Governor Jim Doyle formally requested a federal disaster declaration for six Wisconsin counties hit hard by recent flooding, heavy rains and tornadoes. The request is for individuals and families suffering from this week's severe weather events.

The declaration request is for Columbia, Crawford, Sauk, Vernon, Milwaukee and Richland counties. In addition to these six counties, Governor Doyle declared a state of emergency in 24 other counties in southern Wisconsin and anticipates once floodwaters recede and damage assessment are completed that he will request federal assistance for other counties as well.

The governor will also request public assistance for local governments to help recover some of their costs fighting the floods, protecting citizens and repair infrastructure.