Gov. Gianforte issues disaster declaration following Glasgow flooding

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte on Wednesday declared a disaster for the city of Glasgow in Valley County following severe flash flooding over the July 4th weekend, which damaged public infrastructure and hurt local businesses and residents.

According to the Governor’s Office, multiple thunderstorms dropped more than two inches of rainfall per hour over the Glasgow area. The intense storms damaged several businesses, eroded dirt and gravel roads, and damaged some paved roads. 

“Montanans in Glasgow experienced sudden, intense flooding that damaged roads, disrupted daily life, and affected local businesses,” Gianforte said in a press statement. “This disaster declaration will help the community repair critical infrastructure more quickly and ensure local officials have the support they need to recover.”

Glasgow’s mayor declared a local disaster on July 23 in response to the storm’s impacts and activated applicable portions of local emergency plans and programs, including local emergency financing authorities. The scope and cost of the damage, however, exceed the financial capability of the city and Valley County. 

 The governor’s disaster declaration authorizes the use of state resources and the expenditure of general funds to meet needs arising from the flooding event. The declaration also supports coordination among the state, county and city to assess damage, address immediate public safety concerns, and begin longer‑term repairs.

“Working with local officials, we’ll continue to do all we can to help Glasgow rebuild stronger and be better prepared for the next storm,” Gianforte said.