CONCORD - The Federal Emergency Management Agency today denied Gov. John Lynch’s request to include assistance to individuals in the major disaster declaration relating to the recent tornado.

“I am disappointed with the federal government’s decision not to provide individual assistance, particularly given the number families whose homes suffered considerable damage. Even though federal assistance for individuals has been denied, the state will continue to work with local communities and various volunteer organizations to provide assistance to families, ” Gov. Lynch said.

Under the current disaster declaration, communities in Belknap, Carroll, Merrimack, Rockingham and Strafford counties impacted by tornado are eligible to receive financial assistance to help cover the costs of responding to the emergency and repairing public infrastructure. The President’s original declaration did not include assistance for individuals. Last week, Gov. Lynch requested that FEMA officials reconsider the decision not to include individual assistance.

Gov. Lynch’s request for a second disaster declaration for Belknap, Coos and Grafton counties to assist communities in repairing damage from flooding is still pending.

The recovery from the tornado and flooding events continues and anyone with tornado or flood-related questions or concerns can call the state’s information line at 1-888-330-6764.