COLUMBUS, Ohio -- President Donald Trump granted Gov. John Kasich's request to declare flooding in 18 Ohio counties during February to be a disaster, opening up funds to pay for repairing damage and other costs, state officials said Tuesday.
Heavy rain caused the Ohio River to crest at 60.5 feet Feb. 25, the highest since 1997. In Cincinnati alone, officials said more than 1,000 structures were impacted by the flooding. Kasich issued an emergency proclamation Feb. 24 in response to the flooding across southern Ohio.
The federal funds will be available through FEMA's Public Assistance Program to local governments, state agencies and some nonprofits. The money will cover debris removal, emergency protective measures and repairs.
The counties included in the disaster declaration include Adams, Brown, Hamilton and 15 others.
In Kentucky, Gov. Matt Bevin has also asked Trump to declare a disaster for 35 counties affected by the flooding.
