Overview
- FEMA’s Dec. 20 letter said the damage was not beyond state and local capabilities and that supplemental federal assistance was unnecessary.
- The state had sought a Major Disaster Declaration for Gila and Mohave counties to access Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation funds.
- Preliminary assessments estimated more than $30 million in losses, with extensive damage to public infrastructure, homes and critical services, including in tribal communities.
- Local leaders in Globe and Miami called the flooding unprecedented and expressed disappointment with the federal denial.
- Arizona declared a state of emergency in late September and is coordinating with local officials and the congressional delegation as it prepares the appeal.