Saturday, December 1, 2006
Contact: Brian Hauswirth, 573-751-0290
Blunt Calls on SEMA to Assess Damage, Seek Federal Assistance
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt directed the State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to conduct damage assessments in the wake of severe winter weather. The assessments are the preliminary step for the state to request federal disaster assistance.
“Almost every corner of our state is faced with some challenge as a result of this storm, from power loss to snow and ice accumulation,” Blunt said. “I will pursue every available opportunity to help Missouri families and communities recovery.”
SEMA's regional assessment teams will review damage and emergency response to determine which Missouri counties qualify for federal assistance. Assistance can provide disaster grants or low-interest loans to families, individuals, businesses and communities to help recover from the impact of the storm. The assessments will take at least several days to complete.
More than 250,000 Missouri homes and businesses are reportedly without power. Many will face below freezing temperatures throughout the night and into the morning. Blunt has activated more than 275 Missouri National Guard members. They will be in the St. Louis area by 8 a.m. tomorrow to help local officials respond to the storm.
Earlier today the governor issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency statewide in response to heavy precipitation, white-out conditions, high winds and ice that have impacted communities throughout Missouri. The order also activated the Missouri State Emergency Operations Plan and directs state agencies to provide support in affected areas as needed.
Blunt has offered extensive state assistance to communities working to manage severe winter weather including guard support, access to state facilities and power generators. The assistance will be available only in those communities whose officials request state aid and will be distributed based on the state's emergency operations plan.
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