ST. PAUL — Gov. Tim Walz issued an executive order on Tuesday, July 8, authorizing financial assistance for veterans and their families to recover from the recent severe storm in Beltrami County.
The order amends a previous one issued by the governor to declare a peacetime emergency as a result of the storm, which was extended on June 30. It comes just over two weeks after the derecho brought hurricane-strength winds and caused widespread damage in Bemidji and surrounding areas.
The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs may now activate the State Soldiers Assistance Program's Disaster Relief Program.
“Beltrami County has faced incredible hardship in the wake of these storms, and we continue to stand alongside Minnesotans impacted — including our veterans and their families,” Walz stated in a news release. “This order ensures veterans have access to the support they’ve earned as recovery continues across the region.”
The state veterans department can provide direct financial relief to veterans and their families facing unexpected hardships due to natural disasters. Assistance may include help with housing, utilities, and other essential needs, as determined by the department.
Damage assessments in the region are ongoing, and more counties and types of assistance may be added as needed.
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Contributed/Becker County Sheriff's Office Facebook PageThe storm caused damage to buildings, trees and power lines. Thousands experienced power outages due to the storm. -
Lorie Shaull/KAXECrowds of varying sizes showed up in both the sunshine and during a heavy downpour for annual Fourth of July parades in Iron Range communities. -
Contributed/National Weather ServiceThe National Weather Service confirmed the Murphy Lake Tornado on July 2, 2026, based on drone imagery and local resident reports of damage. -
Megan Buffington/KAXEThe second round of severe thunderstorms on June 29, 2026, knocked out power for even more people than the first round did, with strong winds, large hail and heavy rain.
