Burgum Requests Presidential Disaster To Cover Christmas Holiday Ice Storm Damage

BISMARCK, N.D. (KVRR) — Gov. Doug Burgum is requesting a presidential major disaster declaration for the Christmas holiday ice storm.

The rain, freezing rain and ice storm caused an estimated 11 point five million dollars in damage.

The request covers 13 counties in southeast North Dakota from December 25 through 27.

The ice storm knocked down hundreds of power poles and lines, leaving thousands of people without power, some for up to two weeks.

If granted, a presidential declaration would unlock FEMA assistance to help pay for the costs of repairing damaged infrastructure.