(WWJ) President Joe Biden has approved Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's request for a Disaster Declaration following record flooding in metro Detroit.
The declaration will allow federal aid to go to Wayne and Washtenaw Counties, where residents' homes were heavily damaged after heavy rains soaked the area at the end of June.
The declaration comes after Whitmer sent a letter to Biden on July 13.
“President Biden’s declaration opens up critical resources to help Michigan residents recover from this disaster,” said Whitmer, in a statement.
“The flooding on June 25-26 had devastating impacts on Wayne and Washtenaw County residents who suffered damage to their homes, loss of personal property, and faced unimaginable stress. With the resources we will receive thanks to President Biden’s leadership, we will put Michiganders first and help our communities recover and rebuild.”
On June 25 and 26, heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding in Wayne and Washtenaw Counties, leaving freeways underwater and damaging infrastructure and private property. On June 26, Whitmer declared a state of emergency for Wayne County. On July 8, Whitmer added Washtenaw County.
By declaring a state of emergency, the governor's office says Whitmer made available all state resources in cooperation with local response and recovery efforts in the designated area.
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Meanwhile, there's ongoing debate as to what, or who is to blame for the extent of the damage. The Great Lakes Water Authority Board has formed an ad hoc committee to investigate after Grosse Pointe flood victims filed a class action lawsuit accusing the Authority of gross negligence over failed pumps.
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Need help? Low-income Michigan residents affected by the flooding are urged to call 211 for information about how to apply for emergency financial assistance.
In the City of Detroit, affected homeowners with a city poverty tax exemption (HPTAP) and owners who are over 65, disabled or in a household with children ages 10 and under may be eligible for help. Call 313-267-8000.