WASHINGTON (February 10, 2026) – U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA), alongside all members of Louisiana’s congressional delegation, expressed support for Governor Jeff Landry’s request for an expedited federal Major Disaster declaration following Winter Storm Fern, which impacted Louisiana from January 23–27, 2026, causing widespread power outages, road closures, and water system disruptions across northern Louisiana.
“The storm brought icy precipitation and extremely cold temperatures throughout most of Louisiana with the northern parishes experiencing widespread power and water outages,” wrote the members.
“We thank you for your swift emergency declaration for Louisiana issued on January 24 and eagerly await your response. We look forward to working with you to help the residents of these impacted communities during their time of need,” continued the members.
Cassidy was joined by U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) and U.S. Representatives Mike Johnson (R-LA), Steve Scalise (R-LA), Troy Carter (D-LA), Clay Higgins (R-LA), Julia Letlow (R-LA), and Cleo Fields (D-LA).
Read the full letter here or below:
Dear President Trump:
We are writing to express our support for Governor Jeff Landry’s request for an expedited federal Major Disaster declaration for the State of Louisiana as a result of a severe winter storm during the period of January 23–27, 2026. The Governor is specifically requesting Public Assistance including direct federal assistance, snow assistance, and Hazard Mitigation for Bienville, De Soto, East Carroll, Franklin, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland, Tensas, and West Carroll Parishes. The Governor further requests a 100 percent cost share adjustment for 30 days. So far, the State of Louisiana has incurred over $11,394,460, thus meeting its threshold for a Disaster Declaration.
The storm brought icy precipitation and extremely cold temperatures throughout most of Louisiana, with the northern parishes experiencing widespread power and water outages. Power outages interrupted service to hospitals and nursing homes, forcing them to operate on generators, and caused extended school and business closures. At its peak, the storm left over 175,000 residential customers without power. The ice shut down Interstate 20 and numerous state highways for several days. Widespread power outages and damage to water systems resulted in 32,487 customers completely without water. Up to 187,359 residents were placed under Boil Water Advisories.
We would also urge you to include Individual Assistance in the federal declaration. It is our understanding that the preliminary damage assessments indicate a qualification for Individual Assistance in these parishes. The Small Business Administration (SBA) has acknowledged the effect of this storm on Louisiana businesses and is offering Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) in 19 of Louisiana’s 64 parishes.
We thank you for your swift emergency declaration for Louisiana issued on January 24 and eagerly await your response. We look forward to working with you to help the residents of these impacted communities during their time of need.
