Fact Check: "Washington state detailed over $30 million in damages after a bomb cyclone."
What We Know
The claim regarding Washington state's damages after a bomb cyclone is based on multiple reports about the financial impact of severe weather events in November 2024. According to the Washington State Governor's office, the preliminary damage estimate from the storms, which included a bomb cyclone, is approximately $34 million. This estimate encompasses damages across various counties, including public infrastructure and utilities (Governor Bob Ferguson statement).
In response to the disaster, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved over $12 million in federal disaster loans to assist businesses and residents affected by the storm (SBA Relief Approved). This amount, while significant, is notably less than the total damage estimate provided by the state.
Analysis
The claim that Washington state detailed over $30 million in damages is partially true. The state's preliminary estimate indeed stands at $34 million, which aligns with the claim. However, it is crucial to note that this figure represents the total estimated damages, not the amount of federal relief received, which is only $12 million as per the SBA's approval (SBA Relief Approved).
The reliability of the sources is generally high. The information from the Governor's office comes directly from official statements, which are typically credible. The SBA's report is also an official government source, providing transparency regarding the financial assistance offered. However, the discrepancy between the total damages and the relief provided indicates that while the state has quantified the damages accurately, the federal response has not met the total needs as expressed by state officials (FEMA denies funds).
Furthermore, the ongoing appeal process for additional federal funding suggests that the state anticipates the damage estimate may increase as assessments are finalized (FEMA denies funds). This indicates a dynamic situation where the total damages could be higher than currently reported.
Conclusion
The verdict on the claim is Partially True. While Washington state has indeed reported damages exceeding $30 million—specifically $34 million—the federal disaster relief approved thus far is significantly lower at $12 million. This highlights a gap between the estimated damages and the financial support available, which is critical for recovery efforts.
