Governor Youngkin seeks expedited disaster declaration to aid Virginia communities after devastating winter storms

Virginia – Governor Glenn Youngkin has officially submitted an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration request to President Donald J. Trump in response to the severe winter storms that have caused widespread devastation across Virginia. The request aims to provide critical federal assistance to communities struggling to recover from flooding and infrastructure damage.

Historic Flooding and Widespread Damage

The Commonwealth has faced extreme weather conditions in recent days, with some areas receiving more than seven inches of rain. The resulting flash flooding has been particularly devastating in Southwest Virginia, which is still recovering from Hurricane Helene. The storms have caused unprecedented river crests along the James River and other major waterways, with water levels reaching heights not seen since 1977.

“This is the fifth major flood in this area in the past five years, and there is significant damage that is affecting community lifelines,” said Governor Youngkin. “It is critical that we provide relief, and we will certainly take every measure possible to ensure that these areas are able to make a full recovery as quickly as possible.”

The storms left over 203,000 customers without power at their peak, forced the closure of more than 270 roads due to washouts and bridge failures, and even disrupted emergency response services by knocking out 9-1-1 centers. The towns of Grundy and Hurley in Buchanan County suffered some of the most severe flooding, with river gauges registering historic levels.

Swift Water Rescues and Emergency Operations

First responders have worked tirelessly to rescue stranded residents and support emergency operations. More than 150 swift water rescues were carried out on Sunday, February 16, as floodwaters surged through homes, businesses, and roadways. Despite these efforts, access to some of the hardest-hit areas remains blocked by high water and debris, delaying damage assessments and relief efforts.

Governor Youngkin expressed deep gratitude for the dedication and bravery of first responders and emergency personnel. “I want to thank our state and local agencies, and our federal, state, and local elected officials for the incredible collaboration, and our first responders who have courageously made more than 150 swift water rescues and facilitated emergency operations that have saved lives throughout these storms.”

The Need for Federal Assistance

Given the scale of destruction, state and local resources alone are not enough to facilitate recovery. The requested disaster declaration would unlock much-needed federal funding for impacted communities, helping to rebuild infrastructure, restore essential services, and provide direct assistance to displaced residents.

As officials continue to assess the damage, relief efforts remain ongoing. Teams are working to clear debris, reopen roads, and restore power, but the road to full recovery will take time. The governor has assured residents that the state is doing everything possible to expedite aid and bring communities back to stability.

Virginia’s request for an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration now awaits approval, which would provide a critical lifeline for residents and businesses struggling to recover from yet another catastrophic weather event.