U.S. President Barack Obama says Puerto Rico is dealing with a “major disaster” after Tropical Storm Maria caused floods and landslides last month.

The president Tuesday authorized federal funding to help Puerto Rico recover from damage caused by the storm.

His statement says the money will be used to help individuals and business owners who suffered damages when Maria passed across the island.

It can help pay for temporary housing and home repairs, and also can be offered as low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses. The funding also can support other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.