The recent ice storm that swept across northern Michigan in March left a trail of destruction, prompting the state to seek additional federal aid. However, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has rejected Michigan’s latest request for more disaster assistance funds.
Michigan experienced severe disruptions due to the ice storm, with substantial ice accumulation leading to power outages, dangerous conditions, and significant infrastructure damage, notably affecting rural electric cooperatives. Approximately 900,000 acres of state forest were impacted.
Initially, the state received $50 million in federal assistance to aid recovery efforts across 13 counties and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians. Despite this, Michigan sought further federal support to help with repairs and resident assistance.
In a recent letter to Governor Gretchen Whitmer, FEMA stood by its decision to refuse additional aid, particularly public assistance for permanent infrastructure repairs and individual aid for people affected by the storm. According to the agency, the storm’s impact “was not of such severity and magnitude” to warrant these forms of assistance.
Additionally, Michigan’s request for funds from the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, intended for long-term risk reduction projects, was initially denied but remains under review by FEMA.
Despite these setbacks, Capt. Kevin Sweeney, deputy state director of Emergency Management and commander of the Michigan State Police Emergency Management Division, remains positive about the state’s recovery capabilities. “Michigan has a strong foundation for recovery,” he stated. “We will continue to work with our local and state partners to support our communities.”
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