Disaster relief flood funds

Photo: CTV - CTV Vancouver

Port Alberni resident Clayton Wutke stands in water up to his waist after a flood overtook the city's downtown core Tuesday, Dec. 9, 2014. (Courtesy Clayton Wutkey)

Financial relief is being offered to residents of 31 B.C. communities after major flooding swept through the south coast over the past week.

Dozens of homes were evacuated or on alert and a mudslide rolled over one residence in the Qualicum Beach area in the worst of several areas damaged by torrential rains.

The provincial government is making funds available to home owners, residential tenants, small business owners, farmers, charitable organizations and local government bodies that didn't have insurance for losses related disaster.

Eligible communities are located on the east coast of Vancouver Island and throughout the Lower Mainland.

The disaster relief funds will be distributed at 80 per cent of the amount of total eligible damage that exceeds $1,000, to a maximum claim of $300,000.

People and governments wanting the monetary help must apply by March 12.