U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) has called on President Joe Biden to issue a Major Disaster Declaration for the state of Florida following the devastating impact of Hurricane Debby, which made landfall on August 5, 2024.
Previously, the White House approved Florida’s request for an Emergency Declaration due to the hurricane.
“The extreme damage from Debby—including flash flooding, significant rainfall, and multiple fatalities—requires expanded federal support. Floridians need Individual Assistance to access critical recovery resources, particularly for those who were underinsured for the damage brought by Debby. A Major Disaster Declaration is essential for a full recovery,” stated Rep. Steube.
Hurricane Debby, packing 80 mph winds, struck the rural Big Bend region of Florida near Steinhatchee on Monday morning. It was the second hurricane to hit the area in less than a year.
The storm is forecasted to bring catastrophic flooding to the East Coast.
The storm unleashed torrential rain across Florida and Southeast Georgia, inundating communities and causing widespread disruption.
Read: Debby Could Bring Threatening Catastrophic Flooding To Florida, Georgia, And South Carolina
The most heavily affected areas are those in low-lying regions and along rivers, where water levels have risen dramatically. Numerous roads and bridges were washed out, making rescue efforts and evacuations challenging.
The full extent of the damage caused by the flooding is still unknown, but it is clear that the recovery will be a long and arduous process.
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