CHARLESTON, WV - Gov. Joe Manchin requested for a federal disaster declaration Feb. 10 to assist several counties affected by the Dec. 18 winter storm that severely hampered transportation and left thousands of West Virginians without electricity and heat for several days.
"I spoke with Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Janet Napolitano today and asked for her department's and the president's assistance, as the state braces to make it through yet another weather storm," Gov. Joe Manchin said. "The secretary is concerned and she assured me that her department has been monitoring our area and the storms over the past few weeks. I appreciate her call and her willingness to assist us in any way possible."
The counties included in the official request are: Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Fayette, Greenbrier, Kanawha, McDowell, Mingo, Nicholas, Pendleton, Pocahontas, Raleigh, Ritchie, Roane and Wyoming. The initial damage estimates exceed $3 million.
The governor may request additional counties be added to the federal disaster declaration in the new few days.
W. Va. Counties Seek Federal Aid for Storm Damage
CHARLESTON, WV - Gov. Joe Manchin requested for a federal disaster declaration Feb. 10 to assist several counties affected by the winter storm.
More Safety
Beyond the Fireline: The Critical Role of Public Fleets in Wildfire Response
Behind every wildfire response is a complex network of vehicles, data, and decisions that must work in sync under extreme pressure. Global heating trends require strong fleet coordination and reliable communications to keep crews safe and operations running smoothly.
Read More →
How AI Is Transforming Public Fleet Safety - Part 1
AI-powered safety systems are helping public fleets tackle distracted driving by delivering real-time coaching and measurable behavior change behind the wheel. In part one of our Q&A, Nauto CEO Stefan Heck explains how agencies can improve safety, reduce costs, and navigate implementation challenges with AI-driven technology.
Read More →
Reducing Risk and Improving Safety in Public Sector Fleets with Advanced Driver-Assist Technology
Public sector fleets face increasing pressure to improve safety, reduce liability, and operate efficiently. See how advanced vehicle technologies are helping agencies protect drivers, the public, and their budgets.
Read More →
3 Ways Fleet Tech Builds Public Trust
Managing a state or local fleet comes with levels of accountability private companies don’t have. Read how modern fleet technology helps elevate visibility and safety to strengthen community trust.
Read More →
Tracker Innovation From Queclink to Boost Stolen Vehicle Recovery Performance
Queclink has introduced a backup telematics device designed to support stolen vehicle recovery by activating only when a primary tracker is disabled, helping fleets and financing providers respond more quickly to theft.
Read More →
First Response Fleets: 10 Takeaways for 2026
A practical look at what first response fleet leaders can apply right now, with clear guidance for making stronger decisions throughout 2026.
Read More →
Holiday Travel Surge: What Government Fleet Managers Need to Know About Increased Road Risks
As year-end travel reaches record levels, fleet managers must anticipate increased road congestion and safety challenges for government vehicles and drivers.
Read More →
How Government Fleets Can Reduce Distracted Driving: Key Takeaways
Crashes, near misses, and costly collisions still occur every day. How agencies can better protect their drivers, roadside workers, and communities.
Read More →
New CNG Vehicle Incident Response Resource Released
The downloadable safety guide contains detailed “Vehicle Crash and/or Leak Response” instructions in addition to “Vehicle Thermal Response” instructions.
Read More →
New Samsara Data Reveals Dangerous Gap in Disaster Readiness
A new Samsara report highlights widespread gaps in disaster preparedness among public and private organizations, with most leaders lacking confidence in their ability to respond to major crises.
Read More →