Governor declares disaster after recent Pennsylvania floods

After touring areas of eastern Pennsylvania, including Schuylkill County, that were hard-hit by flooding, Gov. Tom Wolf has signed a "disaster emergency" proclamation for the area.

Friday's move allows the state to ask for a federal disaster declaration and seek funding for damages and needed supplies for cleanup.

On Thursday, Wolf heard stories of heroism around suburban Philadelphia, from civilian and municipal workers who rescued a police officer to people who joined officers and formed a chain to rescue a grandmother from the floodwaters.

The governor praised citizens and first responders for stepping up to help each other.

“Pennsylvanians in portions of the state hardest hit by heavy rains and subsequent flooding need to know that the state is doing all that it can to help and for that reason I am signing this disaster declaration,” Gov. Wolf said. “This allows the state to seek federal funding for damages and frees up the red tape that can be associated with procuring necessary supplies and services during emergency clean-up.

The rains triggered flash flooding in parts of central and eastern Pennsylvania on Monday, closing down a heavily traveled interstate and sending water into homes in the mountainous coal regions.

More: 5 benefits of a Lebanon Daily News digital subscription

More: Lebanon County is filled with flooded basements, roadway hazards