Oregon — Tina Kotek has requested a major disaster declaration from Donald Trump following severe storms that struck Oregon from Dec. 15 to Dec. 21, 2025.
The request seeks public assistance for Clackamas, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Polk, Tillamook, Union and Yamhill counties, along with statewide access to the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
The storms brought record rainfall, high winds and an atmospheric river that triggered widespread flooding, landslides and mudslides. At the peak of the event, more than 300,000 Oregonians were without power, and multiple highways and interstates were closed. One person died in Yamhill County.
A joint preliminary damage assessment conducted by state and federal officials validated more than $15.4 million in eligible damages. Tillamook County recorded the highest per-capita damage at $154.29 per resident.
“The scale of damage from December’s severe storms impacted multiple Oregon communities, with more than $15 million in losses and needed repairs,” Kotek said. “Rural communities are stretched beyond their limits, and help from FEMA is urgently needed.”
Erin McMahon, director of the Oregon Department of Emergency Management, said local governments and utilities have worked to restore essential services but face financial strain without federal assistance.
If approved, the declaration would provide funding for debris removal, emergency protective measures and repairs to roads, bridges, utilities and other public infrastructure. Access to hazard mitigation funding would support long-term projects aimed at reducing damage from future disasters.
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