In a recent move to address the destructive aftermath of Western Colorado's severe flooding, Governor Jared Polis has called upon President Trump and FEMA for federal support. The request, made yesterday, seeks a Major Disaster Declaration following extensive damage that ravaged several counties between October 10 and 14. According to the Colorado Governor's Office, such a declaration would activate FEMA Public Assistance and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) to aid recovery efforts in areas hit by infrastructure damage and watershed impacts.
Following the disaster emergency declared verbally by Governor Polis on October 12, an executive order mobilized $6 million in state aid for the floods. Local jurisdictions in La Plata, Archuleta, and Mineral Counties declared emergencies as early as October 11, calling on state assistance as roads and bridges were swept away and hundreds of homes were threatened by the rising waters. "Colorado is asking the federal government to join us in partnership so we can help La Plata, Archuleta, and Mineral Counties recover as quickly and safely as possible," Governor Polis explained in a statement published by the Colorado Governor's Office.
Supporting the state's request, U.S. Senator Michael Bennet highlighted the vulnerability of the affected communities that are already bearing the brunt of an extreme fire season. Bennet, stressing the urgency, said, "I am urging the President to declare a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration immediately." Meanwhile, U.S. Congressman Jeff Hurd emphasized the necessity for federal involvement, noting, "it’s now critical for the federal government to stand with the people of La Plata, Archuleta, and Mineral Counties as they rebuild," as per the Colorado Governor's Office.
Damages to public infrastructure have surpassed $13.82 million, FEMA confirmed, predominantly impacting roads, bridges, and sewer systems. For instance, near-total failures of the sewer system in Pagosa Springs have led to unsafe drinking water and significant public health concerns. Chair of the La Plata County Board of County Commissioners, Marsha Porter-Norton, expressed her gratitude for the governor's actions: "Gov. Polis’ request for FEMA support for this vital and unanticipated work is much needed and appreciated," she told Colorado Governor's Office. As for Archuleta County, which faced back-to-back emergencies due to tropical storms, Sheriff Mike Le Roux also backed the governor's request for aid.
