STEUBEN AND YATES COUNTIES, N.Y. (WENY) -- Governor Kathy Hochul has requested a Major Disaster Declaration from the Biden Administration following the devastating flooding that impacted parts of New York State after the remnants of Debby rolled through.

According to Hochul's Office, the declaration would support the ongoing recovery efforts of communities impacted by the flooding.  If granted, funding would go to Allegany, Broome, Delaware, Essex, Franklin, Jefferson, Ontario, Steuben, St. Lawrence and Yates counties to cover debris removal, emergency protective measures and repairs to public buildings and infrastructure. 

“After Tropical Storm Debby caused widespread damages across New York State, I’m requesting an emergency declaration from our federal partners to bring help to the communities in need,” Governor Hochul said. “We must provide relief to areas impacted by the storm, and my administration will take every measure necessary to ensure their speedy and full recovery.” 

A Major Disaster Declaration secures financial assistance from the federal government, primarily through FEMA's Public Assistance Program.  It would provide funding to local governments and eligible non-profits for debris removal, protective measures, and repairs to public buildings and infrastructure, including roads, bridges, water and wastewater treatment facilities, critical infrastructure sites, schools, parks and other facilities.