President Donald J. Trump has approved Michigan's request for a major disaster declaration, providing federal assistance to 43 counties impacted by severe storms, heavy rain, snowmelt, and nine confirmed tornadoes between April 10 and April 21. This declaration will unlock millions in federal aid for residents and communities recovering from widespread damage and flooding across the state.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer said, "President Trump has confirmed that residents and communities across Michigan impacted by the April severe storms, flooding, and tornadoes will receive much-needed support through millions of dollars in federal disaster assistance." She encouraged those affected to apply for assistance through FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police, highlighted the collaborative efforts with FEMA and SBA, noting the largest joint preliminary damage assessment ever conducted in Michigan.
The declaration grants Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Individual Assistance programs for 27 counties, including Allegan, Kalamazoo, and Washtenaw, and Public Assistance programs for 26 counties, such as Eaton, Marquette, and Tuscola. These programs will provide crucial support for recovery efforts.
The disaster followed a historic March snowfall in Northern Michigan, leading to snowmelt that stressed river and dam infrastructure. From April 13 to April 18, multiple rounds of severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall caused tornadoes, damaging winds, large hail, and major river flooding. This resulted in hundreds of residents being displaced or stranded, numerous roads washed out, and concerns over dam failures.
Governor Whitmer initiated state actions starting April 10 by activating the State Emergency Operations Center and declaring states of emergency for various counties, progressively expanding the declarations. She formally requested a major disaster declaration from President Trump on June 5 and an SBA Rapid Administrative Disaster Declaration on June 25. Individuals whose homes or property were damaged can apply for assistance online at disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362. SBA loan information is available at lending.sba.gov or 1-800-659-2955. A previous request for Southwest Michigan from April 1 was denied by FEMA on May 31, with an appeal still pending.