President Obama Declares Napa Earthquake A Major Disaster

WASHINGTON (AP) - President Barack Obama has declared a major disaster in Northern California because of the Napa Valley earthquake, releasing emergency federal funding for the state.

The White House announced the move in a statement Thursday night.

It comes nine days after Gov. Jerry Brown sent a letter to Obama requesting the declaration.

The magnitude-6.0 quake struck in the state's famed wine country on Aug. 24. A 65-year-old woman died Wednesday from injuries during the quake.

Brown declared a state of emergency shortly after the quake.

The White House didn't say how much money may be available, but a preliminary assessment by the governor's office found $87 million in earthquake costs that could be eligible for federal reimbursement.

Funds are also available for some tribal and local governments and non-profit groups.