ROCK HILL, S.C. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) denied Gov. Henry McMaster's request for individual assistance funds to help April 20 storm victims in Rock Hill. That request came after storms caused millions of dollars in damage last month.
FEMA said even though the storm damage was severe, it did not meet the agency's standard for federal assistance.
"Based on our review of all the information available, it has been determined that the damage from this event was not of such severity and magnitude as to be beyond the capabilities of the state, affected local governments, and voluntary agencies," FEMA wrote in a letter to McMaster.
York County Government said they are disappointed in FEMA's decision and seeking other options for impacted residents.
"At this time, the governor is expected to request that the Small Business Administration begin offering low-interest loans to individuals and businesses," the county government said in a released statement.
The supercell thunderstorm produced winds up to 90 mph as it moved across York County in April. These winds, the equivalent of a Category 1 hurricane, toppled trees and damaged homes. The storm also produced hail stones at least 2 inches in diameter, surveyors found. While the storms did not produce any tornadoes, WCNC Charlotte Chief Meteorologist Brad Panovich explained the impact on homeowners and business owners is the same whether the winds came from a tornado or a thunderstorm.
Rock Hill severe thunderstorm damage
Residents who still have general questions about the storm can call the York County Office of Emergency Management at (803) 326-2300
In neighboring Gaston County, North Carolina, Gov. Roy Cooper signed a new disaster declaration to help people after two EF1 tornadoes and severe weather wind damage in Gaston County earlier this month.
The declaration will assist thousands of people affected by the severe storms of May 8.
“This state disaster declaration will help the people of Gaston County and their neighbors as they recover and rebuild after tornadoes and severe weather that brought destruction to homes and businesses,” Cooper said in a statement.
The National Weather Service determined storms produced two separate tornadoes. Damage consistent with an EF1 tornado was found in Cleveland and Gaston counties. A second EF1 tornado caused damage near Gastonia and Belmont, the National Weather Service concluded.
In addition to tornadoes, thunderstorms produced winds that toppled trees and powerlines throughout much of the county.
Assistance will only be available for sixty days. The next step is for the state to announce locations for in-person Disaster Recovery Centers. That information is expected to be announced by May 31.
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