Governor Kelly requests extension to file for major winter storm disaster declaration

Governor Laura Kelly has sent a letter to the Federal Emergency Management Agency asking for an extension to submit a request for a major presidential disaster. The letter asks for an extension to March 6, 2025, to submit a disaster request for a major winter storm that struck the state Jan. 4-5, 2025, and included heavy snowfall, excessive winds and frigid temperatures. The letter also seeks snow assistance due to impacted counties that received record or near-record snowfall.

"This extension is required due to challenges in gathering data on sustained damages that will strain local budgets to repair," Governor Laura Kelly said. "I am seeking time to collect data and validate all legitimate expenses to aid local governments in restoring the infrastructure so vital to the safety and wellbeing of Kansans."

Governor Kelly made the request to allow more time for preliminary damage assessments to seek federal assistance through the Public Assistance Program. The program provides funds on a cost-share basis to repair damaged public infrastructure, such as roads and bridges.