A big wind in March spread damage through much of northern Daviess County and parts of the rest of the county, something not lost on the federal government as the county has now been deemed eligible for state and federal disaster assistance.

Any owner of property damaged from March 8 to 14 from severe storms and flooding can call toll-free 1-800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and 1 a.m. to get an application number for aid from FEMA. The number can also be accessed online at www.disasterassistance.gov.

Those online or on the phone need to have the following information on hand:

• Legal name. (Do not use a nickname or abbreviation.)

• Your current phone number and your Social Security number.

• A list of damages and losses you suffered.

• The name of your insurance company and your policy number.

• Bank account coding if you wish to speed up your assistance with direct deposit.

Daviess County Emergency Preparedness Director Paul Goss said Daviess and Lawrence counties were recently added to the list of counties eligible for assistance.

One home was destroyed in the Raglesville area during the wind storm that downed numerous trees and led to other property damage.

Goss said FEMA agents were in the county and would be interviewing those filing for assistance, but those seeking aid need to go online or call the above number first to file and get an application number.

President Barack Obama issued a major disaster declaration for Indiana about three weeks ago, since then nearly $1.6 million in disaster assistance grants and loans have been approved.

The Disaster Legal Services program has been implemented, offering free legal advice and referrals available for anyone affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding from March 8-14. The Indiana State Bar Association has set up a toll-free telephone number 800-266-2581, Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with voice mail. All messages will be responded to within 24 hours.

The ISBA will refer flood victims to attorney volunteers for free legal information regarding matters such as insurance claims, replacing legal documents, home repair contracts and problems with landlords. No member of the volunteer attorney group will accept fee-generating cases. Their services are authorized only to assist in resolving certain issues arising out of the disaster.

Federal and state officials urge homeowners, renters and businesses affected by the severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding March 8 - 14, to apply immediately by calling 1-800-621-FEMA or for those with hearing or visual impairments call TTY 1-800-462-7585. The FEMA registration/helpline numbers are operational everyday from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m., seven days a week. On-line registration is available at www.disasterassistance.gov., 24 hours a day, seven days a week.