MADISON, Wis. (WFRV) – After torrential downpours across southeast Wisconsin and severe storms wreaked havoc around the state, Governor Tony Evers announced that he’s requesting assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The request was made to FEMA in search of assistance in conducting a formal federal damage assessment of the flooding and other problems brought about by the severe storms.
An initial state and local damage review was completed by Wisconsin Emergency Management, and it suggested that the state would meet federal guidelines to receive aid and assistance, prompting Evers to ask FEMA for an assessment.
It’s a step towards the state potentially receiving a formal disaster declaration from President Donald Trump, along with relief in response to the damage.
Federal public and individual assistance becomes available after a presidential declaration based on what a preliminary assessment says. Click here to learn more.
Gov. Evers provided the following statement in the release:
“Disastrous storms and flash flooding across our state in recent days have displaced kids and families and damaged homes, businesses, community centers, and so much more. The damage caused by recent extreme weather is extensive, and it’s going to take significant time and resources to recover, repair infrastructure, and help support the folks and communities who have been affected. It’s clear we will need additional federal resources and support to do so.”
“It is absolutely critical that Wisconsin receives every available federal resource to ensure we can adequately respond and help our local communities rebuild. I am requesting urgent federal assistance and aid from FEMA to support our recovery efforts for Wisconsinites, communities, and our state.”
Gov. Evers and his office already declared a state of emergency after he visited Wauwatosa, which suffered significant damage from record flooding from downpours during the weekend of August 8-10.
The American Red Cross of Wisconsin also provided shelter and support from Green Bay to flooded neighborhoods across Milwaukee.
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In a letter from Gov. Evers to FEMA’s Acting Regional Administrator, Michael Chesney, based out of Chicago, he confirmed that the state would be seeking a disaster declaration.
“To be clear, should Wisconsin reach the threshold to receive federal FEMA support and aid based on the results of the preliminary damage assessment, Wisconsin Emergency Management and I will work expeditiously to submit a formal request for a presidential disaster declaration. Wisconsin Emergency Management and FEMA have been in close coordination this week and we appreciate FEMA’s support and assistance. I look forward to this continued partnership and receiving support from FEMA and the federal government to support Wisconsin’s efforts to recover and rebuild.”
Governor Tony Evers’ letter to FEMA’s Acting Regional Administrator
Below is the full copy of Gov. Evers’ letter to FEMA.
