FEMA Approves Multi-million Dollar Allocation for Sports and Cultural Facilities

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – “We missed being able to come to support our team here, to have fun, enjoy and suffer with the Leones.” said Rivera. This is how Carlos Rivera, a fan of the Leones of Ponce, described the feelings of thousands of fans of the National Superior Basketball (BSN) league, whose season began with a $33.3 million allocation from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Ten municipal coliseums located in the municipalities of Arecibo, Bayamón, Carolina, Fajardo, Guayama, Guaynabo, Humacao, Mayagüez, Ponce and San Juan have FEMA funds assigned to repair their facilities.

“Sports are an instrument of social development and family integration that groups people of all ages and conditions, which translates to a better quality of life. We have assigned funds for thousands of projects that promote this type of activity, like parks, community centers and different stadiums,” said the Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico, José G. Baquero.

An allocation of close to $1.7 million was approved for the Juan “Pachín” Vicens Auditorium in Ponce for a complete renovation of the building. According to the mayor of the municipality, Luis Irizarry Pabón, repairs began prior to the BSN season, but the most complex ones will be carried out once the season ends. “What we did now was update it to be ready. Once the season ends, we will change the lighting, as well as the structural part. That is what we want, and that people can see that the city is being rebuilt,” the mayor said.

The allocation also has a positive effect on the professional players who represent a fan base that will enjoy better facilities in these coliseums. This was expressed by Roberto Ortiz, captain of the Leones of Ponce, who said that the renovation and opening of the coliseum will help the team's performance. “We have a group of young players that for the first time will experience what it is to feel the house of Pachín. That euphoria of the fans is definitely our sixth man on the court,” said Ortiz.

Likewise, the Rubén Rodríguez Coliseum in Bayamón, official home to the Vaqueros of Bayamón, was awarded close to $1.1 million  for improvements to infrastructure and electronic equipment that will elevate the quality of the events that are held there.

“For our organization it is beyond important that the facilities are in optimal condition. The Rubén Rodríguez Coliseum gives us an opportunity to put on a spectacular show for the enjoyment of all our fans,” said Melvin Román, Vice President of the Vaqueros basketball team.

A facility adjacent to the Rubén Rodríguez Coliseum that will also be repaired features a system of solar energy panels and batteries installed over a roofed parking lot that has 165 parking spaces, known as “Solar Zone.” Close to $593,000 was approved for repairs to the solar panels, electrical systems and lights.

The total obligations for coliseums include nearly $9.5 million for the Guillermo Angulo Coliseum, Carolina; nearly $7.1 million for the Roberto Clemente Coliseum, San Juan; over $5.7 million for the Petaca Iguina Coliseum, Arecibo; over $2.1 million for the Roque Nido Stella Coliseum, Guayama; over $1.7 million for the Sports Palace, Mayagüez; about $1.6 million for the Mario "Quijote" Morales Coliseum, Guaynabo; nearly $600,000 for the Tomás Dones Coliseum, Fajardo; and nearly $299,000 for the Humacao Arena Coliseum.

Engineer Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, Executive Director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction, and Resiliency of Puerto Rico, said that his office remains steadfast in its commitment to this sector and will continue to facilitate the development of these types of repairs. “Our responsibility is to ensure we provide the necessary resources so that athletes can continue their preparation in the best facilities that we can offer,” added Laboy Rivera.

To access more information on the recovery of Puerto Rico from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 08/25/2021 - 11:18

Tennessee Survivors Affected by Severe Storms Can Apply for FEMA Assistance

ATLANTA – Residents of Humphreys County Tennessee who were affected by the severe storms and flooding on August 21, 2021, may apply for FEMA disaster assistance. Additional counties may be designated at a later date.

Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) to register. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption, or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

You can also register via smartphone or tablet using the FEMA App, or at www.disasterassistance.gov. When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted;
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying;
• Your Social Security number, if available;
• A general list of damage and losses; and
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

If you have homeowners or renter’s insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs, along with other programs to assist those recovering from the flooding.

For more information on Tennessee severe storms, visit Tennessee Severe Storms (DR-4609-TN) | FEMA.gov. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at https://twitter.com/femaregion4.

neily.chapman Tue, 08/24/2021 - 22:22

Patient Movement Exercise Focuses on Tracking and Safety in a Pandemic Environment

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – Federal and territorial partners focused on movement of patients in a pandemic environment during a rehearsal of concept exercise earlier this month at the Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital & Medical Center in Christiansted. Exercise participants reviewed the territory’s movement and tracking of hospital patients with a focus on safety.

The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Health and Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency led the three-hour exercise with planning support from FEMA. Exercise participants assessed coordination for interisland or inter-facility patient movement with a scenario focused on a surge of COVID-19 patients.

Exercise objectives focused on:

• Validation of planning through discussion of the Territory’s Patient Movement Annex for the Territorial Operational Plan.
• Assess inter-facility and interisland coordination to support movement of COVID-19 positive patients.
• Identification of potential safety, resource, and supply chain challenges that may arise when transferring infectious patients between islands.

“The unified approach displayed during the patient movement exercise will strengthen the territory’s capability of moving patients between islands to support life-sustaining treatments for Virgin Islanders. Continuous collaboration between the hospitals, VITEMA, the Department of Health and private-sector partners will help close the gaps with patient movement coordination. We will continue to support the territory with planning and technical resources to help Virgin Islanders at their greatest times of need,” said FEMA U.S. Virgin Islands Caribbean Area Office Coordinator Mark A. Walters.

Participants from the Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital & Medical Center and Schneider Regional Medical Center focused on metrics of when to move patients between hospitals or medical facilities and looked at resources available for life-sustaining treatments. Real-world masking and social distancing requirements were used during the exercise.

“The Department of Health is committed to ensuring continued collaboration between Health, Hospitals, and Human Services during the current surge of hospitalizations and the potential need to share resources within the territory. This, of course can only be done with our local government, federal and private partners,” said U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion, RN.

Public and private sector partners for the exercise included:

• The Virgin Islands National Guard, U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Human Services, Virgin Islands Port Authority, U.S. Virgin Islands Fire Service, U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Justice, Virgin Islands Transportation, U.S. Health and Human Services, Pafford Medical Services and AeroMD.

"This opportunity to go come together both in person and virtually with all the agencies responsible for the safe movement of COVID-19 patients -- local government, the federal government, and private sector -- demonstrates the serious threat to the territory and the importance of constant coordination and adjustments in protocols,” said VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen. “I want to thank all representatives for their involvement and open discussions," said Director Jaschen.

The increase of COVID-19 patients at the territory’s hospitals emphasizes the importance of following the Department of Health’s guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19. Continue to practice social distancing, wear a mask when in company of others outside of those in your household, clean frequently used areas thoroughly, and wash your hands often with soap and warm water.

• Learn more about the territory’s COVID-19 response at www.covid19usvi.com .

Getting the COVID-19 vaccine can prevent severe illness and death. To schedule an appointment, please call (340) 777-8227 or visit covid19usvi.com/vaccines. Walk-ins are also accepted at the territory’s two Community Vaccination Centers.

St. Croix’s Community Vaccination Center is located at the Nissan Center on St. Croix, which is in La Grande Princesse, adjacent to the Honda Dealership and The Paint Shop, on the same side of the street as Food Town.

On St. Thomas, the Community Vaccination Center is located at the Community Health Clinic on the second floor at the Schneider Regional Medical Center.

Federal and territorial partners conduct a Patient Movement Rehearsal of Concept Tabletop Exercise earlier this month at the Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital & Medical Center on St. Croix. FEMA, the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Health and Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency sponsored the exercise. Exercise participants focused on patient movement, tracking and safety. FEMA/Mark A. Walters

Federal and territorial partners conduct a Patient Movement Rehearsal of Concept Tabletop Exercise earlier this month at the Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital & Medical Center on St. Croix. FEMA, the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Health and Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency sponsored the exercise. Exercise participants focused on patient movement, tracking and safety. FEMA/Mark A. Walters

gina.callaghan Tue, 08/24/2021 - 17:19

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Tennessee

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Tennessee to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storm and flooding on Aug. 21, 2021.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Humphreys County. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding is available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, under FEMA’s Public Assistance program in areas affected by severe storm and flooding in Humphreys County.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Myra M. Shird has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 or 1-800-462-7585 TTY.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 08/24/2021 - 12:40

FEMA Tracks Henri Effects in the Northeast

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is tracking the remnants of Henri, as it continues to bring heavy rainfall to portions of the Northeast and New England, which may lead to flash, urban and small stream flooding along with minor to isolated moderate river flooding.

Emergency and Major Declarations

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved an emergency declaration for the state of Rhode Island on Saturday and for the state of Connecticut, the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe and the states of New York and Vermont on Sunday.  The President’s action authorizes FEMA to provide and coordinate all disaster relief efforts, including using equipment, staff and other resources to save lives, protect property and provide funding for evacuation and sheltering.

FEMA staff are also working with Tennessee Emergency Management Agency to ensure the state has all federal resources necessary as search and rescue efforts continue in areas affected by the tragic flooding this weekend. Administrator Criswell held a call last night with Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee to discuss the state’s needs.

FEMA contines working with its federal, state and local partners as well as non-governmental agencies to support needs of areas affected by Henri. The agency has supplies such as meals, water and generators to assist states with impacts from this system. FEMA’s Incident Management Assistance Teams and liaison officers are in place. Other teams remain on standby for deployment if necessary.

Residents and visitors to these areas are encouraged to remain vigilant to continuing threats from this storm, including high rainfall totals and extended power outages.

Download the free FEMA app (available in English and Spanish) to receive emergency alerts and real-time safety notifications, emergency preparedness tips and disaster resources. The app is available for Apple and Android devices. Visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov for tips to stay safe before, during and after a disaster.

Federal and Non-Governmental Organization Response

• Temporary Emergency Power Teams are in place to support state needs. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Energy reports that electric companies in the path of Henri activated their emergency response plans and continue to pre-position equipment, resources and thousands of mutual assistance workers from at least 31 states, the District of Columbia and Canada to assist in storm response as conditions allow. ​ 
• Mobile Emergency Response Support and Mobile Communications and Operation Vehicles have deployed to support communications needs as they arise.
• The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) search and rescue teams are prepared to help those in need following Henri. USCG is also tracking port conditions and will assess needs as conditions permit. 
• Urban Search and Rescue teams are deployed or standing by to support areas affected by Henri.
• The National Guard Bureau and Department of Defense have aircraft and high-water vehicles available in affected states.
• American Red Cross shelters remain open throughout the affected areas.

Report Damages and Stay Safe During Clean-Up

• Report your flood loss and damage immediately. Contact your insurance agent or carrier and be sure to ask them about advance payments. For help finding your insurance agent or carrier, call the National Flood Insurance Program at 877-336-2627.
• Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.

Stay Safe During Power Outages

• Use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for emergency lighting. NEVER use candles during a blackout or power outage due to extreme risk of fire.
• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. A grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal burning devices should never be used inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. These should only be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. 
• Use a generator safely. Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open.
• Keep generators outside and far away from your home. Windows, doors and vents could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors. Read both the label on your generator and the owner's manual and follow the instructions.
• Power Outages can impact the safety of food in your refrigerator and freezer.
  • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep your food as fresh as possible. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Use coolers with ice if necessary.
  • Throw away any food that has been exposed to a temperature of 40°Fahrenheit (4° Celsius) or higher for two hours or more or that has an unusual odor, color or texture. When in doubt, throw it out!
  • Never taste food or rely on appearance or odor to determine its safety. Some foods may look and smell fine, but if they have been at room temperature too long, heat-resistant bacteria that cause food-borne illnesses can start growing quickly.

Keep Yourself Safe Before and After Flooding

• Stay off the roads: Emergency workers will be assisting people in flooded areas. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.
• Check on neighbors who may require assistance if it is safe to do so. This includes individuals with infants, children as well as older adults, people with disabilities and others with access and functional need.
• Don’t drive through flood waters: Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
• Stay out of floodwater. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines or contain hazards such as human and livestock waste, dangerous debris, contaminates that can lead to illness, or wild or stray animals.

 

zella.campbell Mon, 08/23/2021 - 19:03

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts’ response efforts to the emergency conditions in the area affected by Tropical Storm Henri, beginning on Aug. 20 and continuing. 

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title V of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, to save lives, protect property, public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe for the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe.  

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency.  Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance and reimbursement for mass care including evacuation and shelter support, will be provided at 75% federal funding. This assistance is for the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe.

James R. McPherson has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected area.  

zella.campbell Mon, 08/23/2021 - 17:47

FEMA Seeks Public Comments on Proposed Changes to Community Rating System

WASHINGTON -- FEMA published a notice in the Federal Register today seeking public comment on the National Flood Insurance Program’s Community Rating System. This notice is to better align flood risk understanding and approaches and to incentivize communities to manage and lower their flood risk.

FEMA posted a Request for Information to gather public comment about ways for the agency to consider modifying, streamlining and creating innovative measures to improve the Community Rating System program. These efforts aim to help FEMA ensure that the program includes necessary, properly tailored and up-to-date requirements that effectively achieve these goals:

• Reducing and avoiding flood damage to property
• Supporting the insurance aspects of the National Flood Insurance Program
• Encouraging a comprehensive approach to floodplain management

The Community Rating System is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages floodplain management practices that exceed the minimum requirements in the National Flood Insurance Program. The agency is evaluating the Community Rating System’s potential to ongoing support of state, local, tribal and territorial community goals and needs around floodplain management. 

FEMA will host three public meetings to explain the proposed changes and how to provide information for public comment. Anyone interested may register online and attend a meeting on:

• Sept. 7, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. EDT
• Sept. 8, 1-3 p.m. EDT
• Sept. 9, 2-4 p.m. EDT

In addition, comments can be submitted from Aug. 23-Sept. 22 on the Federal Rulemaking Portal, Docket ID: FEMA-2021-0021. Please follow the instructions on the page for submitting comments and contact the Regulations.gov Help Desk if you have technical issues.

Visit FEMA.gov for more information.

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 08/23/2021 - 16:51

FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance State-by-State Breakdown

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has provided over $1.044 billion to nearly 159,000 people to assist with COVID-19-related funeral costs for deaths occurring on or after Jan. 20, 2020.

Eligibility determinations are not driven by state/location; instead, they are based on when the applicant submits all required documentation.

“Applications” in the below chart reflect the number of individuals who called to begin the assistance process.

Please find state-specific information below:

State/Territory

Applications

Amount Approved

Number of Awards

ALABAMA

5,853

$24,641,682

3,569

ALASKA

137

$385,697

68

AMERICAN SAMOA

Less than 10

$9,000

Less than 10

ARIZONA

4,416

$13,561,825

2,648

ARKANSAS

2,637

$10,489,295

1,647

CALIFORNIA

27,061

$102,740,013

15,803

COLORADO

2,031

$7,017,951

1,251

COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS

Less than 10

$4,344

Less than 10

CONNECTICUT

3,136

$14,847,131

2,136

DELAWARE

802

$2,824,668

449

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

508

$1,757,899

261

FLORIDA

15,313

$49,412,502

8,736

GEORGIA

9,712

$41,311,445

5,966

GUAM

13

$51,162

Less than 10

HAWAII

259

$831,609

141

IDAHO

552

$1,744,382

302

ILLINOIS

10,926

$47,464,239

6,935

INDIANA

4,570

$20,738,572

2,953

IOWA

2,260

$10,588,382

1,473

KANSAS

2,152

$9,178,696

1,402

KENTUCKY

3,450

$16,110,397

2,252

LOUISIANA

4,790

$20,086,000

2,928

MAINE

350

$1,055,833

193

MARYLAND

5,108

$21,376,882

3,169

MASSACHUSETTS

5,244

$23,584,690

3,384

MICHIGAN

8,803

$34,749,315

5,702

MINNESOTA

2,542

$12,197,121

1,760

MISSISSIPPI

4,191

$16,714,558

2,470

MISSOURI

4,768

$19,430,901

3,077

MONTANA

464

$1,228,376

237

NEBRASKA

1,122

$5,239,629

736

NEVADA

2,260

$6,820,269

1,233

NEW HAMPSHIRE

622

$2,400,348

401

NEW JERSEY

10,921

$47,449,378

6,845

NEW MEXICO

1,438

$3,740,454

729

NEW YORK

23,851

$94,784,920

13,682

NORTH CAROLINA

7,704

$32,387,892

4,859

NORTH DAKOTA

631

$2,716,757

364

OHIO

8,859

$38,584,016

5,971

OKLAHOMA

3,619

$15,400,123

2,394

OREGON

800

$2,355,380

444

PENNSYLVANIA

11,799

$51,442,620

7,814

PUERTO RICO

1,108

$1,993,766

555

RHODE ISLAND

1,066

$4,050,782

585

SOUTH CAROLINA

5,314

$23,760,876

3,422

SOUTH DAKOTA

671

$3,000,660

407

TENNESSEE

6,345

$28,707,577

4,153

TEXAS

23,441

$94,851,698

14,501

U. S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

27

$85,194

14

UTAH

1,010

$4,542,288

648

VERMONT

129

$516,897

86

VIRGINIA

5,648

$23,982,082

3,586

WASHINGTON

1,742

$5,384,142

970

WEST VIRGINIA

1,363

$5,169,563

757

WISCONSIN

4,096

$18,055,856

2,749

WYOMING

248

$911,066

159

* Funeral assistance data can/will change daily; the information reflects data as of 8 a.m. today.

Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. Please note, phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Applicants who use a relay service, such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, should provide FEMA with the specific number assigned to them for that service so that agency representatives are able to contact them.

Additional information about COVID-19 funeral assistance, including frequently asked questions, is available on FEMA.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 08/23/2021 - 16:51

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Vermont

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of Vermont to supplement state and local response efforts to the emergency conditions in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Henri, beginning on Aug. 22 and continuing. 

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title V of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, to save lives, protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe.  

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency.  Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, and reimbursement for mass care, including evacuation and shelter support, will be provided at 75% federal funding. This assistance is for Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties.

John F. Boyle has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected areas.     

zella.campbell Mon, 08/23/2021 - 15:01

ICYMI -- FEMA Administrator Urges Caution During Henri

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell appeared on FOX, CNN and MSNBC earlier today to encourage people to stay safe during Henri and discuss FEMA’s readiness to assist impacted states. FEMA’s Acting Associate Administrator for Response and Recovery, David Bibo, spoke with the Weather Channel about current storm conditions and response.

FEMA is closely monitoring Henri’s path and impacts. Though the storm’s wind strength is decreasing, the danger has not passed and life-threatening flooding is possible throughout the northeast.

“My biggest concern right now is that people might think the storm has passed, and they shouldn’t,” said Administrator Criswell this afternoon on Fox News.  “While we haven’t seen the winds we could’ve seen, we’re still seeing a lot of rain. It’s going to continue to go inland in areas that have already been saturated by rain over the last several weeks. People need to still stay vigilant and stay aware of their surroundings.”

She also told FOX News about FEMA’s current response efforts and capabilities.

“We already have close to 1,000 people in the region right now doing swift water rescue teams, liaisons … they are all pre-positioned,” said the administrator. "I have individuals in with every state’s emergency operations center. We are ready to respond right now as soon as we identify states’ needs.”

Administrator Criswell joined CNN to discuss the key threats posed by Henri.

“One of the things I’m concerned about … is the tree stability where we've had this massive amount of rain over the last few weeks and more rain coming. It means they're unstable. People need to be aware of their surroundings. They need to watch where the flooded roadways are,” Administrator Criswell said. “Don't drive in them. Don't walk in them. That water can be moving faster than they think. People need to be aware and keep themselves out of harm's way.”

The FEMA administrator also discussed the threat of climate change and FEMA’s response efforts with MSNBC.

“We are continuing to see the effects of climate change,” she said. “We are seeing more severe storms, more frequent, larger numbers of storms. It’s not going to end. Climate change is the crisis of our century right now, and we need to be prepared for that. We have put a lot of money, close to $5 billion available for hazard mitigation to help communities start to reduce the impacts from these events they might experience in the future.” This evening, Associate Administrator Bibo updated the Weather Channel on current weather conditions and whole-of-community hurricane response.

“What we know is that for the next 24-36 hours, people in southeastern New York, western Connecticut, Massachusetts, southern Vermont and New Hampshire really need to pay attention to Henri as it progresses slowly and dumps a lot of rain, because we will see persistent flash flood warnings. People need to pay attention and be prepared to head to high ground if flash flooding may affect them.”

He went on to highlight some of the resources prepared to assist in Henri response.

“The good news is we have a lot of resources ready to support the power restoration mission and that life-saving mission of swift water rescue, if that becomes necessary with the flooding. We’ve seen teams shared from New Jersey, Pennsylvania and the affected states that have been staged nearby in New England, and they are prepared to support throughout the affected area. FEMA has moved incident management assistant teams as well as meals, water, tarps, communications and vehicles to be ready to support the affected states, as Henri progresses over the next 24-36 hours.”

Pay attention to state and local officials for important safety information. For general response updates, visit FEMA.gov and download the FEMA app. Additional preparedness information can be found at Ready.gov.

zella.campbell Mon, 08/23/2021 - 00:27

FEMA, Other Federal Agencies Prepared for Henri

WASHINGTON -- FEMA continues monitoring Henri as it moves with high winds and flooding throughout the northeastern United States. Individuals in New England should continue to be vigilant for continued risks from Henri, including large rainfall totals and extended power outages.

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved emergency disaster declarations for Connecticut, New York and Rhode Island ahead of the storm’s landfall.  

"We've been working with state, local, tribal and federal partners to ready for this storm," said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. "We are ensuring all necessary supplies are ready to go, with personnel on the ground to respond as soon as needed." 

FEMA is ready to continue assisting states as they respond to and recover from Henri. The agency positioned supplies such as meals, water and generators throughout the affected areas, and FEMA staff are supporting multiple operations centers.  

Federal Agency Partners Working to Ensure Safety 

FEMA and other federal agencies are assisting and supporting state, local and non-governmental partners with supplies and logistics to address areas of need. Additional resources are deployed or on standby, including Urban Search and Rescue teams, temporary emergency power teams and mobile emergency communications and support resources. Actions include:  

• American Red Cross teams are working with communities across the northeast to open shelters and provide a safe place for people to go. Anyone staying in a Red Cross shelter is encouraged to bring prescription medications, extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies, other comfort items and important documents. Additionally, ensure you have items specific to your family’s needs, such as diapers for infants or batteries for hearing aids. To help keep everybody safe, everyone in a Red Cross emergency shelter is required to wear face coverings.  
• The U.S. Coast Guard 1st District Northeast, which covers Southeastern New England, set port conditions to Zulu status for all ports in the entire Southeastern New England region. While Zulu conditions are in place, no vessels may enter or transit within area ports without permission, and all vessel inventory is at a minimum. 
• The U.S. Department of Energy reports that thousands of power crews are pre-staged or en route to help with power restoration efforts throughout the northeast.  
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reports that New England District hurricane barriers in Stamford, Conn.; Fox Point, R.I.; and New Bedford, Mass. remain closed as staff continue monitoring Henri. 

Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont, Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Rhode Island Gov. Daniel McKee activated state National Guard troops to assist with response efforts

Stay Safe During Power Outages  

Henri is expected to cause widespread power outages in addition to flooding. Residents should be prepared for communications, water and transportation to be affected by these outages.  

Residents who experience power outages should:  

• Use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for emergency lighting. NEVER use candles during a blackout or power outage due to extreme risk of fire.  
• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. A grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal burning devices should never be used inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. These should only be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows.  
• Use a generator safely. Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open.  
• Keep generators outside and far away from your home. Windows, doors and vents could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors. Read both the label on your generator and the owner's manual and follow the instructions.  
• Power Outages can impact the safety of food in your refrigerator and freezer.  
  • Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep your food as fresh as possible. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Use coolers with ice if necessary.  
  • Throw away any food that has been exposed to a temperature of 40°Fahrenheit (4° Celsius) or higher for two hours or more or that has an unusual odor, color or texture. When in doubt, throw it out! 
  • Never taste food or rely on appearance or odor to determine its safety. Some foods may look and smell fine, but if they have been at room temperature too long, heat-resistant bacteria that cause food-borne illnesses can start growing quickly.  
• Check on neighbors who may require assistance, if it is safe to do so. This includes individuals with infants, children and  older adults, people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 

Download the FEMA app (available in English and Spanish) to receive emergency alerts and real-time safety notifications, emergency preparedness tips and disaster resources. The app is available for Apple and Android devices.  

zella.campbell Sun, 08/22/2021 - 20:22

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Connecticut

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of Connecticut to supplement state, tribal and local response efforts to the emergency conditions in the areas affected by Hurricane Henri, beginning on Aug. 21 and continuing. 

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title V of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, to save lives, protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe.  

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency.  Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, and reimbursement for mass care, including evacuation and shelter support, will be provided at 75% federal funding. This assistance is for Fairfield, Hartford, Litchfield, Middlesex, New Haven, New London, Tolland and Windham counties and the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe and the Mohegan Tribe of Indians of Connecticut.

Robert V. Fogel has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected areas.  

zella.campbell Sun, 08/22/2021 - 14:19

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for New York

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of New York to supplement state, tribal and local response efforts to the emergency conditions in the areas affected by Tropical Storm Henri, beginning on Aug. 21 and continuing. 

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title V of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, to save lives, protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe.  

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize, and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency.  Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance and reimbursement for mass care including evacuation and shelter support, will be provided at 75% federal funding. This assistance is for Albany, Bronx, Broome, Chenango, Columbia, Delaware, Dutchess, Greene, Kings, Montgomery, Nassau, New York, Orange, Otsego, Putnam, Queens, Rensselaer, Richmond, Rockland, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Suffolk, Sullivan and Westchester counties.

Lai Sun Yee has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected areas.  

zella.campbell Sun, 08/22/2021 - 14:12

President Joseph R. Biden Jr., Approves Emergency Declaration for Rhode Island

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of Rhode Island to supplement state, tribal and local response efforts to the emergency conditions in the area affected by Hurricane Henri, beginning on Aug. 20 and continuing.

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts with the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title V of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, to save lives, protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe.  

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency.  Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance and reimbursement for mass care including evacuation and shelter support will be provided at 75% federal funding. This assistance is for Bristol, Kent, Newport, Providence and Washington counties, and the Narragansett Indian Tribe.

Benjie Abbott has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected area.    

zella.campbell Sun, 08/22/2021 - 00:11

ICYMI – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell Urges Preparedness for Hurricane Henri

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell appeared on Good Morning America, CNN and MSNBC to encourage people to prepare for Hurricane Henri and discuss FEMA’s readiness to assist northeastern states that may be impacted by the storm.

FEMA is closely monitoring Hurricane Henri, has staged resources in various regions and remains in coordination with partners across the interagency to best support states in the storm’s path.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell joined Good Morning America urging people to stay informed ahead of this storm and prepare to be without power.

“The first thing everybody needs to do is stay vigilant,” she said. “You need to listen to your local responders. You need to listen to your local officials and take their advice of what they're asking you to do. This area has seen a lot of rain over the past several weeks, so I’m concerned about the stability of the trees. We probably will see several trees go down, which is going to lead to power outages across the area.”

Administrator Criswell then joinedMSNBC’s Medhi Hasan to discuss the agency’s readiness efforts.

“We've been coordinating with our states for several days now, as we watched the path of this storm. We have moved a lot of resources into the area,” she said. “Things like food and water, generators. We have swift water rescue teams in the region. We are prepared and in place, ready to respond to the needs of the impacted states.”

Administrator Criswell then told CNN’s Christi Paul about commodities and resources available and urging residents in the area to be prepared to help their communities following the storm.

“We have been in contact with all of the states that are in the path of this storm. We know what their preparedness actions are, and we've also begun moving resources into this area,” Criswell said. Things like food, water, generators, some of our incident management assistance teams to help lead the coordination after the threat has passed. We have them strategically placed across the region, so we can respond quickly after the storm has passed.

zella.campbell Sat, 08/21/2021 - 21:01

FEMA Urges Preparedness Now for Hurricane Henri

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is urging preparation ahead of Hurricane Henri, expected to make landfall tomorrow in Long Island, New York, or the southern New England coast.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather Service National Hurricane Center has issued a hurricane warning, as conditions are expected to begin late tonight or Sunday in portions of Connecticut and Long Island, New York. Storm surge watches are in effect for portions of Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

Storm surge could be up to 5 feet in areas from coastal New Jersey to Cape Cod Bay in Massachusetts. Heavy rainfall may result in flash, urban and small stream flooding.

Anyone in the forecast path of the storm should monitor their local news for updates and directions provided by their local officials and heed local evacuation orders. Gather Supplies for your entire household now. Include medication, disinfectant supplies, face masks and pet supplies. After a hurricane, you may not have access to these supplies for several days.

FEMA is positioning supplies such as meals, water and generators to assist states anticipating impacts from Hurricane Henri. FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams and liaison officers are in place, while other teams are on standby by for deployment if necessary.

Download the FEMA app (available in English and Spanish) to receive emergency alerts and real-time safety notifications, emergency preparedness tips and disaster resources. The app is available for Apple and Android devices

Prepare to Evacuate if Ordered

• Storm Path: Hurricanes and tropical storms can produce high winds and heavy rains far from the storm’s center. Focus on the storm’s impact, not the predicted storm path. Now is the time to prepare for severe weather.
• Evacuating: If you are in potentially affected areas, you should be familiar with evacuation routes, have a family emergency communications plan, keep a battery-powered radio handy and have plans for your family members and pets.
• Personal Safety: Evacuate if told to do so. If you go to a community or group shelter, remember to follow the latest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for protecting yourself and family from COVID-19.

Be Prepared for Power Outages Before and After the

• Use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for emergency lighting. NEVER use candles during a blackout or power outage, due to extreme risk of fire.
• Avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. A grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal burning device should never be used inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. These should only be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. 
• Use a generator safely. Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open.
• Keep generators outside and far away from your home. Windows, doors and vents could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors. Read both the label on your generator and the owner's manual and follow the instructions.

Keep Yourself Safe Before and After Flooding 

• Don’t drive through flood waters: Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• If you are a person with disabilities, you may need to take additional steps to plan for the needs of yourself and your service animal if you have one. Visit Ready.gov/flooding to learn how to stay safe before, during and after a flood.
• Stay out of floodwater. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines or contain hazards such as human and livestock waste, dangerous debris, contaminates that can lead to illness, or wild or stray animals.
• Flood Insurance: Your National Flood Insurance Program policy will cover and reimburse certain actions you take to minimize damage to your home and belongings before a flood.

What to do if Your Home has Been Damaged by a Flood 

• Report your flood loss and damage immediately: Contact to your insurance agent or carrier and be sure to ask them about advance payments. Call the National Flood Insurance Program at 877-336-2627 to find your insurance agent or carrier.

Visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov to learn how you can keep yourself, your family and your pets safe.

 

zella.campbell Sat, 08/21/2021 - 18:32

FEMA Urges Preparedness Ahead of Tropical Storm Henri

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is tracking Tropical Storm Henri as it approaches the northeast, set to make landfall over the weekend. Now is the time to prepare for severe weather.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Weather Service National Hurricane Center forecasts Henri will reach the northeast coast on Sunday. The risk of storm surge, wind and rain impacts in portions of coastal New York and southern southern New England are increasing, and hurricane and storm surge watches are in effect for portions of Connecticut, Massachusetts, New York and Rhode Island.

Storm surge could be up to 4 feet in areas, along with heavy rainfall, which may result in flash, urban and small stream flooding.

Anyone in the forecast path of the storm should monitor their local news for updates and directions provided by their local officials and heed local evacuation orders.

FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams and state liaison officers are on standby for deployment if necessary. 

Download the free FEMA app (available in English and Spanish) to receive emergency alerts and real-time safety notifications, emergency preparedness tips and disaster resources. The app is available for Apple and Android devices.

Prepare for flooding and be prepared to evacuate if ordered to do so

• Flood Insurance: Your National Flood Insurance Program policy will cover and reimburse certain actions you take to minimize damage to your home and belongings before a flood.
• Gather Supplies: Have enough supplies for your household. Include medication, disinfectant supplies, face masks and pet supplies. After a hurricane, you may not have access to these supplies for days or weeks.
• Don’t drive through flood waters: Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Personal Safety: Evacuate if told to do so. If you go to a community or group shelter, remember to follow the latest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for protecting yourself and family from COVID-19.
• Evacuating: If you are in potentially affected areas, you should be familiar with evacuation routes, have a family emergency communications plan, keep a battery-powered radio handy and have plans for your family members and pets. If you are a person with disabilities, you may need to take additional steps to plan for both your needs and your service animal. 

Visit Ready.gov or listo.gov to learn how you can keep yourself, your family and your pets safe.

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 08/20/2021 - 20:47

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Schneider Springs Fire in Washington

BOTHELL, Wash.  -  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Schneider Springs Fire burning in Yakima County, Washington.

The state of Washington’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Acting Administrator Vincent Maykovich on Thursday, Aug. 19, 2021, at 6:25 p.m. PT. He determined that the Schneider Springs Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the eighth FMAG declared in 2021 to help fight Washington wildfires.

At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of Nile and Cliffdell. The fire also threatened critical communications infrastructure as well as fishing streams and spawning sites for threatened species.

FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair, and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials, and supplies. This authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.

In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $778,778 will be available to Washington through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area. 

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Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

hannah.weinstein Fri, 08/20/2021 - 20:20

FEMA Awards $20.4 Million for Hurricane Irma Recovery in Florida

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has awarded grants totaling $20,411,469 for the State of Florida to reimburse applicants for emergency response, administrative costs and repairs following Hurricane Irma in 2017. ­ ­

The FEMA Public Assistance program grants include:

• St. Johns County: $10,266,521 for emergency measures taken to protect life and property, including the cost of replacing more than 340,000 cubic yards of lost beach sand and the construction of an emergency beach berm along the coast. 

• Florida Department of Transportation: $5,802,235 for administrative costs of tracking and accounting for labor, equipment, materials and other expenses after the storm.  

• The Quarry Community Development District: $4,342,713 for repairs to water control facilities in Boulder and Stone Lakes and reducing shoreline erosion caused by severe flooding, high winds and storm surge.

The program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including some houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

The federal share for Public Assistance projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the nonfederal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with subrecipients such as local and county governments.

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                        FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters

Nadine.Jones Fri, 08/20/2021 - 17:55

FEMA Approves Additional $6.9M to PowerSouth Energy Cooperative for Hurricane Michael Recovery Expenses

PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved an additional $6,971,729 to the state of Florida to reimburse PowerSouth Energy Cooperative for Hurricane Michael-related recovery expenses.

Repairs to the PowerSouth generation and transmission system have been completed. It includes more than 2,000 miles of 46 kV and 115 kV electrical transmission line and nearly 300 substations. Funds from FEMA’s Public Assistance program will be used to reimburse PowerSouth for work completed, which includes the removing and replacing of 222 poles, replumbing of 101 poles, providing 108 cubic yards of gravel fill and the clearing of 801 acres of vegetative debris from access roads and rights of way.

This reimbursement brings FEMA’s total amount of grants for the energy cooperative's Hurricane Michael-related expenses to $8,107,003.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the program and reviews projects prior to FEMA final approval.

Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to FDEM after final approval.

Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to finalize grants and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

Kimberly.Kipp Fri, 08/20/2021 - 16:10