NEW YORK (1010 WINS/WCBS 880) – Gov. Kathy Hochul requested a Major Disaster Declaration from President Joe Biden to receive federal funds to support flood recovery in Brooklyn, Manhattan, Nassau County and Westchester County after severe rains prompted her to declare a state of emergency in late September.
The governor’s office said that the funds from this declaration would be used to cover debris removal, emergency protective measures and public building and public infrastructure repair.
“Our state witnessed unprecedented rainfall in September that resulted in devastating flooding, causing extensive damage throughout New York City, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley,” Governor Hochul said. “I’m requesting federal assistance to support our ongoing efforts to help New Yorkers recover as communities continue to deal with the fallout of this historic weather event.”
More than seven inches of rain fell in Brooklyn, while six fell in Manhattan, Nassau and Westchester Counties on Sept. 29, the governor’s office said. The flooding wreaked havoc on mass transit and created dangerous conditions.
If Hochul received the Major Disaster Declaration, she would secure federal cash primarily from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Public Assistance Program.
After a disaster occurs, the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services’ Disaster Recovery Unit, FEMA and local governments assess damages and costs to determine whether or not the area qualifies for a Major Disaster Declaration.
"New York was inundated with torrential rains at the end of September, with some areas receiving more than eight inches of rain in just 24 hours. This led to widespread flood damage throughout the lower Hudson Valley, New York City and Long Island,” Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Jackie Bray said.
“Thanks to the leadership of Governor Hochul, our teams worked side by side with our local partners to not only respond in the moment, but work tirelessly post-storm to ensure those impacted are able to access the federal recovery funding they deserve,” Bray added.
New York State is also working with the federal Small Business Administration to receive low-interest recovery loans for businesses in Brooklyn and Nassau County that were affected by the flooding.