Monday, April 18, 2011
OKLAHOMA CITY – Governor Mary Fallin today requested a federal disaster declaration for Atoka County in the wake of the deadly tornado that swept through the town of Tushka on April 14. The designation would provide federal assistance to individuals and businesses in the tornado-ravaged area.
Two confirmed deaths and 43 injuries are attributed to the Tushka tornado. According to preliminary damage assessments conducted this weekend, the storm damaged 237 homes and businesses in Atoka County. Of those, 149 were destroyed, 47 sustained major damage and 33 had minor damage.
“The deadly storm led to the tragic loss of two lives and our prayers continue to be with the families who lost loved ones,” Fallin said. “The storm also severely damaged or destroyed the homes of many residents and this disaster declaration is the first step in helping residents get back on their feet.”
If the request is approved, those who suffered damage will be eligible for assistance for housing repairs or temporary housing, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest loans for individuals and businesses to repair or replace damaged property, disaster unemployment assistance, and grants for serious needs and necessary disaster expenses not met by other programs.
The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management is also working to complete damage surveys on public buildings and other infrastructure damaged in the storm in Atoka County as well as other counties in consideration of public assistance which would benefit municipalities, school districts, counties and the state.