The provincial government of New Brunswick has announced that disaster relief funding is now available for those affected by post-tropical storm Dorian.
The Disaster Financial Assistance program will be used to help homeowners, small businesses, non-profit organizations and municipalities that sustained property damage from the weather event. Dorian weakened from a hurricane into a post-tropical storm the moment it entered the Atlantic region, but it managed to produce winds with speeds above 120 km/h.
Dorian’s high winds and heavy rainfall uprooted trees and caused flooding. Tens of thousands of people were also left without power after the storm’s passing.
An initial estimate by the Insurance Bureau of Canada pegged NB’s insured damage at around $22.5 million.
According to the government, damage was reported in 24 municipalities.
“This has been a difficult year for the province in terms of extreme, damaging weather,” said NB public safety minister Carl Urquhart in a release. “But we are pleased that we can once again help New Brunswickers get back on their feet.”
CBC News reported that the program will offer up to $160,000 for structural repairs to private homes and up to $500,000 for small businesses and non-profits. In addition, individuals can register online to receive a disaster relief assistance package. The deadline for applications is February 26, 2020.
Both homeowners and small businesses eligible for the financial aid are expected to pay a deductible. Homeowners will have to pay $1,000, while small businesses will pay $5,000. This deductible can be waived if the individual or business is in severe financial hardship.
The provincial government stated that the program is not a replacement for insurance. Residents have been advised to contact their insurers before applying to determine if their damage is already covered.
