter storms – like this site of emergency levee repairs in Merced.
Remain vigilant & listen to emergency officials as we continue to face severe winter weather. pic.twitter.com/4YwwUNTkGc
— Office of the Governor of California (@CAgovernor) January 15, 2023
California is in the middle of a deadly barrage of winter storms & we are using every resource at our disposal to protect lives and limit damage — including sending crews out to help prepare for flooding.
Californians should stay prepared as more storms head our way. pic.twitter.com/xtZKnH719d
— Office of the Governor of California (@CAgovernor) January 9, 2023