Tom Reed Pushes for Assistance in Yates County Flooding

Press Release

Tom Reed visited parts of Yates County and spoke with affected individuals and businesses Wednesday hit hardest by overnight storms which resulted in severe flooding. After viewing the damage, Reed encouraged Governor Cuomo to take steps to determine the extent of the damage and, if necessary, seek federal aid for repairs in Yates County.

"Seeing the damage firsthand and listening to all that home and business owners will have to do to repair their property, we need to offer assistance and any care that we can," Reed said. "Getting impacted areas back up and safely operating again is the priority. If the local need exceeds the state and county's ability, federal assistance should be sought."

Yates County was hit with up to six inches of rain Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning, causing severe flooding in parts of the county. Reed requested the Governor undertake a Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDA) to assess the damage caused by the storm to determine if a Presidential declaration for a major disaster or emergency is in order.

"We stand ready to work with the Governor's office to get the resources needed to combat the damage," Reed continued. "Should Yates County meet the threshold, I encourage the Governor to apply for federal assistance to see that our region is cared for."

A flood watch remains in effect for Yates County through Friday, May 16th.

Source