COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine declared today that a Presidential Disaster Declaration has been authorized for the FEMA Individual Assistance Program following tornadoes that struck on March 14, 2024. The declaration encompasses Auglaize, Crawford, Darke, Delaware, Hancock, Licking, Logan, Mercer, Miami, Richland, and Union counties. Additionally, the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program has been extended to cover all 88 counties in Ohio.
Governor DeWine formally petitioned President Joe Biden for federal disaster assistance in a letter dated March 29, 2024, emphasizing the urgent need for support for the communities affected by the tornadoes.
“Ohio EMA and my administration have been steadfast in advocating for the individuals impacted by the recent tornadoes in and around Indian Lake,” Governor DeWine stated. “I extend my gratitude to FEMA and President Biden for swiftly responding to our appeal and providing crucial federal aid to affected Ohioans.”
The FEMA assistance package encompasses various forms of aid, including grants for temporary housing, home repairs, rental assistance, and replacement of personal property, aimed at facilitating the recovery process for homeowners and renters affected by the disaster. Additionally, the Presidential Disaster Declaration authorizes the Small Business Administration to offer low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses for impacted homeowners, renters, and business proprietors.
“This federal assistance will complement the ongoing recovery efforts at the local and state levels,” remarked Ohio Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Sima Merick. “It will directly assist homeowners, renters, and businesses affected by the devastating storms.”
Governor DeWine has designated Director Merick as the State Coordinating Officer responsible for overseeing the implementation of the presidential disaster declaration.
For comprehensive guidance on emergency preparedness, including pre, during, and post-disaster measures, individuals are encouraged to visit Ready.Gov for more information.
