President Joe Biden has approved a Major Disaster Declaration for New York counties impacted by severe flooding during Hurricane Debby in early August, Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Tuesday. The declaration will unlock federal funds through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program to help the hardest-hit areas recover from the storm.
Counties set to receive aid include Allegany, Steuben, Broome, Delaware, and others affected by the flooding, which caused millions in damage. Steuben County alone saw over five inches of rain in just 12 hours, severely damaging homes, businesses, and infrastructure.
Governor Hochul and Rep. Nick Langworthy, who advocated for the declaration, praised the approval. Langworthy emphasized that federal assistance will be critical for rebuilding key roadways, schools, and sewage systems devastated by the storm, allowing communities to begin recovery efforts.
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