Governor Tina Kotek announced on April 15 that the President has approved her request for a major federal disaster declaration to support recovery efforts following severe storms in December 2025.
The approval of this declaration means that communities affected by the storms will have access to federal resources to help repair damage and recover more quickly. The move aims to provide financial assistance and support for areas hit hardest by the weather event.
“Over the course of just a few days, these storms upended lives, damaged critical infrastructure and tested the resilience of communities across Oregon,” Governor Kotek said. “I’m grateful that this disaster declaration was approved and it’s reassuring that federal resources are on the way. This support will help our communities recover faster. We will continue working alongside local leaders to make sure every dollar is put to work helping Oregonians recover and rebuild stronger.”
The federal Public Assistance funding applies to nine counties: Clackamas, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Polk, Tillamook, Union, and Yamhill. These areas were impacted by an atmospheric river between December 15–21 last year. The funds can be used for repairing roads, bridges, utilities and other public facilities damaged during the storm period. An additional request for Hazard Mitigation Grant funds remains under review.
According to state officials, record rainfall and high winds led to widespread flooding as well as landslides and mudslides throughout Oregon during those days. Over 300,000 residents lost power at one point; many highways were closed due to unsafe conditions; one fatality occurred in Yamhill County; and more than $15.4 million in eligible damages was documented through joint preliminary assessments. Tillamook County had the highest per capita impact at $154.29 per person.
“With this approval, communities will receive much-needed support for debris removal, emergency protective measures and repairs to public infrastructure,” said Erin McMahon, director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management. “Hazard mitigation funding would help Oregon reduce future risk and increase resilience statewide, and I will continue to advocate for this investment.”
More information about ongoing recovery efforts is available at Oregon.gov/OEM.
