Nebraska Requests Federal Aid After Severe Storms Cause Widespread Damage
In a bid to secure federal assistance, Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen has reached out to President Donald Trump, requesting a major disaster declaration following destructive storms that swept through the state from May 15 to 18.
The severe weather system unleashed tornadoes and triggered flash flooding, impacting multiple counties including Buffalo, Fillmore, Gage, Howard, Jefferson, Nemaha, Thayer, and Thurston. The aftermath saw numerous power poles and lines downed, alongside significant damage inflicted on schools, buildings, and roadways. Preliminary estimates put the cost of damage solely to public infrastructure at nearly $5 million.
Alongside the disaster declaration, Governor Pillen is also seeking access to the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. This program aims to provide funding to governments for rebuilding efforts that reduce or mitigate potential future disaster losses. Should the request be approved, Nebraska could apply for these grants to aid in their recovery and prevention strategies.
This recent disaster declaration request follows a similar appeal made two months ago. In May, Pillen sought federal aid for historical wildfires that occurred in March, affecting Arthur, Garden, Grant, Lincoln, and Morrill counties. At that time, the wildfire damage was estimated to be at least $9.7 million, marking it as one of the most devastating in Nebraska’s history.
