Victims of a rare East Coast earthquake in Louisa County will receive more than $5 million in direct relief and another $1 million in low-interest loans to help rebuild from the disaster.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency approved $5.2 million for temporary housing, home repairs and to replace homes that were destroyed, as well as assistance with medical expenses and lost personal possessions, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management announced Wednesday.
The U.S. Small Business Administration also approved $715,100 in loans for residences and businesses.
The 5.8-magnitude earthquake hit Louisa County in August. The state estimated more than $15 million in damage with 1,400 homes affected.
Virginia was initially denied federal relief funds but Gov. Bob McDonnell personally appealed to President Obama, and FEMA approved the appeal on Nov. 4.
More than 2,500 individuals have applied for relief.
