LANSING, Mich. — On Tuesday, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer requested an extension from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to submit a request for a major disaster declaration following a historic ice storm that knocked out power and communications and left hundreds of miles of roads blocked by fallen trees and debris across the upper and lower peninsulas.

Whitmer has requested this extension to ensure local jurisdictions and municipalities are given adequate time to complete response activities and assess the impacts and damages.

“The historic ice storms in Northern Michigan have required an all-hands-on-deck approach to help get the power back on, clear roads, and keep people safe,” said Whitmer. “With recovery efforts still ongoing, I am asking FEMA for an extension to submit a major disaster declaration request, so we can get a complete picture of what resources and support these local communities need as they recover from this devastating storm.”

Whitmer’s request is supported by U.S. Rep. Jack Bergman, R-Watersmeet.

“This additional time will ensure our communities can fully assess the damage caused by the ice storm and submit a request that accurately reflects the needs of our district,” he said. “This is a critical step toward securing the federal resources necessary for recovery and rebuilding.”

On March 31, Whitmer declared a state of emergency to respond to the storm’s impact. The declaration initially covered 10 counties and has since expanded to include Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Mackinac, Montmorency, Oscoda, Otsego, and Presque Isle counties.

Whitmer deployed the Michigan National Guard to provide more personnel and specialized equipment to help with ice storm recovery efforts in northern Michigan.

She also declared an energy emergency in the Upper Peninsula to help expedite delivery of fuel and other critical supplies to impacted areas. Last week, the she requested a Presidential Emergency Declaration that would expedite funding to the state to assist in debris removal.

That request is still outstanding.