OKLAHOMA CITY – President Bush has declared that a major disaster exists in northern Oklahoma because of severe storms and flooding last month.

The declaration Thursday clears the way for federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts and to repair or replace public facilities damaged in 10 counties: Alfalfa, Grant, Kay, Major, Woods, Cimarron, Dewey, Ellis, Harper and Woodward.

Gov. Brad Henry said the federal aid will help municipal and county governments pay for an estimated $8.8 million in infrastructure repairs and response costs.

The White House had earlier turned down a request for federal assistance to individuals and businesses.

Mr. Henry said U.S. Small Business Administration assistance will be made available for individuals and businesses in Kay County and surrounding areas.

The Associated Press