Figures backs Alabama disaster declaration after Hurricane Isaias
The declaration would unlock federal aid after Alabama faced flooding, outages and widespread damage from the Category 2 storm.
U.S. Representative Shomari Figures, D-Alabama, sent a letter to President Donald Trump supporting Governor Kay Ivey’s request for a major disaster declaration following Hurricane Isaias.
“I am writing in strong support of Alabama Governor Kay Ivey’s October 23, 2026, request for a Major Disaster Declaration due to Hurricane Isaias,” Figures wrote in a letter to the White House on Friday. “Hurricane Isaias was a Category 2 hurricane with damaging winds of 105 miles per hour and extensive rainfall that impacted the Gulf Coast and produced significant flooding, massive power outages, and widespread damage throughout the State of Alabama. As recovery efforts are ongoing, I urgently request that the Administration approve the State of Alabama’s request as quickly as possible.”
Under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, the president can declare a major disaster to make federal assistance available after a catastrophe. A declaration gives federal agencies, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency, broader authority to provide aid to affected areas.
Ivey previously asked Trump for a declaration.
In his letter, Figures stressed that a major disaster declaration could help Alabama recover from the Category 2 storm, which caused at least two deaths in central Alabama.
“While the effects of Hurricane Isaias may continue to impact the state for quite some time, promptly approving this major disaster declaration request will help ensure that the people of Alabama are prepared for the recovery phase ahead,” Figures wrote.
“Alabamians are resilient, and with cooperation at all levels of government, we will rebuild stronger than ever,” Figures added. “I stand ready to provide any support necessary, and I thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.”
As of publication, Trump had not approved a major disaster declaration for Isaias.
