President declares major disaster for Mo. winter storms

WASHINGTON -- President Bush on Friday declared a major disaster for parts of Missouri affected by ice and snow storms earlier this month, clearing the way for federal aid.

Winter storms spanning Nov. 30 through Dec. 2 dumped up to 18 inches of snow in some areas while also coating parts of the state in thick ice. More than 300,000 electric customers lost power, many of those in the St. Louis area. About 330 National Guard troops helped remove debris, distribute supplies and make door-to-door safety checks.

The declaration covers the counties of Boone, Cole, Greene, Iron, Reynolds, St. Francois, Ste. Genevieve, St. Louis and Washington, as well as the city of St. Louis, said White House spokesman Scott Stanzel.

At the time Gov. Matt Blunt asked for the declaration, officials estimated local and state agencies had spent $8.6 million for repairs and other recovery efforts.

Under the declaration, the federal government will pay 75 percent of the costs eligible for public aid, the state government will pay 10 percent and local governments will be responsible for 15 percent.