President Declares Disaster For Spring Flooding in Alaska

President Barack Obama has declared a federal disaster for spring flooding in parts of Alaska.

Gov. Sean Parnell earlier this month requested the federal designation for the Alaska Gateway, Yukon Flats, Yukon Koyukuk, Lower Yukon and Copper River regional educational attendance areas. The areas include Galena and other communities affected by flooding in May and June.

The president’s declaration will make funding available for emergency work and repair of public infrastructure. The Federal Emergency Management Agency says funding to share the costs of mitigating hazards also will be available.

Individual assistance for temporary housing, home repairs and other expenses will be available in all areas except the Copper River regional educational attendance area.