LANSING – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is asking President Donald Trump for an emergency declaration following the ice storm up north.
Specifically, Whitmer’s request is that a presidential emergency declaration be issued for the state as a whole, 12 northern counties, and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians.
Northern Michigan lost power and communications, and hundreds of miles’ worth of roads were blocked by fallen trees and debris, the governor’s team said.
Whitmer met with Trump on Wednesday to discuss the damage and recovery efforts.
A presidential emergency declaration would allow for up to $5 million in funding to help emergency efforts.
“Following historic ice storms in Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula, we are bringing an all-hands-on-deck approach to help get the power back on, clear roads, and keep people safe,” Whitmer said. “I declared a state of emergency, deployed the national guard, and took key steps to expedite recovery. But our work is just beginning.
“I met with President Trump and submitted a request for a federal emergency declaration that will support local communities and counties with more resources as they recover from this devastating storm. We’ll continue coordinating closely with first-responders, local communities, and Michiganders on the ground. Michiganders are strong, and we’ll get through this together.”
Whitmer said emergency protective operations continue, including sheltering and the distribution of supplies.
“Approval of this request would bring critical federal resources to support local response operations that are still ongoing,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police. “This is a necessary step while we work toward the broader disaster declaration that will bring additional relief.”
This request doesn’t affect or delay the ongoing pursuit of a presidential major disaster declaration, which is requred for longer-term recovery programs, Whitmer’s release says.
