New York Governor Seeks Federal Disaster Aid for Downstate for September Floods

New York Governor Kathy Hochul has requested a major disaster declaration from President Joe Biden to support the ongoing recovery of downstate communities affected by the significant flooding occurring during a two-day period in late September.

If granted by the federal government, this declaration would provide federal funding for the boroughs of Brooklyn and Manhattan, as well as Nassau and Westchester counties to cover debris removal, emergency protective measures and repairs to public buildings and infrastructure.

“Our state witnessed unprecedented rainfall in September that resulted in devastating flooding, causing extensive damage throughout New York City, Long Island, and the Hudson Valley,” Hochul said.

New York is also working with the U.S. Small Business Administration to obtain low-interest recovery loans for businesses in Brooklyn and Nassau County as they have met the required federal thresholds, according to the announcement.

New York Drying Out After Soaking by Record Rainfall

During the storm, parts of Brooklyn saw more than 7.25 inches of rain that turned some streets into canals and stranded drivers on highways. A power outage caused by the storm led to the evacuation of about 120 patients from a city hospital.

Record rainfall — more than 8.65 inches (21.97 centimeters) — fell at John F. Kennedy International Airport, surpassing the record set during a hurricane in1960, the National Weather Service said.

Hochul and Mayor Eric Adams declared states of emergency and urged people to stay put if possible. At the time, Hochul noted that no lives were lost because many residents heeded the calls to stay put or head for higher ground before it was too late.

A major disaster declaration secures financial assistance from the federal government to provide funding to local governments, tribes and 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.