OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - Lt. Gov. Jari Askins has declared a state of emergency for 59 counties affected by heavy flooding and severe storms.

Askins issued the declaration Monday at the request of Gov. Brad Henry, who is out of state.

The disaster declaration is a formal step that allows local governments to be reimbursed for storm-related costs through a state public assistance program. It also paves the way for federal assistance.

Askins says additional counties could be added to the disaster declaration.

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