Obama issues disaster declaration for five Mo. counties

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) - President Barack Obama has ordered federal aid for Missouri to help the recovery from severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that started last month.

Obama on Monday declared a major disaster in Missouri. The declaration allows federal funding for individuals in Butler, Mississippi, New Madrid, St. Louis and Taney counties. The federal assistance includes grants for temporary housing, home repairs and loans for uninsured property losses. Federal funding also can be used by some government agencies and nonprofit groups for emergency work and repairs or replacements to damaged facilities.

Gov. Jay Nixon had requested the major disaster declaration.

Several counties have seen significant damage from storms and flooding. A massive tornado damaged more than 700 homes in suburban St. Louis in April.