- Gov. Maura Healey is challenging FEMA’s decision to deny Massachusetts’ request for a major disaster declaration following severe flooding last September.
- Mr. Healy expressed concern that certain costs were overlooked in FEMA’s evaluation of the request.
- The flooding caused extensive damage, with houses destroyed and roads impassable.
Gov. Maura Healey criticized the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s decision to deny the state’s request for a major disaster declaration to help Massachusetts cities and towns hit by severe weather and flooding in September. An appeal is being filed.
Healey said the state values its partnership with FEMA, but is concerned that the federal agency’s evaluation of the state’s request did not include certain costs identified.
“These storms had a devastating impact on our communities. I saw the effects firsthand. Homes and businesses were destroyed, roads and bridges became inaccessible, and some residents were forced to evacuate. Six months later, we are still rebuilding,” Healy said in the letter. Monday to President Joe Biden.
New England states to reevaluate dams and culverts after severe flooding
“The state has done everything it can to help them recover, but their needs far outweigh the resources available,” Healy added.
A car is seen submerged in floodwaters in Boston, Massachusetts. Gov. Maura Healey is appealing the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s decision to deny the state’s request for a major disaster declaration to help cities and towns hit by severe weather and flooding last September. ing. (Jessica Rinaldi/Boston Globe via Getty Images)
In the letter, Healey said Springfield experienced what she described as a catastrophic water main break due to culvert failure and subsequent erosion related to the rainfall experienced the night of September 11th. he pointed out.
Healy said the city of Leominster submitted a list of 56 affected locations, but FEMA included only seven in the verification process.
Flooding at Massachusetts hospital disrupts fertility services for 200 patients
Healey asked FEMA to reconsider the state’s request.
“Our communities need to know that both the state and federal governments understand the serious challenges and stresses they face and we are here to help. No,” Healy wrote.
“Their recovery is especially daunting given that the next severe storm could be just around the corner as the effects of climate change continue to grow,” she added. Ta.
