Time to rebuild

I never expected that after attending a couple events in Omaha I’d be rushing to a friend’s basement for cover from massive tornadoes at the end of April. But that’s what thousands of Nebraskans were doing that weekend. The strongest tornadoes our state has seen in years swept across Nebraska, leaving unbelievable damage in their wake.

Miraculously, there were no fatalities in Nebraska. But tragically, the tornadoes did destroy people’s homes and livelihoods. They derailed train cars and uprooted buildings. The damage is devastating.

We’ve heard in the news about brothers who survived their house collapsing on them in Elkhorn. We’ve heard about the conductor and engineer who watched a tornado barrel toward their train and then move in Waverly.

The good news is that Nebraskans have confronted natural disaster before. Nebraskans are resilient. We have rebuilt before, and we will do it again.

That process is already in motion. Our first responders intervened quickly after disaster struck, performing rescues and dispensing essential medical care. Our state and local leaders have done a fantastic job leading recovery efforts. I and the rest of Nebraska’s federal delegation continue working with those leaders to ensure that Nebraskans get the support they need as people slowly but surely rebuild.

The day after the storms struck, I joined Douglas County Sheriff Aaron Hanson to see the tornado devastation firsthand. We spoke with people affected by the storms and learned more about what they need to move forward. As Nebraska’s senior senator, I am leading support for recovery efforts from the federal level. Every member of our federal congressional delegation has been in touch with the governor’s office, and we are committed to working in a coordinated way to help the people and communities who need it.

Last week, Governor Pillen submitted a Major Disaster Declaration request to President Biden on behalf of Douglas and Washington counties. Along with the rest of the delegation, I sent a letter of support to the president on behalf of the governor’s request. I am grateful that the president issued a Major Disaster Declaration in a timely fashion.

Volunteers are making all the difference in our communities by stepping up to help neighbors in need. This is no surprise — without fail, Nebraskans come together to support and care for each other during times of crisis. In the face of this disaster, we have already begun picking up the pieces and serving one another. Churches and community centers are opening up for those who lost their homes and sending out food and aid to the struggling. Neighbors helping neighbors. That’s the Nebraska way.

To the many Nebraskans who have pitched in to help: thank you. Please continue volunteering and offering assistance to those in need. I encourage anyone who wants disaster information, needs shelter information or referrals, or would like to volunteer to help to call 211 or visit http://www.ne211.org.

Thank you for participating in the democratic process. I look forward to visiting with you again next week.