Washington, D.C. - Today, U.S. Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (D-AL) released the following statement about the tornadoes and heavy storms that devastated the state of Alabama:

“My thoughts and prayers are with the families that lost loved ones today.  My thoughts are also with the many families and communities that suffered devastation to their homes and properties as a result of today’s tornadoes.  The Seventh Congressional District has experienced back-to-back storm and tornado devastation within the last two weeks.  In these difficult times, I know that the resilient spirit of our communities will see us through. 

I have been in touch with local, state and federal officials, and my staff and I will be on the ground in our communities to assist in assessing the extent of the damage and help begin the recovery and rebuilding process.

I applaud the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and President Obama for immediately issuing an emergency disaster declaration for the state.  I am also working closely with Governor Bentley and state and local elected officials to request a major disaster declaration for Alabama. There is a huge clean up and recovery ahead of us, and we are going to need federal assistance to help residents deal with the aftermath of these tornadoes and heavy storms.

My office will continue to work with federal, state and local officials to ensure that we are doing all we can to assist the victims in the days ahead as we begin to rebuild.”

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 Contact:   Allison Abney; (202) 225-2665;  Allison.abney@mail.house.gov