Division of Emergency Management

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved Florida’s request for a disaster declaration stemming from tornadoes that touched down in Southwest Florida in January. The declaration opens the door for impacted residents and businesses to apply for SBA disaster loans.

The tests, which had expired in late December, are earmarked for emergency management offices, county health departments, hospitals and long-term care facilities.

Kevin Guthrie, director of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, said his agency is "ready to be doing something else."

Florida could be moving closer to stockpiling fuel for future hurricanes or other disasters.