Capital District Times

Congresswoman Elise Stefanik has called on New York Governor Kathy Hochul to request a Presidential disaster declaration from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) following severe flash flooding on July 10, 2024. The flooding significantly affected counties and municipalities within New York’s 21st Congressional District.

“As the Representative of the counties and municipalities in NY-21 that faced the most severe damage following the disastrous July 10th storms, I am urging Kathy Hochul to request a Presidential disaster declaration to unlock resources that will help our communities rebuild as quickly as possible,” said Congresswoman Elise Stefanik.

In her letter, Stefanik highlighted conversations with local officials across Upstate New York regarding the extensive damage caused by the storms. “These officials report widespread destruction which has displaced residents, shuttered businesses, and severely compromised public infrastructure. Significant flooding requires a carefully coordinated response and all affected areas must be reviewed.”

Stefanik emphasized the urgency of submitting this request promptly: “As the state concludes its assessment I encourage you to submit a Presidential disaster declaration request to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Since any request for federal disaster assistance must be submitted within 30 days of the incident this must be submitted as soon as possible.”

The full letter can be accessed through this [link](https://stefanik.house.gov/2024/8/stefanik-urges-hochul-to-issue-presidential-disaster-declaration-following-severe-storms-in-ny-21).