The State of Hawaii’s request for a major disaster declaration because Tropical Storm Iselle was denied Thursday by Federal Emergency Management Agency Administrator W. Craig Fugate.
The request sought Individual Assistance for individuals and households affected by the tropical storm in early August and Hazard Mitigation funds for use in statewide projects. Administrator Fugate’s denial letter states: “it has been determined that the damage from this event was not of such severity and magnitude to be beyond the capabilities of the state, affected local governments, and voluntary agencies.”
The Hawaii Emergency Management Agency, formerly known as State Civil Defense, continues to work with federal and county officials on an application for assistance to rebuild public infrastructure. People still in need of assistance following Iselle should call Hawaii County at 935-0031 or the volunteer request line at 936-2268.