FEMA Denies Washington State’s Request for Emergency Funds Following $34 Million in Storm Damage

A crew cuts a tree that fell on a Taco Bell restaurant on Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024, in Issaquah, Wash., after a "bomb cyclone" storm brought high winds to the area

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has denied Washington State’s request for emergency relief funds to repair an estimated $34 million in damages caused by a powerful bomb cyclone storm system that struck the state in November. Governor Bob Ferguson announced the denial, stating that the state’s January application had met all criteria necessary for federal assistance.

Ferguson called the decision troubling and criticized what he described as the federal government withholding vital resources. “Washington communities have been waiting for months for the resources they need to fully recover from last winter’s devastating storms, and this decision will cause further delay. We will appeal,” he said.

The November storm system brought intense winds and heavy rain across Washington, leading to widespread damage, extended power outages, and the deaths of at least two people from falling trees. The system was classified as a “bomb cyclone,” a meteorological term used when a cyclone rapidly intensifies, often resulting in extreme weather events. Such systems have been linked to major natural disasters across the country in recent years.

People walk by a minivan hit by a tree that fell during a "bomb cyclone" storm in Issaquah, Wash., Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024

In the aftermath, then-Governor Jay Inslee issued a disaster declaration across 11 counties, including King County, home to Seattle. The declaration accompanied a formal request to FEMA for disaster relief funds to address damage to public highways, utilities, and power infrastructure.

FEMA’s denial letter, received Friday, provided no specific explanation and simply stated that assistance was “not warranted.” Washington now has 30 days to submit an appeal. Ferguson indicated that the state’s original damage estimate will likely rise as it continues collaborating with counties to refine their assessments.

The denial comes amid broader uncertainty about FEMA’s role and future. A proposal from former President Donald Trump has raised the possibility of disbanding the agency and redirecting disaster funding directly to states. A council has been formed to evaluate FEMA’s operations and determine its long-term viability.

Earlier this month, FEMA announced it would end a major program that communities nationwide have relied on for projects aimed at preventing natural disasters such as floods and wildfires. Under the current administration, FEMA has played a critical role in responding to the increasing number of climate-related disasters and has taken steps to address longstanding disparities in how aid is distributed following emergencies.

FEMA typically assists in disaster response when a state requests a presidential emergency declaration, indicating the scale of the damage exceeds local and state capacity. Through such declarations, FEMA can reimburse governments for costs related to debris removal and infrastructure repair, and provide temporary financial assistance to affected individuals.

Washington's leadership now faces a renewed challenge as it prepares to appeal the decision and push for the federal support needed to help affected communities rebuild.