WHATCOM COUNTY, Wash. — Federal disaster assistance for the December 2025 flooding is now available to both residents and local governments in Whatcom County, following the approval of multiple emergency declarations.
Assistance for citizens
A Major Disaster Declaration was approved April 7, 2026. This approval activates federal Individual Assistance, allowing Whatcom County residents to apply for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grants. These funds are intended for temporary housing, home repairs, and other disaster-related expenses not covered by private insurance.
Before this federal approval, residents utilized the Washington State Individual Assistance Program and low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Support for local governments
Public agencies received federal support shortly after the flooding began:
- Emergency Declaration: Approved December 12, 2025, this authorized FEMA Public Assistance (Category B) to reimburse local and tribal governments for 75% of costs related to emergency protective measures.
- Infrastructure Repair: The April 2026 Major Disaster Declaration also enables Public Assistance for repairing permanent infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and public utilities.
Hazard mitigation
In March 2026, FEMA released approximately $4,000,000 in Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funds requested in 2022. Managed by local governments, these funds are designated for elevating 16 already identified properties in Sumas, Everson, and Ferndale to prevent future flood damage.
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