Obama Declares Napa Earthquake Major Disaster, Opens Door For Federal Funds
NAPA (CBS / AP) -- President Barack Obama has declared a major disaster in California because of the Napa Valley earthquake, releasing emergency federal funding for the state.
The White House announced the move in a statement Thursday night.
EARTHQUAKE COVERAGE:
- Boy Nearly Killed By Falling Chimney In Napa Quake Returns Home From Hospital
- Woman Succumbs To Injuries, First Known Death Related To Napa Earthquake
- Napa Officials Warn Residents Of Scams As They Look To Rebuild Following Earthquake
- UC Berkeley Professor Builds $100 Earthquake Early Warning System
It comes nine days after Gov. Jerry Brown sent a letter to Obama requesting the declaration.
The magnitude-6.0 quake struck in the state's famed wine country on Aug. 24. A 65-year-old woman died Wednesday from injuries during the quake.
Brown declared a state of emergency shortly after the quake.
The White House didn't say how much money may be available, but a preliminary assessment by the governor's office found $87 million in earthquake costs that could be eligible for federal reimbursement.
Funds are also available for some tribal and local governments and non-profit groups.
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