SAN DIEGO COUNTY, Calif — San Diego County Chairwoman Nora Vargas announced Saturday that the County will qualify for state flood relief funds.
A storm on January 22 left many residents throughout the county with their homes destroyed or flooded out. The swift flood waters that rushed through San Diego streets swept away cars, trucks and anything else in its path. Many people were displaced, but Southeast San Diego was hit the hardest. Community members, politicians and other local leaders have called for state and federal emergency funding.
Vargas said the California Office of Emergency Services called Saturday afternoon with the news.
“I am deeply grateful to Governor Newsom and CalOES for their swift action in approving the County of San Diego's request for aid under the California Disaster Assistance Act,” said Chairwoman Vargas. “This support will play a critical role in the road to recovery ahead across the County. Collaboration like this demonstrates the strength and impact between state and local municipalities. As we pivot to recovery, I remain committed to bringing resources to our community."
San Diego's Deputy Chief Operating Officer, Kris McFadden, during a January 25 news briefing called the storm a "thousand-year storm event." He said it would have overwhelmed any storm water channels such as those in south San Diego neighborhoods that saw high levels of water rush onto city streets and into their homes.
The County continues to encourage residents and businesses to fill out the online damage assessment survey. It does not guarantee the person will receive disaster relief assistance but it does help the county collect information about the storm damage.
Vargas hopes the funding can prevent future crisis.
“These funds will help us rebuild vital infrastructure damaged by the Jan. 22 storm,” Vargas said. “They will help the County and other governments in the region recover from and withstand future flooding emergencies.”
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