Virginia's Winter Woe: FEMA Steps In for Storm Safety Net
Published Date: 5/6/2026
Notice
Summary
A big winter storm hit Virginia starting January 22, 2026, causing serious problems. The President declared an emergency on January 23, so FEMA can help with lifesaving and safety efforts. Virginia can get federal help covering 75% of eligible costs to protect people and property during this tough time.
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Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 5 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Federal Emergency Declared for Virginia
The President declared an emergency for the Commonwealth of Virginia on January 23, 2026, because a severe winter storm began on January 22, 2026. FEMA is authorized to provide emergency protective measures (Category B) as direct Federal assistance under the Public Assistance program for the entire Commonwealth of Virginia.
Federal Share: 75% of Eligible Costs
Under this declaration, any Federal funds provided under the Stafford Act for Public Assistance will be limited to 75 percent of the total eligible costs. The declaration was issued January 23, 2026.
Disaster Housing Assistance Available
The declaration lists Disaster Housing Assistance to Individuals and Households (CFDA 97.048, 97.049, 97.050) for use in Virginia following the January 22–23, 2026 storm. Virginia residents may be able to use these housing assistance programs as funds are reported and drawn under the declaration.
Disaster Unemployment Assistance Offered
Disaster Unemployment Assistance (CFDA 97.034) is listed for use in Virginia under this emergency declaration issued January 23, 2026. Workers in Virginia who lose income because of the storm may be able to apply for this specific disaster unemployment program.
Hazard Mitigation and Public Assistance Programs
The declaration lists Disaster Grants—Public Assistance (CFDA 97.036) and Hazard Mitigation Grant (CFDA 97.039) for use in Virginia following the storm beginning January 22, 2026, with the declaration issued January 23, 2026. These programs can support public infrastructure repairs and hazard mitigation projects in the state.
Crisis Counseling and Legal Help Available
The declaration identifies Crisis Counseling (CFDA 97.032) and Disaster Legal Services (CFDA 97.033) as programs to be used for Virginia after the January 22–23, 2026 storm. Affected Virginia residents may access crisis counseling and disaster-related legal help under these programs.
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