By Joyce Kryszak
Silver Creek, NY – United States Congressman Brian Higgins said he expects a presidential declaration of emergency is on the way for the flood-ravaged souther tier.
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Higgins and Chautauqua County Executive Greg Edwards traveled throughout the county Tuesday. Silver Creek was one of the hardest-hit areas. Higgins said some roads are washed out completely and others are impassable. 34 homes in a mobile home park were carried away by flood waters. Higgins said the Federal Emergency Management Agency is on the way to help assess damage.
He said people should document and detail damge and losses as best they can to help FEMA determine accurate numbers.
Higgins said he is hopeful the assessment will lead to the southern tier area being declared a federal disaster area. In the meantime, Higgins said the coordination and efforts by county, state and local agencies in dealing with the crisis have been extraordinary.
Silver Creek Central School was set up as emergency center for those who are displaced. The Red Cross and other volunteers are also on hand to help with emergency needs.