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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of Florida to supplement the state, tribal and local response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Tropical Storm Ian beginning Sept. 23 and continuing.

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance, to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Collier, Desoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lee, Manatee, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Okeechobee, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota, and St. Lucie counties and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

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, under the public assistance program, will be provided at 75% federal funding.

Thomas J. McCool has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area.

mashana.davis Sun, 09/25/2022 - 02:22

Puerto Rico Residents Encouraged to Register for Federal Assistance

San Juan, Puerto Rico – Hurricane Fiona disaster survivors in Puerto Rico are encouraged to register for federal disaster assistance with FEMA. Survivors may register for assistance even if they applied for assistance for Hurricane María, the earthquakes and any other presidentially declared disaster in Puerto Rico.

Individuals, including homeowners and renters, who suffered damage or loss due to Hurricane Fiona in the following municipalities may register for assistance now:

Adjuntas, Arecibo, Aguas Buenas, Aibonito, Añasco, Arroyo, Barceloneta, Barranquitas, Bayamón, Cabo Rojo, Caguas, Canóvanas, Carolina, Cataño, Cayey, Ceiba, Ciales, Cidra, Coamo, Comerío, Corozal, Dorado, Fajardo, Florida, Guayama, Guayanilla, Guaynabo, Gurabo, Hormigueros, Humacao, Jayuya, Juana Díaz, Juncos, Lares, Las Piedras, Loíza, Luquillo, Manatí, Maricao, Maunabo, Mayagüez, Morovis, Naguabo, Naranjito, Orocovis, Patillas, Peñuelas, Ponce, Río Grande, Salinas, San Juan, San Lorenzo, Santa Isabel, Toa Alta, Toa Baja, Trujillo Alto, Utuado, Vega Alta, Vega Baja, Vieques, Villalba, Yabucoa and Yauco.

Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

Three Ways to Apply for Disaster Assistance

Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. These toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice; operators are standing by to assist survivors in multiple languages.

To expedite your registration, have the following information at hand:

• 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 to your home and personal property; and
• If insured, the insurance policy number, or the agent and company name.

If you have a homeowner’s or flood insurance policy, file your insurance claim immediately, before applying for federal assistance. The faster you file, the faster your recovery can begin.

Disaster assistance may provide temporary help and a place to stay while you build your recovery plan. Although the federal government cannot make you whole, it may be able to help your recovery move forward by providing grants for basic repairs to make your home safe, accessible and secure. FEMA is unable to duplicate insurance payments. However, those without insurance, or those who may be underinsured, may still receive help after their insurance claims have been settled.

manuel.deleon Sat, 09/24/2022 - 21:45

FEMA Continues Hurricane Fiona Response Efforts: Sept. 24 Updates

WASHINGTON -- On Sept. 21, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi's request for an expedited major disaster declaration. That declaration now authorizes FEMA to provide individual assistance to survivors in 63 municipalities and public assistance and hazard mitigation in all 78 Puerto Rico municipalities.

Five additional municipalities were added to the declaration on Sept. 23, allowing eligible survivors in Arecibo, Barceloneta, Cabo Rojo, Loíza and Manatí to apply for federal assistance. We have teams on the ground conducting damage assessments and using data obtained from satellites to expedite our review. More municipalities may be approved for Individual Assistance as assessments are completed and adjudicated.

Survivors who live in the 63 declared municipalities can apply for federal assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App. Survivors using a relay service, such as a video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, can give the FEMA operator the number for that service. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are in affected municipalities, conducting outreach and working to help survivors apply for assistance.

FEMA approved Critical Needs Assistance for disaster survivors who have immediate or critical needs because they are displaced from their primary dwelling. Immediate or critical needs are life-saving and life-sustaining items. This assistance is a one-time payment of $700 per household. Since declaration was approved, more than 168,000 survivors applied and FEMA has awarded $40 million as we continue to process applications.

FEMA is committed to making assistance available to all eligible applicants. The agency expanded the type of documentation needed to prove homeownership and occupancy, making it easier to apply for assistance. These include motor vehicle registrations, documentation from schools, federal or state benefit providers, social service organizations or court documents. Survivors with heirship properties, mobile homes or travel trailers who do not have the traditional documentation of ownership verification may also self-certify ownership.

Federal and partner actions to support areas affected by Hurricane Fiona

• FEMA and other federal agencies deployed more than 1,000 employees to Puerto Rico to support the response. This is in addition to 700 staff who live and work on the island and the hundreds of trained volunteers who also deployed to assist.
• Five FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams are in Puerto Rico to bolster response efforts. Additionally, Mobile Emergency Response Support, Incident Support Base, Staging Management Teams and Mobile Communication Office Vehicle operators are on the island.
• A Water Distribution Task Force with members from the federal and commonwealth government and private sector companies are coordinating water delivery to isolated communities.
• FEMA and the Puerto Rico Department of Housing (Vivienda) are developing a multi-agency Sheltering Transition Team plan to include actions for sheltering and housing resources.
• The Puerto Rico Emergency Management Bureau continues to provide support to communities and monitor commodity delivery to communities where road access may be limited.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration is making low-interest disaster loans available to residents, businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in eligible Puerto Rico municipalities. Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations, may apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster.
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is installing generators at critical facilities and preparing and staging additional generators to support requests. Additional personnel are conducting damage assessments in support of the commonwealth and federal response. USACE issued $30,000 in funding to support a team of engineers to assess federal projects and infrastructure and coastal areas for post-storm damages.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and USACE continue to assess drinking water and wastewater infrastructure.
• Mental health resources are available. Survivors experiencing emotional distress can call or text the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. The helpline is confidential, toll-free and multilingual crisis support.
• The American Red Cross is working closely with the local government to provide support. More than 200 trained Red Cross volunteers are assessing damage, delivering emergency supplies to shelters and have provided more than 900 households with emergency supplies.
• Non-profit organizations provided more than 125,000 meals and more than 60,000 pounds of other relief supplies to survivors.
• More than 590 Puerto Rico National Guard members are conducting search and rescue, commodity distribution, security operations and more. Additionally, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is supporting the island’s search and rescue response.
• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a Public Health Emergency and deployed an Incident Management Team and Health Incident Management Team.
• The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service approved a waiver to allow hot foods to be purchased with Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for one-week. Additionally, the USDA Food & Nutrition Service approved the use of USDA foods for congregate feeding for 2,500 at shelters.

Stay alert to continuing risks

• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
• 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 indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not participate in clean up.
• Use a generator safely. Keep generators far from your home. Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open as these could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
• Stay safe during extreme heat: Avoid strenuous work or exercise during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks.
• 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. Visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov to learn how you can keep yourself, your family, and your pets safe.

mashana.davis Sat, 09/24/2022 - 15:29

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

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Alaska to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm, flooding and landslides from Sept. 15-20.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in the Regional Educational Attendance Areas of Bering Strait, Kashunamiut, Lower Kuskokwim and Lower Yukon.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. 

Federal funding also is available to state, tribal, and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures in the Regional Educational Attendance Areas of Bering Strait, Kashunamiut, Lower Kuskokwim and Lower Yukon.

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

Timothy Manner has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date.

zella.campbell Sat, 09/24/2022 - 14:37

Five Additional Municipalities Affected by Hurricane Fiona Can Now Apply for FEMA Assistance

San Juan, Puerto Rico – On Sept. 23, President Biden made federal funding available to affected individuals in five additional municipalities in Puerto Rico, Arecibo, Barceloneta, Cabo Rojo, Loíza and Manatí to supplement territorial and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Fiona. 

Residents in 63 municipalities who suffered damage to their homes or personal property may register for disaster assistance with FEMA. Additional municipalities may be made added a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.  Hurricane Fiona disaster survivors in Puerto Rico are encouraged to register for federal disaster assistance with FEMA. Survivors may register for assistance even if they applied for assistance for Hurricane María, the earthquakes and any other presidentially declared disaster in Puerto Rico. 

Individuals, including homeowners and renters, who suffered damage or losses due to Hurricane Fiona in a disaster declared area may register for assistance now. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. Three Ways to Apply for Disaster Assistance Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.  

manuel.deleon Sat, 09/24/2022 - 12:56

Free Rebuilding and Repair Tips in Martin and Whitley Counties

FRANKFORT, Ky. – As Kentuckians recover, survivors of the July 26 flooding can get tips and advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms.

FEMA mitigation specialists will be on hand in Martin and Whitley counties to answer questions and offer home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters. This information is geared for do-it-yourself work and general contractors.

Mitigation is an effort to reduce the loss of life and property damage by lessening the impact of disaster. These mitigation specialists will be available Monday, Sept. 26, through Saturday, Oct. 1, at the following locations:

 

Martin County – Evans Hardware, 631 E. Main St., Inez, KY 41224

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

 

Whitley County – Bryant & Son True Value Hardware, 372 S. Fifth St.,     Williamsburg, KY 40769

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Saturday 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

 

Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can call 800-621-3362,  go online to disasterassistance.gov, or use the FEMA mobile app to register for disaster assistance or look up the status of their disaster assistance application. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

For the latest information on Kentucky flooding recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663 and follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4.

sandra.habib Fri, 09/23/2022 - 18:49

Apply Today, Disaster Assistance Deadline is One Week Away

OKLAHOMA CITY—Oklahoma residents affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that occurred May 2-8 have one week remaining to apply for federal assistance. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, Sept. 28.

Federal assistance may help eligible survivors pay for rent, home repair or replacement and many other disaster-related needs, including vehicle repair or replacement, funeral expenses, medical or dental expenses and other costs associated with recovery from a disaster.

If you have not applied for federal assistance, there are several ways to apply.

• Log onto DisasterAssistance.gov to submit your application for disaster assistance. The website is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a video relay service, captioned telephone service, or other communication services, please provide FEMA the specific number assigned for that service. Lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT, seven days a week.
• Visit the Disaster Recovery Center in Seminole County. The DRC is located at:

Seminole State College

David L. Boren Library Room 105

2701 Boren Blvd.

Seminole, OK 74868

Hours: Monday-Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Closed Saturday and Sunday.

For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4657. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6.

amy.ashbridge Fri, 09/23/2022 - 18:29

FEMA Continues Hurricane Fiona Response Efforts: Sept. 23 Updates

WASHINGTON -- President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional assistance available to the Government of Puerto Rico Sept. 22. During a briefing on Puerto Rico’s response activities at FEMA’s Region 2 office in New York City, the President announced 100% federal funding for debris removal and emergency protective measures for 30 days. He also announced three additional municipalities, Añasco, Hormigueros and Mayagüez, are now eligible for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program, allowing more survivors to apply for federal assistance.  

On Sept. 21, President Biden, approved Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi’s request for an expedited major disaster declaration. The declaration now authorizes FEMA to provide individual assistance to survivors in 58 municipalities, and public assistance and hazard mitigation in all 78 Puerto Rico municipalities.

FEMA surged hundreds of employees to Puerto Rico to support the response. This is in addition to 700 staff who live and work on the island. We have teams on the ground conducting damage assessments and are also using data obtained from flyers and satellites to expedite our review. More municipalities can be approved for Individual Assistance as those assessments are completed and adjudicated.

Survivors who live in the 58 declared municipalities can apply for federal assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App. Survivors using a relay service, such as a video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, can give the FEMA operator the number for that service. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are in affected municipalities and are conducting outreach and working to help survivors apply for assistance.

Federal and Partner Actions to Support Areas Affected by Hurricane Fiona

• Five FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams and four Urban Search and Rescue teams are in Puerto Rico to bolster response efforts. Additionally, Mobile Emergency Response Support, Incident Support Base, Staging Management Teams and Mobile Communication Office Vehicle operators are on the island. Disaster Emergency Communications are repairing the La Santa Communication Tower in Humacao.
• Water Distribution Task Force, federal, commonwealth and private sector members are coordinating water delivery to isolated communities.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration is making low-interest disaster loans available to residents, businesses and most private nonprofit organizations in eligible Puerto Rico municipalities. Small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations, may apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster.
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is installing generators at critical facilities and preparing and staging additional generators to support requests. Additional personnel are conducting damage assessments in support of the commonwealth and federal response. USACE issued $30,000 in funding that will support deploying a team of engineers to assess federal projects and infrastructure and coastal areas for post-storm damages.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and USACE continue to assess drinking water and wastewater infrastructure.
• The U.S. Department of Education is assessing damage and needs of schools on the island.
• Mental health resources are available. Survivors experiencing emotional distress can call or text the SAMHSA Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990 to connect with a trained crisis counselor. The helpline is confidential, toll-free and multilingual crisis support.
• The American Red Cross is working closely with the local government to provide support. More than 200 trained Red Cross volunteers are assessing damage, delivering emergency supplies to shelters and have provided more than 700 households with emergency supplies.
• The Salvation Army is distributing hot meals to survivors on the island.
• More than 550 Puerto Rico National Guard members are conducting search and rescue, commodity distribution, security operations and more. Additionally, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is supporting the island’s search and rescue response.  
• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a Public Health Emergency, and also deployed an Incident Management Team, Health Incident Management Team, Disaster Medical Assistance personnel and three medical support teams to aid Urban Search and Rescue operations.
• The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service approved a waiver to allow hot foods to be purchased with Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for one-week. Additionally, the USDA Food & Nutrition Service approved the use of USDA foods for congregate feeding for 2,500 at shelters.

Stay Alert to Continuing Risks

• Avoid downed power lines: Do not touch or drive over downed power lines. Always assume a downed power line is unsafe and contact the power company and emergency personnel.  
• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded: Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
• Use a generator safely: Keep generators far from your home. Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open as these could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
• Stay safe during extreme heat: Avoid strenuous work or exercise during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks.
• 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. Visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov to learn how you can keep yourself, your family, and your pets safe.

amy.ashbridge Fri, 09/23/2022 - 14:23

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Puerto Rico Disaster Declaration

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional assistance available to the Government of Puerto Rico to supplement territorial and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Fiona, beginning Sept. 17 and continuing.

This approval allows for 100% retroactive federal funding to cover debris removal, emergency protective measures and direct federal assistance for a period of 30 days from the incident period.

The President's action also makes federal funding available to affected individuals in three additional municipalities within Puerto Rico--Añasco, Hormigueros and Mayagüez. The original 55 municipalities can be found here.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

You can apply for disaster assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

mashana.davis Fri, 09/23/2022 - 00:12

FEMA Updates Flood Maps in Alpine County

OAKLAND, Calif. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has delivered preliminary flood maps for Alpine County. The maps identify revised flood hazards along Bear Creek, Bloods Creek and the West Fork of the Carson River. These new maps will help building officials, contractors and homeowners make effective mitigation decisions, thereby contributing to safer and more disaster resilient communities.

Before the new Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) become effective, there is a 90-day appeal period from Sep. 23 to Dec. 22. During that time, residents or businesses with supporting technical and scientific information, such as detailed hydraulic or hydrologic data, can appeal the flood risk information on the preliminary maps. The preliminary maps can be viewed at fema.gov/preliminaryfloodhazarddata.

Flood hazards are dynamic and change frequently for many reasons, including weather patterns, erosion and community development. Officials from FEMA and Alpine County worked together to provide updated information that accurately reflects the flood risk. These changes may also affect future building standards or insurance requirements.

The local mapping project is part of a national effort led by FEMA to increase local knowledge of flood risks and support actions to address and reduce the effects of flooding on new and improved structures. FEMA encourages residents to review the preliminary flood maps to learn about local flood risks, potential future flood insurance requirements and identify any concerns or questions about the information provided.

Risk of flooding affects almost every corner of the nation. In total, 98% of counties have experienced a flood event, which makes floods the most common and widespread of all weather-related natural disasters.

For more information on changes in the county and unincorporated areas, contact Alpine County at (530) 694-2140 or sbooth@alpinecountyca.gov.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9.

robert.barker Thu, 09/22/2022 - 20:21

Announcement of Initial Public Notice for DR-4665-MO

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) hereby gives notice to the public of its intent to provide financial assistance to the State of Missouri, local governments in the state, and private nonprofit organizations as a result of damage caused by July 2022 storms and flooding.

FEMA is also giving public notice that, in some cases, it may provide financial assistance for activities that may affect historic properties, may be located in or affect wetland areas or the 100-year floodplain, and/or may involve critical actions within the 500-year floodplain.

This notice applies to the Individual Assistance (IA), Public Assistance (PA), and Hazard Mitigation Grant (HMGP) programs implemented under the authority of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, as amended.

The public notice for the Missouri recovery mission is posted on the following websites: https://sema.dps.mo.gov/programs/documents/dr-4665-fema-public-notice.pdf https://www.fema.gov/disaster-federal-register-notice/initial-public-notice-fema-4665-dr-mo

tiana.suber Thu, 09/22/2022 - 20:02

FEMA Awards Nearly $3 Million to Keene State College for COVID Testing

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $3 million to the State of New Hampshire to reimburse Keene State College for the cost of providing testing for students and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,955,360 FEMA Public Assistance grant to the public liberal arts college in Keene will reimburse it for contracting to provide 27,099 COVID-19 tests between July and October 2020.

The college also paid an additional $20 test setup administration fee for 12,273 individuals to cover the costs of registration, set ups, testing coordination, and the system to provide test results.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Keene State College with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our institutions of higher education to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $161 million in Public Assistance grants to New Hampshire to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Thu, 09/22/2022 - 15:47

FEMA Awards UVM Medical Center Almost $1.7 Million For COVID Expenses

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $1.7 million to the State of Vermont to reimburse the University of Vermont Medical Center  for additional costs incurred responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,696,755 Public Assistance grant will go to the multi-campus academic medical facility that is part of the University of Vermont Health Network for the additional costs of operating in a pandemic environment between May 2020 and September 2021.

The grant covers the cost of having employees perform activities in seven locations for safe opening and operation, including distribution of face masks or personal protective equipment and pre-screening of patients, families, employees, and other visitors for potential COVID symptoms before granting entry into designated sites.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the University of Vermont Medical Center with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. So far, FEMA has provided almost $394 million in grants to Vermont to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Thu, 09/22/2022 - 15:27

Revised Preliminary Flood Maps for Victoria County, Texas, Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Revised Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in portions of the City of Victoria and unincorporated areas of Victoria County, Texas.

Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the appeal and comment periods for the maps.

For this Physical Map Revision, the FIRMs for Victoria County serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development and flood insurance.

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas.

Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting the local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify community FPAs. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

amy.ashbridge Thu, 09/22/2022 - 15:15

FEMA Continues Hurricane Fiona Response Efforts

WASHINGTON -- On Sept. 21, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved Puerto Rico Gov. Pedro Pierluisi’s request for an expedited major disaster declaration. The declaration authorizes FEMA to provide individual assistance to survivors in 55 municipalities and public assistance in all 78 Puerto Rico municipalities.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and Gov. Pierluisi will brief President Biden today on Fiona’s impacts and the ongoing federal response. FEMA will work with Puerto Rico officials to begin damage assessments in the coming days to determine additional support to survivors and communities.

FEMA’s priorities are to support lifesaving and life-sustaining actions, including restoration of power and water systems. FEMA surged hundreds of employees to Puerto Rico to support the response. This is in addition to 700 staff who live and work on the island.

Disaster survivors who live in the 55 declared municipalities can apply for federal assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App. Survivors using a relay service, such as a video relay service (VRC), captioned telephone service or others, can give the FEMA operator the number for that service.

Federal and Partner Actions to Support Areas Affected by Hurricane Fiona

• Five FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams and five Urban Search and Rescue teams are in Puerto Rico to bolster response efforts. Additionally, Mobile Emergency Response Support, Incident Support Base, Staging Management Teams and Mobile Communication Office Vehicle operators are on the island.
• A FEMA-sponsored State Supplemental Response Team is expected to arrive today.
• Water Distribution Task Force, federal, commonwealth and private sector members are coordinating water delivery to isolated communities.
• FEMA prepositioned supplies on the island including four strategically located warehouses throughout the island, more than 7 million liters of water, more than 4 million ready-to-eat meals, more than 215 generators, more than 100,000 tarps, more than 28,000 plastic covers and more than 10,300 cots and other emergency supplies.
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers team management and temporary emergency power teams are in Puerto Rico. A joint generator task force was established to prioritize generator requirements.
• FEMA mental and counseling health resources are available to our FEMA personnel many of whom are survivors themselves and from the island. Mental health resources are available to the broader Puerto Rico community, many who are being retraumatized given that Maria was just five years ago. 
• The American Red Cross is working closely with the local government to provide support where needed. More than 190 trained Red Cross volunteers are assessing damage and delivering emergency supplies to shelters where possible.
• U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Routine non-criminal immigration enforcement operations will not be conducted at evacuation sites, or assistance centers such as shelters or food banks. The laws will not be suspended, and we will be vigilant against any effort by criminals to exploit disruptions caused by the storm.
• More than 450 members of the Puerto Rico National Guard are assisting the Puerto Rico government's response by conducting search and rescue, commodity distribution, security operations and more. Additionally, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is supporting the island’s search and rescue response.  
• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a public health emergency, giving the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services beneficiaries and their health care providers and suppliers greater flexibility in meeting emergency health needs. The department also deployed an Incident Management Team, a Health Incident Management Team and Disaster Medical Assistance personnel.
• The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service approved a waiver for the Puerto Rico Department of the Family to allow hot foods to be purchased with Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for one week. Additionally, the USDA Food & Nutrition Service approved the Puerto Rico Department of Education application to use USDA Foods for congregate feeding for 2,500 at shelters for five days, starting Sept. 21.

Stay Alert to Continuing Risks

• Avoid downed power lines: Do not touch or drive over downed power lines. Always assume a downed power line is unsafe and contact the power company and emergency personnel.  
• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded: Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
• Use a generator safely: Keep generators far from your home. Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open as these could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
• Stay safe during extreme heat: Avoid strenuous work or exercise during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks.
• 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. Visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov to learn how you can keep yourself, your family, and your pets safe.

amy.ashbridge Thu, 09/22/2022 - 15:15

FEMA Awards Almost $1.9 Million to Wentworth Institute of Technology for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $1.9 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Wentworth Institute of Technology for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $1,884,792 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private technology and engineering university in Boston for the cost of administering 60,789 tests between January and June 2021, including setting up a testing trailer and contracting for staff.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the Wentworth Institute of Technology with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our institutions of higher education to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided nearly $1.3 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Thu, 09/22/2022 - 15:14

FEMA Awards More Than $4 Million to Boston College for COVID-19 Testing Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $4 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Boston College for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $4,055,605 in Public Assistance grants will reimburse the private Jesuit research university in Chestnut Hill for the cost of administering 195,435 tests between August 2020 and January 2022.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Boston College with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our institutions of higher education to combat the COVID-19 pandemic is critical to their success, and to our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided nearly $1.3 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Thu, 09/22/2022 - 14:13

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

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico to supplement territorial and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Fiona beginning Sept. 17 and continuing.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in 55 municipalities within the Commonwealth including Adjuntas, Aguas Buenas, Aibonito, Arroyo, Barranquitas, Bayamón, Caguas, Canóvanas, Carolina, Cataño, Cayey, Ceiba, Ciales, Cidra, Coamo, Comerío, Corozal, Dorado, Fajardo, Florida, Guayama, Guayanilla, Guaynabo, Gurabo, Humacao, Jayuya, Juana Díaz, Juncos, Lares, Las Piedras, Luquillo, Maricao, Maunabo, Morovis, Naguabo, Naranjito, Orocovis, Patillas, Peñuelas, Ponce, Río Grande, Salinas, San Juan, San Lorenzo, Santa Isabel, Toa Alta, Toa Baja, Trujillo Alto, Utuado, Vega Alta, Vega Baja, Vieques, Villalba, Yabucoa and Yauco.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

You can apply for disaster assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

Public assistance federal funding is available to the Commonwealth, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations for all 78 municipalities for debris and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance.

All municipalities in the Commonwealth are also eligible to apply for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.

Thomas J. Fargione has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date.

zella.campbell Thu, 09/22/2022 - 02:32

Two Disaster Recovery Centers Close Next Week, and Four Recovery Centers Remain Open

Two FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers will close permanently next week. The four other recovery centers will remain open to help people directly affected by the July 25-28 flooding and severe storms.

Recovery centers closing next week:

ST. CHARLES COUNTY

O’Fallon Municipal Centre

100 N. Main St.

O’Fallon, MO 63366

Closes permanently at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, September 28

ST. LOUIS CITY

Salvation Army Temple Center

2740 Arsenal St.

St. Louis, MO 63118

(Near the corner of Arsenal and California)

Closes permanently at 5 p.m. on Saturday, October 1

Four recovery centers will remain open:  

ST. LOUIS CITY

Ranken Technical College

Mary Ann Lee Technology Center

1313 N. Newstead Ave.

St. Louis, MO 63113

(Near the corner of Newstead and Page)

ST. LOUIS COUNTY

Urban League Empowerment Center

9420 W. Florissant Ave.

Ferguson, MO 63136

(Closed September 21—22 for a previously-scheduled event) University City Recreation Division

Centennial Commons

7210 Olive Blvd.

University City, MO 63130

Hazelwood Civic Center

8969 Dunn Road

Hazelwood, MO 63042

Recovery center hours are:

Monday – Friday, 8 a.m.– 6 p.m.

Saturday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Closed on Sundays

At the recovery centers, specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are providing information on available services, explaining assistance programs and helping survivors complete or check the status of their applications.  

• The FEMA application deadline is October 7.

• Apply with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-FEMA (3362).

• If you need help applying, FEMA can assist you at a Disaster Recovery Center.  
• No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Walk-ins are welcome.  
• People directly affected by flooding in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County may visit any recovery center for one-on-one help.

FEMA may be able to provide Individual Assistance grant money that does not have to be repaid for:

• Rental Assistance if you need to relocate because of flood damage
• Personal Property that was damaged or destroyed by flooding
• Lodging Reimbursement if you had to stay in a hotel temporarily
• Basic Home Repairs for homeowners whose primary residence was damaged by flooding
• Other Serious Needs caused by recent flooding

In addition to the assistance listed, please note the following:

• Only one application per household.
• FEMA does not pay for lost or spoiled food.
• By law, FEMA is not allowed to duplicate insurance payments or assistance provided by other sources.

Homeowners and Renters: After applying with FEMA, if you have been referred to SBA for a disaster loan, please complete and submit the application. Submitting the SBA application makes it possible for you to be considered for additional grants if you are turned down for an SBA loan.

If you qualify for a loan, you will have that resource available if you choose to accept it.

Help with your SBA application is available at any of the Disaster Recovery Centers.   

For updates, follow us on Twitter @MOSEMA and @FEMARegion7.

Get the latest information at Recovery.MO.gov and FEMA.gov/disaster/4665.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status.

tiana.suber Wed, 09/21/2022 - 21:46

FEMA Continues Hurricane Fiona Response Efforts

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell traveled to Puerto Rico yesterday and met with Gov. Pedro Pierluisi to assess any unmet needs and tour some areas affected by Hurricane Fiona. The Administrator remains in Puerto Rico today, meeting with FEMA staff and touring additional damaged areas.

Gov. Pierluisi requested an expedited major disaster declaration late Tuesday, and that request is under review. President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved an emergency declaration for Puerto Rico on Sunday, authorizing FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate hardship and suffering and provide appropriate assistance, to save lives and protect property, public health and safety.

Although the storm has passed, residents are encouraged to stay alert to continuing hazards, including extreme heat.

FEMA surged hundreds of employees to Puerto Rico to support the response, with the primary mission to support lifesaving and life-sustaining actions. This is in addition to 700 staff members who live and work on the island. In the coming days, our agency will begin preliminary damage assessments to determine additional needs. 

FEMA continues working closely with our federal, territorial, private sector and faith-based partners to support the island with this response and recovery. FEMA and interagency response teams are supporting the commonwealth by working to stabilize impacted community lifelines -- with a focus on power restoration, communications and water.

Due to continuous days of rainfall from Hurricane Fiona, risks of mud, rock and landslides persist across Puerto Rico. Additionally, an excessive heat advisory is in effect for the island for the next couple of days. Residents are encouraged to stay alert to continuing hazards.

Federal Actions to Support Areas Affected by Hurricane Fiona

• FEMA deployed five Incident Management Assistance Teams and four Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) teams to bolster response efforts. Additionally, Mobile Emergency Response Support, Incident Support Base and Staging Management Teams are on the island.
• FEMA prepositioned supplies on the island including four strategically located warehouses throughout the island, more than 7 million liters of water, more than 4 million ready-to-eat meals, more than 215 generators, more than 100,000 tarps, more than 28,000 plastic covers and more than 10,300 cots and other emergency supplies.
• FEMA is sending mental and counseling health resources to our FEMA personnel, many of whom are survivors themselves and from the island. Additionally, we are identifying additional mental health resources to the broader Puerto Rico community, many who are being retraumatized given that Maria was just five years ago.  
• U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Routine non-criminal immigration enforcement operations will not be conducted at evacuation sites, or assistance centers such as shelters or food banks. The laws will not be suspended, and we will be vigilant against any effort by criminals to exploit disruptions caused by the storm.
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers team management and temporary emergency power teams are in Puerto Rico.
• The U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Response Organization is in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
• More than 450 members of the Puerto Rico National Guard are assisting the Puerto Rico government response by conducting search and rescue, commodity distribution, security operations and more. Additionally, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is supporting the island’s search and rescue response.  
• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a Public Health Emergency for the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico due to the flooding impact of Hurricane Fiona. The declaration gives the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services beneficiaries and their health care providers and suppliers greater flexibility in meeting emergency health needs. The department is also sending medical assessment teams to the island.
• The U.S. Department of Agriculture Food and Nutrition Service approved a waiver for the Puerto Rico Department of the Family to allow hot foods to be purchased with Nutrition Assistance Program benefits for one-week.

Stay Alert to Continuing Risks

• Avoid downed power lines: Do not touch or drive over downed power lines. Always assume a downed power line is unsafe, and contact the power company and emergency personnel.  
• Don’t drive or wade through flood waters: Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. 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.
• Use a generator safely: Keep generators far from your home. Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open as these could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
• Stay safe during extreme heat: Avoid strenuous work or exercise during the warmest part of the day. Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat and take frequent breaks.
• 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.

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

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 09/21/2022 - 20:04