FEMA Denies Arizona's Request for Relief After Devastating Flooding

FEMA Rejects Arizona's Request for Disaster Relief Following Flooding

Arizona recently encountered a significant setback as FEMA denied a request for disaster relief after devastating flooding struck Gila and Mohave counties. The floods in late September resulted in an estimated $30 million in damages and tragically claimed the lives of four individuals, particularly affecting communities in Globe and Miami.

In response to the crisis, Governor Katie Hobbs declared a state of emergency in October, which allowed for the mobilization of state resources aimed at recovery and repair. Following this, she submitted a formal request to the federal government for disaster relief; however, this request was ultimately denied. The details of her application can be accessed here.

According to a recent assessment, the flooding affected 312 homes, with 64 completely destroyed, 89 sustaining major damage, and 159 encountering minor issues. More than 180 residents were forced into emergency shelters, and 74 households were identified as lacking flood insurance. Emergency alerts were dispatched to over 8,464 individuals during the peak of the flooding crisis, as highlighted in Governor Hobbs’ letter to President Trump.

This week, FEMA concluded its review of the situation and formally denied the request for a Major Disaster Declaration. In a letter from Karen Evans of FEMA, it was indicated that the damages were determined to be manageable by Arizona state and local agencies. The letter stated, “Based on our review of all of the information available, it has been determined that the damage from this event was not of such severity and magnitude as to be beyond the capabilities of the state and affected local governments. Accordingly, we have determined that supplemental federal assistance is not necessary. Therefore, I must inform you that your request for a major disaster declaration is denied.” The letter's full content can be viewed here.

Commenting on FEMA's decision, Christian Slater, a spokesperson for Governor Hobbs, expressed disappointment regarding the lack of detailed reasoning for the denial. He remarked, “We were extremely disappointed to see not only this denial, but also the kind of lack of communication and lack of explanation coming from the federal government.”

In light of this situation, Governor Hobbs released a strong statement condemning the decision: “By denying much-needed relief, this administration is leaving Arizonans out on their own after their homes, businesses, roads, and bridges were decimated by historic storms. I will appeal this reckless decision and continue doing everything in my power to ensure Arizona communities don’t pay the price for the federal government’s senseless policies.”