WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. – As floodwaters recede and road conditions begin to improve in many areas of the Navajo Nation, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren is encouraging Chapters to use funding already in place to restore damaged infrastructure and address community needs.
“The emergency declaration and Chapter emergency funding are in place so local leaders can respond quickly, repair critical infrastructure, and help families recover,” President Nygren said. “We encourage every affected Chapter to work closely with the Department of Emergency Management and use the resources available.”
On July 24, the Navajo Nation Commission on Emergency Management, with the concurrence of President Nygren, declared a State of Emergency due to severe monsoon storms, flash flooding, and infrastructure damage across the Navajo Nation. The declaration authorizes the Department of Emergency Management to coordinate emergency operations, mobilize available resources, support affected Chapters, and work with tribal, federal, state, local, and private partners to protect public safety and restore essential services. It also authorizes Chapters to activate local emergency plans, document storm damage, coordinate requests for assistance, and utilize legally authorized emergency resources for immediate response and recovery efforts.
The emergency declaration is reinforced by Resolution CMA-20-26, signed into law earlier this year by President Nygren, providing $6 million for Chapter emergency preparedness and response. The legislation provides approximately $30,000 to $50,000 to each Chapter, giving local governments the flexibility to address emergency conditions, support residents, and begin recovery efforts without delay.
The Office of the President and Vice President encourages Chapters to coordinate with the Navajo Nation Department of Emergency Management and their respective Administrative Service Centers to activate emergency plans, document damages, request available resources, and prioritize repairs to roads, water systems, and other critical infrastructure.
