Little Rock, Arkansas – In a significant move to support the state’s recovery, President Donald J. Trump has announced that he will be declaring a Major Disaster in Arkansas following the severe storms and tornadoes that devastated parts of the state on March 14-15, 2025. The announcement comes after a formal request was made by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who sought federal aid to help with the aftermath of the disaster.
Governor Sanders expressed her appreciation for the President’s prompt response and leadership. “Our entire state is grateful for President Trump’s leadership and assistance as we recover from the devastating storms that struck Arkansas earlier this spring,” she said. The Governor highlighted the productive conversation she had with the President, where they discussed not only the immediate recovery needs but also the long-term future of disaster assistance in the state. “I offered my full endorsement of his plans to reform FEMA to save money and provide greater direct assistance to disaster victims,” she added.
The storm caused widespread destruction across multiple counties, leaving homes and businesses in ruins, and displacing many residents. In light of the scale of the devastation, the Major Disaster Declaration will provide critical support to those impacted. As part of the declaration, President Trump has authorized the provision of Individual Assistance for residents who suffered losses due to the storms. This assistance will be aimed at helping individuals and families recover from the immediate effects of the disaster.
President Trump also acknowledged the efforts of key leaders who have been integral in coordinating recovery efforts. “I am also thankful for Secretary Kristi Noem, who, as a former governor, understands how to support states as they rebuild from natural disasters,” he said. Secretary Noem, currently serving in the federal government, brings a unique perspective and experience to disaster response, having led recovery efforts during her tenure as Governor of South Dakota.
The declaration will unlock a range of federal resources aimed at helping Arkansans rebuild their lives. In addition to Individual Assistance, the declaration could potentially provide additional support for businesses and communities that were severely impacted. The swift approval of the Major Disaster Declaration marks a crucial step in Arkansas’ recovery journey, which is expected to take months, if not longer, given the magnitude of the damage.
The storms left a profound impact, but the swift federal response is set to ease the burden on residents and local officials. As recovery efforts continue, state and federal agencies will work together to ensure that the people of Arkansas have the resources and support needed to rebuild their homes and livelihoods.
For now, the state will continue to assess the damage, and with the President’s assistance, the road to recovery will be more manageable for the people who were affected by the disaster. The Major Disaster Declaration serves as a reminder of the importance of federal-state collaboration in the face of natural disasters and highlights the critical role that federal support plays in disaster recovery.
