ST. PAUL — Lincoln and Yellow Medicine counties are now approved public assistance with emergency work and to replace facilities damaged during storms that struck Minnesota in May.

Gov. Tim Walz announced on Saturday that President Joe Biden approved his request for a major declaration for 23 counties impacted by tornadoes, flooding and storms. The damage is estimated to be nearly $11 million.

“This spring brought unprecedented storms and historic flooding to our state. But time after time I’ve seen people put their neighbors’ needs ahead of their own while facing devastating consequences to their homes, farms, and businesses,” Walz said. “While the state continues to help in every way we can, we need the federal government’s help. I’m grateful that more assistance is on its way, and I’m committed to continuing the work to rebuild.”    

On the morning of May 8, thunderstorms generated winds in excess of 60mph that swept through Stearns and Morrison counties, downing trees and power lines. The following day, May 9, tornadoes touched down. They ranged from an EF0 twister near Hastings to a cluster of five tornadoes — one with winds exceeding 110 mph in central Minnesota, causing extensive damage. The evening of May 11, five tornadoes touched down in southwestern Minnesota to the northeast through the Twin Cities. On May 12 and 13, the southern two-thirds of the state experienced violent and dangerous storms and at least six tornadoes were confirmed in west central Minnesota.