WASHINGTON (February 1) – Congressman Spencer Bachus (AL-6) said a federal disaster declaration has been issued in the wake of the tornadoes and severe storms that struck Alabama last week. 

            The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced the designation this afternoon in response to a request by Governor Robert Bentley and a letter from the entire Alabama congressional delegation. 

            Affected individuals and households in Jefferson and Chilton will be eligible to apply for federal disaster programs offering individual assistance (IA). According to a FEMA release, additional designations may be made at a later date.  

            “We need to move as rapidly as possible to help the victims of these severe storms recover and rebuild,” said Congressman Bachus. 

            Information is available from FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or at www.disasterassistance.gov..