Friday, May 2, 2008
Governor Culver Urges Iowans To Use Caution As Storms Hit Iowa
Iowans in Disaster Areas Eligible for State Disaster Assistance
DES MOINES – Today, Governor Chet Culver urged Iowans to be aware of their surroundings and to use caution in the coming days as new storms are slated to bring even more rain to flooded areas of the state.
“This has been a tough week for many Iowa communities,” said Governor Culver. “This week, I have traveled to several communities and seen for myself the damage that has been done. Though the nice weather in recent days has helped, we are not in the clear yet. As rains fall today and tomorrow, I ask that Iowans be aware of their surroundings. Pay attention to any severe weather watches and warnings that are issued, and be prepared to take action if necessary.”
Last week, several inches of rain fell upon portions of the state, pushing rivers and streams out of their banks.
The Governor issued today’s statement following a week in which he declared 9 counties disaster areas -- Bremer, Blackhawk, Clayton, Fayette, Grundy, Humboldt, Jones, Louisa and Webster. In total, 15 counties in north central and eastern Iowa have reported flooding.
As a result of the Governor’s proclamation, individuals in the affected counties are eligible to receive disaster assistance. Iowa 's individual disaster assistance program helps people with low incomes. Iowans with household incomes of up to 130 percent of federal poverty guidelines may apply for a grant of up to $3,300 to help recover from flood damage. The Governor emphasized that this is a reimbursement program, meaning that applicants must include receipts when applying for help.
The grant application and step-by-step instructions on how to fill it out are found on the front page of the Department of Human Services website: http://dhs.iowa.gov/ . Look for the words "Storm Help”, or call toll-free (877) 937-3663 to find out more.
Governor Culver will continue to monitor the situation over the weekend, and will take any necessary steps to protect Iowans should it become necessary.
“As I have toured Iowa flood damage, I have been impressed with the strength Iowans have shown,” said the Governor. “Friends, neighbors and loved ones have come together to help protect their homes and communities. As a state, we stand with those affected by the damage, and will do whatever we can to help those affected recover from these floods as quickly as possible.”
SUMMARY OF FLOOD INFORMATION
- Flooding reported in 15 counties since last Friday
- 9 counties under Governor’s proclamation: Bremer, Blackhawk, Clayton, Fayette, Grundy, Humboldt, Jones, Louisa, and Webster
- Under the Governor’s proclamation, state individual assistance is available to these nine counties. To be eligible, those affected must have household incomes under 130 percent of federal poverty guidelines. If these guidelines are met, Iowans can receive a grant of up to $3,300 to help recover from flood damage. Since it is a reimbursement program, individuals must show receipts for expenses incurred.