Letter to Mr. Paul Ford, Acting Regional Administrator

Letter

Gov. John Lynch today requested that officials from the Federal Emergency Management Agency begin a preliminary damage assessment in order to determine New Hampshire's eligibility for federal disaster relief as a result of the recent rain storm that caused widespread flooding.

"The substantial rains caused widespread flooding in several communities, causing damage to roads and public infrastructure, and to homes and businesses. In some communities, the damage appears to be quite significant, which is why today I am asking FEMA to begin the preliminary damage assessment as soon as possible to determine whether New Hampshire may be eligible for federal disaster relief," Gov. Lynch said.

Gov. Lynch requested FEMA officials begin preliminary damage assessments of damage to state and local public infrastructure impacted by the storm. FEMA must conduct a preliminary damage assessment to ensure that federal damage guidelines are met before federal assistance is granted to the state. The state as a whole must meet federal thresholds in order to qualify for assistance. In addition, individual counties must meet certain damage thresholds in order for communities in those counties to qualify for assistance.

State officials have already been working with local communities to document damage caused by the storm.

Public assistance offered through FEMA helps the state and communities cover emergency operations, debris removal and repair costs. Assistance will cover some, but not usually all costs of the damage.

A copy of Gov. Lynch's letter to FEMA is attached.

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March 18, 2010

Mr. Paul Ford, Acting Regional Administrator
FEMA Region One
99 High Street, 6th Floor
Boston, MA 02110-2320

Re: Request for Preliminary Damage Assessment for Storm Beginning March 14

Dear Mr. Ford:

As a result of damage caused by severe weather beginning on March 14, the State of New Hampshire requests a preliminary damage assessment (PDA) for Hillsborough, Merrimack, Rockingham and Strafford Counties. Other counties may be added to this request as additional information becomes available.

This PDA request is to determine the state's eligibility for Individual Assistance, including the Small Business Administration Loan Program, Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation.

Heavy precipitation and wind caused extensive flooding and damage to roads, bridges, dams, residential property and businesses. The National Weather Service reports rainfall in excess of 6 inches during this storm event. At this time, reports from state and local officials indicate that federal assistance may be warranted.

Please contact Michael Poirier, State Coordinating Officer, if additional information is needed.

Your consideration in this matter is greatly appreciated.

Sincerely,

John H. Lynch
Governor

Source