May 24, 2013
Gov. Don Siegelman is asking the Small Business Administration to declare Henry and Dale counties federal disaster areas.
Siegelman toured Abbeville Thursday in the wake of Tuesday's severe storm and tornado that damaged the town's high school and dozens of homes and businesses. One person was killed, 25 others were injured.
Alabama Emergency Management officials said if the disaster declaration is granted, home and business owners would be eligible for low interest loans from the SBA.
Federal and state agencies completed their damage assessment surveys Thursday night.
State EMA Director Lee Helms said the Alabama National Guard, state troopers and other agencies will remain in Abbeville to provide support and assistance as long as needed.
