LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) — Governor Gretchen Whitmer has renewed her push for federal disaster aid, contesting the Biden administration’s denial following the tornadoes that struck Southwest Michigan in May. Filed on Sept. 11, the appeal urges FEMA to reconsider, pointing to the growing burden of uninsured losses and the region’s ongoing recovery efforts.
The devastating storms, which occurred on May 7, tore through Branch, Cass, Kalamazoo, and St. Joseph counties, leaving widespread damage in their wake. Two of the four confirmed tornadoes reached EF2 strength, with winds reaching up to 135 mph. In Kalamazoo County alone, 60 structures were destroyed, and more than 280 sustained major or minor damage, according to state assessments.
Whitmer’s initial request for aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), submitted in June, was rejected in July. FEMA’s reasoning was that the damage, while extensive, did not surpass the capabilities of state and local authorities, along with voluntary organizations, to manage. In her appeal, however, Whitmer stressed the increasing reports of uninsured losses, arguing that federal assistance is needed to help families and businesses fully recover.
Following FEMA’s rejection, the U.S. Small Business Administration stepped in with a rapid disaster declaration, offering low-interest loans to businesses, renters, and homeowners affected by the storms, according to MLive. These loans aim to help cover the cost of repairs or replace damaged property, but Whitmer has indicated that more direct assistance is necessary to fully address the scope of the damage.
The appeal, based on updated damage reports, now hinges on whether FEMA will reconsider its original decision. If approved, FEMA’s aid could help expedite recovery efforts.
Whitmer’s administration has not yet received a timeline for FEMA’s decision on the appeal, but state officials remain hopeful that further federal support will be forthcoming.
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