Governor Brewer Requests Federal Disaster Declaration for Yarnell Hill Fire

July 09, 2013

Governor Jan Brewer has sent a letter to President Barack Obama, asking him to declare a major disaster for the state, as a result of the Yarnell Hill Fire.  In her letter, the governor notes state and federal agencies recently assessed damage in the area, and that both she and Yavapai County have issued disaster declarations. But, she said the incident “is of such severity and magnitude that an effective response is beyond the capability of the state and affected local governments.”

The governor is asking for, among other things, help with housing, preventing erosion and making sure medical services are available. Separately, the governor is asking the U.S. Small Business Administration for the declaration of a Physical Disaster in Yavapai County. That would allow homeowners whose houses were affected by the fire to apply for loans to repair or replace their homes.