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HONOLULU – Hawaii disaster-response officials estimated Thursday that the state suffered damage exceeding $30 million during this month’s tsunami, and Gov. Neil Abercrombie said he’s requesting federal disaster aid.
Hawaii State Civil Defense reported that damage to private property amounted to $22 million, and government property damage reached $8.5 million, including $2.7 million in Maui County.
Abercrombie said he formally asked for help Thursday from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which could issue an administrative disaster declaration for low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofits.
He’ll also seek a presidential disaster declaration from President Barack Obama, which would trigger federal assistance for repairs to public structures damaged by tsunami waves, including piers, moorings, planks, electrical wiring and roads.
“These are the follow-up steps to help those affected by the tsunami,” Abercrombie said in a statement. “We are looking at every option that may be available to provide financial assistance to those who need it.”
Officials with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the U.S. Small Business Administration and state Civil Defense traveled to the Big Island, Maui and Oahu to assess damage this week. They completed their evaluation Thursday.
FEMA help would pay for 75 percent of government property repair costs, with state and county governments having to match the remaining 25 percent,