President Biden Approves Emergency Declaration for New York Crisis

President Biden approves emergency declaration for New York, unleashing federal aid to combat severe storm and flooding crisis.

At a Glance

President Biden declares emergency in New York due to severe storm and flooding from August 18-19, 2024
Federal assistance ordered to supplement state and local response efforts
FEMA authorized to coordinate disaster relief efforts
Public Assistance emergency protective measures provided at 75% Federal funding for Suffolk County
Over 2,000 residents and businesses experienced flood damage

Biden Administration Responds to New York’s Crisis

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. has taken decisive action by declaring an emergency in the State of New York following a severe storm and flooding event that occurred from August 18 to August 19, 2024. This declaration paves the way for federal assistance to supplement state and local response efforts, providing much-needed support to affected communities.

The Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have been authorized to coordinate disaster relief efforts. This coordinated approach aims to ensure that resources are efficiently allocated and that the response to the crisis is swift and effective.

Federal Assistance and Funding

As part of the emergency declaration, Public Assistance Category B emergency protective measures will be provided at 75 percent Federal funding for Suffolk County. This financial support is crucial for implementing immediate actions to protect lives, property, and public health in the wake of the disaster.

“Extreme weather hit Suffolk County families and communities hard this month and I commend the hardworking damage assessment teams on the ground who provided information to secure this important federal disaster assistance,” Governor Hochul said. “I thank President Biden and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell for their continued support in helping Suffolk County residents get the assistance they need.”

To oversee the federal recovery operations, Ms. Lai Sun Yee of FEMA has been appointed as the Federal Coordinating Officer. Her experience and expertise will be vital in managing the complex logistics of the relief efforts.

President Joe Biden has approved Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont's request for a federal emergency declaration in three counties in response to the historic rainfall and devastating flooding from storms earlier this week. https://t.co/53iJQPhqlR

— CBS New York (@CBSNewYork) August 22, 2024

Impact on Local Communities

The severity of the situation in New York cannot be overstated. The National Weather Service declared the first-ever flash flood emergency for Suffolk County, highlighting the unprecedented nature of this weather event. Over 2,000 residents and business owners have experienced flood damage, and even Stony Brook University was forced to relocate students and cancel move-in day.

“Ensuring the swift mobilization of state and federal resources is critical following the significant storm that recently wreaked havoc across Long Island. I’m pleased to see that federal resources will be brought to bear to address public safety, as well as damage to roads, homes, and other structures.” – Representative Andrew Garbarino

In response to the widespread damage, homeowners may be eligible for grants up to $50,000 for health and safety repairs not covered by insurance. Additionally, the Department of Financial Services will provide insurance assistance to affected residents and businesses, offering a lifeline to those struggling to recover from the disaster.

The Biden Administration has approved a federal emergency declaration for Connecticut after historic flooding ravaged communities there. But on Long Island, business owners say they are still waiting for that extra help. https://t.co/Q8y1HIi10w

— FOX 5 NY (@fox5ny) August 22, 2024

Looking Ahead

As New York begins the process of recovery and rebuilding, the support from the federal government will be crucial. The emergency declaration is a significant first step, but long-term recovery efforts will likely require additional assistance. State officials, including Governor Hochul, are already preparing to request a Major Disaster Declaration, which would provide even more extensive FEMA resources for recovery.

The swift response from the Biden administration demonstrates the federal government’s commitment to supporting states in times of crisis. As climate-related disasters become more frequent and severe, such coordinated and rapid responses will be increasingly vital to protect American communities and help them recover from devastating events.