JEFFERSON CITY- Gov. Eric Greitens is looking to Washington for financial help to help those affected by major flooding in the state.

Greitens filed for a major disaster declaration, and must now wait for President Trump to approve it.

The declaration would provide federal assistance to 45 counties in response to flooding that began April 28.

“As soon as safely possible, damage assessment teams began operating all over Missouri. Their reports confirm just how devastating this historic flood was for many communities in Missouri,” Greitens said. “Today, I am requesting that President Trump approve federal assistance for flood survivors and businesses. This assistance will help our people begin to rebuild, and help local communities with costly emergency response and infrastructure repair costs. The people of Missouri are strong. Communities are coming together to rebuild. Support from the administration is essential to that effort.”    

The flooding brought as much as 10-12 inches of rain to some areas, pushed at least a dozen rivers and major creeks to records crests, led to hundreds of flood rescues and evacuations, and resulted in major damage and the destruction of hundreds of homes and businesses.

According to the press release, Greitens requested Individual Assistance for 37 Missouri counties, which would allow eligible residents to seek federal assistance with temporary housing, housing repairs, replacement of damaged belongings, vehicles and other qualifying expenses as a result of the flooding.

He is also requesting the U.S. Small Business Administration help businesses, homeowners, and renters in the 37 counties with low-interest loans.

In addition to individual assistance, Greitens has also requested Public Assistance for 45 Missouri counties, which would allow local governments and qualifying nonprofit agencies to seek federal assistance for reimbursement of emergency response and recovery costs, including repair and replacement costs for damaged roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure. 

Those affected by the flooding are encouraged to continue documenting losses by photographing damage and retaining all receipts. As additional information about damage becomes available, the governor may add other counties to his request.

UPDATED 6/2/17 at 7:40 p.m.

President Trump has approved the major disaster declaration, making federal funding available to affected people in the areas hit by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding from April 28 to May 11.

Federal funding is available to Missouri, its local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis. It will help pay for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe weather.

Federal funding is also available for hazard mitigation measures statewide, on a cost-sharing basis.

Michael L. Parker has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses can begin applying for assistance by registering here.