Federal Emergency Declaration in 16 Washington Counties Signals an Urgent Moment to Mobilize Relief and Recovery Efforts

As rivers begin to recede, Governor Bob Ferguson announced today the federal government approved Washington’s request for aid to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures. This emergency declaration is focused on supporting 16 counties in Washington: Benton, Chelan, Clallam, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, King, Kittitas, Lewis, Mason, Pierce, Skagit, Snohomish, Thurston, Wahkiakum, Whatcom, and Yakima Counties, the Samish Indian Nation, and all Tribal Nations within the specified jurisdictions.

In response to the devastation unfolding across the state, United Ways of the Pacific Northwest (UWPNW) has activated its statewide Disaster Recovery Fund (www.uwpnw.org/donate_disaster_recovery) to support local United Way organizations and trusted community partners working on the ground to deliver critical resources to communities hit hardest by the flooding.

All contributions to the Disaster Recovery Fund will directly support displaced families by providing access to food, shelter, childcare, health care, and other essential services. The fund is designed to meet both immediate emergency needs and long-term recovery efforts, ensuring families have the support necessary to rebuild and regain stability.

"This is a really tough situation with so many counties impacted. There are infrastructure impacts, people and animals displaced, businesses closed and homes/ businesses flooded. We need everyone in the region to help. The cleanup, relief and long-term recovery will require all hands on deck,” stated Jim Cooper, President & CEO of United Ways of the Pacific Northwest. 

With more than 100,000 residents across Washington having been evacuated and urged to seek safe shelter, local governments, first responders, nonprofits, and volunteers are working around the clock on critical relief efforts. There are thousands of people in temporary shelters currently.

United Ways across the state have launched local disaster recovery efforts, while the situation continues to develop and regions are assessed for ongoing recovery needs:

Currently, there are no requests for in-kind donations. Recovery efforts are focused on securing financial contributions and volunteer support. Individuals interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact their local county emergency management offices or the American Red Cross for current opportunities.

UWPNW urges individuals, businesses, and partners to support the Disaster Recovery Fund during this critical time. The organization will continue to provide updates as conditions evolve and relief efforts expand. For the latest information or to contribute, visit www.uwpnw.org/disaster_recovery.