FEMA says not enough damage for aid

By The Associated Press

JOHNSON CITY (AP) — There will be no direct federal help to people whose property was damaged by flooding in Washington County.

According to the Johnson City Press, County Mayor Dan Eldridge announced Wednesday morning that damage from the Aug. 5 storms and resulting flash flooding didn’t meet criteria for aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Strong storms poured at least four inches of rain in an hour onto parts of Washington, Carter and Unicoi counties in Northeast Tennessee.

FEMA officials said total storm damage would have to reach at least $8.5 million for aid that would have reimbursed residents up to $30,000 each for repairs.

Residents and business owners can apply to the Small Business Administration for low-interest loans, however.