The severe weather events in 2011, the worst in history according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, continue to cost U.S. taxpayers big bucks. Last week U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced that the U.S. DOT is releasing $1.6 billion to 30 states.

"Communities from coast to coast are still recovering from disasters that have affected the roads they use, their homes and businesses," LaHood said. "The Obama Administration stands ready to provide emergency relief and reimburse these communities for the work that has been done to restore their critical transportation needs," he added.

DOT says the money is supposed to "reimburse states for fixing or replacing highways, bridges and other roadway structures. Costs associated with detours, debris removal and other immediate measures necessary to restore traffic flow in impacted areas are also eligible for reimbursement.

Here are some of the major areas for funds distribution:

Vermont, which was devastated by Hurricane Irene, will get $125.6 million. Irene's damages in Massachusetts have that state in line to receive $40 million. North Dakota will receive $89.1 million for the Devil's Lake Basin for damage caused by Spring 2011 runoff; and Iowa will receive $37.5 million to repair damage caused by the May 2011 Missouri River flooding. New York and New Jersey, both impacted by Hurricane Irene, are getting close to $90 million each.

Additionally, Ohio's Jefferson County is scheduled to receive $40.9 million for landslides in March, 2011; and another $89 million for the record rainfall's resulting flood damage from March through May.

Pennsylvania is slated to receive $39.9 million for damages incurred in September from Tropical Storm Lee.

For the complete state-by--state breakdown of events and funding from the Federal Highway Admnistration's Emergency Relief Program, click here:
FHWA Funding: state by state