Letter to Barack Obama, President of the United States - New Mexico Delegation Requests Prompt Action on Major Disaster Declaration for September Floods

Letter

Dear President Obama:

We appreciate your responsiveness to the State of New Mexico as our communities have sought federal disaster assistance for drought, fire, and extreme weather events that have threatened public safety and property. We again respectfully request that you take prompt action on the State of New Mexico's recent request for major disaster declaration as a result of severe storms and flooding caused by Hurricane Odile from September 15 through September 25, 2014.

The state's request dated October 22, 2014, assesses the severe storm damages at $10.2 million, or $4.96 per capita. The greatest damage was to roads and bridges, accounting for 70% of the total. Other damage includes extensive debris, disruption of oil and gas development, agricultural loss, and water and wastewater infrastructure damage. Additionally, we continue to mourn the loss of two individuals who drowned as a result of this extreme weather event.

In light of the ongoing losses and possible long-term impacts from flooding during the time period of September 15 through September 25, 2014, we request your expedited attention to Governor Martinez's request on behalf of the State for a major disaster designation and the correlated public assistance, specifically categories A through G for the counties of Colfax, Eddy, Lea, Otero, San Miguel, Santa Fe, and Sierra. We additionally support the state's request for Hazard Mitigation assistance statewide. We remain committed to providing the necessary assistance to you and the governor in expediting New Mexico's recovery efforts and ensuring an effective response from this extreme weather event.