State declares disaster in Missoula, Mineral counties

The state of Montana declared a disaster order Friday in Missoula and Mineral counties following destructive thunderstorms this week, allowing for more emergency funding to flow into the region. 

“A recent severe thunderstorm toppled trees and downed power poles in the Missoula area, leaving too many residents without power. I appreciate the rapid response of our electric cooperatives to restore power to affected communities,” Gov. Greg Gianforte said in a press release. “Today’s disaster declaration is a next step to help residents and coops in the area recover.”

Both Missoula’s mayor and the three Missoula County commissioners have also declared states of emergency, clearing the way for local governments to raise money for an immediate response to damages.

The state’s declaration moves the region a step closer to federal emergency money to help with the cleanup. 

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The city and county can currently spend money to aid in emergency response, but that local funding is limited, according to Allison Franz, the county communications manager.

“Declaring a state of emergency authorizes local government to perform non-standard activities, such as closing roads and ordering evacuations,” Franz said in an email. “It also authorizes spending

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