ST. PAUL, MN – Following a severe thunderstorm on December 15 that caused significant damage across southeastern Minnesota, State Representative Greg Davids (R-Preston) has learned Governor Walz has authorized emergency assistance for Fillmore and Houston counties.
“For those communities that were hit by the brunt of this storm, this is welcome news,” Davids said. “This funding is critical as local governments look to repair and recover.”
The December 15 weather event included tornadoes and damaging winds along with snow and ice. The Governor’s Office noted that the storms caused extensive damage to public infrastructure across all eight counties, including downed electric transmission and distribution lines causing the loss of power to approximately 25,000 Minnesotans. The storms also damaged buildings and trees, generating significant debris.
Minnesota will cover 75% of the eligible costs from the Disaster Assistance Contingency Account, with local governments covering the remaining 25 percent. Steele, Freeborn, Dodge, Mower, Olmsted, and Wabasha counties will also receive state assistance.