Trump Announces $4.5 Million in Federal Flood Assistance for Lewis, Upshur Counties
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — President Donald Trump announced Monday evening that approximately $4.5 million in federal disaster assistance is immediately available to help West Virginians recover from the devastating July flooding.
Trump said in a social media post that he spoke with Gov. Patrick Morrisey before approving the assistance for damage caused by severe storms, flooding, winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides.
“I LOVE WEST VIRGINIA!” Trump wrote while also recognizing Morrisey and members of the state’s congressional delegation.
The funding follows Trump’s approval of an expedited Major Disaster Declaration for Lewis and Upshur counties, two of the areas hit hardest by the flooding that began July 21.
The declaration makes FEMA Individual Assistance available to eligible residents in those counties. The program can help qualifying homeowners and renters with temporary housing, essential home repairs and certain disaster-related expenses not covered by insurance.
Morrisey described the approval as an important first step in the recovery process and said the amount of federal assistance could increase as additional damage information is reviewed.
“Families in our hardest-hit communities have endured tremendous hardship, and this expedited approval will provide critical assistance as they begin the difficult process of rebuilding their lives,” Morrisey said. “Approximately $4.5 million is available now, and we expect that amount to grow as additional damage information is reviewed.”
Lewis and Upshur counties were included in a broader state request seeking federal assistance for seven counties. Barbour, Doddridge, Harrison, Pleasants and Ritchie counties remain under review for possible additional assistance.
Trump also recognized U.S. Sens. Shelley Moore Capito and Jim Justice and U.S. Reps. Riley Moore and Carol Miller in his announcement.
The July storms caused widespread damage across north central West Virginia, flooding homes and businesses, closing roads and displacing residents. Two deaths were confirmed in Upshur County following the disaster.
Cleanup and recovery efforts remain underway as volunteers, first responders, nonprofit organizations and government agencies continue assisting affected communities.
