Winter Storm Federal Disaster Assistance Update

In response to Texas’ request for a federal disaster declaration related to the recent winter storm, the Office of the Governor announced that the President has approved a Major Disaster Declaration for Individual Assistance in 77 counties and for Public Assistance (Emergency Protective Measures Only) in all 254 counties.
Individuals and business owners in counties included in the President’s declaration who sustained losses in the designated area can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 or 1-800-462-7585. For more information on presidential disaster declarations, including the distinction between Individual and Public Assistance, see FEMA.gov.

In addition, the Office of the Governor and the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) are encouraging Texans to complete the Self Reporting Damage Survey to help the state identify damages across Texas and help emergency management officials gain an understanding of damages that occurred during the recent winter weather. This data is also needed to provide information to FEMA and highlight the need for federal disaster assistance for individuals in all 254 counties, including the ones that have not yet been included in the President’s disaster declaration. Businesses and individuals are encouraged to fill out the Self Reporting Damage Survey. The voluntary survey, available in both English and Spanish, can be accessed by visiting www.TDEM.texas.gov/warm. (NOTE: Reporting damage to the Texas Division of Emergency Management is a voluntary activity, is not a substitute for reporting damage to an insurance agency, and does not guarantee disaster relief assistance.)