Governor Walz Requests Federal Major Disaster Declaration

St. Paul, MN (KROC-AM News) - Minnesota has submitted a request for a Federal Major Disaster Declaration due to the widespread devastating flooding that has occurred throughout the state in recent weeks.

Speaking at a news conference today, Governor Tim Walz says the paperwork has been sent in even though the damage assessments are still being filed. He says it's already clear Minnesota has "easily" met the threshold for Federal disaster assistance.

Minnesota's entire congressional delegation has sent a letter to President Biden in support of the governor's request.

A portion of the letter states, "Since May, Minnesota has experienced extreme wet weather patterns including historic rain, tornadoes, and hailstorms. Starting on June 11, Northern Minnesota endured large rainstorms with some areas receiving as much as six inches of rain in a 12-hour period. In recent weeks, severe storms with heavy and continued precipitation has caused major flooding throughout the state. Rivers throughout the state are expected to remain in major flood stage for at least one to two weeks, and the Mississippi River is expected to crest this weekend at a record level in Saint Paul."

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The governor's request for the Major Disaster Declaration covers damage incurred from June 16 through June 26 and includes 42 of the state's 87 counties. Governor Walz also noted the Peacetime State of Emergency that was declared due to the flooding has been extended for another 30 days to streamline the state government's response to the natural disaster.

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