Madison, WI – Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers has formally requested a presidential disaster declaration from President Donald Trump following recent severe storms and historic flooding that left widespread damage across multiple counties.
According to Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM), the joint preliminary damage assessment with FEMA revealed that more than 1,500 homes were destroyed or severely damaged in Milwaukee, Washington, and Waukesha counties, with losses exceeding $33 million. Additional assessments estimated public sector damages at over $43 million.
Evers’ request includes FEMA’s Individual Assistance program for Milwaukee, Washington, and Waukesha counties, along with FEMA’s Public Assistance program for Door, Grant, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington, and Waukesha counties. The governor said federal support is essential to help families, businesses, and communities recover from the disaster.
“Having been on the ground to see firsthand some of the hardest-hit areas, it’s clear recovery will take significant time and resources,” Evers said in a statement. “I’m urging President Trump to do the right thing and make the appropriate presidential disaster declaration—quickly and without delay.”
The flooding forced families from their homes and caused extensive damage to infrastructure, schools, and businesses. FEMA and WEM officials noted that their assessment process looked at the severity of the impact rather than solely fixed monetary thresholds, with the final decision now resting with the president.
WEM Administrator Greg Engle said the joint assessment efforts demonstrated strong cooperation between state and federal teams. “The speed and precision in which this was accomplished speaks volumes,” Engle said. “When different agencies come together, the road to recovery reaches the people who need it faster.”
Homeowners impacted by the flooding are being urged to report damage to 211 Wisconsin and document expenses for potential reimbursement if the federal declaration is approved.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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