Detroit highway on June 27. (Photo: Michigan State Police)
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer welcomed President Joe Biden's flood disaster declaration for Wayne and Washtenaw counties two days after she sent a request.
“President Biden’s declaration opens up critical resources to help Michigan residents recover from this disaster,” Whitmer said in a statement Thursday. “The flooding on June 25-26 had devastating impacts on Wayne and Washtenaw County residents who suffered damage to their homes, loss of personal property, and faced unimaginable stress. With the resources we will receive thanks to President Biden’s leadership, we will put Michiganders first and help our communities recover and rebuild.”
The Federal Emergency Management Agency will set up field offices to process damage claims.
On June 26, Whitmer declared a state of emergency for Wayne County. Last Thursday, she did the same for Washtenaw County. And on Tuesday, she asked Biden for the federal declaration.
Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan also praised Biden's action and said: "The city will support FEMA setting up operations in Detroit immediately." Affected residents and businesses should apply now for reimbursement at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-FEMA (3362).
Keep receipts, photos of damage and other supporting documents. FEMA provides reimbursement, not cleaning services, and therefore don’t wait any longer.
— Mayor Mike Duggan (@MayorMikeDuggan) July 15, 2021
