Gov. Kathy Hochul has requested a Major Disaster Declaration from President Joe Biden to help support ongoing recovery in communities impacted by the remnants of Tropical Storm Debby that occurred in August.

If granted, this declaration would provide federal funding for Allegany, Broome, Delaware, Essex, Franklin, Jefferson, Ontario, Steuben, St. Lawrence and Yates counties to cover debris removal, emergency protective measures and repairs to public buildings and infrastructure. 

“After Tropical Storm Debby caused widespread damages across New York State, I’m requesting an emergency declaration from our federal partners to bring help to the communities in need,” Hochul said. “We must provide relief to areas impacted by the storm, and my administration will take every measure necessary to ensure their speedy and full recovery.” 

The remnants of Debby produced severe rainfall causing major flooding, particularly in the Southern Tier, Central New York and the North Country. The National Weather Service observed 5.38 inches of rain in less than 12 hours in Steuben County and widespread rainfall rates of 2-2.5” per hour across multiple counties.