Trump approves major disaster declaration for 10 Idaho counties after Dec. windstorm
BOISE, Idaho (CBS2) — Idaho communities hit arduous by a robust December windstorm are set to obtain federal assist after President Donald Trump accredited a Major Disaster Declaration for 10 counties.
The declaration covers Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Clearwater, Idaho, Kootenai, Latah, Lewis, Nez Perce, and Shoshone counties following a Dec. 16-18 straight-line wind occasion that introduced gusts of 80-90 mph throughout the area. A joint preliminary harm evaluation carried out in April by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management, and native representatives discovered whole harm throughout the counties exceeded $8.3 million.
“The Presidential Disaster Declaration marks a critical step forward in helping North Idaho communities recover from the devastating windstorm that caused widespread damage across the region. Together we are unlocking more resources to help the process of rebuilding,” Gov. Brad Little stated.
The president’s approval authorizes the Public Assistance Program, permitting authorities departments and a few non-public nonprofit companies within the accredited counties to use for help to help restoration efforts.
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management will work with potential candidates to submit a Request for Public Assistance inside the 30-day software deadline of May 7, 2026. The request is step one in figuring out candidates eligible for the Public Assistance Program.
During the extended wind occasion, greater than 100,000 clients skilled energy loss, and 15 faculty districts reported closures due to excessive climate, energy outages, and harmful journey situations. The storm induced a number of accidents and one fatality when a tree fell on an occupied house.
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“Severe straight-line winds left a trail of damage across northern Idaho,” stated IOEM Bureau Chief Ben Roeber. “This declaration is a vital step, and the funding will help restore public infrastructure. We will continue to work with FEMA and local partners to rebuild.”
