President Joe Biden approves federal disaster declaration as Oklahomans recover from deadly storms

A home sits heavily damaged by a weekend tornado near downtown Sulphur on Monday. (Photo by Janelle Stecklein/Oklahoma Voice)

OKLAHOMA CITY — President Joe Biden declared a major state of disaster for three Oklahoma counties related to the deadly weekend storms that brought tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding to the state.

The declaration makes federal funding available to impacted Oklahomans in Hughes, Love and Murray counties. The funding is also available to state, tribal and local governments for debris removal and emergency protective measures, according to a press release from the White House.

The aid includes grants for temporary housing and home repairs. It also could provide low-cost loans to help Oklahomans cover uninsured property losses as well as other programs to help businesses and homeowners recover.

Meteorologists with the National Weather Service in Norman reported that at least 34 tornadoes ripped through Oklahoma over the weekend, leaving four dead and over 100 injured.

Three strong tornadoes hit Sulphur, Marietta and near Holdenville. “I appreciate the support and quick action from the White House and FEMA in approving Oklahoma’s request for federal disaster assistance in the wake of devastating storms,” Gov. Kevin Stitt said in a statement Wednesday. “As damage assessments continue, I will request aid for all counties that suffered losses to homes or businesses, whether from tornadoes, flooding, or other severe weather.”

White House officials said additional counties could be added to the declaration as disaster assessments continue.

For more information on applying for aid, visit www.disasterassistance.gov or call 800-621-FEMA.

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