ND Gov Seeks Federal Disaster Declaration

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Gov. Jack Dalrymple has asked President Barack Obama to declare a federal disaster for the southwestern and south central parts of the state that were hit by an early October blizzard.

A presidential disaster declaration would pave the way for federal aid for the region that was hit by up to 1 ½ feet of snow and strong winds on Oct. 4-5. The storm caused extensive damages to rural electric infrastructure, roads, crops and cattle herds.

Damage estimates so far have surpassed $8 million and do not include agricultural losses.

Dalrymple has requested federal disaster assistance for Adams, Bowman, Grant, Hettinger, Morton, Sioux and Slope counties. Additional counties could be added later.