RALEIGH, N.C. -- Gov. Mike Easley has declared two North Carolina counties state disaster areas by the remnants of Tropical Storm Fay damaged more than 200 structures.

The governor said on Friday that residents and businesses in both Cabarrus and Mecklenburg counties affected by the heavy rain and strong winds would be eligible to apply for state-funded financial help.

Easley said he also has requested a federal disaster declaration. That would allow residents to apply for low-interest federal loans to get families and businesses "back on their feet."

At least 94 structures without insurance were damaged in Cabarrus County by the 11 inches of rain that hit the area. In Mecklenburg County at least 147 homes and one business without insurance had suffered major damage.