BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — President Biden has issued a presidential major disaster declaration for Williams and McKenzie counties, areas hit hardest by powerful wildfires that swept through western North Dakota in October. The declaration means federal funding will be made available to North Dakota to help cover the costs of the emergency response to the fires as well as help repair and replace damaged infrastructure. In addition to Williams and McKenzie counties, federal money will also be available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain nonprofit organizations. Rural electrical cooperatives in McKenzie and Williams counties sustained widespread damage estimated at $3.7 million during the October 5-6 wildfires, which were driven by strong winds of 50-60 miles per hour, with gusts of nearly 80 miles per hour. Farmers and ranchers also sustained significant losses in the blazes. Then-Governor Doug Burgum made the request for the presidential declaration in late November. Other financial, physical and mental recovery resources are still available from a number of local and regional services and funds. You can find those at ndresponse.gov/wildfire-recovery. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW