President George Bush has officially declared a federal disaster in Doña Ana County due to recent flooding.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency officially notified Gov. Bill Richardson of the decision this afternoon, Richardson’s office said in a news release. Richardson is on his way to Washington, D.C. this evening to plead to a similar declaration for Otero County.
“This means relief is on the way for residents who are struggling to take care of their families and businesses and get back on their feet,” Richardson said. “I am grateful the president and FEMA recognize the extensive damage caused by heavy rain and flooding in Hatch and other communities in Southern New Mexico. However, I want the people of Alamogordo and Otero County to know I’ll keep fighting to get assistance for them as well.”
The presidential disaster declaration will make all qualified homeowners, business owners, and renters in Doña Ana County eligible for assistance from the federal government. FEMA may be able to provide temporary housing, repair, replacement and permanent housing construction to qualified households, and help with other needs, such as disaster-related medical or dental costs, clothing, household items, tools, cleanup items, damaged vehicles or other necessary expenses or serious needs as determined by FEMA.
In Hatch, as many as 402 homes have been affected. The majority of the village was left underwater on Aug. 15 after a breached arroyo sent mud and excessive water through neighborhoods and the business district. Other communities, including Sunland Park and Chaparral, have also been affected, and the rains have continued this week.
President George Bush has officially declared a federal disaster in