U.S. President Barack Obama Tuesday declared that a major disaster exists in Florida, ordering federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts following Tropical Storm Debby, the White House said Tuesday. According to a news release from the White House, Obama's action makes federal funding available to Baker, Bradford, Columbia, Pasco, and Wakulla Counties. “Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster," the White House said. “Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide." The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) said that damage surveys are ongoing in other areas and counties, and additional types of assistance may be designated after the assessments are completed, the White House said.
