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FEMA aid now available for residents in 27 Michigan counties affected by severe weather

An Ann Arbor building that sustained storm damage in mid-April 2026.
National Weather Service
/
weather.gov
An Ann Arbor building that sustained storm damage in mid-April 2026.

President Trump has approved Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s disaster assistance request for communities impacted by severe weather earlier this year

“Michiganders in 27 counties across the state are now eligible for FEMA assistance if you were affected by the catastrophic events between April 10th and April 21st of this year.”

Daniel Bernardy is a public information officer with FEMA. He says regardless of the amount of damage, everyone should apply for assistance.

“If you were negatively affected at all, or you’re unsure, whether it be a sheet of drywall or your entire home, God forbid, come in and talk to us and let us help you determine what you may or may not be eligible for.”

President Trump approved just over $32 million for recovery efforts. The disaster declaration opens the path to FEMA’s Individual Assistance programs for 27 Michigan counties, as well as FEMA’s Public Assistance program for 26 counties.

Bernardy says applying early and with as much information as possible will help residents receive the best results.

“Be overprepared. Bring all you got and we’ll help you sort through everything and you will be met with empathy, with a dedicated team of people that wants to help you.”

The filing deadline for assistance is August 31st. You can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, calling 1-800-621-3362, or downloading the FEMA app.

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Dave joined WGVU Public Media in November of 2023 after eighteen years as a Michigan Association of Broadcasters Emmy-nominated photojournalist and editor at Grand Rapids' WOOD TV8 and three years at WEYI TV25 in Flint, Michigan. As a General Assignment Reporter, Dave covers daily news and community events all over West Michigan.
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