Michigan Governor Whitmer Requests Major Disaster Declaration for Northern Ice Storm Recovery

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has formally requested a major disaster declaration from the federal government to aid Northern Michigan's recovery from the severe ice storms that struck the region in late March, causing widespread damage to power lines, roads, homes, and businesses. This request, supported by joint Preliminary Damage Assessments conducted with FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration, confirms that the damage meets federal thresholds for such assistance. If approved by President Trump, the declaration would provide Individual Assistance to homeowners and renters, and Public Assistance to local governments, certain non-profit entities, and tribal agencies for response costs, debris removal, and infrastructure repairs. Whitmer emphasized the need to quickly deliver resources to those affected and expressed pride in the community’s resilience and cooperation following the storms. The governor had previously requested an Emergency Declaration, which was not approved, that would have provided up to $5 million in immediate public assistance. The current major disaster declaration request is under FEMA review and awaits presidential approval to enable federal aid distribution.