Figures Urges Disaster Aid for Alabama After Isaias

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — U.S. Rep. Shomari Figures is urging President Donald Trump to approve Alabama’s request for a major disaster declaration following Hurricane Isaias, according to his office.

Figures sent a letter Oct. 24 supporting Gov. Kay Ivey’s Oct. 23 request. He pointed to damage across southern Alabama, including several Wiregrass counties.

“Hurricane Isaias was a Category 2 hurricane with damaging winds of 105 miles per hour and extensive rainfall that impacted the Gulf Coast and produced significant flooding, massive power outages, and widespread damage throughout the State of Alabama,” Figures wrote.

“As recovery efforts are ongoing, I urgently request that the Administration approve the State of Alabama’s request as quickly as possible.”

The letter identified Barbour, Butler, Coffee, Conecuh, Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Lowndes, Monroe, Pike and Washington counties as the areas hardest hit.

According to Figures’ letter, almost every resident in Conecuh County lost power at some point during the storm. Monroe County sustained significant damage to power lines and other critical infrastructure, including communications systems.

Figures also reported that a Barbour County resident died in a storm-related vehicle crash involving fallen trees.

“While the effects of Hurricane Isaias may continue to impact the state for quite some time, promptly approving this major disaster declaration request will help ensure that the people of Alabama are prepared for the recovery phase ahead,” Figures wrote.

He closed the letter by pledging support for recovery efforts.

“Alabamians are resilient, and with cooperation at all levels of government, we will rebuild stronger than ever. I stand ready to provide any support necessary, and I thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.”