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MN Calls On FEMA After Flooding

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota has taken the first formal step toward seeking a federal disaster declaration for its ongoing flooding.

State officials on Thursday asked the Federal Emergency Management Agency to send preliminary damage assessment teams. The teams will join state and local representatives to begin the process in areas affected by recent storms and flooding statewide, including northeastern and southeastern Minnesota.

The request includes assessment of the damage to public infrastructure in 14 counties and the Fond du Lac reservation.

The damage assessment teams are scheduled to be on the ground in those areas early next week.

The preliminary damage assessment is the first step in seeking a presidential disaster declaration, which would release federal funds for assistance programs for victims and affected communities, as well as state government.

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