Malloy requests emergency declaration

HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) -- Governor Malloy has submitted a request for a presidential emergency declaration in the wake of Blizzard 2013.

"As we continue with the recovery from this historic winter storm, I am asking the federal government to provide us assistance with this process," said Governor Malloy. "If granted, this declaration would provide much needed help to our state."

If granted, the emergency declaration will provide for direct federal assistance, including possible snow removal equipment and personnel, power generation, and other commodities. An emergency declaration does not provide federal disaster funding.

Since it appears that most of the counties in Connecticut have received record or near record snowfall, it is anticipated that a preliminary damage assessment will be conducted to determine if those counties are eligible for a major disaster declaration.