Navajo Nation emergency commission amends flood declaration to open chapter funds and seek federal highway aid

The Navajo Nation Commission on Emergency Management unanimously approved an amended declaration of emergency on Thursday over monsoon storms, flash flooding and road damage across the Navajo Nation.

The amendment gives affected chapters access to chapter emergency funds for needs such as sheltering displaced individuals and families, and it directs the Navajo Department of Transportation to coordinate with the Federal Highway Administration to seek assistance under emergency relief programs.

It also authorizes coordination with appropriate organizations to complete damage assessments and request federal assistance, and allows available assets to be used to reduce risks to public health, safety and community infrastructure, including through emergency procurement.

The commission's chairman, Marcarlo Roanhorse, said: “This action further facilitates the ability of chapters, divisions and departments to access emergency federal funding and other governmental resources.”

The release says recent flooding has caused critical emergency situations in Chinle, Ariz.; Dennehotso, Ariz.; Newcomb, N.M.; Sheep Springs, N.M.; White Rock, N.M.; Sanostee, N.M.; Birdsprings, Ariz.; Navajo Mountain, Ariz.; and Tohatchi, N.M. The signed resolution gives the same list but names Tohajiilee in place of Tohatchi.

CEM 26-004 was first declared on July 24 with the concurrence of President Buu Nygren, and the commission reaffirmed it earlier this week. The amended declaration passed by a vote of six in favor and none opposed, and the president has signed and concurred with it. It remains in effect until the monsoon season has ended or the declaration is terminated.