Roughly 130 San Diego-area home and business owners have reported property damage due to the pounding downpours generated last weekend by the remnants of Hurricane Dolores, officials announced Tuesday.
The storm led to record local rainfall and widespread flooding on Saturday and Sunday, swamping roads, structures and yards in various areas.
This week, the county Office of Emergency Services has been compiling damage estimates for submission to the state. If Gov. Jerry Brown decides to ask the Small Business Association to declare a disaster status for the San Diego region, affected residents and business owners could be eligible for low-interest relief loans.
For the declaration to be issued, at least 25 homes or businesses in the county must have sustained rain or flood damage resulting in monetary losses equivalent to 40 percent or more of the pre-storm fair market value of the property.
The American Red Cross provided immediate help to victims by directing them to temporary lodging and cleanup resources. Additionally, the Salvation Army assisted by providing property-rehabilitation “starter kits.”
The OES encourages anyone who suffered damage from the rains to complete a brief questionnaire that can be accessed online at sdcountyrecovery.com. Respondents should keep in mind that the survey is not a claim and does not guarantee a disaster declaration or eligibility to receive assistance, officials cautioned.
— City News Service