Oregon Declares Disaster After Severe December Storms

Federal aid approved for repairs to public infrastructure damaged by extreme weather.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:18am

A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, blue, and white, depicting a vast, snowy expanse with heavy clouds and blowing wind, dwarfing any visible structures or infrastructure.The overwhelming power of nature on full display as Oregon communities grapple with the aftermath of a devastating winter storm.Hood River Today

President Donald J. Trump has approved a major disaster declaration for the state of Oregon following a series of severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides that occurred between December 15 and December 21, 2025. The declaration, designated as DR-4907-OR, will provide federal funding to assist state, tribal, and local governments, as well as certain private nonprofit organizations, with repairs and replacements of damaged public facilities in several affected counties.

Why it matters

The severe winter weather caused significant damage to public utilities and roadways across Oregon, with limited insurance coverage available to cover the costs. The federal disaster declaration will unlock critical funding and resources to help communities recover and rebuild.

The details

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the official declaration date was April 7, 2026. The approval for Oregon was part of a broader set of disaster declarations granted this week for at least seven states, including Alaska, Idaho, Montana, South Carolina, South Dakota, and Washington.

  • The severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides occurred between December 15 and December 21, 2025.
  • The disaster declaration was announced by FEMA on April 11, 2026.
  • The official declaration date was April 7, 2026.

The players

Donald J. Trump

The President of the United States who approved the major disaster declaration for Oregon.

Markwayne Mullin

The current Homeland Security Secretary who is now overseeing FEMA.

Kristi Noem

The former Homeland Security Secretary who was removed from her position by President Trump in March 2026.

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What they’re saying

“The severe winter weather caused significant damage to public utilities and roadways across Oregon, with limited insurance coverage available to cover the costs.”

— FEMA

What’s next

Individuals and local entities seeking assistance can utilize the FEMA app for real-time disaster news and emergency alerts. For those requiring mental health support, the Disaster Distress Helpline provides 24/7 counseling in both English and Spanish.

The takeaway

The federal disaster declaration for Oregon highlights the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events, and the importance of having robust disaster response and recovery mechanisms in place to support affected communities.