ST. PAUL - Gov. Tim Pawlenty has started the process that could end up sending state and federal aid to western Minnesota counties hit by a severe winter storm last week.
After the governor signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency Friday, state officials will work with federal agencies to determine the need for disaster aid in Clay, Big Stone, Lincoln, Mahnomen, Norman, Otter Tail, Stevens, Traverse, Wilkin and Yellow Medicine counties. The Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division will coordinate that and lead in providing any assistance.
The Nov. 28-29 storm's high winds, freezing rain and heavy snow resulted in "a threat to public safety," Pawlenty wrote. Local governments and private organizations are working in the area, but the governor said they do not have the resources to adequately deal with the situation.
