Governor Gretchen Whitmer has officially requested President Donald Trump to issue a Presidential Emergency Declaration (EM) for Michigan following the recent severe ice storms that impacted Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula.
If granted, the declaration would “authorize up to $5 million in immediate public assistance to aid emergency operations, including debris management,” according to a press release from Whitmer’s office.
“In the wake of historic ice storms in Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, we are adopting a comprehensive approach to restore power, clear roads, and ensure the safety of our residents,” Whitmer stated. “I declared a state of emergency, mobilized the National Guard, and initiated key measures to accelerate recovery efforts. But this is just the beginning of our work.”
“I met with President Trump and have submitted a request for a federal emergency declaration to assist local communities and counties with additional resources as they recover from this catastrophic storm. We will keep working closely with first responders, local communities, and Michiganders on the ground. The resilience of Michiganders is strong, and together we will overcome this challenge.”
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The declaration would also encompass 12 counties in Northern Michigan, including the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.
The storms have caused extensive damage throughout the area, resulting in power outages and disrupted communications. Numerous roadways have been obstructed by debris and fallen trees, necessitating the replacement of hundreds of electric power poles. Thousands of residents have still been left without power two weeks after the storm.
Related story: Lawmaker urges Trump to visit Northern Michigan following ‘devastating’ ice storm
“Approval of this request would bring essential federal resources to support ongoing local response efforts,” remarked Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police. “This is a crucial step as we work toward a broader disaster declaration that will provide further relief.”
Whitmer’s office has clarified that the declaration would not facilitate FEMA Individual Assistance (IA) for residents or Public Assistance (PA) for local and tribal governments. However, it will not hinder or delay the ongoing efforts to seek a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration, which is necessary for accessing longer-term recovery programs.
Previously, Whitmer declared a state of emergency for the affected area to mobilize various state resources for cleanup and restoration efforts. The Michigan National Guard has also been dispatched to the region to provide assistance.
You can find the complete letter sent by Governor Whitmer to President Trump here.
