For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
October 26, 2001

President Orders Federal Disaster Aid for Oklahoma
Statement by the Press Secretary on Oklahoma

October  26, 2001

The President declared a major disaster exists in the State of Oklahoma and ordered  Federal  aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area  struck  by  severe  storms,  flooding, and tornadoes on October 9-10, 2001.

The  President's  action  makes Federal funding available to affected local governments in Washita County.

Federal   funding   is   available  to  eligible  local  governments  on  a cost-sharing  basis  for  the  repair  or  replacement of public facilities damaged  by  the severe storms, flooding, and tornadoes. Federal funding is also available on a cost share basis for hazard mitigation measures.

Joe  M.  Allbaugh,  Director  of  the  Federal  Emergency Management Agency (FEMA),  named  Joe D. Bray as the Federal Coordinating Officer for Federal recovery operations in the affected area.

The  Agency  said  that  damage  surveys are continuing in other areas, and additional  assistance  and counties may be added after the assessments are completed.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:  FEMA (202) 646-4600.

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