N.H. Gets Federal Disaster Aid to Help Recovery from Recent Flooding

President Bush has approved Gov. John Lynch’s request to declare a major federal disaster in New Hampshire areas affected by the recent floods.

As a result, residents, municipalities, businesses and the state are eligible for Federal Emergency Management Agency and other federal assistance.

“This disaster declaration, and the federal assistance it will bring, is key to helping New Hampshire citizens and communities rebuild,” Lynch said.

Assistance for individuals was granted for Cheshire, Grafton, Hillsborough, Merrimack and Sullivan counties.

Assistance for state and local governments supporting emergency work and long-term repairs of roads and bridges was granted for Belknap, Cheshire, Hillsborough, Merrimack and Sullivan counties.

FEMA is expected to announce an assistance hot line and will open an office in Keene.

FEMA covers up to 75 percent of the eligible costs for public assistance. Traditionally, the state and local communities have split the remainder.