FEMA access granted for 3 Oklahoma counties impacted by severe weather

HUGHES COUNTY, Okla. (KFOR) - Governor Kevin Stitt announced on Wednesday that FEMA access has been granted for three Oklahoma counties impacted by severe weather on April 27 and 28.

Severe storms and tornadoes tore through the state Saturday and Sunday, leaving four people dead and around 300 injured. Assessments show that 238 homes were damaged across the three counties.

According to the Office of the Governor, the White House has approved the state's request for disaster assistance for Hughes, Love and Murray counties

“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,” Governor Stitt said. “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.”

The assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) can help residents with housing repairs or temporary housing. It can also provide U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest loans for individuals and businesses to fix or replace damaged property, disaster unemployment assistance and grants for important needs and disaster expenses not met by other programs.

To learn more or apply for disaster assistance, you may call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or visit disasterassistance.gov.

The designation also provides limited public assistance for state and local governments in Hughes, Love and Murray counties to help with debris removal and emergency protective measures to include overtime for first responders.

According to the Governor's Office, assessments found $8.35 million in debris and emergency response costs in the three counties. That includes more than $7.7 million in debris removal costs in just Murray County alone.

Officials say the state plans to ask for additional counties be included as damage assessments are finished.

To report damage, residents can visit damage.ok.gov to make sure all areas of damage are included in assessments.