YANKTON, S.D. (Dakota News Now) – On Tuesday afternoon, Governor Kristi Noem held a press conference in Yankton to give the latest update on flooding in Southeastern South Dakota.

During that press conference, Noem said that late last week state officials were informed of different cresting times for rivers. Luckily the James, Vermillion, and Big Sioux Rivers crested earlier than anticipated and at different times from one another. The James River was the final river of the three to crest, reaching its peak early Tuesday morning.

As the rivers have started to recede, cleanup is underway. Noem said the state is currently working with 30 counties in assessing to total damage done and submitting their reports to FEMA.

“We have to have a loss in order to qualify for FEMA of $1.6 million worth of property damage in order to qualify,” Noem explained. It’ll take up to 30 days until the state has notice of the funds they received.

However, when it comes to those damages, the governor has her eyes set on McCook Lake as her highest priority. She described how they underestimated the damage it would undergo. She said that they are currently working on a time for residents to obtain their belongings from within their homes and encourages individuals to stay away from the damage.

Noem did make it a point to thank law enforcement and emergency personnel who have traveled from all over that state to Southeast South Dakota to help with the flood waters. She also wants to remind individuals that are traveling on flooded roads or ones with barricades to turn around. For the latest on road conditions, click here.

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The South Dakota Department of Health has released new income guidelines for the Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program effective July 1, 2024.

WIC is a special supplemental nutrition program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, provided at no cost to eligible moms, infants, and children. It aims to empower families through support with healthy eating, nutrition, and breastfeeding, as well as offering referrals to other essential services. WIC strives to help improve the overall health and well-being of families.

“WIC makes a profound difference in the lives of families, offering essential nutrition, heartfelt discussions, and unwavering support,” said Department of Health Secretary, Melissa Magstadt. “The mission is to empower moms, infants, and children with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive and live healthier, happier lives.”

If your family’s annual income does not exceed the following amounts for the size of your family, you could qualify for WIC:

To find out if you or children in your household are eligible for the WIC Program and to apply online go to https://www.sd.gov/wic. Or you can call for an appointment at your local WIC office. Offices can be found under the county listings in your phone book or on the web at https://www.sd.gov/wic.

WIC is an equal opportunity provider. More information about the program is available at https://www.sd.gov/wic.