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One Week Remains for Homeowners, Renters and Businesses to Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance
Just one week remains for Louisiana homeowners, renters or business owners in Ascension, Calcasieu, East Baton Rouge, Iberville and Lafayette parishes to apply for federal disaster assistance because of property damage or other eligible losses in May due to severe storms, tornadoes and flooding.
The deadline to apply for assistance from FEMA and to apply for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is Monday, Aug. 2.
You should apply even if you have insurance. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments, but eligible homeowners and renters may be able to receive a grant from FEMA for losses not covered by insurance. FEMA grants can help pay for basic home repairs, temporary rental assistance and other needs such as replacing personal property. Disaster Assistance grants from FEMA’s Individual and Households Program do not have to be repaid.
You can apply in one of the following ways:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY) 800-462-7585.
- Download the FEMA Mobile App.
After applying, you may wish to visit the in-person, state-run Recovery Service Center (RSC) in Lake Charles. Experts there are assisting those affected by hurricanes Laura and Delta, the 2021 winter storms and May severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Southwest Louisiana.
The RSC is located at Washington-Marion Magnet High School, 2802 Pineview St., Lake Charles and will remain open through July 30. Hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
FEMA and State specialists at the RSC can help survivors with appeals, answer questions about eligibility requirements, provide guidance on FEMA programs, refer individuals to other recovery resources, plus upload survivor documents that need to be added to their FEMA case.
For additional assistance, the SBA has established a Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center that is open Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CT. You can contact an SBA customer service representative via email at FOCWAssistance@sba.gov or by phone at 800-659-2955. SBA will answer specific questions about how a disaster loan may help each survivor with their disaster recovery and will provide one-on-one assistance in completing applications for these loans. You can apply online at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov.
For the latest information on severe storms, tornadoes and flooding visit fema.gov/disaster/4606. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.
tiana.suber Mon, 07/26/2021 - 15:14Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Dearborn Heights
CHICAGO – A Disaster Recovery Center will open in Dearborn Heights on Monday, July 26, to help renters, homeowners and business owners affected by the June 25 – 26 severe storms and flooding.
The center will be in the following location:
Eton Senior Recreation Center, 4900 Pardee Avenue, Dearborn Heights, MI 48125
Hours will be 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Sunday.
Additional recovery centers are already open to support survivors. Individuals can find their nearest recovery center by visiting FEMA’s DRC locator page at https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.
At these centers, representatives from FEMA, U.S. Small Business Administration, Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division, and other state agencies are available to explain disaster assistance programs, answer questions about written correspondence and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.
Individuals do not have to visit a recovery center to register or receive federal assistance. These centers provide a location for applicants to submit documentation or discuss their case in-person with a FEMA or SBA representative. Before visiting a recovery center, survivors should register for federal assistance one of the following ways:
· Online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
· Using the FEMA App; or
· Calling 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). TTY users can call 800-462-7585. The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
Anyone requiring a reasonable accommodation (ASL interpreting, Braille, Large print, etc.) may call 800-621-3362 to request assistance in advance or ask the recovery staff at the center for assistance. Applicants and staff in the recovery centers will be required to follow CDC COVID-19 safety guidance.
For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4607. FEMA assistance is currently available to residents in Washtenaw and Wayne counties. The deadline for individuals to apply for disaster assistance is Sept. 13, 2021.
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Mon, 07/26/2021 - 13:57Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Detroit
CHICAGO – A Disaster Recovery Center will open in Detroit on Sunday, July 25, to help renters, homeowners and business owners affected by the June 25 – 26 severe storms and flooding.
The center will be in the following location:
Kemeny Recreation Center, 2260 S. Fort Street, Detroit, MI 48217
Hours will be 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Sunday.
Recovery centers in Garden City and Dearborn are already open, and additional centers will be opening soon to support survivors in other areas. Individuals can find their nearest recovery center by visiting FEMA’s DRC locator page at https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.
At these centers, representatives from FEMA, U.S. Small Business Administration, Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division, and other state agencies are available to explain disaster assistance programs, answer questions about written correspondence and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.
Individuals do not have to visit a recovery center to register or receive federal assistance. These centers provide a location for applicants to submit documentation or discuss their case in-person with a FEMA or SBA representative. Before visiting a recovery center, survivors should register for federal assistance one of the following ways:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
- Using the FEMA App; or
- Calling 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). TTY users can call 800-462-7585. The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
Anyone requiring a reasonable accommodation (ASL interpreting, Braille, Large print, etc.) may call 800-621-3362 to request assistance in advance or ask the recovery staff at the center for assistance.
Applicants and staff in the recovery centers will be required to follow CDC COVID-19 safety guidance.
For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4607. FEMA assistance is currently available to residents in Washtenaw and Wayne counties. The deadline for individuals to apply for disaster assistance is Sept. 13, 2021.
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Mon, 07/26/2021 - 13:49Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Dearborn
CHICAGO – A Disaster Recovery Center will open in Dearborn on Saturday, July 24, to help renters, homeowners and business owners affected by the June 25 – 26 severe storms and flooding.
The center will be in the following location:
Henry Ford Centennial Library, 16301 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126
Hours will be 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Sunday.
A recovery center in Garden City is already open, and additional centers will be opening soon to support survivors in other areas. Individuals can find their nearest recovery center by visiting FEMA’s DRC locator page at https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.
At these centers, representatives from FEMA, U.S. Small Business Administration, Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division, and other state agencies are available to explain disaster assistance programs, answer questions about written correspondence and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.
Individuals do not have to visit a recovery center to register or receive federal assistance. These centers provide a location for applicants to submit documentation or discuss their case in-person with a FEMA or SBA representative. Before visiting a recovery center, survivors should register for federal assistance one of the following ways:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
- Using the FEMA App; or
- Calling 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). TTY users can call 800-462-7585. The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
Anyone requiring a reasonable accommodation (ASL interpreting, Braille, Large print, etc.) may call 800-621-3362 to request assistance in advance or ask the recovery staff at the center for assistance.
Applicants and staff in the recovery centers will be required to follow CDC COVID-19 safety guidance.
For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4607. FEMA assistance is currently available to residents in Washtenaw and Wayne counties. The deadline for individuals to apply for disaster assistance is Sept. 13, 2021.
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Mon, 07/26/2021 - 13:45Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Southeast Michigan
CHICAGO – A Disaster Recovery Center will open in Garden City on Friday, July 23, to help renters, homeowners and business owners affected by the June 25 – 26 severe storms and flooding.
The center will be in the following location:
Maplewood Community Center 31735 Maplewood St. Garden City, MI 48135
Hours will be 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Sunday.
Additional recovery centers will be opening to support survivors in other areas soon. Individuals can find their nearest recovery center by visiting FEMA’s DRC locator page at https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.
At the Disaster Recovery Center, representatives from FEMA, U.S. Small Business Administration, Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division, and other state agencies are available to explain disaster assistance programs, answer questions about written correspondence and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.
Before visiting a recovery center, survivors should register for federal assistance one of the following ways:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
- Using the FEMA App; or
- Calling 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). TTY users can call 800-462-7585. The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
Anyone requiring a reasonable accommodation (ASL interpreting, Braille, Large print, etc.) may call 800-621-3362 to request assistance in advance or ask the recovery staff at the center for assistance. For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4607. FEMA assistance is currently available to residents in Washtenaw and Wayne counties. The deadline for individuals to apply for disaster assistance is Sept. 13, 2021.
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Mon, 07/26/2021 - 13:42FEMA Region 2 Launches Funeral Assistance Outreach
NEW YORK – The COVID-19 pandemic has brought overwhelming and unforeseen grief to many families. To that end, FEMA is helping to ease some of the financial stress and burden caused by the virus.
Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID-19 related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020.
In-person FEMA specialists will help those communities who were hit hardest by the virus through a targeted outreach plan, which includes program education and registration assistance. Support Specialist teams will be available at locations within New York City’s five boroughs. FEMA mobile teams will establish mobile/pop-up sites as needed.
Location information and hours
For pop-up locations day and times please check the FEMA Region 2 Twitter page: @femaregion2.
Targeted communities were identified based on the analysis of local and federal data. FEMA reviewed COVID-19 death statistics from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and overlayed it with internal Funeral Assistance Program data to identify communities which were largely impacted and yielded low registrations.
The agency also included socioeconomic factors at the zip code level to ensure those communities with the greatest needs were identified.
FEMA will continue to partner with the state of New York and together we will ensure the equitable delivery of programs as it remains a top priority.
For more information, visit: www.fema.gov/disaster/coronavirus/economic/funeral-assistance
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
gina.callaghan Fri, 07/23/2021 - 17:53U.S. Virgin Islands Hosts U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Training Mission
ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands -- Ensuring emergency power is available for critical facilities such as hospitals, evacuation shelters and power plants is a challenge after disasters such as hurricanes and earthquakes -- especially on islands outside the continental United States.
In July, soldiers from the Alpha Company of the 249th Engineer Battalion of the U.S Army Corps of Engineers spent a week in the U.S. Virgin Islands honing their power assessment skills as part of a training mission. There were 10 soldiers and two senior non-commissioned officers from the battalion assigned to the training mission.
Over seven days, four teams of soldiers completed 77 electrical assessments at critical facilities identified by the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency throughout the territory. Two teams were assigned to the St. Thomas/St. John District and two teams were assigned to the St. Croix District.
Assessments focused on critical loads and full loads for emergency power requirements and where emergency generators would be connected to the facility after a disaster.
“The 249th Engineers’ assessment of emergency power requirements at many of our key governmental critical infrastructure facilities located on all four islands is invaluable. The information gathered jump-starts the requesting process following a major natural disaster for federal assistance with emergency power generation. Both the local and federal governments have one common listing,” said VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen. “Together we now know key facility locations to include GPS locations, their power requirements, and the status of the current generator or in some cases, know there will be an immediate need, as there is not backup power. Ultimately this assessment goes a long way in both saving lives and keeping the government operational,” said Jaschen.
Sites assessed included:
- Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center and George Simmons Terrace Community Center on St. John,
- Schneider Regional Medical Center and the Randolph Harley Plant and Seven Seas Reverse Osmosis Plant on St. Thomas,
- D.C. Canegata Multipurpose Recreation Center and Educational Complex on St. Croix.
“Having the opportunity to travel and train in a completely different environment better prepares the soldiers for the actual disaster response. This is also a win for the territory because we believe that this also better prepares the territory in readying for a disaster by pre-identifying the power needs for critical facilities,” said Master Sgt. Victor Walker, who led the training mission for the battalion.
An electrical assessment identifies the power needs for a facility, where the power panels are located, what is required to connect a generator to the facility and the location where the generator would be placed along with notes and reference photos.
“The 249th Alpha Company training mission used actual critical facilities identified by VITEMA to meet its training goals. Conducting this during blue skies reduces the timeline for assessment to installation if there is a requirement for temporary emergency power,” said Chris Gallagher, Operations Branch Director for Region 2’s Incident Management Assistance Team. “Having the opportunity to bring FEMA, USACE, VITEMA and those responsible for critical infrastructure in the USVI together provides an important opportunity to be better prepared pre- and post-disaster if temporary emergency power is needed,” said Gallagher.
Gallagher and Kevin Edwards, Operations Section Chief from Region 2 IMAT directly supported the battalion during its mission. The training mission was coordinated by FEMA Caribbean Area Office Coordinator Mark A. Walters and VITEMA Director Jaschen.
St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands – Sgt. Drake Hupf, (from left), Sgt. Joe Aldana and Pvt. Cameron Depew, of the Alpha Company of the 249th Engineer Battalion of the U.S Army Corps of Engineers, conduct an electrical assessment of a critical facility on St. Croix during their training mission. The mission’s assessments focused on critical loads and full loads for emergency power requirements and where emergency generators would be connected to the facility after a disaster. FEMA/Mark A. Walters
delia.husband Fri, 07/23/2021 - 17:05FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Tamarack Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of Nevada in combating the Tamarack Fire burning in Douglas County.
On July 22, the state of Nevada submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Tamarack Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 800 homes in and around Holbrook Junction. The fire also threatened a water treatment plant, power distribution lines and substations, cellular communications towers, and U.S. Highway 395.
The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on July 22, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.
For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.
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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 Fri, 07/23/2021 - 14:23West Virginia: Registration for FEMA assistance has ended. Beware of fraud and scams.
When a disaster strikes, dishonest people and scam artists may try to take advantage of survivors by posing as FEMA representatives or other official disaster aid workers. They may even pose as relatives “just trying to help” survivors complete their applications when they are only interested in using a survivor for their own benefit.
Some so-called contractors make promises they don’t keep and do shoddy work or no work at all while pocketing a survivor’s money.
Jeff Jones, FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer, warns residents to be vigilant. “FEMA inspectors won’t ask for money. They have a process for verifying your registration number,” he said. “If you have doubts about a caller, hang up and call 800-621-FEMA (3362) and report it. Plus, you can always contact your local emergency manager or the West Virginia Emergency Management Division.”
People Claiming to Represent FEMA- You may receive phone calls or unexpected visits to your home from people claiming to be FEMA housing inspectors or people claiming they work for FEMA. The person might ask for your Social Security number and income or banking information. FEMA representatives will have a laminated badge and your FEMA registration number.
- Protect the privacy of your nine-digit FEMA case/registration number. Legitimate FEMA housing inspectors will only ask for the last four digits as part of the verification process; the inspector will complete the process by providing the applicant with the first four digits of the registration ID.
- Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information.
- Don’t trust anyone who asks for money to help you obtain assistance. Federal and local disaster workers do not ask for or accept money. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.
- Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for a large cash deposit or other payments in full.
- Use licensed or verified local contractors with reliable references.
- To find licensed, certified West Virginia contractors, check the West Virginia Division of Labor page at https://labor.wv.gov/licensing/contractor_license.
- Don’t pay more than half the costs of repairs in advance.
- Demand that contractors detail the job you expect them to do and ask them to give you a written estimate.
Fraudulent charitable solicitations. Criminals exploit survivors by sending fake communications through email or social media and by creating phony websites designed to solicit contributions. For a list of reputable charities that are approved by the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance, go to Give.org.
The Alliance advises “do not respond to unsolicited emails, watch out for pushy telemarketers and look out for fake charities that sound real by using similar names.” For more information about avoiding charitable giving scams, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website at www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/scam-alerts.
Report the Scam. Reporting helps protect others. While agencies can’t always track down the scammer, they can use the information gathered to record patterns of abuse. And those patterns may lead to action being taken against a company or industry.
Based on the type of scam you may see, contact the appropriate agency.
- If you believe you or a loved one has become a victim of a scam or identity theft, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department, or contact the office of the West Virginia Attorney General at 304-558-8986.
- You are encouraged to report scams to your local police department or sheriff’s office, especially if you lost money or property or believe someone stole your identity.
- If you suspect fraud of any kind related to disaster assistance or have knowledge of fraud, waste or abuse, you can report these tips - 24 hours a day, seven days a week - to the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721. Or, email disaster@leo.gov.
- If someone is using your personal information to open new accounts, make purchase or get a tax refund, report it at IdentityTheft.gov.
- You can file a complaint with West Virginia Attorney General Consumer Protection and Anti-Trust Division if you have been scammed or have a dispute with a business regarding a transaction. Call 304-558-8986.
- Reporting to the Better Business Bureau Scam Tracker can help others become aware of scams in your local area.
For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4605. Learn more about Disaster Assistance at www.disasterassistance.gov. For guidance about the Disaster Assistance application process, visit www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/program#apply.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
amanda.hancher Thu, 07/22/2021 - 20:25
Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in the City of Falls Church, Virginia
The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.
The 90-day appeal period will begin on July 22, 2021. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.
- An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
- Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
- If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.
The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.
Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer: https://arcg.is/1ef0jn.
For more information about the flood maps:
- Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
- Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. 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 and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.
City of Falls Church Flood Mapping Milestones
- April 6, 2020— Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
- Sept. 18, 2020 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
- Oct. 21, 2020 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
- July 22, 2021 –Appeal Period starts.
- Fall 2022* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
amanda.hancher Thu, 07/22/2021 - 20:16Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in City of Alexandria, Virginia
The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.
The 90-day appeal period will begin on July 22, 2021. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.
- An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
- Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
- If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.
The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.
Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator: Brian Rahal, Civil Engineer IV/Stormwater Section Lead, 2900B Business Center Drive, Alexandria, VA 22314, by phone at (703) 746-4057, or by email at stormwater@alexandriava.gov. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer: https://arcg.is/1TeyvL.
For more information about the flood maps:
- Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
- Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. 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 and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.
City of Alexandria Flood Mapping Milestones
- April 6, 2020 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
- Sept. 30, 2020 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
- Oct. 29, 2020 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
- July 22, 2021 –Appeal Period starts.
- Fall 2022* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
amanda.hancher Thu, 07/22/2021 - 20:12FEMA Awards Utility Board of City of Key West $5.59 Million to Protect Water Crossing Transmission Poles
ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $5,595,016 for the Utility Board of the City of Key West to protect the structural steel inside concrete utility poles from damage by future storms.
Funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) was approved in response to a proposal by Keys Energy Services after Hurricane Irma in 2017. The grant will help pay for protection from corrosion due to water and salt air for 119 water crossing transmission poles near the north end of the Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon Key, resulting in a more resilient electrical grid for southern Monroe County.
The HMGP is an important source of federal disaster assistance. Program funding may become available after the president declares a major disaster, with a goal of strengthening communities by improving buildings and critical infrastructure. A 2018 report by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that one dollar spent on hazard mitigation saves more than six dollars of recovery and rebuilding costs.
Generally, the HMGP may provide a state, tribe or territory with additional grants up to 15 percent of the total disaster grants awarded by FEMA for a federally declared disaster. States such as Florida that meet advanced mitigation planning criteria may qualify for a higher percentage.
Florida has a FEMA-approved Enhanced Mitigation Plan, making the state eligible for HMGP funding not to exceed 20 percent of the estimated total amount of grant money spent by FEMA in the Hurricane Irma disaster. From this amount, the HMGP reimburses the state up to 75 percent of eligible costs for hazard mitigation projects. The remaining amount comes from other sources such as state and local assets and a combination of cash and in-kind sources.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
barbara.murien… Thu, 07/22/2021 - 12:21FEMA Approves Millions in Community Disaster Loans for Earthquake-Affected Municipalities
These funds are in addition to the more than $300 million in loans granted to municipalities following the damage caused by Hurricane María
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced the approval of nearly $90 million in low-interest Community Disaster Loans, known as CDLs, to assist the municipalities affected by the 2020 earthquakes in their long-term recovery.
Twenty-five municipalities in the south, center and west of the island benefitted from this federal assistance, which ended on June 30. All municipalities that applied for the loan and submitted the required documentation were approved.
“The earthquakes certainly transformed the economic landscape of many municipalities that were simultaneously dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane María. The loans serve as tools that, together with the support of the Government of Puerto Rico, help stabilize operations in the municipalities and reactivate local economies,” said Puerto Rico Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator, José G. Baquero.
The CDL Program provides funding for operational expenses to assist local governments that have incurred a significant loss of revenue due to a declared disaster. This operational disruption often negatively affects the ability of towns to provide essential municipal services.
The funds will provide economic relief to municipalities such as San Germán, which worked in coordination with FEMA to obtain approval of this loan.
“The municipalities have seen their finances affected by the loss of income, so the loan is very important because it will help us to continue providing services to our people, and to ensure that our employees have the job security they deserve. We appreciate FEMA's commitment,” said Virgilio Olivera Olivera, Mayor of San Germán.
For his part, Aguada Mayor Christian Cortés Feliciano said that the fiscal challenges faced by the island were aggravated by the emergencies caused by the natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic. “This loan will help us subsidize operating expenses, stabilize our finances and outline a path to recovery where we can sustain ourselves with our own funds and fully comply with our obligations. I am convinced that with proper planning, hard work and a shared sense of resolve, we will move forward,” said the mayor.
In addition, Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, Executive Director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience (COR3), mentioned that hurricane season has already begun, and all municipalities must have the human capital required to deal with any emergency that may arise. “We will continue to work hand in hand with the mayors, as well as with state and federal agencies to be facilitators between them and the various types of assistance provided by FEMA,” Laboy Rivera said.
To learn more about Puerto Rico's recovery from the earthquakes visit fema.gov/disaster/4473.
frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 07/22/2021 - 10:39
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Declaration of Ponca Tribe of Nebraska
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that additional disaster assistance is available to the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska by authorizing an increase in the level of funding for Public Assistance projects as a result of the severe storms and flooding during the period of March 13-April 1, 2019.
As part of the major disaster declaration issued for the Ponce Tribe of Nebraska on June 17, 2019, federal funding was made available for Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation projects at a 75% federal cost share. President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved an order today changing the federal cost share to 90% for Public Assistance projects.
mashana.davis Wed, 07/21/2021 - 23:29FEMA Teams in Southeast Michigan Helping Survivors Apply for Disaster Assistance
CHICAGO - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has sent Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams to Washtenaw and Wayne counties where survivors of the June 25-26 severe storms and flooding are now eligible for Individual Assistance.
These teams will be visiting homes, businesses and nonprofit organizations in impacted areas to help residents register for assistance, identify and address immediate and emerging needs, and make referrals to other local, state, and voluntary agencies for additional support.
Like all FEMA personnel, DSA team members can be identified by their official federal photo ID badge and the FEMA logo on their shirts/vests. They will ask survivors for some personal information needed for registration, including: Social Security number, annual income and bank information, as well as names of occupants of the impacted property. Survivors should always ask to see official identification before providing any personal information.
Survivors can also register by:
- Visiting www.disasterassistance.gov or using the FEMA mobile app.
- Calling 800-621-3362 (800-462-7585 TTY). Multilingual operators are available. The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week.
For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4607.
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
cassie.ringsdor Wed, 07/21/2021 - 21:07What to Expect After Registering with FEMA
CHICAGO - Washtenaw & Wayne County residents affected by the severe storms and flooding of June 25 - 26, 2021, may now call or go online to register for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
If you have insurance coverage, first file a claim. If you have uninsured or underinsured losses, contact FEMA by either going online to disasterassistance.gov, downloading the FEMA app or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).
If you report your home is not livable, sanitary and safe when you register, it may be necessary for FEMA to perform an inspection of the damaged property. FEMA inspectors will contact you to meet at the address where the damage was reported. The inspector’s phone number may be from out of state, or show up on your caller ID as unavailable, so be sure to answer the phone. If the call goes to voicemail, the inspector will leave a call-back number, or you may receive a text message if no other contact is able to be made.
Due to COVID-19, inspections are being conducted from outside of your home, with the inspector following current CDC guidance. The inspector will not enter the home and will validate what happened by questioning you about the damage. Inspectors will also ask to do a video verification of disaster-caused damage by using a mobile device to walk through and view the home, when possible.
You will need to show the inspector your photo ID. You will not be asked to provide your social security number or bank account information. There is no cost for a FEMA inspection.
After your home inspection has taken place, a record of the disaster-caused damage is given to FEMA. From that record your eligibility for disaster assistance will be determined. If you qualify for a grant, the funds will be issued 7 to 10 days after your application. A letter will also be sent explaining the assistance you qualified for.
If you use a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, make sure the specific number assigned to that service is listed as your contact number in your application. If you are communicating through Zoom or FaceTime, you can request an interpreter through Facetime or an interpreter and captioning through Zoom.
You may invite a designated party, such as a household member, relative or friend, to assist in communicating with the inspector.
All FEMA inspectors can be identified by their official federal photo ID badge. If you are in any doubt when receiving a call or an inspection visit from someone stating they are FEMA personnel, do not give out any information, but call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. ET to verify the call or visit is legitimate.
If you suspect someone is committing fraud, call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or your local police department.
For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4607.
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
www.fema.gov/disaster/4607 https://twitter.com/femaregion5
cassie.ringsdor Wed, 07/21/2021 - 21:02
FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Cedar Creek Fire in Washington
BOTHELL, Wash. - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Cedar Creek Fire burning in Okanogan County, Washington.
The State of Washington’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Acting Regional Administrator Vincent Maykovich on Tues., July 20, 2021, at 2:50 p.m. PT. He determined that the Cedar Creek Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the fourth FMAG declared to help fight Washington wildfires in 2021.
At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire was threatening homes in and around the community of Mazama and the north end of the Methow Valley. The fire was also threatening recreational, electrical and communications infrastructure as well as roads, utilities, and businesses in the area.
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.
With this FMAG authorization, an additional $778,778 will be available to Washington through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire 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 Wed, 07/21/2021 - 16:49Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Washington County, Arkansas
DENTON, Texas – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in Washington County, Arkansas. 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 90-day appeal and comment period.
The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.
Residents and business owners are also encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.
Appeals/comments may be submitted through Oct. 19, 2021 for:
- Cities of Elkins, Elm Springs, Farmington, Fayetteville, Goshen, Greenland, Johnson, Lincoln, Prairie Grove, Springdale, Tontitown, West Fork and Winslow; and unincorporated areas of Washington County.
- An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
- Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
- If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment.
The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals. Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.
To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. 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 http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
- Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.
Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. 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.
Carmen.Castro Wed, 07/21/2021 - 16:21FEMA Registration Deadline for Kentucky Storm Survivors Just Days Away
FRANKFORT, Ky. – A few days remain for Kentucky homeowners and renters who had property damage or loss caused by the severe storms from Feb. 27 to March 14 to apply for federal disaster assistance. The deadline to apply is Friday, July 23.
Don’t delay: If you live in one of the 31 counties included in the Kentucky federal disaster declaration for Individual Assistance, you can register for help or update your contact information, ask questions about a letter from FEMA, get information about FEMA home inspections, or learn how to appeal a FEMA decision by:
- Going online at DisasterAssistance.gov
- Downloading the FEMA app by texting ANDROID or APPLE to 43362; or
- Calling 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). Multilingual operators are available seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time. Multilingual operators are available during those hours (press 2 for Spanish).
- Those who use a relay service, such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel should provide their specific number assigned to that service. It is important that FEMA can contact you. Phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.
The counties designated for Individual Assistance are Anderson, Breathitt, Boyd, Clark, Clay, Estill, Fayette, Floyd, Franklin, Greenup, Jackson, Jessamine, Johnson, Knott, Laurel, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Lincoln, Madison, Magoffin, Martin, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Powell, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Warren and Woodford.
You should have the following information available to register:
- Address of the damaged primary dwelling where damage occurred;
- Current mailing address, telephone number and Social Security number;
- Your insurance information;
- Total household annual income;
- Routing and account numbers for checking or savings accounts for direct deposit; and
- A description of disaster damage and losses.
For more information on Kentucky’s disaster recovery, visit https://kyem.ky.gov
and www.fema.gov/disaster/4595. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.
felicia.jordan Tue, 07/20/2021 - 14:48FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Tops $700 Million
WASHINGTON -- FEMA has provided over $710 million to more than 107,000 people to assist with COVID-19-related funeral costs for deaths occurring on or after Jan. 20, 2020.
Nearly 2,500 dedicated personnel continue to work with applicants to manually review every application and determine eligibility each week. 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:
Applications
Amount Approved
Number of Awards
ALABAMA
5,418
$16,622,132
2,402
ALASKA
118
$246,868
45
AMERICAN SAMOA
Less than 10
$0
0
ARIZONA
4,106
$9,936,750
1,934
ARKANSAS
2,319
$7,302,910
1,137
CALIFORNIA
25,689
$64,956,446
9,905
COLORADO
1,825
$4,072,986
714
COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS
Less than 10
$4,344
Less than 10
CONNECTICUT
2,982
$9,975,225
1,413
DELAWARE
757
$1,973,252
304
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
475
$1,174,676
171
FLORIDA
13,701
$29,705,182
5,182
GEORGIA
9,045
$27,599,243
3,968
GUAM
13
$29,436
Less than 10
HAWAII
233
$518,039
86
IDAHO
490
$1,218,796
215
ILLINOIS
10,262
$33,517,493
4,847
INDIANA
4,247
$13,050,307
1,844
IOWA
2,173
$7,860,229
1,080
KANSAS
2,003
$5,938,188
891
KENTUCKY
3,220
$11,880,056
1,666
LOUISIANA
4,444
$12,840,032
1,863
MAINE
314
$684,159
126
MARYLAND
4,835
$13,130,947
1,926
MASSACHUSETTS
4,948
$16,237,319
2,308
MICHIGAN
8,274
$24,064,377
3,950
MINNESOTA
2,348
$9,382,206
1,341
MISSISSIPPI
3,899
$12,360,074
1,818
MISSOURI
4,201
$15,139,005
2,374
MONTANA
431
$686,016
143
NEBRASKA
1,032
$3,582,750
496
NEVADA
2,052
$4,741,631
859
NEW HAMPSHIRE
589
$1,599,357
265
NEW JERSEY
10,351
$30,571,987
4,381
NEW MEXICO
1,331
$2,426,676
466
NEW YORK
22,492
$61,828,503
8,829
NORTH CAROLINA
7,157
$22,598,913
3,397
NORTH DAKOTA
596
$2,293,817
300
OHIO
8,360
$26,169,041
4,039
OKLAHOMA
3,359
$11,917,001
1,838
OREGON
718
$1,511,071
290
PENNSYLVANIA
11,128
$36,346,130
5,528
PUERTO RICO
1,011
$1,049,065
296
RHODE ISLAND
1,016
$2,887,309
409
SOUTH CAROLINA
4,953
$18,604,142
2,668
SOUTH DAKOTA
637
$2,314,617
308
TENNESSEE
5,911
$19,208,389
2,733
TEXAS
21,826
$67,107,241
10,182
UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS
23
$56,749
Less than 10
UTAH
908
$3,085,861
441
VERMONT
122
$383,089
62
VIRGINIA
5,288
$16,419,205
2,457
WASHINGTON
1,575
$3,137,068
566
WEST VIRGINIA
1,259
$3,454,189
505
WISCONSIN
3,905
$14,359,109
2,165
WYOMING
214
$609,679
111
* 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, 07/19/2021 - 17:31Pages
