Westchester County Executive George Latimer confirmed Monday that a fifth storm victim has been identified.

Latimer says that the victim’s identity has not been made public yet.

"Loss of property is devasting. The loss of lives is most devastating," he says.

Latimer updated the county’s response to the storm during a news conference and says at these moments, people need "effective government."

He says the county’s first priorities were to make sure county facilities were open and functioning. Also, Latimer says making sure parkways were open for transportation and for emergency vehicles was also a top priority.

Now, the priorities are making sure everyone has shelter and the disaster recovery center is open at the County Center in White Plains.

Also, workers are focused on making sure all the refuse, trash and storm damage is cleared from properties, businesses and streets.

The county is under the federal disaster declaration and FEMA is on the ground in the county to assess damage. 

People may apply for financial aid for losses and damages caused by the storm

FEMA strongly advises that people register in advance of visiting the disaster center. Residents can apply for FEMA aid without coming to the County Center. The first step is to register either by calling FEMA’s registration number 1-800-621-3362; or logging into www.disasterassistance.gov(link is external). For those with speech or hearing disabilities, use the TTY number at 800-462-7585.