Gov. Jay Inslee announced Monday he had formally requested a federal major disaster declaration to help communities repair public buildings and infrastructure battered by the bomb cyclone that swept through western Washington in November.
“We still have a long road to recovery,” Inslee said. “It will take time and substantial resources to get back on our feet. I urge the federal government to approve our request promptly, ensuring that necessary programs are made available so our communities can recover quickly and fully.”
If granted, the declaration would activate the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Public Assistance program and open the door for communities to receive federal aid to defray costs of infrastructure repairs as well as debris removal following the storm.
The declaration would apply to six counties — Grays Harbor, King, Pacific, Snohomish, Wahkiakum, and Walla Walla.
The powerful storm killed two, left millions without power for days, and damaged about 600 homes and businesses.
Inslee signed a declaration last week that unlocked $1 million in state aid for people whose homes were badly damaged. The U.S. Small Business Administration has also made low-interest loans available to residents and businesses.