Inslee requests federal major disaster declaration for counties affected by November's 'bomb cyclone' storms

Today, Gov. Jay Inslee formally requested a federal major disaster declaration to support communities in repairing public buildings and infrastructure damaged by the catastrophic windstorm and heavy rainfall that struck the state last November.

“We still have a long road to recovery,” Inslee said. “It will take time and substantial resources to get back on our feet. I urge the federal government to approve our request promptly, ensuring that necessary programs are made available so our communities can recover quickly and fully.”

If granted, the major disaster declaration would activate the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Public Assistance program. This program is designed to help cover some of the costs of repairing public buildings and infrastructure damaged during the bomb cyclone event that occurred from November 17 through November 25, 2024. The declaration would benefit six counties—Grays Harbor, King, Pacific, Snohomish, Wahkiakum, and Walla Walla—by offsetting costs for emergency protective measures, debris removal, and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged public facilities.