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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of New York to supplement state, tribal and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from the remnants of Hurricane Ida, beginning Sept 1, 2021 and continuing. 

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title 5 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, to save lives, protect property and public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. This assistance is for Bronx, Dutchess, Kings, Nassau, New York, Orange, Putnam, Queens, Richmond, Rockland, Suffolk, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester counties.

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

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

mayshaunt.gary Sat, 09/04/2021 - 18:00

States Impacted by Ida Receive Full Backing of Federal Force in Relief and Recovery Efforts

WASHINGTON -- Federal agencies, nonprofits, the private sector and FEMA continue to increase response and recovery efforts six days after Ida made landfall in Louisiana.

Today, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. and FEMA administrator Deanne Criswell are in Louisiana to tour damaged areas and meet with state and local officials in three parishes to discuss recovery efforts. This comes one day after the president approved emergency declarations for New Jersey and New York after Ida’s remnants caused widespread flooding and tornadoes.

To help Hurricane Ida Louisiana survivors with roof damage, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers activated its Operation Blue Roof program for 13 parishes. Residents can sign up for this free service by completing a Right of Entry form at Blueroof.us or calling toll-free 888-766-3258.

To date, over 25,000 valid requests for contracted crews to work on roofs have been received by the Army Corps. 

One day after announcing changes to the agency’s Individual Assistance program to reduce barriers to assistance, FEMA is announcing more than $107 million in grants to Louisiana survivors to help them begin their recovery. Changes in this new policy include expanding acceptance of different forms of documentation to prove ownership or occupancy, while also expanding assistance for a disaster-caused disability.

More than 1,400 FEMA employees are deployed to support Ida response and recovery efforts along the Gulf Coast and in the Northeast. Fourteen Urban Search and Rescue teams are deployed to affected areas in Louisiana and New Jersey. The teams have completed more than 27,000 structural evaluations in Louisiana.

Beware of Scams. Attempts can be made over the phone, by mail or email, text or in person. Local, state and federal officials never request money for help and always carry identification badges. There is no fee required to apply for or to get help from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration or any state agency.

Survivors who have any suspicion of fraud or scams should immediately call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or TTY 844-889-4357. They may also contact local law enforcement.

Visit FEMA’s Hurricane Ida webpage for information and resources available for residents in Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and other areas that may be affected by Ida. The page is available in French, Haitian Creole, Simplified Chinese, Spanish and Vietnamese.

Federal Partner Agencies Continue Robust Response to Hurricane Ida

In Louisiana, there are 43 hospitals running on generator power. FEMA deployed ambulance crews to Louisiana to help with patient transport. If needed, more than 170 ambulances/1,000 paratransit seats and emergency medical service providers are in the area, including 30 air ambulances.

• Louisiana survivors located in one of the designated parishes approved for individual assistance and do not have insurance, you can apply for disaster assistance and get referrals to local, state and federal agencies and voluntary organizations. The fastest way to apply is through DisasterAssistance.gov. To date, 290,000 applications have been received and $107 million has been approved.
• FEMA has also received more than 8,600 National Flood Insurance Program claims from the Gulf Coast states for processing. If you are a National Flood Insurance Policy holder and have flood damage from Ida and its remnants, learn more about starting your recovery. Contact your flood insurance company to start a claim now.  Make sure to ask about advance payments.  If you don’t know who your flood insurance agent or carrier is, call 877-336-2627 to speak with an adjuster.
• For disaster survivors experiencing emotional distress, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration activated its Disaster Distress helpline. The multilingual Disaster Distress Helpline provides immediate crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress in an affected disaster area. Call or text 800-985-5990 to connect with a trained crisis counselor, 24 hours a day. Spanish-speakers can call the hotline and press “2” for bilingual support. In addition, third-party interpretation services are available to provide counseling in 100 other languages.

Additional Federal Agency Response

• Over 7,500 National Guard members, from 15 different states, are currently activated to support operations continuing to help with search and rescue operations, including assisting law enforcement with security in New Orleans and six parishes. In 31 parishes, the National Guard rescued more than 500 people and 60 pets and cleared hundreds of miles of routes clogged with debris. Guardsmen are distributing food and water to disaster survivors in nine parishes, with plans to expand to other areas.
• More than 750 American Red Cross workers are in Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas assisting more than 2,400 people in 29 Red Cross and community shelters. With the help of partners, the Red Cross has already provided some 49,500 meals and snacks and distributed more than 16,000 relief items. Anyone in the affected area who needs a safe place to stay should call 211, visit redcross.org, call 800-733-2767 or download the free Red Cross emergency app for shelter locations.
• The Salvation Army has 40 mobile feeding vehicles providing meals, drinks, supplies and emotional and spiritual care to survivors and first responders. The Salvation Army is supporting three Southern Baptist Disaster Relief field kitchens with the capacity to serve 30,000 meals daily.  In addition, The Salvation Army has feeding locations in five parishes and roaming feeding trucks in five additional locations which has served more than 35,000 meals to date.
• The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved several short-term measures to address food needs.  The USDA approved the Disaster Household Distribution program to allow Louisiana officials to work directly with their partners and local food banks to issue up to 800,000 food boxes to individuals in the affected areas. The USDA also approved a temporary waiver until Sept. 28 to allow participants in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to purchase hot foods with their benefits. In addition, the USDA activated the Emergency Food Assistance Program so damaged or destroyed grocery stores can redirect stored supplies of USDA Foods from other states.
• The Department of Energy authorized the Strategic Petroleum Reserve  to conduct an exchange with ExxonMobil Baton Rouge to move more crude oil within areas and increase the access to fuel in areas affected by Ida.
• The Environmental Protection Agency revised the initial Reid Vapor Pressure for Louisiana and Mississippi to improve fuel circumstances in the affected area.  The agency continues to amplify safety messages urging residents to be aware of indoor air dangers, portable generator safety, building debris chemicals and mold from flood waters.
• The Federal Communications Commission is coordinating with government partners to support restoration efforts and lending technical assistance in the field.  The FCC also is working directly with carriers to track is implementation of the Wireless Resiliency Cooperative Framework, including disaster arrangements so that those in affected areas can roam on any network that may be available while restoration efforts are underway.  The FCC is providing daily updates about their operational status.
• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services deployed 185 medical providers and other staff from the National Disaster Medical System to support the triage and treatment of patients and patient movement missions in Louisiana. This includes three teams that will be providing Emergency Department decompression in three hospitals in Thibodaux, Kenner and Raceland.  Additionally, HHS is staffing a 250-bed healthcare facility known as a federal medical shelter at the New Orleans Ernest Morial Convention Center.
• The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is assisting survivors through immediate foreclosure relief, making insurance available for mortgages and home rehabilitation and offering additional flexibilities to affected communities.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering low-interest federal disaster loans to Louisiana business and residents in 25 parishes, per President Biden’s major disaster declaration. A virtual Business Recovery Center is open and providing personalized assistance to business owners.
• The U.S. Department of Transportation activated an Emergency Relief Docket for railroads so they can get temporary safety regulations waivers to help them speed up service to move goods necessary for emergency relief efforts. Additionally, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced an emergency declaration that provides truck drivers flexibility to move critical freight to damaged areas. A Routing Assistance Hotline provides a 24-hour toll free number for responders to call and receive safe routes in affected areas.  The Federal Railroad Administration reports that several routes from New Orleans to Boston remain suspended for track inspection and debris on the railways.
• The U.S. Department of Treasury Internal Revenue Service announced that Louisiana disaster survivors will have additional time to file various individual and business tax returns and to make payments. Survivors who had a valid extension to file their 2020 tax returns will now have until Jan. 3, 2022.
• The U.S. Coast Guard continues to work closely with all federal, state, and local partners to manage post-storm response, including search and rescue operations.  Additionally, the USCG is conducting port, facilities and waterways assessments. These ports remain closed: Louisiana Offshore Oil Platform, Fourchon and Houma/Terrebonne. The following ports are open with restrictions:  Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Plaquemines, South Louisiana and St. Bernard Port.

September is National Preparedness Month, an annual observance to remind all Americans how important it is for individuals, families and communities to be prepared for disasters and emergencies that can happen at any time. For more information and tips about National Preparedness Month, visit Ready.gov/September or Listo.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 09/03/2021 - 22:57

Preliminary Damage Assessments to Be Conducted in Pennsylvania FEMA Advisory At the request of Governor Tom Wolf, FEMA Region 3 will support the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency in locally executed, state managed and federally supported Preliminary Assessments in Southeastern Pennsylvania.

Governor Tom Wolf has requested that joint state and FEMA Preliminary Damage Assessments (PDAs) for Individual Assistance (IA) be completed to evaluate damages related to Tropical Depression Ida that occurred this week in Pennsylvania.

The IA assessments are scheduled to begin Tuesday, Sept. 7, 2021, in Chester, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties. Bucks County assessments will start as early as Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2021.

These joint assessments are conducted in person, with close cooperation among state, local and federal agencies.

Damage assessments are the first step in helping the governor determine whether the scope of the damages is beyond what the state is capable of handling and if added federal assistance is needed. Additional assessments may be requested, by the state, as damage information is received from local officials.

The PDA is an information-gathering process. It does not guarantee federal assistance.

Once the information is gathered, the state uses it to determine whether to make an official request for federal assistance. Disaster recovery efforts are locally executed, state managed & federally supported.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. 

 Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

 

gabriel.lugo Fri, 09/03/2021 - 20:56

FEMA Provides $12.5 Million to Minnesota Department of Health for COVID-19 Response

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Minnesota Department of Safety, Division of Emergency Management (HSEM) announced today that $12,500,000 in federal funding has been made available to the Minnesota Department of Health for costs related to the state’s COVID-19 vaccine distribution and administration under the federal disaster declaration on April 7, 2020.

This funding will reimburse the Minnesota Department of Health for costs associated with the rapid distribution and administration of available COVID-19 vaccines at nine vaccination centers throughout the state.

“FEMA is committed to ensuring anyone who wants a vaccine can get one,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This expedited funding will help the state of Minnesota for its vaccination efforts to fight this pandemic and expand availability of COVID-19 vaccines across the state.”

“Getting safe, free and effective shots into the arms of Minnesotans is an all-hands-on-deck effort,” said Minnesota Department of Health Commissioner Jan Malcolm. “The state is grateful to the federal government for these critical resources to help provide COVID-19 protection to communities across Minnesota.”

FEMA provides a 100 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project. FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding to local government jurisdictions and eligible private non-profits for the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged infrastructure as well as costs incurred for debris removal, disaster cleanup and emergency actions taken to protect lives or property.  To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. For more information about FEMA’s COVID-19 vaccine support efforts, visit www.fema.gov/disasters/coronavirus/vaccine-support.

 

# # #

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

troy.christensen Fri, 09/03/2021 - 19:28

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of New Jersey to supplement state, tribal and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from the remnants of Hurricane Ida, beginning Sept. 1, 2021 and continuing.

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title 5 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, to save lives, protect property and public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. This assistance is for Atlantic, Bergen, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Essex, Gloucester, Hudson, Hunterdon, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, Passaic, Salem, Somerset, Sussex, Union and Warren counties.

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

Patrick Cornbill has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected areas.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 09/03/2021 - 16:49

FEMA Region 3 Urges Post Storm Safety in Ida Response; Supports State Partners

PHILADELPHIA –The remnants of Hurricane Ida moved through much of the Mid-Atlantic Wednesday bringing widespread heavy rainfall, tornadoes, and causing flooding for many rivers and streams. The damage in Ida’s wake, compounded by already saturated ground from other recent weather events, show it to be one of the more impactful tropical systems to ever hit Region 3.

Many rivers, streams and creeks are still well above flood stages. FEMA’s priorities are to support life-saving and life-sustaining actions. The agency continues to work with federal, state, local, tribal and non-governmental partners to support the needs of areas impacted by Ida.

“Throughout this storm, from preparation, through response and now recovery, FEMA Region 3 has been in constant contact with state emergency management directors and operational leaders to best support the needs of communities affected by Ida,” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “Our state partners have been very proactive during the response, and we’re ready to assist.”

Nationally, more than 1,400 FEMA employees are deployed, including several FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams that are supporting states in their response and recovery efforts.

Communities throughout Region 3 are conducting initial damage assessments. During this phase, local, county, and state emergency management agencies work with residents and businesses to assess and estimate the storm’s damage and to identify local and state resources needed to recover. FEMA is leaning forward to coordinate with and support states as swiftly as possible.

Individuals and businesses facing property damage due to Ida should consult their local or state emergency management agency for details on the process. Many municipalities and counties have online preliminary damage assessment forms to aid residents and businesses in getting the process started.

“Post-storm conditions pose nearly as many hazards as storms themselves,” Tierney added. “Pay attention to the instructions of local authorities, know your area’s flood risk, use precautions when cleaning up, and put safety first.” 

 

FEMA urges anyone traveling in flood risk areas over the weekend to check for alerts and advisories before heading out and do not drive through flooded waters.

How to help survivors and communities impacted by Hurricane Ida

• Be patient. Recovery will take many months or more. People can help by donating to or volunteering with the voluntary or charitable organization of their choice, many of which are already in areas impacted by Ida and supporting survivors. Learn how to best help those in need.
• Do not self-deploy. Seeing imagines of disaster may compel you to head to the impacted area. Until a need has been identified and the community affected by Hurricane Ida has requested support, volunteers should not enter the area.
• Cash is the best donation. When people support voluntary organizations with financial contributions, it helps ensure a steady flow of important services to the people in need after a disaster. To find a reputable organization, visit the National Voluntary Organizations Active in a Disaster Hurricane Ida page.

Staying Safe After a Flood

• Pay attention to authorities for information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
• Avoid driving except in emergencies. Emergency workers may be assisting people in flooded areas or cleaning up debris. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way. If you evacuated, do not return home until local officials say it is safe.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock if it is safe to do so.
• Avoid wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
• Use a generator correctly and safely. Keep generators dry and position them outdoors and well away from any structure. Using a generator incorrectly can lead to dangerous situations, including carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get fresh air right away.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock.

 

Stay Safe from Post-Storm Hazards

• Put your health and safety first: Be careful in areas with storm damage or flooding. If you evacuated, return only when officials say it is safe to do so. Areas without power may experience heat advisories, which can lead to illness or a threat to life.
• Be aware of heat-related illnesses. Areas without power may experience heat advisories, which can lead to illness or a threat to life. Learn to recognize the signs of heat illness.
• Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
• Avoid downed power or utility lines. They may be live with deadly voltage. Stay far away and report them immediately to your power company.
• Power outages can impact the safety of food in your refrigerator and freezer. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep your food as fresh as possible. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Use coolers with ice if necessary.
• Check on friends and family: If you are able, please check on your neighbors, friends, and family because some may need more help than others.

 

FEMA previously issued Ensuring Civil Rights in Multiple Disasters During COVID-19 to offer best practices for partners and communities facing a disproportionate rate of COVID-19 illness and death during response and recovery efforts during multiple disasters.

Additional post-storm safety tips can be found on Ready.gov and Listo.gov, as well as by downloading the FEMA App. For more information on federal Hurricane Ida preparedness and response visit Hurricane Ida | FEMA.gov.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. 

 Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

gabriel.lugo Fri, 09/03/2021 - 15:20

Federal Response Ramps up as Ida Departs

WASHINGTON -- As the remnants of Hurricane Ida have moved off shore, states from the Gulf Coast to New England are assessing the damage.  The storm's flooding and tornadoes on Wednesday came days after causing widespread wind, storm surge and flooding in Louisiana and Mississippi. FEMA staff are working throughout the nation to support other ongoing hurricane and flood response efforts and wildfires in the West.

There are 11 FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams deployed to support states affected by Hurricane Ida. Five are in Louisiana, two in Mississippi, one in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.  AmeriCorps has activated and deployed 14 FEMA Corps teams from the Southern Region Campus in Vicksburg, Miss., to support the FEMA IMAT and disaster survivor assistance in Louisiana and Mississippi.

The National Emergency Management Association is helping facilitate additional resources to the Gulf Coast through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact. Resources from 13 states have been sent to assist with ongoing response and recovery efforts.

While images of Hurricane Ida’s destruction in Louisiana and Mississippi may compel volunteers to head to the affected areas, they should not travel or send unsolicited donations until communities have identified needs. In the meantime, visit the National Voluntary Organizations Active in a Disaster Hurricane Ida page to identify reputable organizations to make cash donations.

Ongoing Federal Actions In Louisiana, Mississippi  

More than 1,100 FEMA employees are deployed to support Ida response and recovery efforts in the region. In addition, FEMA deployed  ambulance crews to Louisiana and Mississippi to help with patient transport. If needed, 150 ambulances/1,000 paratransit seats and emergency medical service providers are in the area, including 30 air ambulances.

Visit FEMA’s Hurricane Ida webpage for information and resources available for residents in Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and other areas that may be affected by Ida. The page is available in French, Haitian Creole, Simplified Chinese, Spanish and Vietnamese.

• Louisiana survivors located in one of the designated parishes approved for individual assistance and do not have insurance, you can apply for disaster assistance and get referrals to local, state and federal agencies and voluntary organizations. The fastest way to apply is through DisasterAssistance.gov.
• If you are a National Flood Insurance Policy holder and have flood damage from Hurricane Ida and its remnants, learn more about starting your recovery. Contact your flood insurance company to start a claim now.  Make sure to ask about advance payments.  If you don’t know who your flood insurance agent or carrier is, call 877-336-2627 to speak with an adjuster.
• For disaster survivors experiencing emotional distress, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration activated its Disaster Distress helpline. This toll-free, multilingual, crisis support service is available around the clock by calling 800-985-5990 or texting ‘TalkWithUs’ to 66746.
• Twelve Urban Search and Rescue teams have completed more than 17,500 structural evaluations in affected areas, including more than 8,900 in Louisiana.
• The U.S. Coast Guard continues to work closely with all federal, state, and local partners to manage post-storm response, including search and rescue operations. Additionally, the USCG is conducting port, facilities and waterways assessments. These ports remain closed: Intracoastal City, Louisiana Offshore Oil Platform, Fourchon, Houma/Terrebonne, Baton Rouge, South Louisiana. The following ports are open: Lake Charles, Cameron, Morgan City, New Iberia, Plaquemines, St. Bernard Port and Harbor District.  The New Orleans port is open with restrictions.
• More than 5,200 National Guard members are activated from eight states and helping with search and rescue and clearing road debris.
• The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has more than 420 personnel assisting the state of Louisiana and FEMA with damage assessments and planning potential mission requirements for power assessments and installations. The USACE activated its Operation Blue Roof program for parishes in Louisiana designated for individual assistance. Residents can sign up for the program and complete a Right of Entry form at Blueroof.us or can call toll free 888-ROOF-BLU (888-766-3258) for more information.
• The American Red Cross is focused on providing safe shelter and meals. More than 580 Red Cross workers are in the affected areas and hundreds more volunteers are on the way. They are working with partners to set up mobile kitchens capable of preparing tens of thousands of meals. Dozens of Red Cross emergency response vehicles will also deliver meals to delivered to people in the hardest hit areas. Volunteers are also replacing items such as prescription medications, eyeglasses, canes and wheelchairs. Anyone in the affected area who needs a safe place to stay should call 211, visit redcross.org, call 800-733-2767 or download the free Red Cross emergency app for shelter locations.
• The Salvation Army has so far provided more than 29,000 meals. It has 38 mobile feeding units ready to distribute meals. Eight feeding locations are identified in New Orleans to serve meals. Additional feeding locations have been established in Albany, Baton Rouge, Hammond, Houma and Thibodaux and roaming feeding trucks are serving in LaPlace, Napoleonville and Raceland.
• The Defense Logistics Agency has been activated for fuel support and leasing of additional generators. High output generators are in Baton Rouge, La.
• The U.S. Department of Agriculture is evaluating impacts to agriculture and communities. The Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program in Louisiana received a temporary waiver to allow participants to buy hot foods with their benefits and assisting with program flexibilities needed for mass feeding operations.
• The Environmental Protection Agency is in regular, ongoing communication with federal, state, tribal and local partners to discuss storm response and resource availability. From Aug. 30 – Sept. 15, the EPA approved a fuel waiver requests from the states of Louisiana and Mississippi to improve the fuel supply circumstances. The agency is also amplifying safety messages urging residents to be aware of indoor air dangers, portable generator safety, building debris chemicals and mold from flood waters.
• The Federal Communications Commission is coordinating with government partners to support restoration efforts and lending technical assistance in the field.  In addition, the commission is working with carriers so that those in affected areas can roam on any network that may be available during restoration efforts.  
• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services deployed more than 180 medical providers and other staff to support the triage and treatment of patients and patient movement missions in Louisiana. Additionally, HHS deployed a 250-bed federal medical shelter to enable patient care at the New Orleans Earnest Morial Convention Center.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration is offering low-interest federal disaster loans to Louisiana business and residents in 25 parishes, per President Biden’s major disaster declaration. A virtual Business Recovery Center is open and providing personalized assistance to business owners.
• The U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced an emergency declaration that provides truck drivers flexibility to move critical freight to damaged areas. A Routing Assistance Hotline provides a 24-hour toll free number for responders to call and receive safe routes in affected areas.  Additionally, USDOT activated an Emergency Relief Docket for railroads so they can get temporary safety regulations waivers to help them speed up service to move goods necessary for emergency relief efforts
• The U.S. Department of Treasury Internal Revenue Service announced that Louisiana disaster survivors will have additional time to file various individual and business tax returns and to make payments. Survivors who had a valid extension to file their 2020 tax returns will now have until Jan. 3, 2022.

amy.ashbridge Fri, 09/03/2021 - 15:09

FEMA Region 3 Supports State Partners in Ida Response

PHILADELPHIA –The remnants of Hurricane Ida moved through much of the Mid-Atlantic yesterday bringing widespread heavy rainfall, tornadoes, and causing flooding for many rivers and streams. The damage in Ida’s wake show it to be one of the more impactful tropical systems to hit Region 3.

Compounding the effects of this system, many parts of our region have received several inches of rainfall over the past two weeks from Fred, Henri and other systems, which has primed soils and rivers for additional oversaturation impacts (such as causing trees and power lines to fall) and potential flooding.

The storm spawned multiple tornadoes in southeastern Pennsylvania and eastern Maryland, causing power outages and road closures. Ida’s heavy rainfall brought life-threatening flash flooding throughout parts of WV, Central, Eastern and Southeastern PA, much of MD, northern/western VA, DC, and northern DE, especially in steep terrain, in urban areas, and along small/creeks and streams. Floods caused significant road closures across those areas.

“FEMA Region 3 has been in close communication with our state partners,” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “We have personnel deployed across the region to support response and recovery operations, as we continue working with all partners to identify needs and assess damage in communities affected by Ida.”

Moderate-to-major longer-term flooding along the larger rivers is likely mid- to late week, and perhaps into the weekend in the same states, particularly in the Schuylkill, Monongahela, Potomac, Susquehanna and Delaware River basins.

On Tuesday, Region 3 deployed of liaisons and Incident Management Assistance teams to multiple locations throughout the Region, in coordination with state emergency management directors. FEMA also began preparing to move pre-positioned supplies and commodities where they are most needed.

Incident Management Assistance Teams, (IMATs) are teams made up of logistics, operations, and planning experts who interact directly with state and District emergency management personnel. Throughout the event, FEMA Region 3 is in daily contact with regional and national private sector partners, publishing daily.

“We urge everyone to stay safe after this storm’s impact,” Tierney added. “Closely monitor your local flood conditions and information from local authorities, ensure you have emergency supplies on hand, and check in on neighbors who may need assistance, especially older adults and those with disabilities.”

Nationally, more than 1,400 FEMA employees are deployed to support Ida response and recovery efforts, including seven FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams are deployed to support states affected by Hurricane Ida.

FEMA Region 3 will continue to assess needs as the remnants of Ida move through our area and is working with our partners to plan for post-storm assessments.

Keep Yourself Safe During Flooding

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

Staying Safe After a Flood

• Pay attention to authorities for information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
• Avoid driving except in emergencies. Emergency workers may be assisting people in flooded areas or cleaning up debris. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way. If you evacuated, do not return home until local officials say it is safe.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock if it is safe to do so.
• Avoid wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
• Use a generator correctly and safely. Keep generators dry and position them outdoors and well away from any structure. Using a generator incorrectly can lead to dangerous situations, including carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get fresh air right away.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock.

Stay Safe from Post-Storm Hazards

• Put your health and safety first: Be careful in areas with storm damage or flooding. If you evacuated, return only when officials say it is safe to do so. Areas without power may experience heat advisories, which can lead to illness or a threat to life.
• Be aware of heat-related illnesses. Areas without power may experience heat advisories, which can lead to illness or a threat to life. Learn to recognize the signs of heat illness.
• Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
• Avoid downed power or utility lines. They may be live with deadly voltage. Stay far away and report them immediately to your power company.
• Power outages can impact the safety of food in your refrigerator and freezer. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to keep your food as fresh as possible. The refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours. A full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. Use coolers with ice if necessary.

FEMA previously issued Ensuring Civil Rights in Multiple Disasters During COVID-19 to offer best practices for partners and communities facing a disproportionate rate of COVID-19 illness and death during response and recovery efforts during multiple disasters.

Additional post-storm safety tips can be found on Ready.gov and Listo.gov, as well as by downloading the FEMA App. For more information on federal Hurricane Ida preparedness and response visit Hurricane Ida | FEMA.gov.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. 

 Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

amanda.hancher Thu, 09/02/2021 - 17:52

Family Treasures and Old Documents may be Salvageable

NASHVILLE, Tenn.  – As Amy Miller, Tennessee’s National Flood Insurance Program coordinator, was surveying the damage this week from the severe storms and flooding that occurred in Middle Tennessee on Aug. 21, she spotted a yellowing, slightly dog-eared report card in the dry mud on a street in Waverly. To her surprise, she found it dated all the way back to 1922. The card appeared to belong to an eighth grader whose improving marks for the year were still visible. 

Not all family mementos, treasures, photos, heirlooms and books remain in such good condition after a disaster like the recent storms. For those who would like to salvage these kinds of treasured possessions, the Heritage Emergency National Task Force, co-sponsored by FEMA and the Smithsonian Institution, offer the following tips to those would like to try to salvage them. Text should be FEMA Normal style.

• If an object is still wet, rinse it gently with clean water. If dry, remove silt and other foreign material with a soft brush or damp cloth.
• Air dry wet things indoors. Sunlight might be too intense. Keep humidity as low as possible to prevent mold accumulation.
• Don’t try to separate photos or negatives that are stuck together. Soak them in water for up to 48 hours until you can safely pull them apart. Hang them with clips or clothespins to dry.
• Put wet books in a sturdy covered plastic container, spine side down. Place the container in a freezer and keep it there for several weeks, even months. Then remove and let dry.
• With fabrics or textiles, remove mud and debris with gently flowing clean water or fine spray from a hose. Press out the excess water with your hand. Do not try to wring out the water. Allow to dry.
• Clean wooden objects like furniture with a damp sponge; blot and let dry slowly inside the house, not under the sun.
• Rinse metal objects with clear water and blot dry immediately with a clean, soft cloth. Fans or low-heat hairdryers will hasten drying rate.
• For broken pottery or ceramics, put all the pieces in an open container and mark what it is. Don’t try to glue the pieces back together until they are dry. And watch for mold. If mold appears, spray the pieces with Mold-Ex or a similar product.
• Personal safety is important when working with objects retrieved from contaminated water. Wear disposable vinyl or nitrile gloves, protective clothing, goggles, and, when possible, use a respirator while working.

For more detailed information on salvaging water-damaged historical documents and personal possessions, visit this FEMA Fact Sheet.

Basic salvage guidelines are also available from the Heritage Emergency National Task Force.

Another resource is the American Institute for Conservation which provides advice on the proper care and maintenance of family heirlooms as well as a search tool to find local conservation professionals who can help salvage photos, books, textiles, paintings, wooden furniture and other valuable objects (www.culturalheritage.org/membership/find-a-conservator).

For cultural institutions with flood-damaged facilities and/or collections, the National Heritage Responders   composed of conservators, archivists, collections managers, and other professionals who are trained to provide free salvage guidance to cultural stewards. For more information, visit National Heritage Responders or call the 24/7 hotline: 202.661.8068

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4609. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

bree-constance… Thu, 09/02/2021 - 17:41

DHS Announces Changes to Individual Assistance Policies to Advance Equity for Disaster Survivors FEMA will now accept additional forms of documentation to verify occupancy and ownership requirements, improves access to disaster assistance for underserved communities

WASHINGTON -- DHS today announced three immediate steps FEMA is taking to reduce barriers to access experienced by underserved populations through programs that provide individual assistance to disaster survivors. FEMA will now accept a broader range of homeownership and occupancy documentation, and expand the forms of assistance offered to survivors.  These changes to FEMA’s Individual Assistance program will help to ensure equal access is available to all survivors through FEMA programs.

“Our Department has an obligation to ensure we provide equal access to disaster relief and assistance to all survivors who are in need,” said Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas.  “Equity is a cornerstone of our homeland security mission and in all of our work we must reach minority communities, the disadvantaged and the otherwise disenfranchised.  The changes we are announcing today reflect our commitment to always do better in achieving this moral imperative.”

“This is a culture shift for the agency and we are only just beginning,” said FEMA  Administrator Deanne Criswell.  “These new changes reduce the barriers to entry for our Individual Assistance program and will help us to provide more equitable disaster support to all survivors, specifically for underserved populations.  Heading into the peak of hurricane season with 12 named Atlantic storms to date, and as wildfires strengthen out west, FEMA continues to put equity at the forefront of how we support survivors before, during and after disasters.”

To better support survivors seeking disaster relief, FEMA is:

1. Expanding forms of documentation to prove ownership/occupancy for homeowners and renters.

FEMA is required by law to verify a survivor’s home occupancy or ownership before it provides certain types of assistance.  To confirm occupancy, FEMA will now accept motor vehicle registrations, court documents, and additional forms of documentation, including letters from local schools (public or private), federal or state benefit providers, and social service organizations (such as community assistance programs and non-profits).  Survivors may also now use a signed statement from a commercial or mobile home park owner and provide self-certification for mobile homes and travel trailers. 

For homeowners, FEMA will now accept a public official’s letter, receipts for major repairs or improvements, and will allow survivors with heirship properties, mobile homes, or travel trailers, who do not have the traditional documentation of ownership verification, to self-certify ownership and qualify for assistance.

This expansion includes reducing administrative burdens for the hardest hit survivors.  If survivors have successfully verified occupancy to FEMA from a previous disaster within the past two years, then they will not need to verify occupancy again.  Homeowners with the same address from a previous disaster only need to verify ownership one time.  FEMA has also expanded the date of eligible documents from three months to one year before the disaster.

Finally, to provide real-time feedback to survivors, FEMA has also trained staff to verify documentation on-site while conducting home inspections.  This will significantly decrease the burden on survivors by allowing FEMA to verify documents at the time of inspection instead of requiring the survivor to appeal a decision in writing.

2. Providing expanded housing assistance and other needs assistance funding. 

FEMA will now provide Other Needs Assistance (ONA) grants for a limited amount of financial assistance to renters and homeowners with disaster-caused real property damage that did not render the home uninhabitable.  This will help survivors who are not typically eligible for assistance from FEMA to begin the application process, helping to prevent additional losses and potential health and safety concerns for those remaining in homes damaged by the disaster.

FEMA has also revised inspection procedures and training to better identify and address disaster-caused mold.

3. Expanding financial assistance for disaster-caused disability.

FEMA is amending its current policy to provide assistance to survivors who incurred a disaster-related disability and now require special components, such as ramps or grab bars, to make their damaged home safe and functional for them, regardless of whether those components were in the survivor’s home before the disaster. 

These improvements are additional policy changes to FEMA’s recently published Individual Assistance Program and Policy Guide 1.1.  These new policy changes are effective for the recent Tennessee flooding (FEMA-DR4609-TN), the current California wildfire (FEMA-DR4610-CA), and all disasters declared thereafter, including Hurricane Ida in Louisiana (FEMA-DR4611-LA). 

Graphic Graphic

 

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 09/02/2021 - 17:06

Garden City Disaster Recovery Center to Shut Down Permanently on Friday; All Other Centers Will Be Closed for Labor Day Holiday

CHICAGO – The state/FEMA disaster recovery center at the Maplewood Community Center in Garden City will close permanently at 7 p.m. ET on Friday, Sept. 3, 2021. 

 

All other FEMA centers will be closed in observance of Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 6, and will re-open at 9 a.m. ET on Tuesday, Sept. 7.

While the centers are closed, survivors who were affected by the June 25-26 storms and flooding can get updates about their applications, learn about the appeals process or check the status of their claims by logging into their account at DisasterAssistance.gov or calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).

The extraordinary aftermath of Hurricane Ida may cause delays on the FEMA helpline. Michigan storm and flood survivors are advised to visit DisasterAssistance.gov as the preferred alternative to the helpline.

 

In-person assistance from FEMA representatives remains available at four recovery centers and one document drop-off location in southeast Michigan. Individuals can visit any open center to get the help they need with the federal assistance process.

 

To find the location and operational hours of the nearest center to you, visit FEMA’s DRC locator page at https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.

Survivors do not have to visit a recovery center to register or receive federal assistance. These centers provide a location for applicants to submit documents or discuss their case in-person with a FEMA or U.S. Small Business Administration 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.

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 Thu, 09/02/2021 - 16:26

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of California to supplement state, tribal and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from the Caldor Fire beginning on Aug.17, 2021, and continuing. 

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title 5 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, to save lives, protect property and public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe.  

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion, the equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, limited to direct federal assistance, will be provided at 75% federal funding. This assistance is for Alpine, Amador, El Dorado and Placer counties.

Dolph A. Diemont has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected areas.  

amy.ashbridge Thu, 09/02/2021 - 15:26

FEMA Approves $2.5 Million for Jackson Hospital Generator Project

PENSACOLA, Fla – FEMA has approved a grant of $2,584,225 for Jackson Hospital in Marianna for the purchase and installation of 12 permanent generators within the hospital’s network of facilities. The grant is funded by FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) and was approved in response to a proposal by the hospital after Hurricane Michael in 2018. Ten diesel generators are to be placed at selected locations and two are designated for the Hudnall Medical Building. An automatic transfer switch – which ensures the continuous delivery of electrical power from either a power company or a generator – will be installed at the main hospital. The project will allow Jackson Hospital to continue operating at all locations during future power outages.

Under the HMGP, FEMA provides grants to help communities eliminate or reduce disaster-related damage. Following a major disaster, a percentage of total federal recovery grant funds is designated to develop more resilient communities. Because Florida has an Enhanced Hazard Mitigation Plan, this means more funds are available for the post-disaster mitigation programs. States with an enhanced plan receive HMGP funds based on 20% of the total estimated eligible Stafford Act disaster assistance.

Kimberly.Kipp Thu, 09/02/2021 - 14:59

Septiembre es el Mes de Preparación Nacional; FEMA recuerda a las familias que deben prepararse y proteger a sus seres queridos

CHICAGO – Cada septiembre, el Mes de Preparación Nacional de FEMA nos recuerda lo importante que es estar preparados para cualquier tipo de riesgo de desastre, ya sean tormentas severas e inundaciones como las que sufrieron los habitantes del sureste de Michigan a finales de junio, o incluso una pandemia como la de COVID-19.

"Este mes, FEMA se centra en aumentar la concienciación sobre cómo proteger a sus seres queridos frente a los desastres que puedan amenazar a su comunidad", dijo Scott Burgess, coordinador federal de FEMA para la operación de recuperación de desastres del sureste de Michigan. "Nuestro objetivo es capacitar a las personas y a las familias, especialmente a las que tradicionalmente han sido desatendidas y marginadas, para que tomen medidas sencillas para prepararse ante esos riesgos".

El tema de 2021, "Prepárese con el fin de proteger", destaca cómo la preparación para los desastres protege a todos sus seres queridos. Cada semana de septiembre, la campaña se centrará en un aspecto diferente de la preparación para las personas, las familias y las comunidades.

Semana 1, del 1 al 4 de septiembre: Haga un plan

Hable con sus amigos y familiares sobre cómo se comunicarán antes, durante y después de un desastre. Asegúrese de actualizar su plan basándose en las recomendaciones de los Centros de Control de Enfermedades debido al coronavirus.

Semana 2, del 5 al 11 de septiembre: Prepare un kit

Reúna suministros que duren varios días después de un desastre para todos los que viven en su casa.  No olvide tener en cuenta las necesidades únicas que puede tener cada persona o mascota en caso de que tenga que evacuar rápidamente. Actualice sus kits y suministros basándose en las recomendaciones de los Centros de Control de Enfermedades.

Semana 3, del 12 al 18 de septiembre: Preparación a bajo costo o sin costo

Limite los impactos que los desastres tienen sobre usted y su familia.  Conozca el riesgo de desastres en su zona. Aprenda a fortalecer su hogar frente a las tormentas y otros peligros comunes.  Compruebe la cobertura de su seguro para asegurarse de que está al día. Asegúrese de que usted y su familia están vacunados contra COVID-19.

Semana 4, del 19 al 25 de septiembre: Enseñe a los jóvenes sobre la preparación

Hable con sus hijos sobre la preparación para las emergencias y lo que deben hacer en caso de que se separen. Tranquilícelos proporcionándoles información sobre cómo pueden participar.

Para más información sobre el Mes de Preparación Nacional de FEMA, visite www.listo.gov/es/septiembre. Para más información sobre la operación de recuperación de desastres en el sudeste de Michigan, visite www.fema.gov/es/disaster/4607.

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La asistencia de recuperación por desastre está disponible sin distinción de raza, color, religión, nacionalidad, sexo, edad, discapacidad, dominio del inglés o estado económico. Se dispondrá de acomodos razonables, incluida la traducción y los intérpretes de lengua de signos americana a través del servicio de retransmisión de video, para garantizar una comunicación eficaz con los solicitantes con un dominio limitado del inglés, con discapacidades y con necesidades funcionales y de acceso. Si usted o alguien que conoce ha sido discriminado, llame a la línea gratuita de FEMA al 800-621-3362 (incluidos los usuarios del 711 o servicio de retransmisión por video). Si usted es una persona sorda, con dificultades auditivas o tiene alguna discapacidad del habla y usa el servicio de TTY, llame al 800-462-7585.

La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres.

troy.christensen Thu, 09/02/2021 - 13:37

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

WASHINGTON — FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Missouri to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornados and flooding from June 24-July 1, 2021.

Federal funding also is available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornados and flooding in Andrew, Audrain, Boone, Buchanan, Caldwell, Callaway, Carroll, Chariton, Clinton, Cooper, Daviess, Grundy, Holt, Howard, Lincoln, Livingston, Moniteau, Montgomery, Ralls, Ray and Saline counties. Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

David Gervino has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Gervino said additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

mashana.davis Thu, 09/02/2021 - 00:50

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

WASHINGTON — FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of North Dakota to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm, straight-line winds and flooding from June 7-11, 2021.

Federal funding also is available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storm, straight-line winds and flooding in Burke, Divide, Emmons, Grant, Kidder, LaMoure, Sioux and Williams counties.

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

Lance Davis has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Davis said additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

mashana.davis Thu, 09/02/2021 - 00:33

Joining the National Flood Insurance Program Can Save Thousands of Dollars

NASHVILLE, Tenn.  – With the severe storms and flooding that just took place in Middle Tennessee on Aug. 21, now is a good time for individuals and communities to become participants in the National Flood Insurance Program. Just an inch of floodwater per 1,000 square feet can cost about $10,000 to repair. Yet, most private insurance companies do not cover flood damage.

Any individual or family can purchase flood insurance if their community participates in the NFIP. However, with the exception of Erin and Tennessee Ridge in Houston County and McEwen, New Johnsonville and Waverly in Humphreys County, the unincorporated areas in the counties do not participate in the program and adopt the Special Flood Hazard Area maps, which makes them sanctioned communities.  

By law, sanctioned communities cannot receive federal disaster money for anything that would normally have been covered by insurance. This includes funding for permanent home and public infrastructure repair. Individuals in these communities may only be eligible for rental assistance and reimbursement of lodging expenses and grants for other needs, such as transportation, childcare, medical, dental, moving/storage, and funeral expenses. And local governments may be provided reimbursement for emergency protective work, such as for debris removal and temporary repairs.

The good news is that these sanctioned communities can still become eligible for funding for permanent repair work for the August storms and flooding if they join the NFIP by Feb. 21, 2022, which is six months from the initial date of the federal disaster declaration. Once the sanctioned communities become NFIP participants, individuals and families and local governments may be eligible for all forms of FEMA assistance.

Other advantages to participating in NFIP:  flood insurance claims are paid even when a major disaster has not been declared. Also, survivors may not have to take out a loan, which is the most common form of disaster assistance.

FEMA, which administers NFIP, is in the process of updating the insurance program’s pricing methodology to communicate flood risk more clearly, so policyholders can make more informed decisions on the purchase of adequate insurance and on mitigation actions to protect against the perils of flooding. For information on flood risks in your area, visit FEMA Flood Map Service Center | Welcome!.

To learn more about flood insurance policies or find an agent, FloodSmart | The National Flood Insurance Program or call 800-427-4661.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4609. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

bree-constance… Wed, 09/01/2021 - 22:27

September is National Preparedness Month

BOTHELL, Wash. – National Preparedness Month is observed each September to raise awareness about steps individuals, families and communities can take to be ready for disasters and emergencies that could happen at any time. This year’s National Preparedness Month theme is Prepare to Protect and highlights how preparing for disaster helps protect everyone you love.

“Everyone has a role to play when it comes to preparing for disasters and emergencies,” says Acting Regional Administrator Vince Maykovich. “Whether it is getting to know your neighbors, updating your contact lists, changing the batteries in your smoke detectors, or having extra food on hand for your pet, I urge everyone to take an action and be a part of this year’s National Preparedness Month.” Each week in September, the campaign will focus on a different aspect of preparedness for individuals, families and communities.

• Week 1: Sept. 1-4 Make A Plan
• Week 2: Sept. 5-11 Build A Kit
• Week 3: Sept. 12-18 Low-Cost, No-Cost Preparedness
• Week 4: Sept. 19-25 Engage Your Community on Preparedness

In partnership with the state emergency management offices and community partners in Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, FEMA Region 10 is hosting several virtual sessions throughout the month for everyone to attend.

• Twitter Spaces Preparedness Chat on September 13 from 12 – 1 p.m. PT
• R10 Family Prep Night Webinar on September 14 from 6:30 – 7:15 p.m. PT
• Livestock & Large Animals Preparedness Webinar on September 17 from 10 – 11 a.m. PT

You can visit the FEMA Region 10 Individual and Community Preparedness Dashboard for additional information on how to attend these virtual events. For more information on creating a family communication plan or building an emergency kit, visit ready.gov.

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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 Wed, 09/01/2021 - 22:01

FEMA Urges Residents to Stay Alert as Ida Poses Continuing Threats

WASHINGTON -- FEMA urges residents to stay alert, as Ida continues to bring dangerous weather conditions along the Gulf Coast. As parts of the south begin their clean up, the storm continues moving inland, bringing considerable heavy rain and flooding threats from the Tennessee and Ohio valleys into the central and southern Appalachians and mid-Atlantic throughout the day.

Recovery from Ida will take many months or more. Individuals who experienced damage and power loss should use extreme caution during the recovery phase. If you have insurance, start documenting your damage and reporting your losses to your agent immediately.

“Please be safe and listen to local emergency management officials,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell.  “Anyone in the forecast path should take caution as Ida continues to cause flooding throughout areas of the northeast.

“FEMA’s priorities are to support lifesaving and life-sustaining actions, as we continue working with federal, state, local, tribal and non-governmental partners to support the needs of residents affected by Ida.”

Federal Actions to Support Areas Affected by Hurricane Ida

More than 1,400 FEMA employees are deployed to support Ida response and recovery efforts. Seven FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams are deployed to support states affected by Hurricane Ida. Five are in Louisiana, and two are in Mississippi. Four FEMA Corps teams have deployed to Region 6.

The National Emergency Management Association is helping facilitate additional resources to the area through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact. Resources from 13 states have been sent to assist with ongoing response and recovery effort.

Commodities, equipment and personnel are pre-positioned to assist, as needed. This includes:

• • Twelve Urban Search and Rescue teams are operational in Louisiana. The teams have completed more than 8,900 structural evaluations.
  • Ambulance crews are deployed to Louisiana and Mississippi. This includes 53 ambulances and four air ambulances staged in Baton Rouge, La., with one additional air ambulance in transit. Today, an additional 158 ambulances are expected to arrive in Louisiana and 140 in Mississippi to support impacted areas.
  • FEMA has staged more than 4.5 million meals, 3.6 million liters of water, more than 134,000 tarps and 191 generators. Fifty-six additional generators are staged at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama.
• Mobile Emergency Response Support assets, including emergency operations vehicles, are deployed to support Louisiana and Mississippi.
• The Defense Logistics Agency has been activated for fuel support and leasing of additional generators. High output generators are scheduled for delivery today to Sherwood Forest, La.
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) debris management and roofing experts are conducting assessments in Louisiana. USACE Temporary Emergency Power Planning and Response Teams, contractor support and the 249th Engineer Battalion’s power generation team are mobilized in Mississippi and Louisiana to conduct power assessments and installations.
• The U.S. Department of Agriculture approved Louisiana’s request to allow Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program households to use their benefits to purchase hot food and are assisting with program flexibilities needed for mass feeding operations.
• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) deployed a 250-bed federal medical shelter to Alexandria, La. The shelter is scheduled to be operational by Sept. 3.
• The U.S. Coast Guard has 34 aviation, 26 rotary and 8 fixed-wing search and rescue assets prepositioned. The National Guard Bureau has 195 high-water vehicles and 23 rotary wing assets prepositioned to assist with search and rescue in Louisiana, and 680 high water vehicles and five rotary wing assets in Mississippi.
• The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration announced an Emergency Declaration that provides truck drivers flexibility to move critical freight to areas damaged by Ida. Additionally, USDOT activated an Emergency Relief Docket for railroads so they can get temporary safety regulations waivers to help them speed up service to move goods necessary for emergency relief efforts.
• The Salvation Army mobilized feeding kitchens and emergency response vehicles in Gonzales, La., and New Orleans. These operations can feed up to 30,000 people per day.
• Forty-one shelters are open in affected areas throughout the Gulf Coast.

Additional Resources for Disaster Survivors

• If you have flood insurance, report your loss immediately to your insurance agent or carrier. Be sure to ask them about advance payments. If you need help finding your insurance agent or carrier, call the National Flood Insurance Program at 877-336-2627.
• If you are able to safely return to your home, before you discard anything, take as many photos and videos as possible of your flood damaged home and personal property as possible, including flood water lines on the outside of the structure. For appliances and electronics, take a photograph of the make, model and serial number.
• Learn more about starting your recovery with the National Flood Insurance Program at FEMA.gov.
• Residents in Mississippi who have immediate post-disaster needs are encouraged to contact their county EMA director. If they have questions, they can call Mississippi Emergency Management Agency hotline at 1-888-574-3583. Additional resources are available at  MEMA (msema.org).
• Louisiana residents can visit NOLA Ready for assistance information.  Anyone in the affected area who needs a safe place to stay should call 211, visit redcross.org, call 1-800-red cross (800-733-2767) or download the Red Cross emergency app for shelter locations. You can also text “LASHELTER” to 898-211, text “NOLAREADY” to 77295 or text “IDA” to 67283.
• FEMA Civil Rights Advisors are deployed to Louisiana and Mississippi to assist regional staff. FEMA is reviewing data to ensure that underserved communities are prioritized in response and recovery efforts.
• The HHS Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration activated its Disaster Distress Helpline (DDH). This toll-free, multilingual crisis support service is available 24/7 via telephone or text at 1-800-985-5990 for disaster survivors in Mississippi and Louisiana experiencing emotional distress.
  • Spanish-speakers can call or text the hotline and press “2” for bilingual support. Callers can also connect with counselors in over 100 other languages via 3rd-party interpretation services by indicating their preferred language to the responding counselor, who will connect to a live interpreter. 
  • Deaf or hard of hearing American Sign Language users can contact the DDH through a direct videophone option via any videophone-enabled device and dialing 1-800-985-5990, or by selecting the “ASL Now” option on the DDH website at disasterdistress.samhsa.gov.
• FEMA previously issued Ensuring Civil Rights in Multiple Disasters During COVID-19 to offer best practices for partners and communities facing a disproportionate rate of COVID-19 illness and death during response and recovery efforts during multiple disasters.

How to Help Survivors and Communities Impacted by Hurricane Ida

• Be patient. Recovery will take many months or more. People can help by donating to or volunteering with the voluntary or charitable organization of their choice, many of which are already in areas impacted by Ida supporting survivors. Learn how to best help those in need.
• Do not self-deploy. Seeing images of Ida’s damages  may compel you to head to the impacted area. Until a need has been identified and the community affected by Hurricane Ida has requested support, volunteers should not enter the area.
• Cash is the best donation. When people support voluntary organizations with financial contributions, it helps ensure a steady flow of important services to the people in need after a disaster. To find a reputable organization, visit the National Voluntary Organizations Active in a Disaster Hurricane Ida page.
• Do not send or bring unsolicited donations. In the early stages of the response phase, unsolicited donations create storage and sorting challenges when focus is needed on response and recovery.

Stay Safe from Post-Storm Hazards

• Put your health and safety first: Be careful in areas with storm damage or flooding. If you evacuated, return only when officials say it is safe to do so. Areas without power may experience heat advisories, which can lead to illness or a threat to life.
• Be aware of heat-related illnesses. Areas without power may experience heat advisories, which can lead to illness or a threat to life. Learn to recognize the signs of heat illness.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages such as water or juice. Keep your pets hydrated by providing plenty of fresh water for your pets and provide a shady area.
  • Check on family, friends, and neighbors. Visit adults at risk at least twice a day and closely watch them for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
• If your home has flood water inside or around it, don’t walk or wade in it. The water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage. Never attempt to turn off power or operate circuit breakers while standing in water.
• Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
• Avoid downed power or utility lines. They may be live with deadly voltage. Stay far away and report them immediately to your power company.
• Stay put. Stay off the roads. Emergency workers may be assisting people in flooded areas or cleaning up debris. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way. If you evacuated, do not return home until local officials say it is safe.
• Don’t drive through flood waters. Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low-lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Check on friends and family. If you are able, please check on your neighbors, friends and family because some may need more help than others.
• Stay out of floodwater. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines or contain hazards such as human and animal waste, dangerous debris, contaminates that can lead to illness, or wild or stray animals.

Stay Safe During Power Outages

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

Disaster Declarations

• President Joseph R. Biden Jr.’s Aug. 29 approval of a Major Disaster Declaration for the state of Louisiana is in addition to Louisiana’s Aug. 27 emergency declaration.
• Louisiana residents who were impacted by Ida and have insurance, contact your insurance company first and then FEMA. You will need to provide your insurance claim information to FEMA to determine eligibility for federal assistance.
  • FEMA cannot provide assistance for losses that are covered by insurance.
• If you are in one of the parishes approved for individual assistance and do not have insurance, you can apply for disaster assistance and get referrals to local, state and federal agencies and voluntary organizations. The fastest way to apply is through DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply by calling 1-800-621-3362 or through the FEMA mobile app.
  • If you use a relay service, such as your videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, please provide your specific number assigned to that service. It is important that FEMA is able to contact you, and you should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.
• President Biden approved Mississippi’s emergency declaration on Aug. 28. The declaration was amended to include all 84 counties and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians. Additional damage assessments are ongoing.

Visit Hurricane Ida | FEMA.gov for information and resources available for residents in areas that may be affected by Ida. The page is available in French, Haitian Creole, Simplified Chinese, Spanish and Vietnamese.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 09/01/2021 - 20:54

FEMA Announces National Preparedness Month, Urges All to “Prepare to Protect” Before Disasters Strike

WASHINGTON -- September is National Preparedness Month, an annual observance to remind all Americans how important it is for individuals, families and communities to be prepared for disasters and emergencies that can happen at any time.

This year’s theme is Prepare to Protect and highlights how preparing for disaster is to protect everyone you love. This year, Ready Campaign shifted its focus in support of President Biden’s Executive Order on Racial Equity and FEMA’s new strategy for cultural competence that includes empowering historically underserved communities to prepare for a disaster.

For the first time ever, the agency will feature a series of Latino public service advertisements™ (PSAs) that will launch during Hispanic Heritage Month. The PSAs, in Spanish and English, will air during the hurricane and wildfire seasons. 

“Today marks the beginning of National Preparedness Month, as we’re already in the height of a very active hurricane season, while wildfire threats to communities are increasing daily,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Now is the time that everyone should have a conversation with their family, neighbors or loved ones to discuss what you would do in the event of a disaster in your area. Use the resources on Ready.gov or Listo.gov to make sure you have taken the steps to get prepared.”

Also, everyone should sign up to receive local alerts and warning on your mobile phone. Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide and have preparedness tips with you at all times to keep you and your loved ones safe.

Each week during National Preparedness Month will focus on a theme with easy-to-follow steps that individuals and families can take to enhance their emergency preparedness efforts. This year's weekly themes include:

• Week 1 September 1-4: Make A Plan. 
• Week 2 September 5-11: Build A Kit.
• Week 3 September 12-18: Low-Cost, No-Cost Preparedness.
• Week 4 September 19-25: Teach Youth About Preparedness.

Notable National Preparedness Month events:

• In partnership with the American Red Cross, FEMA will co-host a “Prepare with Pedro” day. The day will highlight the “Prepare with Pedro” activity book on social media and encourage youth to help their families prepare for a disaster by building a kit and making a plan.
• FEMA will publish the "2020 National Household Survey" full dataset on Open FEMA. The survey tracks progress in personal disaster preparedness through insights on Americans’ preparedness actions, attitudes and motivations.
• Region 1 is hosting a “Talk Shop” on Sept. 9 via Zoom for faith-based organizations, and how they can include themselves in emergency management and better serve their communities during disasters.
• Region 2 is hosting FEMA “Ready Games” each Wednesday in September. The region encourages participants from the whole community to join the fun and learn about resilience, youth readiness, emergency management and the FEMA CERT program through bingo, trivia and much more.
• Regions 3, 4, 8 and 10 to host "Spaces" live conversations on Twitter throughout the month highlighting Tribal Nation preparedness, general preparedness and disability integration.
• Region 4 is hosting an online training for disability integration and accessibility stakeholders. The training is designed to help community-based organizations create a disaster response plan so they can stay open during disasters.
• Region 10 is hosting a “Virtual Family Prep Night,” an interactive event aimed to include the entire family in talking about and preparing for disasters.

Ready.gov/September has free resources online, including social media content in multiple languages, for public use. Help spread the word of how to be prepared for disasters and emergencies before they happen. For more information, visit Ready.gov.

amy.ashbridge Wed, 09/01/2021 - 19:57