PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon Governor Tina Kotek has formally requested a major disaster declaration from President Donald Trump following severe storms that impacted the state in mid-December.
According to the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, storms between Dec. 15 and Dec. 21 brought record rainfall, high winds, flooding, and landslides across multiple regions. Nine counties were affected: Clackamas, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Polk, Tillamook, Union, and Yamhill.
A preliminary damage assessment identified more than $15.4 million in eligible public infrastructure damage. Tillamook County reported the highest per-capita damage at $154.29 per person. One storm-related death was reported in Yamhill County.
In a statement, Governor Kotek said rural communities have been significantly impacted and are in need of federal assistance to support recovery efforts. The request seeks access to FEMA funding to assist with debris removal, emergency protective measures, and repairs to roads, bridges, utilities, and other public infrastructure.
If approved, the disaster declaration would allow affected counties to receive federal support to help cover eligible recovery costs.
