CHARLESTON, W.Va. --  The Federal Emergency Management Agency says it has approved more than $1 million in public assistance to help state and local governments pay for expenses incurred after devastating windstorms hit the state in June and July.

The funds are allocated for debris removal, emergency protective measures and the repairs to public facilities that were damaged during the storm, according to a new release.

Public assistance is different from individual assistance, which FEMA did not extend to West Virginians who had property damage during the derecho. Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin is appealing FEMA's denial.

Forty-seven counties in West Virginia are eligible for public assistance, which may be used for road and bridge repair, building replacement or repair, heavy equipment and vehicle repair and repairs to recreational facilities.