KENAI PENINSULA -- President Obama on Thursday declared the winter storm that socked the Kenai Peninsula in November a federal disaster, opening up aid money and Federal Emergency Management Agency support for the borough, according to a release.

Federal disaster funds can be used by local governments and non-profits for emergency work, repairs and the replacement of facilities damaged in the storms.

Alaska's congressional delegation had earlier sent a letter to Obama supporting Gov. Sean Parnell's request that a federal disaster be declared.

The November storms caused widespread power outages and property damage on the peninsula.

FEMA named Willie G. Dunn the federal coordinating officer for recovery operations.