President Joe Biden has declared the catastrophic flooding in Montana a major disaster following requests from the state’s governor and congressional delegation.
A disaster declaration opens up more federal aid as Montana recovers from the damages caused by flooding. The state Department of Transportation is estimating $29 million in damage just to roads and bridges, according to the governor’s office.
Yellowstone National Park is closed due the flooding, which is expected to significantly impact regional tourism.
Governor Greg Gianforte formally requested the federal declaration on Wednesday. The governor has been traveling since late last week and is scheduled to return to Montana Thursday night.