President Joseph R. Biden Jr. has recognized the plight of Minnesotans in the wake of severe storms and flooding that commenced on June 16. Biden has declared a major disaster in the state to bolster local recovery endeavors, ensuring federal funds flow to the affected areas. According to a statement released by The White House, assistance, shared by federal and local sources, will target emergency services and infrastructure repairs in a broad sweep of counties—22, to be exact—from Blue Earth to Watonwan.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), under the aegis of Mr. John F. Boyle, will be overseeing the relief operations, working hand in hand with the state to restore a semblance of normalcy to the battered regions. This declaration means not just a repair of what's broken, but also looking ahead—hazard mitigation measures will receive a slice of the federal funding pie, statewide.

While the green light for aid in current counties was swift, assessments continue in other regions, hinting that the list of beneficiaries may grow. With damage assessments in full swing, additional assistance forms could be announced, and more counties are likely to join the roster needing support.