Aid coming to 7 Minn. counties hit by June storms

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - President Barack Obama has approved Minnesota's request for federal disaster assistance in seven counties stemming from severe storms and flooding in June.

The offices of Obama and Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty announced the disaster declaration Friday for Faribault, Freeborn, Olmsted, Otter Tail, Polk, Steele and Wadena counties.

Preliminary estimates found damage topping $35 million. The federal declaration frees up federal aid to help repair and replace public assets affected by the tornadoes and other storms.

Government agencies and some nonprofits can also apply for hazard mitigation grants. Costs will be shared among the various levels of government.

Tags: daily updates, minnesota, weather, tornado, wadena