Texas Disaster: Federal Assistance & Deadline

**Federal Disaster Declared for Smith County, 48 Other Texas Counties; Individual Assistance Available for Storm Victims**

President Joe Biden has declared a major federal disaster for Smith County, including the city of Tyler, and 48 other Texas counties, making Individual Assistance available to residents and businesses affected by severe weather. The declaration covers damage from severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and extensive flooding that impacted the region from April 26 through June 14 this year.

The declaration, approved following a request from Governor Greg Abbott, unlocks federal funding for various recovery efforts. Individual Assistance specifically provides federal grants for temporary housing, home repairs, and other uninsured losses. Additionally, low-cost loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available to cover uninsured property losses for homes, personal belongings, and businesses.

Residents and business owners in Smith County and the other designated areas who suffered damage during the specified period are urged to register for assistance.

Registration can be completed online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362), or by visiting a Disaster Recovery Center once they are established in affected communities.

The deadline to register for federal assistance is August 16, 2024. Officials emphasize the importance of registering promptly to begin the recovery process.