Burgum seeking federal help to deal with damaging storms

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — Gov. Doug Burgum plans to ask for federal help in dealing with damaging floods and a severe winter storm that left thousands without electricity. As a precursor to a presidential disaster declaration request, Burgum has issued a statewide emergency in the aftermath of a spring storm last weekend that brought freezing rain that developed into blizzard conditions. Hundreds of power poles were snapped and roads became impassable preventing utility crews from reaching some areas to restore power. The governor also has declared a disaster for areas impacted by record snowfall during the historic blizzard April 12-14, 2022. Burgum plans to request presidential disaster declarations for both events to unlock federal assistance to help pay for snow removal and infrastructure repairs.