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3w ago

FEMA Denies Washington State Disaster Relief Request Following Bomb Cyclone

Governor Ferguson pledges to appeal FEMA's decision, which delays recovery from $34 million in storm damage as debates over the agency's future intensify.

Brett Gordon of Seattle points to where a large branch sheared from a tree during Tuesday night's bomb cyclone weighing down power lines in the Wedgwood neighborhood of Seattle, Wed. Nov. 20, 2024.
FILE - 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. (AP Photo/Manuel Valdes,File)
FILE - People walk by a minivan hit by a tree that fell during a "bomb cyclone" storm in Issaquah, Wash., Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2024. (AP Photo/Manuel Valdes,File)
FILE - A man looks at a tree that fell on power lines during a major storm in Issaquah, Wash., on Friday, Nov. 22, 2024. (AP Photo/Manuel Valdes,File)

Overview

  • FEMA has denied Washington state's request for disaster relief funds after a November bomb cyclone caused extensive damage and two deaths.
  • Governor Bob Ferguson stated the state's application met all federal criteria but was rejected without explanation, prompting plans to appeal the decision within the 30-day window.
  • The bomb cyclone, characterized by rapidly intensifying weather, caused widespread destruction, including power outages, toppled trees, and damaged infrastructure across 11 counties.
  • The denial coincides with national discussions about FEMA's effectiveness and President Trump's consideration of disbanding the agency in favor of state-led disaster management.
  • FEMA's recent policy changes, including ending a disaster preparedness program, have heightened scrutiny of its role in addressing climate-related disasters.