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Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office and USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
SANTA FE, N.M. - The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office recently announced its partnership with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The partnehip offers landowners the opportunity to request a NRCS Conservation Restoration Plan for their property, tailored to recovering from the Hermrsit’s Peak Calf/Canyon Fire and subsequent floods. The NRCS will provide the plans will to claimants at no charge and can be utilized by the Claims Office to streamline the review process. Any landowner with impacts to their property as a result of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire or subsequent flooding is eligible to receive a NRCS plan under this partnership.
“It is important that claimants understand that the NRCS Conservation Restoration Plans are compensated as a Partial Payment” said Claims Office Director Angela Gladwell. “We are committed to developing and sustaining a claimant-centric approach in processing NRCS plans”. Director Gladwell also reiterated, “The Claims Office is committed to ensuring that claimants have access to compensation and the recovery that best meets their needs”
The Claims Office has published a Fact Sheet on its partnership with the NRCS to help clarify any questions a claimant may have. The Office also encourages claimants to reach out to their Navigators or visit one of the local claims offices to get answers to questions.
Mora Claims Office
Mora County Courthouse
1 Courthouse Drive
Mora, NM 87732
Las Vegas Claims Office
216 Mills Avenue
Las Vegas, NM 87701 (In Mills Plaza)
Santa Fe Claims Office
1711 Llano Street, Suite E
Santa Fe, NM 87505
(Next to Mucho Gourmet Sandwich Shoppe)
What to Expect After You Apply for FEMA Assistance
If you live in Caledonia, Chittenden, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham or Windsor counties and were affected by the July severe storms, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance.
FEMA assistance is intended to kickstart your recovery. It may include grants to cover lodging while you’re displaced, repairs to make your home habitable, and other disaster-related needs such as replacing essential household items, childcare, medical, dental and funeral expenses.
Your Next StepsIf you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance, so the agency needs to see what your insurance covers in order to process your application.
FEMA may refer you to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to apply for a long term, low interest disaster loan. Once FEMA refers you, you should submit the application as soon as possible. SBA loans are the largest source of federal recovery funds for survivors – and applying for an SBA loan also allows FEMA to consider you for other types of assistance. It’s free to apply, and you don’t have to accept the loan if you’re approved.
If you reported damage to your home, FEMA will call you to set up a home inspection. Staff may call from an unknown or restricted number – it’s important to pick up to schedule the inspection. The inspector will only visit when you, your co-applicant, or another person you designate in writing is present.
Your Determination LetterYou will receive a letter from FEMA either by mail or email, based on the preference you indicated when you applied. The letter will explain whether FEMA has found you eligible for assistance, how much, and how the assistance must be used.
If your letter says you’re ineligible, it does not mean you’re denied. The letter will explain how to appeal the decision if you do not agree with it. For an overview of the appeal process, visit How Do I Appeal the Final Decision? | FEMA.gov.
Help is AvailableFor in-person help with any step of this process, visit a Disaster Recovery Center, where specialists from FEMA and the SBA can answer questions, help submit documents and guide you through the appeals process. Centers are open in impacted areas across the state – to find one near you, visit fema.gov/drc.
If you are feeling emotional distress, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Disaster Distress Helpline is available at 800-985-5990. This toll-free, multilingual crisis support service is open 24/7, operated by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. American Sign Language users can contact the helpline through videophone at 800-985-5990, or by selecting the “ASL Now” option on the website at DisasterDistress.samhsa.gov.
To apply for assistance, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or call FEMA’s toll-free helpline at 800-621-3362. Language translation is available; if you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.
FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they are the victim of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.
This fact sheet can be found online at What to Expect After You Apply for FEMA Assistance | FEMA.gov.
For the latest information about Vermont’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4720. Follow the FEMA Region 1 account at Twitter twitter.com/FEMARegion1 or the FEMA Facebook page at facebook.com/FEMA.
Follow the Vermont Emergency Management Agency on Twitter at twitter.com/vemvt and on Facebook at facebook.com/VermontEmergencyManagement.
thomas.wise Mon, 08/07/2023 - 19:20Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office places over $14 Million in the hands of Claimants
SANTA FE, N.M. - The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office has paid Claimants over $14 million as of early this week. Of that, nearly $11 Million has been distributed within the past week alone, and payments are increasing on a daily basis.
“This funding will begin to provide the needed relief that our claimants have been patiently waiting for.” said Claims Office Director Angela Gladwell. “We are committed to following a claimant-centric approach, and getting claimants compensated as quicky and easily as possible is at the forefront of that approach.” Director Gladwell continued by stating, “The focus of the Claims Office is to ensure all claimants receive full compensation under the law.”
Recent partnerships with the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) are serving as catalysts to help claimants recover and get the resources they need. Partnerships like those with the NRCS and NFIP will help residents and landowners who need to take immediate action to expedite their recovery process. To date, the Claims Office has paid for and put into place 56 Flood insurances policies for claimants. The Claims Office also continues to work with the NRCS to provide Conservation Restoration Plans to claimants at no charge.
The Claims Office encourages all those who were impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding to take advantage of such partnerships by submitting a Notice of Loss.
Notice of Loss forms can be submited via email at fema-hermits-peak@fema.dhs.gov, or by mail to FEMA Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office, or by visiting one of our three Claims Offices listed below. Claims Offices are open Monday – Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Mora Claims Office
Mora County Courthouse
1 Courthouse Drive
Mora, NM 87732
Las Vegas Claims Office
216 Mills Avenue
Las Vegas, NM 87701 (In Mills Plaza)
Santa Fe Claims Office
1711 Llano Street, Suite E
Santa Fe, NM 87505
(Next to Mucho Gourmet Sandwich Shoppe)
mayshaunt.gary Mon, 08/07/2023 - 19:06
DHS Announces Additional $374.9 Million in Funding to Boost State, Local Cybersecurity
WASHINGTON – Today, the Department of Homeland Security announced the availability of $374.9 million in grant funding for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP). State and local governments face increasingly sophisticated cyber threats to their critical infrastructure and public safety. Now in its second year, the SLCGP is a first-of-its-kind cybersecurity grant program specifically for state, local and territorial (SLT) governments across the country to help them strengthen their cyber resilience. Established by the State and Local Cybersecurity Improvement Act, and part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the SLCGP provides $1 billion in funding over four years to support state, local and territorial governments as they develop capabilities to detect, protect against and respond to cyber threats. This year’s funding allotment represents a significant increase from the $185 million allotted in FY22, demonstrating the Administration and Congress’s commitment to helping improve the cybersecurity of communities across the nation.
“In today’s threat environment, any locality is vulnerable to a devastating cyber attack targeted at a hospital, school, water or other system,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “The Department of Homeland Security is helping to ensure that every community, regardless of size, funding, or resources, can meet these threats and keep their residents and their critical infrastructure safe and secure. These cybersecurity grants will help state, local and territorial governments do just that, and I strongly urge communities across the country to submit an application.”
SLCGP is jointly administered by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). CISA provides expertise and guidance on cybersecurity issues while FEMA manages the grant award and allocation process. Award recipients may use funding for a wide range of cybersecurity improvements and capabilities, including cybersecurity planning and exercising, hiring cyber personnel and improving the services that citizens rely on daily.
“State and local governments are facing increasingly sophisticated cyber threats to their critical infrastructure and public safety,” said CISA Director Jen Easterly. “As the nation’s Cyber Defense Agency, CISA is pleased to make available yet another tool to that will help strengthen cyber defenses for communities across the nation and bolster our collective cybersecurity.”
“Building resilience requires more than mitigating against natural hazards,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “As our threat landscape continues to evolve, the funding provided through the state, local and territorial cybersecurity grant program will increase capability to help communities better prepare and reduce cyber risks.”
State and local governments have until Oct. 6, 2023 to apply for this FY23 grant opportunity. For more information and helpful resources on the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program, visit CISA’s webpage.
mayshaunt.gary Mon, 08/07/2023 - 18:53Health Center with FEMA Funds Opens in San Lorenzo
San Juan, Puerto Rico – Residents of the town of San Lorenzo and its neighboring communities can now rely on the services provided by the Corporation for Health Services and Advanced Medicine (COSSMA, in Spanish), following the reconstruction of its facilities with funds from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for damage caused by Hurricane María.
An award of about $6 million supported the demolition and reconstruction of the building, which already provides primary health services to around 3,000 people per month. The former structure was flooded due to the storm, which destroyed it and made it impossible to receive employees and care for their patients.
“The COSSMA team is part of the first responders who cared for Hurricane María survivors in the immediate aftermath of the disaster. This completed project demonstrates how we can rebuild facilities to strengthen them for other disasters so that medical personnel do not face similar challenges in the future when serving communities,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José Baquero.
COSSMA San Lorenzo has about 50 employees and offers medical services for adults, pediatrics, gynecology and obstetrics; mental health, oral health, vaccination, laboratory and pharmacy; and other support services such as HIV prevention, case management of chronic conditions, nutrition and health promotion.
The outpatient center began its services in San Lorenzo in the early 2000s. By 2017, the administration had just begun their expansion process, when Hurricane María hit.
COSSMA San Lorenzo’s clinic director, Soquiliz Rivera, explained that the facilities were destroyed after the storm. However, the clinic staff continued to offer services to the community in temporary facilities such as tents, trailers and rented clinics. “We learned that the structure was an important aspect, but it was not everything. The essence of each employee, of being able to serve, always remained, even if it was in a different way. United colleagues who, regardless of the fact that the clinic was not in the same condition as before, were willing to serve,” Rivera said.
FEMA’s allocation allowed the demolition of the facility in 2018. It also allowed its reconstruction following building codes, to make the best use of the space and to strengthen their services. The agency’s funds included mitigation measures to prevent leaks and to reinforce the air conditioners in the event of high winds.
The new building began offering services in 2022. Rivera added that, after Hurricane Fiona, the new center did not have any leakage problems and was able to reopen its facilities the following day without any setbacks.
COSSMA’s executive director, Norma Antomattei, said that “after the devastating passage of Hurricane María, COSSMA's infrastructure in San Lorenzo suffered severe damage that resulted in its demolition. However, the tenacity, commitment and professionalism of the COSSMA Board of Directors and staff, added to the valuable support of our patients and the San Lorenzo community, allowed us to maintain the continuity of our services, despite the impact of the hurricane and the subsequent COVID-19 pandemic”.
For his part, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency, Manuel Laboy Rivera, said that “I acknowledge the diligence of COSSMA’s leadership in the development of this important health center that offers services to patients in San Lorenzo and neighboring towns. I reiterate the commitment of COR3’s team to support in technical matters of the reconstruction works in other projects of health centers from nonprofit organizations like COSSMA, as well as municipal, because they are the first aid during emergencies, but they also promote the preventive care of patients.”
To date, FEMA has awarded over $30.8 billion for nearly 10,800 Public Assistance projects to address the reconstruction of a more resilient Puerto Rico.
For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.
frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 08/07/2023 - 15:13Typhoon Mawar Survivors Can Authorize a Third Party for FEMA Inspection
Once Typhoon Mawar survivors register for assistance, FEMA is required to verify losses to determine if they are eligible for the disaster assistance.
FEMA’s standard loss verification method is an on-site inspection by a FEMA inspector. If you cannot meet the inspector at your home, you have the option to write to FEMA to authorize a third party, such as a family member, neighbor or landlord, to attend the inspection on your behalf. This is especially helpful if you are currently away from the island, but your family members or friends can act on your behalf.
How to Request Third-Party Inspection
A FEMA on-site inspection usually takes place within two weeks after you register for disaster assistance.
Inspectors will only meet with the applicant, co-applicant, or a designated third party to perform an inspection.
Federal privacy laws require FEMA to get permission from you in writing before sharing your information with anyone else. If you want to authorize a third party to meet with the inspector, FEMA will require a Written Consent letter, a completed Authorization for the Release of Information Under the Privacy Act form, or a Power of Attorney, Guardianship, or Conservatorship document from you. You can call FEMA Helpline 800-621-3362, visit a Disaster Recovery Center, or write to FEMA to obtain related documents.
- You should provide the information of the third party, including the name of the third party and the valid phone number, and you need to verify in the Written Consent that the inspector will be able to gain entry to the damaged dwelling.
- The third party must be over the age of 18 to attend the inspection on your behalf.
- This authorizes a third-party representative approved by you to meet with the inspector and answer any necessary questions as part of the inspection.
You can write to FEMA to return the information of your authorized third party in one of the following ways:
- Upload to your disaster account at DisasterAssistance.gov. Click “Check Status” on the home page and follow the instructions. You must create an online account to upload your documents electronically to FEMA.
- Mail to FEMA, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055.
- Fax to 800-827-8112.
If your pre-disaster home is not accessible, you may meet the FEMA inspector at another location.
If you have limited English proficiency, or you are deaf or hard of hearing, you can request translation services, a qualified sign language interpreter, or other accommodations for inspections.
All FEMA inspectors are issued a badge identifying them as a FEMA contractor or employee.
In some cases, FEMA may conduct another inspection to validate losses, for example, you appealed FEMA’s determination. The appeal inspection will be done by a different inspector, not the same one who visited your residence the first time. FEMA makes every effort to ensure a fair and impartial assessment.
FEMA is still in Guam to support Typhoon Mawar survivors after the July 27 deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance. You can visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app, call 800-621-3362 (The Helpline is available24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents), or stop by the Disaster Recovery Center at Guam Community College. Hours of operation at DRC: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday, closed.
For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, please visit our website.
felicia.jordan Mon, 08/07/2023 - 01:14FEMA Is Hiring in Vermont
WILLISTON, Vt. — FEMA, in partnership with the State of Vermont, is hiring state residents to assist with recovery from the July floods, severe storms, landslides and mudslides.
The agency has several openings for short-term, full-time jobs based at FEMA’s temporary offices in the surrounding areas. The temporary positions are for 120 days but may be extended based on the needs of the disaster. More positions may open if needed.
Working with FEMA will allow Vermont residents to help their neighbors with their recovery. Hiring locally is part of FEMA’s commitment to the community. And hiring locally helps build America’s disaster recovery workforce: many current FEMA employees started as local hires after major disasters in their states.
To learn more and apply, visit this link: USAJobs - Search. Or visit USAJobs.gov, then search for “FEMA” under “Keywords” and “Vermont” under “Location.”
Links to the jobs currently available are below:
- Environmental Floodplain Specialist: USAJobs - Job Announcement – closing 11:59 p.m. Aug. 8
- Historic Preservation Specialist: USAJobs - Job Announcement – closing 11:59 Aug. 8
- Logistics Specialist: USAJobs - Job Announcement – closing 11:59 p.m. Aug. 9
- Creative Specialist: USAJobs - Job Announcement – closing 11:59 Aug. 9
- Media Relations Specialist: USAJobs - Job Announcement – closing 11:59 p.m. Aug. 9
- Environmental Specialist: USAJobs - Job Announcement – closing 11:59 p.m. Aug. 10
- Hazard Mitigation Specialist: USAJobs - Job Announcement – closing 11:59 p.m. Aug. 10
- Operations Task Force Leader: USAJobs - Job Announcement – closing 11:59 p.m. Aug. 10
- Voluntary Agency Liaison Specialist: USAJobs - Job Announcement – closing 11:59 p.m. Aug. 10
Each job will close by the deadline or at 11:59 pm EST the day the application limit is reached, whichever comes first.
Certain positions may require driving to the impacted areas. You must be a U.S. citizen, 18 years of age or older, and possess a high school diploma or GED to apply.
FEMA is committed to employing a highly qualified workforce that reflects the diversity of our nation. All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. The federal government is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
For the latest information about Vermont’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4720. Follow the FEMA Region 1 account at Twitter twitter.com/FEMARegion1 or the FEMA Facebook page at facebook.com/FEMA.
Follow the Vermont Emergency Management Agency on Twitter at twitter.com/vemvt and on Facebook at facebook.com/VermontEmergencyManagement.
thomas.wise Sat, 08/05/2023 - 20:49Disaster Recovery Centers in Londonderry, Plainfield to Close Aug. 6
WILLISTON, Vt. – The two Disaster Recovery Centers in Londonderry and Plainfield will close permanently at 7 p.m. Aug. 6.
The centers will remain open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily until Aug. 6.
The Londonderry center is located at:
Flood Brook School
91 VT-11
Londonderry, VT 05148
The Plainfield center is located at:
Twinfield Union School
106 Nasmith Brook Road
Plainfield, VT 05667
All other recovery centers will remain open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily:
Waterbury Armory
294 Armory Drive
Waterbury, VT 05676
ASA Bloomer Building
88 Merchants Row, Suite 330
Rutland, VT 05701
Barre Auditorium
16 Auditorium Hill
Barre, VT 05641
Barton Memorial Building
17 Village Square
Barton, VT 05822
Springfield Health Center
100 River Street
Springfield, VT 05156
- The Springfield center will close temporarily at 5 p.m. Aug. 10; and will reopen at 1 p.m. Aug. 12.
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and access and functional needs, and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).
Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration are at the centers to explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and private nonprofits, and provide information about rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.
To apply for FEMA assistance without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA App. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.
FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they are the victim of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.
thomas.wise Sat, 08/05/2023 - 16:12Free Rebuilding and Repair Tips From FEMA Offered at Four Sites in Guam
As an ongoing commitment to support Guam residents on their recovery journey following Typhoon Mawar, FEMA Mitigation specialists continue to offer free tips and advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms at several stores in Guam. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance staff will also be on-site to help with registration status check or application appeal.
Including an additional site, four teams of FEMA experts in Mitigation and Disaster Survivor Assistance will be available at the following locations on the following dates:
Benson Do it Best
(Mongmong-Toto-Maite)
Micronesia Mall
(Dededo)
Cost U Less
(Tamuning)
Payless
(Sumay)
779 Route 8,
Maite, Guam 96913
1088 Marine Corps Drive,
Dededo, Guam 96929
265 Chalan San Antonio Road,
Tamuning, Guam 96911
137 Pedro LG Roberto Drive. Route 5,
Santa Rita, Guam 96915
Saturday, July 29 through Friday, Aug. 11
Sunday, Aug. 6 through Friday, Sept. 15
Saturday, Aug. 5 through Friday, Sept. 15
Saturday, Aug. 5 through Friday, August 11
Tuesday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Monday, off
Tuesday-Sunday, 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m.
Saturday, off
Tuesday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Monday, off
Tuesday-Saturday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Monday, off
Each location will have an Assistive Listening Device for customers who may have hearing difficulty.
The Discovery Recovery Center at Guam Community College remains open to assist survivors during its regular hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. -6 p.m., Saturday, and closed on Sunday. Disaster Recovery Centers are barrier-free and provide equal access to all visitors. If you use American Sign Language or assistive technology, and if you need accommodations to communicate, please notify FEMA staff at the center immediately.
If you need to update information for your application, or check the application status, please visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app, or call 800-621-3362 (The Helpline is available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents).
For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, visit our website.
felicia.jordan Sat, 08/05/2023 - 04:47FEMA Administrator Leads Senior Disaster Management Officials Dialogues at Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell led policy dialogues with Asia-Pacific Senior Disaster Management Officials on inclusive disaster risk reduction, pre-disaster recovery planning, resilient infrastructure through nature-based solutions and advancing women’s leadership in crisis management at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Senior Officials Meeting in Seattle Aug. 1-3.
“The Asia-Pacific region is both crucial for the global economy and one of the most disaster-prone regions in the world,” said Administrator Criswell. “We face similar challenges, especially when it comes to climate change. It is beneficial to all of us to enhance crisis management as we work towards our common goal of a more disaster resilient region.”
This event is part of the U.S. Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation host year. APEC is a multilateral institution that works to achieve sustainable economic growth and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region. Building on the theme of "Creating a Resilient and Sustainable Future for All," FEMA furthered APEC’s sustainability objectives to address the heightened challenges and disruptions facing the region, including climate-driven disasters.
During the senior officials meeting, Administrator Criswell led policy discussions instrumental to this common goal. Topics included engaging the whole community in disaster risk reduction as well as disaster recovery planning, improving the resilience of infrastructure systems and women in crisis management. The discussions brought to light important similarities in the challenges economies face and strategies for addressing those challenges. Additional discussions included conversations about early warning systems, supply chain logistics, data-driven risk assessment and crisis communications.
SEATTLE -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell hosts the APEC Senior Disaster Management Official’s meeting. (FEMA photos)
SEATTLE -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (far left) moderates a panel with women leaders in crisis management to identify ways in which APEC economies can expand equity in crisis management organizations. (FEMA photo)
On Aug. 3, FEMA led a resilient community site visit with APEC disaster management officials to demonstrate how communities in the United States approach preparedness and resilience. “We really wanted to use this as an opportunity to foster open communication with our international counterparts,” said FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn. “By discussing emergency management in the U.S., we are sharing successful whole-of-community practices and are building a more resilient and interconnected sustainable future for emergency management.”
The foreign officials from 20 economies visited Mount Vernon, Washington, to observe a flood mitigation project in action and discuss its development with local officials. A visit to Starbucks headquarters demonstrated how FEMA works with the business community during disasters. The tour concluded with a visit to the Seattle Emergency Operations Center to learn about how U.S. disasters are locally led, state managed and federally supported.
FEMA looks forward to continuing our efforts as Emergency Preparedness Working Group members next year when APEC is hosted by Peru.
MOUNT VERNON, Wash. -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (right) speaks with Mount Vernon Mayor Jill Boudreau about the city’s successful flood mitigation efforts. (FEMA photo)
MOUNT VERNON, Wash. -- Mount Vernon officials give a tour of the flood mitigation wall to international APEC guests. (FEMA photo
SEATTLE -- Starbucks officials discuss public/private partnership during disasters with international APEC guests. (FEMA photo)
FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Lost Horse Creek Fire in Alaska
BOTHELL, Wash. - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Lost Horse Creek Fire burning in the Fairbanks North Star Borough, Alaska.
The state of Alaska’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Acting Deputy Administrator Scott D. Zaffram on Thursday, August 3, 2023, at 6:48 p.m. AKDT. He determined that the Lost Horse Creek Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the first FMAG declared in 2023 to help fight Alaska wildfires.
At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the Haystack Subdivision. The fire also threatened the Elliot Highway, local cooperative electrical utility lines, recreational facilities, and the University of Alaska’s Poker Flats Research Site.
FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair, and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials, and supplies. This authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.
In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $918,774 will be available to Alaska through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.
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Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
mary.j.edmon Fri, 08/04/2023 - 20:50
Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Porterville
A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Porterville to help residents affected by the severe winter storms.
The center is located at:
Tule River Justice Center
Conference Room 138
129 South Reservation Road
Porterville, CA 93257
Hours of operation: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
Specialists at the center will be able to help survivors with their FEMA applications and provide information on SBA low-interest loans and other available assistance. No appointment is needed.
However, residents don’t have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to sign up for FEMA assistance. They can go to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Helpline operators can assist in many languages. The Helpline is available from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PDT. Anyone using the video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others will need to give FEMA their number for that service.
For an accessible video on how to apply, go to youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhl .
For the latest information on California’s recovery from the severe winter storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides, visit FEMA.gov/disaster/4699 . You may also follow twitter.com/Cal_OES, facebook.com/CaliforniaOES, @FEMARegion9/Twitter and Facebook.com/FEMA.
luther.wills-dudich Fri, 08/04/2023 - 18:07Local, State and Federal Governments Recognize Lanakila Pacific Mitigation Project to Protect Vulnerable Populations
OAKLAND, Calif. – Join representatives from all levels of government to recognize Lanakila Pacific, home of O’ahu’s largest and only island-wide meal provider for seniors, for its $1.6 million grant to structurally retrofit and harden its buildings against natural hazards. The work will protect the lives and assets of building occupants against seismic, wind and flooding hazards when disaster strikes, and support the continuity of their work to provide vital services to vulnerable residents.
WHO: Lanakila Pacific President and CEO Rona Fukumoto, Lanakila Pacific Board Chair Matt Miller, Hawaii Emergency Management Agency Administrator James Barros, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator Bob Fenton, Senator Brian Schatz
WHAT: Press conference commemorating Lanakila Pacific’s grant and a building tour to highlight its programs, services and future upgrades
WHEN: Monday, August 7 at 10:30 a.m.
WHERE: 1809 Bachelot Street, Honolulu. Validated parking available at Kuakini Medical Center parking garage at 347 N. Kuakini Street.
RSVP: Please email fema-r9newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov to confirm attendance.
Lanakila Pacific is a Hawaii-based non-profit offering assistance programs and operating social enterprises to build independence and improve the quality of life for individuals with cognitive, physical, social or age-related challenges. The organization collectively serves and benefits more than 2,000 people each year, including individuals with disabilities and seniors across Oʻahu.
Grant funds will help Lanakila Pacific replace three gate entrances with concrete walls with impact-resistant glass doors and windows; structurally retrofit building envelopes, windows, roofs and the connections between these elements to meet international building codes; and non-structural improvements such as installing flood barriers.
The $2.2 million project includes a $1.6 million grant from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), with the remaining from non-federal sources.
FEMA’s HMGP helps states, territories, federally-recognized tribes, local communities and certain private, non-profit organizations become more resilient to potential infrastructure damage and reduce future disaster costs.
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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, 08/04/2023 - 15:53FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Windsor County
WILLISTON, Vt. – A Disaster Recovery Center will open August 4 in Springfield to help Vermont residents affected by the floods kickstart their recovery. The joint DRC, a temporary facility established in partnership between Springfield, the state of Vermont and FEMA, will help survivors apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents and answer questions in person.
The Springfield center is located at:
Springfield Health Center
100 River Street
Springfield, VT 05156
Centers are already open at:
Waterbury Armory
294 Armory Drive
Waterbury, VT 05676
ASA Bloomer Building
88 Merchants Row, Suite 330
Rutland, VT 05701
Barre Auditorium
16 Auditorium Hill
Barre, VT 05641
Flood Brook School
91 VT-11
Londonderry, VT 05148
Twinfield Union School
106 Nasmith Brook Road
Plainfield, VT 05667
Barton Memorial Building
17 Village Square
Barton, VT 05822
All are open 7 days a week, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and access and functional needs, and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 1-833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).
Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will also be at the center to explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and private nonprofits, and provide information about rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.
You don’t need to visit a DRC to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA App. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.
FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they are the victim of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.
thomas.wise Fri, 08/04/2023 - 11:05Debris Update: School Mission Completed, Residential Debris Mission Ramps Up
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Typhoon Mawar debris mission for public schools has already completed debris removal from 41 schools across the island. USACE has completed this mission well ahead of their projected Aug. 8 completion date.
Two companies were contracted to carry out the debris removal project Environmental Chemical Corp. (ECC) and Pacific Federal Management (PFM). These contractors were hired by USACE to conduct the school debris mission at no cost to the schools.
Upon completion of the school debris mission, these contract teams will continue to shift to residential debris removal. Due to faster than expected progress residents in the following villages and communities should begin sorting and placing their debris in the right of way immediately.
Debris Operations Ongoing Aug. 3 through Aug. 9 in:
- Tiyan (Barrigada)
- Wustig Rd. (Dededo)
- Ypao (Tamuning)
- Piti
Debris Operations Begin Aug. 5 or Aug. 6 in:
- Southern School (Sånta Rita-Sumai)
- Tumon (Tamuning)
- Hågat
- Inalåhan
- Malesso’
- Humåtak
- Sinajana
- Talo’fo’fo
- Yona
Guam residents are asked to please separate debris by type and place it within the right of way (ROW) within 10 ft of the curb prior to the start of pick-up.
Eligible storm related debris includes: vegetative debris, large appliances, construction and demolition debris and metal (cans, tin.)
Debris should not block the roadway, fire hydrants, powerlines, utilities or transformer boxes. In addition, debris should not be blocked by parked cars, abandoned cars, or by other means.
To make the process quick and efficient there will be separate trucks for each category of eligible debris (debris refinement, vegetative debris, appliances, construction and demolition debris and metal.) These trucks may arrive at different times in the clean-up process.
The residential debris project is a free program available for all residential properties including apartments and condominiums.
While debris assessment and refinement teams are already in the communities listed above, there is still time to sort and set your debris in the right of way (ROW). Residents are encouraged to complete their debris sorting and staging as soon as possible to make sure they can take advantage of this service.
Households will be responsible for safely disposing of ineligible debris. Certain forms of ineligible debris may be taken to one of the three Guam Solid Waste Authority (GSWA) residential transfer stations in Harmon, Hagåt, and Malojloj. Transfer station operation hours are Thursday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A nominal fee is required for disposal of household trash.
Residents are urged to dispose of their solid waste properly. Illegal dumping is a violation of Guam law. In accordance with 10 GCA §51115(b), illegal dumping is subject to fines of up to $1,000 per day, per violation, along with the clean-up cost associated with the violation.
For an FAQ answering common questions about the debris mission visit:
U.S. Army Corp of Engineers Debris Mission FAQ | FEMA.gov
For more information on proper debris separation visit Debris Removal Guidelines for Residential Property (fema.gov)
For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, please visit our website.
felicia.jordan Thu, 08/03/2023 - 20:20Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Jackson County, Arkansas
DENTON, Texas – Revised Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review in Jackson County, Arkansas. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.
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 participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.
The 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around Aug. 3, 2023.
Appeals and comments may be submitted through Nov. 1, 2023, for:
- The cities of Campbell Station, Diaz and Tupelo; the towns of Jacksonport and Weldon; and the unincorporated areas of Jackson County.
Residences may submit an appeal if they consider 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 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 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.
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 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.
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 floodsmart.gov.
alexa.brown Thu, 08/03/2023 - 13:26FEMA and FCC Plan Nationwide Emergency Alert Test for Oct. 4, 2023
Test Messages Will be Sent to All TVs, Radios and Cell Phones
WASHINGTON -- FEMA, in coordination with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), will conduct a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) this fall.
The national test will consist of two portions, testing WEA and EAS capabilities. Both tests are scheduled to begin at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET on Wednesday, Oct. 4.
The WEA portion of the test will be directed to all consumer cell phones. This will be the third nationwide test, but the second test to all cellular devices. The test message will display in either English or in Spanish, depending on the language settings of the wireless handset.
The EAS portion of the test will be sent to radios and televisions. This will be the seventh nationwide EAS test.
FEMA and the FCC are coordinating with EAS participants, wireless providers, emergency managers and other stakeholders in preparation for this national test to minimize confusion and to maximize the public safety value of the test.
The purpose of the Oct. 4 test is to ensure that the systems continue to be effective means of warning the public about emergencies, particularly those on the national level. In case the Oct. 4 test is postponed due to widespread severe weather or other significant events, the back-up testing date is Oct. 11.
The WEA portion of the test will be initiated using FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS), a centralized internet-based system administered by FEMA that enables authorities to send authenticated emergency messages to the public through multiple communications networks. The WEA test will be administered via a code sent to cell phones.
This year the EAS message will be disseminated as a Common Alerting Protocol (CAP) message via the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System-Open Platform for Emergency Networks (IPAWS-OPEN).
All wireless phones should receive the message only once. The following can be expected from the nationwide WEA test:
- Beginning at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET, cell towers will broadcast the test for approximately 30 minutes. During this time, WEA-compatible wireless phones that are switched on, within range of an active cell tower, and whose wireless provider participates in WEA, should be capable of receiving the test message.
- For consumers, the message that appears on their phones will read: “THIS IS A TEST of the National Wireless Emergency Alert System. No action is needed.”
- Phones with the main menu set to Spanish will display: “ESTA ES UNA PRUEBA del Sistema Nacional de Alerta de Emergencia. No se necesita acción.”
WEA alerts are created and sent by authorized federal, state, local, tribal and territorial government agencies through IPAWS to participating wireless providers, which deliver the alerts to compatible handsets in geo-targeted areas. To help ensure that these alerts are accessible to the entire public, including people with disabilities, the alerts are accompanied by a unique tone and vibration.
Important information about the EAS test:
- The EAS portion of the test is scheduled to last approximately one minute and will be conducted with the participation of radio and television broadcasters, cable systems, satellite radio and television providers and wireline video providers.
- The test message will be similar to the regular monthly EAS test messages with which the public is familiar. It will state: “This is a nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, covering the United States from 14:20 to 14:50 hours ET. This is only a test. No action is required by the public.
FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Orleans County
WILLISTON, Vt. – A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) opens at 8 a.m., Aug. 3 in Barton in Orleans County to help Vermont residents affected by the floods kickstart their recovery. The joint DRC, a temporary facility established in partnership between Barton, the state of Vermont and FEMA, will help survivors apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents and answer questions in person.
The Barton center is located at:
Barton Memorial Building
17 Village Square
Barton, VT 05822
Centers are already open at:
Twinfield Union School
106 Nasmith Brook Road
Plainfield, VT 05667
Waterbury Armory
294 Armory Drive
Waterbury, VT 05676
ASA Bloomer Building
88 Merchants Row, Suite 330
Rutland, VT 05701
Barre Auditorium
16 Auditorium Hill
Barre, VT 05641
Flood Brook School
91 VT-11
Londonderry, VT 05148
All are open 7 days a week, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and access and functional needs, and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).
Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will also be at the center to explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses, and private nonprofits, and provide information about rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.
You don’t need to visit a DRC to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA App. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.
FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they are the victim of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.
thomas.wise Wed, 08/02/2023 - 20:29New Hours of Operation at Disaster Recovery Center
Effective today, the Disaster Recovery Center located at Guam Community College will be extending its hours of operation. The new hours are as follows:
Location
Address
Hours
1 Sesame St., Building E,
Mangilao, GU 96913
8 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Friday,
9 a.m. -5 p.m., Saturday,
Closed, Sunday
These expanded hours will provide greater convenience for survivors seeking in-person assistance from FEMA.
Although the deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance has passed, the Disaster Recovery Center at Guam Community College remains open to provide vital support for ongoing recovery efforts. You can learn more about FEMA and other federal disaster assistance programs, understand any letters you get from FEMA, get answers to questions about your application, or get referrals to agencies that may offer other assistances.
Disaster Recovery Centers are barrier-free and provide equal access to all visitors. If you use American Sign Language or assistive technology, and if you need accommodations to communicate, please notify FEMA staff at the center immediately.
Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center is not your only option to contact FEMA. You can visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA Mobile App, or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. (The Helpline is available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents). Help is available in many languages.
For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, visit our website.
felicia.jordan Wed, 08/02/2023 - 13:01Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Porterville
A Disaster Recovery Center has opened in Porterville to help residents affected by the severe winter storms.
The center is located at:
Tule River Justice Center
Conference Room 138
129 South Reservation Road
Porterville, CA 93257
Hours of operation: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily
Specialists at the center will be able to help survivors with their FEMA applications and provide information on SBA low-interest loans and other available assistance. No appointment is needed.
However, residents don’t have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to sign up for FEMA assistance. They can go to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Helpline operators can assist in many languages. The Helpline is available from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. PDT. Anyone using the video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others will need to give FEMA their number for that service.
For an accessible video on how to apply, go to youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhl .
For the latest information on California’s recovery from the severe winter storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides, visit FEMA.gov/disaster/4699 . You may also follow twitter.com/Cal_OES, facebook.com/CaliforniaOES, @FEMARegion9/Twitter and Facebook.com/FEMA.
jasmine.fields Tue, 08/01/2023 - 19:28Pages
