President Biden has authorized federal aid for Virginia counties affected by Post-Tropical Cyclone Helene, enabling FEMA to coordinate disaster relief efforts. Governor Glenn Youngkin emphasized the importance of this support as officials work to restore essential services in the devastated regions after the storm resulted in significant damage and loss of life throughout the southeastern United States.
President Joe Biden has authorized federal aid to support various counties in Virginia that are currently grappling with the effects of Post-Tropical Cyclone Helene. This action, announced in a statement from the White House, empowers the Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to oversee all disaster relief efforts aimed at mitigating the distress and suffering experienced by the local populace due to this emergency. The federal assistance will aid recovery initiatives in Southwest Virginia, particularly within the counties of Grayson, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington, Wise, and Wythe, along with the City of Galax, as noted by Governor Glenn Youngkin. Governor Youngkin expressed his deep concerns regarding the devastation wrought by Hurricane Helene, stating, “Hurricane Helene’s impacts were felt across Southwest Virginia and the impacts are heart-wrenching. Immediately, we went to work to request additional federal assistance on top of the state and local assistance that we are already providing. Thank you to President Biden, Senator Warner, Senator Kaine and Congressman Griffith for their support and continued coordination to provide assistance to Virginians in need.” He toured the affected areas on Sunday, where efforts to restore essential services such as power, communication, and water are ongoing. According to reports from the Associated Press, Hurricane Helene has inflicted severe damage throughout Florida and the southeastern United States, resulting in a tragic loss of at least 44 lives, including three firefighters and several vulnerable individuals. In Southwest Virginia, officials have reported significant destruction, including houses being swept away and extensive damage to vital infrastructure such as buildings and bridges. Virginia’s first storm-related fatality was confirmed in Craig County, involving a tree fall that led to a building collapse. Governor Youngkin remarked, “We are heartbroken for all Virginians and Americans who have suffered in the wake of Hurricane Helene. We’re incredibly proud of our brave first responders from around the Commonwealth who have saved countless lives, and we are deeply grateful to those working tirelessly to restore electricity, communication, and food supplies.” Individuals in need of assistance are encouraged to contact VAemergency.gov or dial 211 for help.
In light of the devastation caused by Post-Tropical Cyclone Helene, President Joe Biden authorized federal assistance aimed at aiding the recovery efforts in several counties throughout Virginia. This funding, coordinated through FEMA, is intended to alleviate the hardship faced by the residents in these areas. With the cyclone having caused extensive damage across the southeastern United States, including numerous fatalities, local and state officials have been diligently working to restore essential services and support affected communities. The situation underscores the importance of collaborative efforts between federal and state governments to provide necessary aid in times of crisis.
In conclusion, the authorization of federal aid by President Biden is a critical step toward supporting Virginia counties affected by Post-Tropical Cyclone Helene. The collaborative efforts of local and federal authorities aim to restore normalcy and provide relief to the residents facing the aftermath of this devastating storm. The ongoing commitment of officials and first responders, as highlighted by Governor Youngkin’s remarks, reinforces a unified front in the face of such natural disasters.
Original Source: www.wjla.com
