ST. LUCIE COUNTY, Fla. — President Joe Biden approved a Major Disaster Declaration Friday for the state of Florida, allowing those affected by Hurricane Milton to apply for federal funding.
The declaration makes federal funds now available for all affected counties of Hurricane Milton, including Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, Palm Beach and St. Lucie counties.
Senator Rick Scott and U.S. Rep. Brian Mast held a conference Saturday afternoon regarding recovery and response efforts for Hurricane Milton.
This was Scott's third stop in the state Saturday, held in front of the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office which got severely damaged in the tornado outbreak.
"What surprised everybody was these tornadoes, and the death that came with these tornadoes," Scott said. "You look at the building behind us, and you just can't imagine a tornado would be able to demolish that building like it did."
Both Scott and Mast assured that federal organizations such as FEMA will be fully funded and ready to help those in need of assistance.
Mast reminds residents that even though a home may not look damaged from a tornado, there could be unseen issues.
"You better make those insurance companies prove to you that your roof trusses aren't twisted, that the frame of your home is not twisted, that your home is somehow not pushed off and slabbed in a way that you can't recognize," Mast said.
St. Lucie County Sheriff Keith Pearson said that over one million square feet of blue tarps and 55 yards of rope were delivered to homes Friday.
"We have tons of resources, they are doing everything they can and we're seeing it right here, and their actions are saving lives," Pearson said.
WPTV Reporter Dave Bohman asked Scott how adequately funded FEMA is at the moment to ensure there is no fraud.
"(FEMA) will have to bring more people in," Scott said. "I'm optimistic that they'll get the resources."
Those who need to apply for FEMA funding can apply online here, or use the FEMA mobile app, or call 800-621-3362.
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