WASHINGTON – In the wake of severe storms this May across Nebraska, U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Ben Sasse (R-Neb.), joined Representatives Jeff Fortenberry (R-Neb.), Adrian Smith (R-Neb.), and Brad Ashford (D-Neb.) in a letter to President Obama urging prompt approval of a request for a federal disaster declaration.
Last week, Lt. Governor Mike Foley, on Governor Pete Ricketts’ behalf, delivered a formal request for a major disaster declaration. Today’s letter in support of this request highlights the damage caused by these severe storms, which the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency has estimated will cost nearly $13.8 million.
The full text of the delegation’s letter is below.
June 15, 2015
President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President:
We write in support of Governor Pete Ricketts’s request for a major disaster declaration for the May 2015 storms that impacted the following counties in Nebraska: Cass, Dundy, Gage, Jefferson, Lincoln, Lancaster, Morrill, Nuckolls, Otoe, Saline, Saunders, and Thayer.
The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency estimates the expenses resulting from the devastation caused by these storms to be approximately $13.8 million. The high winds, heavy rains, and tornadoes from these severe storms caused extensive damage to public infrastructure. Bridges were destroyed, which led to critical road closures. Additionally, rail lines incurred extensive damage, and floodwater devastated homes. Unfortunately, critical infrastructure systems were not the only casualties of these severe storms. Four lives were also lost.
Following natural disasters, Nebraskans have always demonstrated their resilience and solidarity when working together on recovery efforts. As our communities recover and rebuild, the federal government has an opportunity to support our state in helping these restoration efforts.
We appreciate your prompt consideration of the governor’s request.
Sincerely,
Deb Fischer
Ben Sasse
Jeff Fortenberry
Adrian Smith
Brad Ashford
Click here to view a PDF of the delegation’s letter.