SALEM, Ore. — Federal Emergency Management Agency has informed Tina Kotek that Oregon will not receive funding under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program tied to the December 2025 storms, prompting the governor to order an appeal.
The decision follows a major disaster declaration approved by the president on April 7, 2026, which authorized Public Assistance funding for nine counties: Clackamas, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Polk, Tillamook, Union and Yamhill. However, the absence of hazard mitigation funding leaves what state officials describe as a critical gap in long-term recovery and resilience efforts.
The Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM) will lead the appeal process, according to state officials.
OEM Director Erin McMahon said the funding is vital for communities already strained by repeated severe weather events.
“Our communities are doing the hard work of recovery, but they cannot reduce future risks alone,” McMahon said. “Federal mitigation funding is essential to protect infrastructure, safeguard lives and support long-term resilience throughout Oregon. We are committed to advocating for this support.”
Severe storm impacts
The December 2025 atmospheric river storm brought record rainfall, powerful winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides across much of the state. At its peak, more than 300,000 residents lost power, major highways were shut down, and one person died in Yamhill County.
A joint preliminary damage assessment found more than $15.4 million in eligible public infrastructure damage. Tillamook County reported the highest per-capita impact, estimated at $154.29 per person.
State officials noted this is the second time within a year that a major disaster declaration has been approved without accompanying mitigation funding — a departure from longstanding federal practice.
In addition, Oregon did not receive any fiscal year 2025 funding for post-fire hazard mitigation work, typically paired with Fire Management Assistance Grants. Despite receiving five such fire-related grants last year, no mitigation funds were provided, and FEMA has not offered a detailed explanation beyond stating the program is under broader review.
Why mitigation funding matters
Hazard mitigation funding is designed to reduce long-term risks from natural disasters. Projects often include stabilizing landslide-prone areas, elevating or relocating flood-prone structures, strengthening infrastructure, improving stormwater systems and reinforcing essential service facilities.
Oregon has previously used such funding in communities like Reedsport, Coos Bay, Tillamook and Vernonia to reduce disaster risks. FEMA estimates that every $1 spent on mitigation saves $6 in future recovery costs.
“Without federal mitigation dollars, local governments lack the resources to build safer and more resilient systems,” McMahon said. “These projects reduce the impacts of future storms, save taxpayer dollars and prevent loss of life.”
Next steps
OEM officials said they will submit a formal appeal with supporting documentation and continue working with federal partners during the review process. If approved, the funding would allow Oregon to move forward with projects aimed at reducing long-term risks in storm-affected communities.
More information on disaster recovery efforts and preparedness resources is available through the state’s official website.
About the Author
Discover more from Right Now Oregon
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
