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UPDATE: Next Steps in Flood Recovery Efforts

While the federal disaster declaration process is still underway, it is important to document and report your damages now.

NEW LEXINGTON, OH, August 18, 2026
While the federal disaster declaration process is still underway, it is important to document and report your damages now. This information helps local and state officials establish the extent of the disaster and the need for additional assistance.

In the wake of the devastating flooding in Perry, Muskingum, and Morgan counties, my priority is making sure residents, families, and businesses have the information and resources they need to recover.

I have been on the ground throughout the rescue, cleanup, and recovery efforts and remain in constant communication with local officials, the Ohio National Guard, the Governor’s Office, emergency management agencies, first responders, and those coordinating the response.


Like so many others, I continue sending food and other much-needed items to first responders and evacuees, in coordination with local leaders, to ensure resources get to where they are needed most. The generosity of neighbors, near and far, has been nothing short of remarkable during this very difficult time.


WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW


While the federal disaster declaration process is still underway, it is important to document and report your damages now. This information helps local and state officials establish the extent of the disaster and the need for additional assistance.

If your home, business, farm, or property sustained damage:

  • Photograph and video all damage before making repairs whenever it is safe to do so.
  • Document your losses. Make a detailed list of damaged property, structures, vehicles, equipment, and personal belongings.
  • Save receipts for cleanup, temporary repairs, lodging, supplies, and other disaster-related expenses.
  • Report your damages to local emergency management officials so they can be included in the overall assessment.
  • Contact your insurance company and begin the claims process, if applicable.
  • Do not wait to make repairs necessary for safety and/or preventing further damage. Document the damage before and during repairs whenever possible.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?


Local and state officials are currently conducting damage assessments throughout the affected areas. Full assessments are expected to be completed by August 28 (Extended to Sept. 10th), after which the Governor is expected to formally request a federal disaster declaration.

 

Under federal law, FEMA major disaster assistance cannot be made available until the Governor submits a formal request and the President approves a disaster declaration.

 

The damage information collected now is therefore extremely important. It will help demonstrate the severity of the flooding and determine what types of federal assistance may become available.

 

If a federal disaster declaration is approved, we will provide additional information on who is eligible, what assistance is available, and how to apply through FEMA.


QUESTION OR CONCERNS?


Right now, our focus is helping people and allowing first responders and local officials to carry out recovery operations without unnecessary interference.

 

If you or your family need assistance, my office is working directly with local, state, and federal partners and will do everything possible to help connect residents with available resources. Please do not hesitate to reach out.

 

The impacted counties have demonstrated tremendous strength and resilience in the face of this disaster.

 

My entire team will continue working alongside these communities throughout the recovery process, and as long as it takes. If you or a loved one needs immediate assistance, please call my office at (614) 523-2555.

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