Press Releases

Thompson Supports Emergency Declaration for Counties Impacted by Flood

For Immediate Release                                     Contact:Cory Horton

May 5, 2011                                                                   202-225-5876


Thompson Supports Emergency Declaration for Counties Impacted by Flood

BOLTON, MISSISSIPPI—Today, Unites States Representative Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) wrote to President Barack Obama in support of the State of Mississippi’s request for an emergency declaration for counties located in the Second Congressional District as a result of flooding that began on April 15, 2011.

“In light of the encroaching flood waters in the areas surrounding the Mississippi River and its tributaries, I write to request your full consideration of the State of Mississippi’s request for a federal emergency declaration for Bolivar, Claiborne, Coahoma, Issaquena, Jefferson, Tunica, Warren, and Washington counties,” Thompson wrote. “Based on reports from the National Weather Services, these communities will be completely or partially submerged by the rising overflow.”

“For my constituents and others who are often in harm’s way, the capacity of government at all levels to plan for, and to effectively respond to, storms is very important.  In order to save lives, protect homes and businesses, and reduce flood damage, I write in support of the State of Mississippi’s request to release federal funds for the purpose of implementing vital pre-disaster mitigation measures. Your quick and decisive actions in this matter would provide critical assistance in addressing an ongoing and impending environmental catastrophe,” Thompson wrote.

The letter to President Obama is attached.

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