President Donald Trump has approved a Major Disaster Declaration for Nebraska, unlocking $15 million in federal assistance to support recovery efforts following severe storms that struck the state August 8–10.
Pillen first requested the assistance on September 6. The declaration follows a phone call between Governor Jim Pillen and the president and will assist with rebuilding public infrastructure damaged by strong winds and flash flooding. Officials say public power systems sustained the most extensive damage, alongside schools and other public facilities.
“This was a highly impactful storm, and I appreciate the action by President Trump and his administration to ensure that recovery efforts move forward in areas that were greatly affected,” Gov. Pillen said.
The declaration applies to 12 counties: Burt, Douglas, Fillmore, Lancaster, Nemaha, Nuckolls, Saline, Saunders, Seward, Thayer, Washington, and Webster.
The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) is coordinating with local emergency managers and public entities now eligible for federal disaster assistance under the declaration.