Upper Peninsula Congressman Jack Bergman (R-Watersmeet) gave an update on Thursday on the response to the flooding that has impacted the Upper Peninsula this month.
The following is from his “Bergman Brief”, which is e-mailed to residents and the media regularly.
It’s been a busy few weeks across the First District and in Washington, but I wanted to provide an update on the ongoing flooding and the resources available.
As you know, Governor Whitmer has declared a State of Emergency for 32 counties as the spring thaw and heavy rainfall have led to historic water levels across much of Michigan. Flooding in the First District is widespread, with nearly every county experiencing some level of impact.
I’ve been on the phone nonstop with local officials – from county sheriffs to emergency managers and county commissioners. While I’m in Washington for votes this week, my team and I remain in constant contact with local leaders across the region, as well as the Governor’s office, to ensure coordination and support.
I also want to take a moment to clarify how federal assistance works, as there has been some confusion. FEMA does not automatically deploy when disasters occur. It is not a first-response agency. FEMA only becomes involved after a governor formally requests a federal disaster declaration and that request is approved.
Until then, response efforts are led by local emergency managers, first responders, and state resources already on the ground – supported by certain federal partners.
Right now, agencies like the Army Corps of Engineers, FERC, and USGS are actively providing data, technical support, and resources across the state.
If the situation meets federal thresholds, the governor can request FEMA assistance, which would bring additional federal support for recovery.
It’s important to understand this process. In moments like this, it’s easy to fall into partisan talking points, but what often goes unseen is the real work happening behind the scenes – constant communication, coordination, and problem-solving across all levels of government.
In times of crisis, the focus is where it should be: delivering resources, mitigating damage, and helping communities rebuild. The First District is home to some of our Nation’s best first responders, and I’m incredibly grateful for the men and women working around the clock to keep our communities safe.
I look forward to getting back to the District as soon as votes conclude this week to continue supporting efforts on the ground.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to my office if we can assist you in any way.
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