Chelan County included in statewide disaster relief request

OLYMPIA — Chelan County is one of 10 counties included in Governor Bob Ferguson’s federal major disaster declaration request following December’s historic storms.

Gov. Ferguson previously requested a federal emergency declaration from President Trump, which was approved on Dec. 12. The declaration enabled access to federal help for immediate protective measures, such as emergency assistance from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Coast Guard. Now, Gov. Ferguson is requesting a higher level of federal assistance aimed at recovery.

“The scale, duration, and severity of this disaster overwhelmed local and state response capabilities,” said Gov. Ferguson. “Thousands of families experienced devastating loss. Federal assistance is essential to help Washingtonians recover from these historic floods.”

The governor also requested the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to approve the maximum funding available for its Individual Assistance program. These funds are intended to support individuals with limited means to help repair their homes or find stable housing until a more permanent solution is available. The request is an estimated $21.3 million for 10 affected counties — including Chelan County — and 15 federally recognized Tribal nations.

In his request, Gov. Ferguson outlined the lasting effects of the series of atmospheric rivers and wind storms that moved across the state between Dec. 5 and 22. According to his office, nearly 4,000 homes were damaged statewide, with 440 homes being destroyed or sustaining major damage. Over 100,000 people were ordered evacuated, including the residents of two entire cities. Seven Tribal Nations issued emergency declarations and 13 counties issued disaster declarations.

For Chelan County specifically, Gov. Ferguson described Stehekin as having experienced “some of the most severe impacts in the county,” facing extensive damage to its water treatment plant, roads and powerlines and cutting off the remote community to critical basic needs. The Leavenworth area was also included; widespread damage threatened life and safety while causing disruptions to schools, the hospital, public utilities, a senior care facility, and Leavenworth’s Christmastown Festival. Additionally, flood stages of the Wenatchee River washed out several sections of US-2.

Chelan County Search and Rescue teams rescued 69 total individuals from 38 residences over the course of Dec. 12 and 13, including multiple “high-risk rescues” conducted by helicopter, said Gov. Ferguson.

“The cumulative impacts of this multi-day event resulted in substantial damage to homes, isolation of communities, prolonged power outages, and severe damage to essential infrastructure throughout Chelan County,” said Gov. Ferguson.

If FEMA approves Individual Assistance as part of the major disaster declaration, the next step for residents is to apply directly with FEMA. If the federal government declares a major disaster, impacted homeowners, renters, business owners and non-profits can also apply for low-interest loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Washington state is still working to separately collect information about damage to public infrastructure, such as roads and levees. The state plans to submit a request for FEMA Public Assistance funding, as well as Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding to better prepare for future storms. The state must apply for both by Feb. 18.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media