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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 19, 2025
MILWAUKEE, WI — Today, the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs (DMA) announced the arrival of Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDA) teams from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on Thursday, August 21, to assist in assessing damage caused by the severe storms and flooding that impacted Southeast Wisconsin between August 9 and 11, 2025.
These joint recovery teams, consisting of FEMA and state officials, will conduct thorough assessments by interviewing homeowners, renters, and business owners to document property damage and the impact of the storms and flooding. This crucial step in the disaster recovery process helps determine the extent of damage and informs the state's potential request for federal assistance for affected individuals and communities.
The PDA teams will begin operations immediately and are expected to continue assessments throughout the week. Residents and business owners in impacted areas are encouraged to cooperate with the teams as they conduct interviews and property inspections.
“The safety and well-being of Wisconsin residents is our top priority. These severe storms have caused significant hardship, and we are committed to ensuring that those affected receive the support they need. The collaboration between state and federal agencies through this damage assessment process is critical to unlocking the resources necessary for recovery,” Governor Tony Evers said.
“This assessment is an important part of ensuring that Wisconsin receives the support it needs to recover fully from this severe weather event,” said Greg Engle, the administrator of Wisconsin Emergency Management. “We appreciate the cooperation of Milwaukee residents and business owners as we work alongside FEMA to evaluate the damage and explore all avenues for federal aid.”
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Media Opportunity:
The Wisconsin DMA invites media representatives interested in coordinating ride-along opportunities with the PDA teams on Thursday afternoon to contact the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs directly. This is a unique chance to observe the assessment process firsthand and report on ongoing recovery efforts.
For media coordination and more information, please contact:
Leslie Westmont
Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs
Phone: 608-234-7516
Email: leslie.a.westmont.civ@army.mil
FEMA Disaster Declaration Process Overview:
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Incident Occurs: Severe weather event causes damage.
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Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDA): Joint State and FEMA teams assess damage and interview affected individuals.
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Damage Report Submission: State submits damage report to FEMA.
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Federal Review: FEMA evaluates damage reports and determines eligibility for federal assistance.
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Presidential Disaster Declaration: If criteria are met, President approves disaster declaration.
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Federal Assistance Available: Aid is provided to individuals, businesses, and communities as authorized.
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