Governor Christie Seeks Aid for Three Shore Counties Impacted by Oct. 1 Nor’ Easter

TRENTON — Governor Chris Christie announced that the State is seeking a Major Disaster Declaration under the federal Stafford Act for three Shore counties that sustained in excess of $32 million in damages caused by a severe Nor’ Easter from Oct. 1, 2015 through Oct. 4, 2015. A letter outlining the State’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration for Cape May, Monmouth and Ocean counties, was sent to President Barack Obama through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Rain, waves and sustained winds in excess of 50 mph caused severe coastal flooding and extensive damages to New Jersey’s coastal barrier dune system in coastal areas during the Nor’ Easter. These areas will be at risk for additional flooding with the winter season ahead and with the threat of additional storms. To restore traffic flow and prevent further flooding, sand removal occurred on roads, streets, drains, and other public areas was required.
“This storm has put a severe strain on State, county and local resources,” said Governor Christie. “Based on the information collected and provided through preliminary and final joint damage assessments, I have determined that this incident is of such severity and magnitude that effective response through federal assistance is necessary to supplement the efforts and available resources of the State, county and local governments, and disaster relief organizations. I am specifically requesting Public Assistance for the counties of Cape May, Monmouth and Ocean.”
The request follows joint preliminary damage assessments (PDAs) in the affected counties that were conducted by State and local emergency management officials in collaboration with FEMA. In order to be eligible for federal assistance, damage thresholds must be met at both the State and county level. The three counties noted above met the FEMA threshold as did the State. Governor Christie requested Public Assistance Grant funding for State, county and locals government agencies as well as disaster relief organizations. If approved by the federal government, these funds will be made available to reimburse the agencies for emergency work and protective measures, debris clearance and the repair of damaged roads and other public infrastructure.
For more information about federal disaster recovery programs visit http://www.disasterassistance.gov/
Declaration Process: https://www.fema.gov/declaration-process
New Jersey Office of Emergency Management: www.ready.nj.gov