Gov. Kathy Hochul has requested a federal major disaster declaration for Nassau and Suffolk counties after a September nor’easter damaged public infrastructure and inundated parts of Long Island’s shoreline.
The request seeks Federal Emergency Management Agency Public Assistance for eligible local governments and nonprofit organizations following the Sept. 26-27 storm, according to a state announcement.
The requested assistance would help pay for debris removal, emergency protective measures and repair or restoration of damaged public infrastructure. Hochul asked President Donald Trump to approve the declaration.
State officials said preliminary damage assessments validated by FEMA exceeded the threshold for a state request. Federal approval remains the next decision in the process.
Storm damaged trees, roads and shorelines
The storm brought winds exceeding 80 mph, rain and repeated coastal flooding. Multiple high tides coincided with a full moon, with more than 3 feet of inundation reported in affected locations.
The state said at least 4 feet of sand was lost from portions of Long Island’s shoreline. Rainfall generally ranged from 2 to 4 inches, with some locations receiving more than 6 inches.
Across Nassau and Suffolk counties, officials reported more than 1,150 trees and 580 large branches down. The damage affected public infrastructure and required emergency response and cleanup work.
Hochul declared a state emergency for eight counties during the storm: the Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, Queens, Richmond, Suffolk and Westchester. The major disaster declaration now requested focuses on Nassau and Suffolk.
Public Assistance would support recovery work
The governor’s request follows coordination among state emergency officials, local governments and FEMA on the damage assessments.
State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services Commissioner Terry O’Leary supported the request. U.S. Sens. Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand and Reps. Adriano Espaillat and George Latimer also backed federal assistance, according to the announcement.
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