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THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

For Immediate Release January 3, 1997

PRESIDENT DECLARES MAJOR DISASTER IN NEVADA

The President today declared a major disaster exists in the State of Nevada and ordered Federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms, flooding, mud and land slides beginning on December 20, 1996, and continuing.

"Our hearts and prayers are with those who have lost loved ones or their homes and businesses in these terrible floods. The people of Nevada, California, Oregon, Washington and Idaho are demonstrating great courage and strength at this difficult time. Our special thanks go to the thousands of volunteers and rescue workers who are making a real difference in their communities. We are closely monitoring the situation in these hard hit states and resources will be made available as needed."

The President's action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals and local governments in the Counties of Douglas, Lyon, Storey, and Washoe and the Independent City of Carson City.

Assistance can include disaster housing, grants, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding also is available to eligible local governments on a cost-sharing basis for debris removal and emergency protective measures.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is continuing to conduct damage surveys and additional assistance may be added after assessments are complete.