FEMA officials to return to South Dakota if President approves disaster declaration

PIERRE, S.D. (WNAX) – Governor Kristi Noem requested a Presidential Disaster Declaration to help South Dakotans and local governments recover from property damage sustained during the statewide winter weather and flooding this spring.

A preliminary damage assessment indicates about $43 million in damage to public infrastructure in 58 counties and on three reservations. The preliminary damage assessment for individual assistance is about $3 million covering 16 counties and three reservations.

FEMA Spokesman Brian Hvinden says they will be back in the state.

Hvinden says they saw extensive damage in their first assessment.

Hvinden says the impact goes beyond the visible damage.

Hvinden says some federal funds could be available as soon as the Presidential request is approved.