By Julia Bertino
Jul 23, 2021
(Lincoln, NE) -- Nebraska Governor Pete Ricketts issues a disaster declaration for areas affected by the historic thunderstorm two weeks ago.
On Friday, Ricketts issued the declaration in response to the severe storms that brought hurricane strength winds, knocking out electricity and causing extensive damage. The declaration allows for use of the Governor’s Emergency Fund and is needed to request a federal disaster declaration for public assistance.
The Governor's Office says state and local agencies continue to conduct damage assessments. Once sufficient information is gathered, a request for Federal Public Assistance will be sent to the Federal Emergency Management Agency regional office, then to FEMA headquarters and finally to the White House for review and approval by President Biden.