MADISON, WI (AP)-- Governor Scott Walker has asked President Barack Obama's administration for a federal disaster declaration for nine northern Wisconsin counties and the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa tribal nation in the wake of torrential rains and flash flooding.
Thunderstorms moved across the region beginning July 11, producing heavy rain, damaging winds and hail. Walker's office said Wednesday that the storms caused more than $25 million in damage to roads and public infrastructure.
A federal disaster declaration would mean the Federal Emergency Management Agency would cover 75 percent of local governments' recovery costs.
Walker plans to make his third visit to the region since the storms hit on Friday. He says he wants to encourage summer tourists to continue to visit the area.
