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.
-
Lorie Shaull/Special to KAXESmall businesses and private nonprofits may apply for up to $2 million in low-interest loan funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration before April 26, 2027. -
Contributed/Brainerd Fire Department FacebookThe National Weather Service and public safety officials will be able to use data collected by the Climavision radar installed Sept. 15, 2026, to inform weather warnings. -
Contributed/USDA via Minnesota Department of AgricultureThe designation applies in Beltrami, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake of the Woods and St. Louis counties. -
Contributed/Daniel DewaldCisco and other cold water fish died by the thousands in the large, shallow lake as water temperatures soared to an average of 77 degrees in late July and early August 2026.
