OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Gov. Bob Ferguson’s request for federal flood assistance has been approved.

Gov. Ferguson said that Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem personally informed him of President Trump’s decision to grant the emergency assistance.

The emergency declaration is in effect for Whatcom and Skagit Counties, 14 other counties and all tribes that live within the impacted areas.

Assistance will be distributed through FEMA once damages are assessed across the state.

Click here to report any damage to your home or business here.

The President’s decision follows a court decision earlier this week that prevented the closure of FEMA’s BRIC program.

“The devastating flooding hurting communities across Western Washington right now underscores why these kinds of mitigation grants are so vital,” said Washington Attorney General Nick Brown. “This administration illegally canceled a longstanding bipartisan program, leaving communities more vulnerable because they have been unable to fortify against disasters. The court’s decision is a resounding win for public safety.” 

BRIC funds rural projects after natural disasters, such as building floodwalls and upgrading flood-prone roads and bridges.