In the wake of a devastating flash flood that struck the Havasupai reservation, Rep. Ruben Gallego has stepped forward to urge President Biden to issue a major disaster declaration for the affected Havasupai Tribe. The severe flooding, which occurred on August 22nd, led to significant property damage and necessitated the evacuation of residents and visitors from Supai Village, as detailed in a press release from Rep. Gallego's office.
The tribal community experienced the destruction of vital infrastructure including roads, bridges, and homes, which was further exacerbated by limited access for emergency response teams due to the rugged terrain, causing the Tribe to declare a state of emergency and now the Administration's response plays a crucial role in mending the fabric of this community with Gallego noting the quick deployment of FEMA officials to begin assessing the damage, and the National Park Service's aid in search and rescue operations shortly after the incident.
Gallego, representing Arizona's 3rd Congressional District, wrote directly to the president expressing gratitude for the swift reaction from federal agencies and emphasized the necessity of additional support. "Further providing the resources unlocked through a major disaster declaration will be crucial in rebuilding homes, fortifying tribal resources, and ensuring the resilience of Havasupai communities after this devastating flood," he said in his correspondence, as per rubengallego.house.gov. The full text calls for a united effort to help the Havasupai Tribe bounce back from this natural calamity.
