Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Director, R. David Paulison and Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff accompanied Gov. Tim Pawlenty on an aerial assessment of the flood damage throughout Southeastern MN on Thursday. A disaster declaration for Fillmore, Houston, and Winona counties was signed by President Bush on Thursday. Flooding in these counties killed seven people and destroyed hundreds of homes. The disaster declaration now means that citizens affected by the flood can begin registering for federal help. Chertoff announced a disaster declaration at a press conference at Winona State University.