Fischer, NE Delegation Urge Disaster Declaration for Nebraska Storms

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE), and U.S. Representatives Mike Flood (NE-01), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Adrian Smith (NE-03) sent a letter to President Donald Trump supporting Governor Jim Pillen's request for a major disaster designation for the severe storms and flooding from May 15-18 of 2026 in Nebraska.

The requested declaration would apply to Buffalo, Fillmore, Gage, Howard, Jefferson, Nemaha, Thayer and Thurston counties.

Read the letter below:

Dear Mr. President:

We write in support of Governor Jim Pillen's request for a major disaster declaration, which followed severe storms that resulted in tornadoes, extreme straight-line winds and flash flooding, for the Nebraska counties of Buffalo, Fillmore, Gage, Howard, Jefferson, Nemaha, Thayer and Thurston over the period of May 15-18 of 2026.

These severe storms caused widespread damage across Nebraska, including to schools, buildings, and roadways, along with downed power poles and lines. Several counties also faced significant debris cleanup, while emergency shelters were opened in areas where residents had been displaced. The total damage estimates now exceed $4.9 million.

We know Nebraska communities will once again demonstrate their resilience as they recover from these storms. We encourage the federal government to join with the state in their ongoing efforts to recover from these storms and provide assistance where it is needed.

We stand ready and willing to assist in any way possible to ensure prompt evaluation of this request. Please do not hesitate to contact our offices with any questions.

View a copy of the transmitted letter here.

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