President Joe Biden has approved Governor Laura Kelly’s request for a federal disaster declaration for Kansas, following damages from a severe storm system that included straight-line winds, tornadoes, and flooding from June 26 to July 7, 2024.

This declaration enables state and local governments, along with certain private nonprofit organizations that provide essential services—such as rural electric cooperatives—to apply for Public Assistance funds for emergency and permanent repairs or replacements of damaged infrastructure.

In addition, it activates the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program statewide to support efforts aimed at preventing or reducing long-term risks to life and property from natural hazards.

“I am grateful that this request for federal assistance has been approved,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “These federal funds will go a long way in supporting the restoration work by those in counties impacted by the storms.”

Counties named in the declaration are Chase, Clark, Comanche, Doniphan, Finney, Geary, Gray, Greeley, Hamilton, Kearny, Meade, Scott, Thomas, and Wabaunsee.