US President Joe Biden has agreed to designate California and Alabama as "major disaster" areas after weeks of flooding and heavy storms across the two states, the White House announced in two press releases late at night. Saturday and Sunday 

Biden has ordered federal aid to support recovery efforts for state and local communities affected by severe weather since December 27, according to the statement.

This measure by Biden reportedly makes federal funding available to those in counties like Merced, Sacramento, Santa Cruz and Dallas. That assistance could go toward temporary housing grants, home repairs, loans and other programs that help individuals and businesses recover from disaster.

Days after California was hit by "the most powerful storm in nearly 20 years," the state is bracing this weekend for another series of weather events, with more flooding, hail and strong winds expected.