The federal government has approved a second disaster declaration for the state of North Dakota. President Donald Trump signed off on the request this week following severe storms on August 7–8 that struck large parts of the state, including the Bismarck region. The affected counties include Barnes, Grand Forks, Griggs, Kidder, Nelson, Steele and Stutsman. This marks the second time this year that the state has received a major disaster declaration under Governor Kelly Armstrong’s request.
Earlier this year, storms on June 20-21 brought over 20 tornadoes, caused four storm-related deaths and more than $11 million in public‐infrastructure damage, resulting in a prior disaster declaration by President Trump.
These repeated storms and infrastructure damage have tested utility providers, emergency managers, first responders and residents — especially in rural counties around Bismarck and beyond.
The designation means that local governments and eligible private nonprofit organizations can apply for federal funds to repair, restore or replace damaged public infrastructure — from power lines to roads — and alleviate recovery costs for rate-payers.
or locals in the Bismarck area, the disaster declaration is more than just administrative:
Reduced burden on local budgets and utilities means fewer ripples in service costs and quicker restoration.
Access to federal funds may accelerate rebuilding of damaged infrastructure — helping roads, power lines and community facilities rebound faster.
Signals to residents that the state and federal governments recognize the scale of damage and are mobilizing.
“This federal assistance will especially help our utility providers by defraying their recovery costs and helping them hold down rates for the North Dakota residents they serve.”
Affected counties will now coordinate with FEMA and the state emergency services to submit damage assessments, project applications and recovery plans. Residents and local agencies should monitor updates via the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services.
Residents with storm-related damage should document losses and contact local officials to understand eligibility for assistance.
With this second disaster declaration approved, North Dakota and the Bismarck region gain vital support to rebuild and recover stronger. The message is clear: in weathering this storm season, the federal-state partnership is stepping up—with both urgency and resources.