Particle.news
Download on the App Store
3 ARTICLES
·
last mo.

Healey Requests FEMA Disaster Declaration for Six Massachusetts Counties

The move could reimburse local governments for storm response through FEMA’s Public Assistance program.

Milford Parks and Recreation worker Justin Asam drives a sidewalk snowblower in front of Milford Town Hall during the blizzard, Feb. 23, 2026.
Image

Overview

  • The Healey administration, which filed the request Thursday, asked for a major disaster declaration covering Barnstable, Bristol, Dukes, Nantucket, Norfolk and Plymouth counties.
  • The request seeks FEMA Public Assistance reimbursements for debris removal and repairs to public infrastructure, with extra snow aid possible for Barnstable, Bristol, Norfolk and Plymouth based on record one-day snowfall.
  • State surveys found damage to homes and businesses fell short of FEMA’s bar for Individual Assistance, so no direct aid to residents is expected.
  • The Feb. 22–23 blizzard brought whiteout conditions, snowfall rates up to 4 inches per hour and near three feet in spots, and knocked out power for more than 290,000 customers.
  • Massachusetts also asked for hazard mitigation grants and did not release a total cost estimate as it awaits FEMA’s decision.