Photos of Whole-of-Government Hurricane Delta Response

WASHINGTON -- FEMA continues leaning forward with our federal, state, local and tribal partners to support a state managed, locally executed response to impacts from Hurricane Delta and is supporting Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards and affected community leaders on necessary damage assessments and remains ready to support any additional requests for federal assistance.

FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor visited Louisiana over the weekend to meet with Gov. Edwards, state and local leaders to review the latest Hurricane Delta recovery updates and discuss FEMA’s continued support for Louisiana.

Three Urban Search and Rescue Teams and an Incident Support Team are conducting operations in Louisiana, and more than 1,500 responders are deployed in support of Hurricanes Laura and Delta. 

Additional personnel from the federal government, including the Department of Defense, Department of Transportation, Health and Human Services, Department of Energy, DHS Cybersecurity Infrastructure and Security Agency and Army Corps of Engineers, have been mission assigned to provide support to impacted states and tribes, as needed.

FEMA Administrator Meets with Louisiana Leadership

BATON ROUGE, La. (Oct. 12, 2020) -- FEMA senior officials meet with Louisiana Governor's Office to review the latest updates and discuss how FEMA can support Louisiana. From left: FEMA Recovery Director Keith Turi, FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer John Long, State Coordinating Officer Jim Waskom, Gov. John Bel Edwards, FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor, FEMA Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Major General Diana Holland.

FEMA photo by Jocelyn Augustino

FEMA Administrator Meets with Louisiana Leadership

CAMERON, La. (Oct. 11, 2020) -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor (standing, 2nd from left) and FEMA’s Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson (standing, 3rd from left) visits Cameron Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management to discuss the impact of Hurricane Delta and FEMA's continued effort to support the area.

FEMA photo by Jocelyn Augustino

Florida Search and Rescue Team Operates in Louisiana

LAKE CHARLES, La. (Oct. 11, 2020) – Florida Task Force 2 members from Miami, conduct urban search and rescue operations.

Nevada Task Force 1 photo by Karl Lee

Florida Search and Rescue Team Operates in Louisiana

LAKE CHARLES, La. (Oct. 11, 2020) – Florida Task Force 2 search and rescue member surveys damage from Hurricane Delta.

Nevada Task Force 1 photo by Karl Lee

Civil Air Patrol Supports Louisiana

BATON ROUGE, La. (Oct. 12, 2020) -- Members of the Baton Rouge Civil Air Patrol prepare to fly a sortie over hurricane-impacted areas to capture images of the damage for state and federal partners.

FEMA photos by Rudolph Marshall

Civil Air Patrol Supports Louisiana

BATON ROUGE, La. (Oct. 12, 2020) -- Members of the Baton Rouge Civil Air Patrol prepare to fly a sortie over hurricane-impacted areas to capture images of the damage for state and federal partners.

FEMA photos by Rudolph Marshall

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 10/13/2020 - 12:13

FEMA Obligates Over $238 Million to PREPA for Earthquake Damage

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – FEMA recently obligated over $238 million to the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, or PREPA, for costs related to 28 peaking generator units that provide power to critical facilities until the Costa Sur units are back in service.

The units, which typically only run when there is high demand for electricity, were used after the earthquakes in order to save lives and prevent further damage to properties. These generation systems are being used to supply power to critical facilities like hospitals, police departments, fire departments, emergency centers and water facilities.

“This obligation addresses the need to maintain power generation capacity for the benefit of thousands of residents who rely on these critical services in their towns. We will continue to work closely with the Government of Puerto Rico to ensure a successful recovery from the earthquakes,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, José Baquero Tirado.

Emergency protective measures like these are actions taken to eliminate or lessen immediate threats either to lives, public health or safety, or of significant additional damage to public or private property in a cost-effective manner.

“We appreciate FEMA’s continued support in providing the necessary resources to mitigate damage and support critical facilities. We continue working together in the rebuilding of PREPA’s infrastructure not only to provide essential power, but also to save lives, strengthen public health and provide quality of life,” said the Executive Director of the Office of Recovery, Reconstruction, and Resilience (COR3), Ottmar Chavez.

Costa Sur is the largest of four power plants on the Island and provides about a quarter of the electric power throughout Puerto Rico. The facility suffered extensive structural damage from the earthquakes in January, which resulted in compromised foundations, walls and support structures. The damage caused island wide power outages, leaving over 327,000 residents without power.

The 28 peaking units currently in use are located in Aguirre, Cambalache, Daguao, Jabos, Mayagüez, Palo Seco, Vega Baja and Yabucoa.

To date, FEMA has obligated over $240 million for costs related to the earthquakes. FEMA works with COR3 through the agency’s Public Assistance program to obligate recovery funds to private nonprofit organizations, municipalities and agencies of the Government of Puerto Rico. FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to eligible government organizations and certain private non-profit organizations for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures and the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-damaged facilities.

For more on Puerto Rico’s recovery from the earthquakes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4473.

frances.acevedo-pico Tue, 10/13/2020 - 11:16

Annual “Great ShakeOut” Earthquake Drill Set for October 15

PHILADELPHIA – The annual Great ShakeOut earthquake drill will take place Oct. 15 across the United States and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 3 office wants to encourage the Whole Community to participate and learn the simple but critical safety steps to preparing for and staying safe during an earthquake. The Great ShakeOut is the largest earthquake drill worldwide and over 11 million people are already registered to practice their earthquake safety plans.

We encourage everyone to Drop, Cover, and Hold On with us at 10:15 AM Eastern on Oct. 15.

Earthquakes are normally thought of as a west coast hazard, but they can happen anywhere, such as the 2011 earthquake in Virginia. Worldwide there is an average of one damaging earthquake almost every third day.

“Damaging earthquakes can occur at any time – where we work, live or travel,” stated FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “To be best prepared to respond quickly, we must practice earthquake safety on a regular basis. The Great ShakeOut provides an excellent opportunity to practice our earthquake preparedness skills together.”

While COVID-19 will make this year’s ShakeOut look different, we still encourage you to participate at home or socially distanced.

To help people to prepare and participate, FEMA Region 3 produced a white board video highlighting the steps to practice for the Great ShakeOut. The Great ShakeOut also produces additional videos that address how to protect yourself from earthquakes in a number of scenarios – whether an earthquake strikes while you are in your home, car, bed or elsewhere.

The Great ShakeOut is set for Thursday, Oct. 15, 2020 at 10:15 AM Eastern. During the self-led drill, participants practice how to “Drop, Cover and Hold On.” For most

people, in most situations, the recommended earthquake safety action is to:

• DROP where you are, onto your hands and knees;
• COVER your head and neck with one arm and hand, as you crawl for shelter under a nearby table or desk;
• HOLD ON to your shelter with one hand until shaking stops (remain on your knees and covering your head and neck with your other arm and hand).

The Great ShakeOut is free and open to the public. Participants include individuals, schools, businesses, local and state government agencies, and many other groups. To take part in the ShakeOut, register to participate at www.shakeout.org. Once registered, you’ll receive regular information on how to plan your drill and become better prepared for earthquakes and other disasters.

Hundreds of thousands of people will participate in this event in Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and the District of Columbia, joining Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills occurring throughout the nation and in several countries. More than 11 million people around the globe are expected to participate. In addition to safety drills, many participants take extra steps to become more prepared for earthquakes or other disasters.

The Great ShakeOut is nationally sponsored by the United States Geological Survey, FEMA, and the National Science Foundation and is supported by dozens of other partners. The Great ShakeOut is coordinated globally by the Southern California Earthquake Center.

For more information, please visit www.shakeout.org. For additional earthquake information, please visit https://www.ready.gov/earthquakes.

amanda.hancher Tue, 10/13/2020 - 10:08

FEMA Mobile Registration Center Opens in Milton

PENSACOLA, Fla. — FEMA has opened a mobile registration center for Hurricane Sally survivors in Milton.  

The center, called a Mobile Registration Intake Center (MRIC), is staffed with FEMA personnel who can assist with registration and answer questions about disaster-assistance programs. Center location:

 

SANTA ROSA COUNTY

Pensacola State College

5988 U.S. 90

Milton, FL 32583

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Other centers are operating in Bay, Escambia, Okaloosa and Santa Rosa counties. Disaster survivors can get help registering at any of the centers. Other locations:

BAY COUNTY

Bay County Public Library, 898 West 11th St, Panama City, FL 32401

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.  

ESCAMBIA COUNTY

Southwest Branch Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Hwy, Pensacola, FL 32507

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Brownsville Community Center, 3200 W. DeSoto St., Pensacola, FL 32505

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Escambia County Extension Service, 3740 Stefani Rd., Cantonment, FL 32533

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

 

OKALOOSA COUNTY

Northwest Florida Fairgrounds, 1958 Lewis Turner Blvd, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

 

SANTA ROSA COUNTY

Pensacola State College, South Santa Rosa Center, 5075 Gulf Breeze Pkwy, Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Hours: Daily 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

The centers operate under COVID-19 protocols to ensure visitors and FEMA personnel are safe. Distancing and face coverings are required.

It is not necessary to visit a center to register with FEMA. Disaster survivors with uninsured losses can also apply by:

• Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov;
• Downloading the FEMA App; or by
• Calling 800-621-3362 (800-462-7585 TTY). Multilingual operators are available. The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with their specific phone number assigned to that service.  

The following information is necessary when you register:

• Address of the damaged dwelling where the damage occurred (pre-disaster address)
• Current mailing address
• Current telephone number
• Insurance information
• Total household annual income
• Routing and account number for checking or savings account (this allows FEMA to directly transfer disaster assistance funds into a bank account)
• A description of disaster-caused damage and losses

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 10/13/2020 - 08:58

Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Lincoln Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. - A Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center will open in Ruston, Lincoln parish Oct. 14 to help Hurricane Laura survivors.

The drive-thru is staffed with FEMA personnel who are available to scan documents, assist with registration and answer questions about disaster-assistance programs.

The center operates under strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure visitors are safe. Masks or face coverings are required for entry and service. Survivors remain in their cars. A specialist wearing a face mask will receive documents through the window and return them.

No appointment is necessary. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, closed on Sundays.

The drive-thru center is located at:

Lincoln Parish

Lincoln Parish Library

910 N Trenton St.

Ruston, LA 71270

Additional centers are  reopening in Louisiana. Survivors may visit any open center. To locate the closest center, call the FEMA Helpline, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator or download the FEMA Mobile App at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app.

Survivors do not need to visit a drive-thru center to apply or update their application. To ask individual questions or submit information:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov/.
• To receive a link a to download the FEMA app (depending on your device):
  • Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362
  • Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362
• Call 211 or text 527435837 to 898-211. For Louisiana evacuees that are now out-of-state, please call 337-310-4636. To get support, this number also is valid for TTY out-of-state users.
• Visit fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app
• To find a drive-thru DRC you can text 43362 and type DRC (Your Zip Code) for example DRC 01234.

SBA low-interest disaster loans are available for businesses of any size and certain nonprofits up to $2 million for property damage. For small businesses, those engaged in aquaculture, and most private nonprofits can borrow up to $2 million for working capital needs even if there is no property damage.

Homeowners can borrow up to $200,000 to repair or replace a primary residence. For homeowners and renters, up to $40,000 to replace personal property, including vehicles, is available.

Businesses and residents can apply online at www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov. For assistance completing an SBA application, call 800-659-2955 (TTY at 800-877-8339) or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov

Hurricane Laura survivors with home-repair questions should contact FEMA mitigation outreach at 866-579-0820 or at fema-mitoutreach-4559@fema.dhs.gov Monday-Saturday, 8am to 6pm CDT. To view mitigation resources visit https://fema.connectsolutions.com/lauramit/.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

christopher.teed Mon, 10/12/2020 - 18:44

Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Lincoln Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. - A Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center will open in Ruston, Lincoln parish Oct. 14 to help Hurricane Laura survivors.

The drive-thru is staffed with FEMA personnel who are available to scan documents, assist with registration and answer questions about disaster-assistance programs.

The center operates under strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure visitors are safe. Masks or face coverings are required for entry and service. Survivors remain in their cars. A specialist wearing a face mask will receive documents through the window and return them.

No appointment is necessary. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, closed on Sundays.

The drive-thru center is located at:

Lincoln Parish

Lincoln Parish Library

910 N Trenton St.

Ruston, LA 71270

Additional centers are  reopening in Louisiana. Survivors may visit any open center. To locate the closest center, call the FEMA Helpline, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator or download the FEMA Mobile App at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app.

Survivors do not need to visit a drive-thru center to apply or update their application. To ask individual questions or submit information:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov/.
• To receive a link a to download the FEMA app (depending on your device):
  • Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362
  • Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362
• Call 211 or text 527435837 to 898-211. For Louisiana evacuees that are now out-of-state, please call 337-310-4636. To get support, this number also is valid for TTY out-of-state users.
• Visit fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app
• To find a drive-thru DRC you can text 43362 and type DRC (Your Zip Code) for example DRC 01234.

SBA low-interest disaster loans are available for businesses of any size and certain nonprofits up to $2 million for property damage. For small businesses, those engaged in aquaculture, and most private nonprofits can borrow up to $2 million for working capital needs even if there is no property damage.

Homeowners can borrow up to $200,000 to repair or replace a primary residence. For homeowners and renters, up to $40,000 to replace personal property, including vehicles, is available.

Businesses and residents can apply online at www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov. For assistance completing an SBA application, call 800-659-2955 (TTY at 800-877-8339) or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov

Hurricane Laura survivors with home-repair questions should contact FEMA mitigation outreach at 866-579-0820 or at fema-mitoutreach-4559@fema.dhs.gov Monday-Saturday, 8am to 6pm CDT. To view mitigation resources visit https://fema.connectsolutions.com/lauramit/.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

 

christopher.teed Mon, 10/12/2020 - 18:41

Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Lincoln Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. - A Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center will open in Ruston, Lincoln parish Oct. 14 to help Hurricane Laura survivors.

The drive-thru is staffed with FEMA personnel who are available to scan documents, assist with registration and answer questions about disaster-assistance programs.

The center operates under strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure visitors are safe. Masks or face coverings are required for entry and service. Survivors remain in their cars. A specialist wearing a face mask will receive documents through the window and return them.

No appointment is necessary. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, closed on Sundays.

The drive-thru center is located at:

Lincoln Parish

Lincoln Parish Library

910 N Trenton St.

Ruston, LA 71270

Additional centers are  reopening in Louisiana. Survivors may visit any open center. To locate the closest center, call the FEMA Helpline, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator or download the FEMA Mobile App at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app.

Survivors do not need to visit a drive-thru center to apply or update their application. To ask individual questions or submit information:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov/.
• To receive a link a to download the FEMA app (depending on your device):
  • Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362
  • Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362
• Call 211 or text 527435837 to 898-211. For Louisiana evacuees that are now out-of-state, please call 337-310-4636. To get support, this number also is valid for TTY out-of-state users.
• Visit fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app
• To find a drive-thru DRC you can text 43362 and type DRC (Your Zip Code) for example DRC 01234.

SBA low-interest disaster loans are available for businesses of any size and certain nonprofits up to $2 million for property damage. For small businesses, those engaged in aquaculture, and most private nonprofits can borrow up to $2 million for working capital needs even if there is no property damage.

Homeowners can borrow up to $200,000 to repair or replace a primary residence. For homeowners and renters, up to $40,000 to replace personal property, including vehicles, is available.

Businesses and residents can apply online at www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov. For assistance completing an SBA application, call 800-659-2955 (TTY at 800-877-8339) or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov

Hurricane Laura survivors with home-repair questions should contact FEMA mitigation outreach at 866-579-0820 or at fema-mitoutreach-4559@fema.dhs.gov Monday-Saturday, 8am to 6pm CDT. To view mitigation resources visit https://fema.connectsolutions.com/lauramit/.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

 

christopher.teed Mon, 10/12/2020 - 18:40

Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Lincoln Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. - A Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center will open in Ruston, Lincoln parish Oct. 14 to help Hurricane Laura survivors.

The drive-thru is staffed with FEMA personnel who are available to scan documents, assist with registration and answer questions about disaster-assistance programs.

The center operates under strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure visitors are safe. Masks or face coverings are required for entry and service. Survivors remain in their cars. A specialist wearing a face mask will receive documents through the window and return them.

No appointment is necessary. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, closed on Sundays.

The drive-thru center is located at:

Lincoln Parish

Lincoln Parish Library

910 N Trenton St.

Ruston, LA 71270

Additional centers are  reopening in Louisiana. Survivors may visit any open center. To locate the closest center, call the FEMA Helpline, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator or download the FEMA Mobile App at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app.

Survivors do not need to visit a drive-thru center to apply or update their application. To ask individual questions or submit information:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov/.
• To receive a link a to download the FEMA app (depending on your device):
  • Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362
  • Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362
• Call 211 or text 527435837 to 898-211. For Louisiana evacuees that are now out-of-state, please call 337-310-4636. To get support, this number also is valid for TTY out-of-state users.
• Visit fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app
• To find a drive-thru DRC you can text 43362 and type DRC (Your Zip Code) for example DRC 01234.

SBA low-interest disaster loans are available for businesses of any size and certain nonprofits up to $2 million for property damage. For small businesses, those engaged in aquaculture, and most private nonprofits can borrow up to $2 million for working capital needs even if there is no property damage.

Homeowners can borrow up to $200,000 to repair or replace a primary residence. For homeowners and renters, up to $40,000 to replace personal property, including vehicles, is available.

Businesses and residents can apply online at www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov. For assistance completing an SBA application, call 800-659-2955 (TTY at 800-877-8339) or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov

Hurricane Laura survivors with home-repair questions should contact FEMA mitigation outreach at 866-579-0820 or at fema-mitoutreach-4559@fema.dhs.gov Monday-Saturday, 8am to 6pm CDT. To view mitigation resources visit https://fema.connectsolutions.com/lauramit/.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

 

christopher.teed Mon, 10/12/2020 - 18:40

FEMA Deadline to Register for Laura Help Looms

BATON ROUGE, La. —  Renters and homeowners in parishes designated for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Laura have until Oct. 27 to register for help.

Federal assistance includes help for temporary housing, rental assistance and repair or replacement of damaged property.

Additionally, grants may be available to help with other expenses such as medical and dental care, childcare, funeral and burial costs, replacing essential household items, moving and storage, vehicle repairs and cleanup.

To see if you live in a designated parish, visit: https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4559/designated-areas.

For more information or to register for assistance:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).
• Visit disasterassistance.gov/.
• To find a drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center (DRC), text 43362 and type DRC and a ZIP code (for example DRC 12345).
• To receive a link to download the FEMA app:
  • Apple devices: text APPLE to 43362
  • Android devices: text ANDROID to 43362
• Visit fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/app
• Call 211 or text 527435837 to 898-211. For Louisiana evacuees that are now out-of-state, please call 337-310-4636. To get support, this number also is valid for TTY out-of-state users.
• Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

SBA low-interest disaster loans are available for businesses of any size and certain nonprofits up to $2 million for property damage. For small businesses, those engaged in aquaculture, and most private nonprofits can borrow up to $2 million for working capital needs even if there is no property damage.

Homeowners can borrow up to $200,000 to repair or replace a primary residence. For homeowners and renters, up to $40,000 to replace personal property, including vehicles, is available.

Businesses and residents can apply online at www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov. For assistance completing an SBA application, call 800-659-2955. Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals may call (800) 877-8339 or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov.

Hurricane Laura survivors with home repair questions should contact FEMA mitigation outreach at 866-579-0820 or at fema-mitoutreach-4559@fema.dhs.gov Monday-Saturday, 8am to 6pm CDT. To view mitigation resources visit https://fema.connectsolutions.com/lauramit/.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

christopher.teed Mon, 10/12/2020 - 15:37

Renters Can Apply for Federal Assistance

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The FEMA Individuals and Housing Program is available to all eligible renters and homeowners in the counties of Butte, Lake, Monterey, Napa, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, Sonoma and Yolo, which are covered in the Aug. 22 federal disaster declaration. Federal monetary awards may help pay for temporary housing and other needs not covered by insurance. The initial rental award is for two months and may be reviewed for further assistance. 

Renters may also qualify for an award under FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance Program for essential personal property and other disaster-related expenses. These may include replacement or repair of necessary personal property, such as furniture, appliances, clothing, textbooks or school supplies; replacement or repair of tools and other job-related equipment; vehicle repair; and medical/dental bills.

Anyone can register with FEMA:

• Online, by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov;
• By downloading the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet; or
• By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Multi-lingual operators are available. The toll-free lines are open 7 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. PDT daily. Helpline operators are also available to answer questions about applications already submitted.

The registration process includes your providing a phone number so FEMA can contact you and set up a virtual home inspection. If you use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, you should provide FEMA your specific number assigned to that service. 

To register online at disasterassistance.gov click the blue Apply Online button at the bottom of the page, then review the disaster survivor application checklist and complete an application to learn if you are eligible to receive disaster assistance.

After registering, you may stay on disasterassistance.gov to create a personal online disaster assistance account to stay in touch with FEMA. To create one:

• Click the green Check Status button at bottom of disasterassistance.gov.
• Click the blue Create Account button at bottom of page.
• Enter your date of birth and Social Security number, which you provided previously when registering for assistance.
• Answer four security questions that are generated from public record data to verify your identity.
• Create a user ID and password.
• Enter an email address. FEMA will send a temporary PIN to it within 24 hours. Follow the instructions in the email to finish creating your account.

For the latest information on wildfire recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4558.

###

bree-constance… Mon, 10/12/2020 - 15:06

Photos of Whole-of-Government Hurricane Delta Response

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is leaning forward with our federal, state, local and tribal partners to support a state managed, locally executed response to impacts from Hurricane Delta and is supporting Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards and affected community leaders on necessary damage assessments.

Three Urban Search and Rescue Teams and an Incident Support Team are conducting operations in Louisiana, and Mobile Emergency Operations Vehicles are standing by to provide emergency communication capabilities for federal resources, if needed.

As of yesterday, 470 FEMA responders are deployed in support of Hurricane Delta, including Incident Management Assistance Teams.  Additional personnel from the federal government, including the Department of Defense, Department of Transportation, Health and Human Services, Department of Energy, DHS Cybersecurity Infrastructure and Security Agency and Army Corps of Engineers, have been mission assigned to provide support to impacted states and tribes, as needed.

FEMA Administrator Visits Louisiana Following Hurricane Delta

JENNINGS, La. (Oct. 11, 2020) -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor (far center) meets with state and local officials in the aftermath of Hurricane Delta.

FEMA photo by Jocelyn Augustino

FEMA Administrator Visits Louisiana Following Hurricane Delta

LAKE CHARLES, La. (Oct. 11, 2020) -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor (2nd from left) and staff from FEMA, the Louisiana Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers view the initial FEMA-funded trailer set up in the aftermath of Hurricane Laura. The first trailer was installed prior to Hurricane Delta.

FEMA photo by Jocelyn Augustino

FEMA Administrator Gives Updates on Response, Recovery Efforts

JENNINGS, La. (Oct. 11, 2020) -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor talks about the whole-of-government response and recovery efforts after Hurricane Delta during an interview with The Weather Channel.

FEMA photo by Jocelyn Augustino

FEMA Officials Gather Information in St. Mary Parish, Louisiana

ST. MARY PARISH, La. (Oct. 10, 2020) – A FEMA official gathers information about the impacts of Hurricane Delta and the need of St. Mary Parish survivors.

FEMA photo by Daniel M. Rojas

FEMA Officials Gather Information in St. Mary Parish, Louisiana

ST. MARY PARISH, La. (Oct. 10, 2020) – A FEMA official gathers information about the impacts of Hurricane Delta and the need of St. Mary Parish survivors.

FEMA photo by Daniel M. Rojas

 

 

 

zella.campbell Mon, 10/12/2020 - 11:47

Homeowners/Renters Can Apply for SBA Disaster Assistance Loans

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama residents who have applied for FEMA disaster assistance and do not complete a U.S. Small Business Administration loan application could be throwing money away.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers affordable financial help to homeowners and renters in Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile counties affected by Hurricane Sally. You don't need to own a business to request assistance.

SBA provides help in the form of low-interest, long-term loans for losses not fully covered by insurance or other means. If you are approved for an SBA loan, you do not have to accept it.

You may borrow up to $200,000 to repair or replace your primary home to its pre-disaster condition, but you cannot use the loan to upgrade or add on to the home unless required by building code.

Second homes and vacation properties are not eligible, although certain rental properties may qualify for an SBA business disaster loan.

Homeowners and renters may also be able to borrow up to $40,000 to replace damaged or destroyed personal property, such as clothing, furniture, appliances or cars.

First, you must apply with FEMA for federal disaster assistance:

• Online at www.disasterassistance.gov;
• By downloading the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet, or

• By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Multi-lingual operators are available. The toll-free lines are open 6 a.m. to midnight (Central Time) seven days a week. Helpline operators are also available to answer questions about applications already submitted.

After you have registered with FEMA, you can apply for an SBA disaster loan online using the SBA’s Disaster Loan Application. You can also mail your application to SBA: Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, Texas 76155.

For the latest information on Hurricane Sally, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4563

felicia.jordan Mon, 10/12/2020 - 10:46

Mobile Registration Intake Center to Open in Prichard

Who: Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

What: A Mobile Registration Intake Center (MRIC) will be open Wednesday, Oct. 14th and Thursday, Oct. 15th.

Where:         

• Prichard City Hall in Mobile County, 216 E. Prichard Ave, Prichard; open Wednesday, Oct. 14 and Thursday, Oct. 15.  8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Hours: From 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Central Time.

Why: The center is a convenient registration option available to Hurricane Sally survivors for those without internet access or telephones.

The Grand Bay MRIC located at 11610 U.S. Hwy 90, will close at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14.

Survivors can still register with FEMA to apply for federal assistance, get updates about their applications, learn about the appeals process or check the status of their claims in several ways:

• Online at www.disasterassistance.gov; By downloading the FEMA app to a smartphone or tablet, or By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).      Helpline operators are available to answer questions about applications already submitted.

For the latest information on Hurricane Sally, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4563

felicia.jordan Mon, 10/12/2020 - 09:20

Photos of Whole-of-Government Hurricane Delta Response

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is leaning forward with our federal, state, local and tribal partners to support a state managed, locally executed response to impacts from Hurricane Delta and is supporting Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards and affected community leaders on necessary damage assessments.

Three Urban Search and Rescue Teams and an Incident Support Team are conducting operations in Louisiana, and Mobile Emergency Operations Vehicles are standing by to provide emergency communication capabilities for federal resources, if needed.

As of today, 470 FEMA responders are deployed in support of Hurricane Delta, including Incident Management Assistance Teams.  Additional personnel from the federal government, including the Department of Defense, Department of Transportation, Health and Human Services, Department of Energy, DHS Cybersecurity Infrastructure and Security Agency and Army Corps of Engineers, have been mission assigned to provide support to impacted states and tribes, as needed.

Florida’s TF 2 Conducts Search and Rescue Operations after Hurricane Delta

LAKE CHARLES, La. (Oct. 10, 2020) -- Members of Florida Task Force 2, a Miami-based team of 45 rescue professionals and two K-9s along with a convoy of 18 vehicles, conduct urban search and rescue operations following Hurricane Delta’s landfall. Task Force 2 is part of the National Urban Search and Rescue Response System that consists of 28 task forces that can be deployed by FEMA to assist state and local governments in rescuing disaster survivors.

Florida Task Force 2 photo by Iggy Carroll 

Lafayette Parish Begins Hurricane Delta Clean Up

LAFAYETTE PARISH, La. (Oct. 10, 2020) – FEMA is supporting Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards and community leaders on damage assessments in response to Hurricane Delta, as residents begin removing debris.

FEMA photo by Rudolph Marshall

Partners Receive Update on Hurricane Delta Aftermath

BATON ROUGE, La. (Oct. 10, 2020) – FEMA’s Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson (right), alongside state and local leaders, receives an update the morning after Hurricane Delta made landfall.

FEMA photo by Manuel Broussard

FEMA Leadership Receives Updates on Hurricane Delta

WASHINGTON (Oct. 10, 2020) -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor receives updates from FEMA senior leaders, regional leadership and partners following Hurricane Delta’s landfall.     

FEMA photos by Alexis Hall  

Pre-staged FEMA Supplies and Vehicles Weather Hurricane Delta

ALEXANDRIA, La. (Oct. 10, 2020) -- FEMA commodities and Mobile Registration Intake Center vehicles staged in Louisiana weathered Hurricane Delta’s landfall without any damage and are ready for use at the state’s request.

FEMA photos by Robert Kaufman

gloria.huang Sun, 10/11/2020 - 11:11

FEMA Hurricane Delta Response Update

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is leaning forward with our federal, state, local and tribal partners to support a state managed, locally executed response to impacts from Hurricane Delta and is supporting Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards and affected community leaders on necessary damage assessments.

Three Urban Search and Rescue Teams and an Incident Support Team are conducting operations in Louisiana, and Mobile Emergency Operations Vehicles are standing by to provide emergency communication capabilities for federal resources, if needed.

President Trump approved Emergency Declarations for Louisiana and Mississippi, earlier this week, authorizing FEMA to provide emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance for designated parishes and counties. Alabama’s request for an Emergency Declaration is under review.

Personnel Deployed

As of today, 470 FEMA responders are deployed in support of Hurricane Delta, including Incident Management Assistance Teams.  Additional personnel from the federal government, including the Department of Defense, Department of Transportation, Health and Human Services, Department of Energy, DHS Cybersecurity Infrastructure and Security Agency and Army Corps of Engineers, have been mission assigned to provide support to impacted states and tribes, as needed.

Gulf Residents

It is critical Gulf residents continue paying attention to their local officials and staying safe. If you have been evacuated, do not return until local officials tell you it is safe to do so.  If you have an emergency, call 9-1-1. Local first responders are the best source of help.

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. Keep out of the water. Do not attempt to walk, swim, wade or drive through flood waters. Flood water can contain dangerous debris, downed power lines and other risks.

Use extreme caution when operating heavy machinery, generators, or removing debris. Never use generators indoors or in any partially enclosed area and keep them away from windows, doors and vents. For more information on generator safety, please visit ready.gov/power-outages and cdc.gov/co/generatorsafetyfactsheet.html.

Wear a mask in public settings, especially when social distancing is not possible, and follow CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

When it is safe to return to your home or business, take precautions as you inspect your home and document damage. Save all your receipts for any post-disaster home repair and clean up. If you have insurance, you must file a claim with your insurance company.  File a claim as soon as possible. Insurance agents and claims adjusters will work closely with you on your claim. With a remote adjustment, it may take several hours or more to document damage.

Louisiana Update

In Louisiana, more than 7,000 people remain in congregate or non-congregate shelters and more than 7,000 are without power. If you have an immediate need for food or shelter, contact 2-1-1 so you can receive assistance. You can also text “LAShelter” to 898211 for shelter information.

Responding During COVID-19

While some aspects of program delivery may look different this year, our commitment to helping people before, during and after disaster remains our full focus, and we are ready to deliver on our mission.

FEMA will continue to work with our state, tribal and local partners as they plan for evacuating and sheltering operations in a COVID-19 environment. Finding shelter is critical in times of disaster. Shelter outside of the hazard area could include staying with family or friends, seeking a hotel room or staying in a mass shelter. FEMA, other federal agencies and the American Red Cross have modified policies and planning and have taken actions to ensure the federal government can respond to any disaster during our continued coronavirus response efforts.

In alignment with FEMA’s Pandemic Operational Guidance, FEMA is leveraging technology to deliver the agency’s programs at the highest level possible, while preserving our workforce and survivors. These methods include virtual damage assessments and inspections for FEMA Individual Assistance and Public Assistance programs, as well as National Flood Insurance Program claims.

In advance of hurricane and wildfire season, FEMA expanded the capacity of its National Response Coordination Center, response centers around the country and trained additional staff to be postured to respond to multiple on-going incidents.

luther.wills-dudich Sun, 10/11/2020 - 09:59

ICYMI: FEMA Administrator Updates on Hurricane Delta Response

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor joined FOX News and The Weather Channel this afternoon to provide updates on Hurricane Delta, which made landfall as a Category 2 hurricane on the Gulf Coast.

The administrator gave the Weather Channel an update on federal response efforts and reminded Gulf Coast residents to stay safe.

“On the ground ... [we have] about 1,500 FEMA employees that had been down there for … [Hurricane] Laura six weeks ago and [Hurricane] Sally in the panhandle. So lots of federal employees down there, lots of our partners, to include power restoration,” said Gaynor. “In Louisiana alone, about 820 restoration crews had been down there doing power restoration for Laura. They’re there, to include the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, who did the blue roof mission. I think we have a head start, and hopefully you’ll see progress pretty quickly.”

Many people in the path of Hurricane Delta are still recovering from Hurricane Laura and may be feeling storm fatigue. FEMA encourages anyone in the storm’s path to stay strong, remain vigilant and take care of their mental and physical well-being.

“If you’ve been impacted by Delta you really need to think about your safety, the safety of the family and the safety of first responders that are out there today,” said Gaynor. "Heed the directions of your local emergency managers. Don’t come out until you get the all clear.

"This has been a complicated season," Gaynor continued. "It gets more complicated in Louisiana with both Laura and Delta … If you’ve been impacted by Delta, do a couple of things today: take photos of damage, write it all down in a list, save your receipts and call your insurance company.”

Administrator Gaynor also updated FOX News on the current storm conditions.

“Right now Delta is a tropical depression -- still raining, still a threat of flashfloods inland and the state, and our partners in the parishes are doing damage assessments as we speak,” he said. “What we see are power outages: in Louisiana about 688,000, in Texas about 107,000 and in Mississippi about 92,000. So power seems to be the issue right now.”

The FEMA administrator went on to explain how the agency is adjusting hurricane response considering the COVID-19 pandemic.

 “We have been beating the drum on not only hurricane safety this season but COVID safety [as well] …We don’t want to take someone out of the safety of their home, put them in a traditional shelter in a gymnasium and expose them to COVID,” Gaynor said. “We have a great program we’ve instituted across America, including Louisiana, where we put people in hotels and motels to keep them separated from others who may or may not have COVID ... It’s been working,” he said. “But again, you have to take responsibility for yourself to make sure you keep yourself and your family safe from the hazards of Delta and the hazards of COVID-19.”

FEMA is encouraging people in at-risk areas for Delta impacts to download the FEMA app to receive emergency and access preparedness tools to keep families safe. For additional preparedness information on all types of disasters, visit Ready.gov.  

###

zella.campbell Sat, 10/10/2020 - 19:25

Laura Survivors: Report Delta Damage to Locals, Insurance Company

BATON ROUGE, La. – If you are a Hurricane Laura survivor and you experience new or additional damage as a result of Hurricane Delta, report that damage to your local emergency manager and to your insurance company as soon as you can.

It is important to help your local and state officials assess any new damage.

• Find out how to contact your local emergency manager at: http://gohsep.la.gov/ABOUT/PARISHPA.
• You can also self-report your damage to GOHSEP at: http://arcg.is/14nOjf.

When it is safe to return to your home or business, take precautions as you inspect your home and document damage:

• Wear protective gear and take photos and/or videos of the outside and inside of your property.
• Photograph materials if you plan to remove them and before disposing of them.
• Keep swatches of carpet, drapes and upholstery of unrepairable items and contents when removing debris; the type and quality of material may affect the amount payable on your claim.
• Be aware that you may need local permits to repair or rebuild. Contact your local floodplain management and building department by searching for your city or parish at: http://floods.dotd.la.gov/lafloods/Community_Contacts.aspx.
• Learn more about documenting damage at: floodsmart.gov/flood/document-damage.

Immediately following flood damage, you should contact your insurance company which carries your flood-insurance policy to report new or additional losses.

• Louisiana residents with flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program: If you can’t remember the name or number of the insurance company that services your FEMA flood policy, call the NFIP at 877-336-2627 for that information.
• An insurance adjuster will be assigned to you and will contact you within a few days of starting your claim. Ask the adjustor if you are eligible for a remote claim adjustment and an advance payment to help you start recovering.

As Hurricane Delta survivors begin to return to their homes, FEMA stresses the importance of following guidance from your local officials.

• If you lost power, do not use a generator inside your home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. Keep it out of your living spaces and away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come inside. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that could kill you, your family and your pets.
• Learn more about returning home after a disaster at: ready.gov/returning-home

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

BATON ROUGE, La. – If you are a Hurricane Laura survivor and you experience new or additional damage as a result of Hurricane Delta, report that damage to your local emergency manager and to your insurance company as soon as you can.

It is important to help your local and state officials assess any new damage.

• Find out how to contact your local emergency manager at: http://gohsep.la.gov/ABOUT/PARISHPA.
• You can also self-report your damage to GOHSEP at: http://arcg.is/14nOjf.

When it is safe to return to your home or business, take precautions as you inspect your home and document damage:

• Wear protective gear and take photos and/or videos of the outside and inside of your property.
• Photograph materials if you plan to remove them and before disposing of them.
• Keep swatches of carpet, drapes and upholstery of unrepairable items and contents when removing debris; the type and quality of material may affect the amount payable on your claim.
• Be aware that you may need local permits to repair or rebuild. Contact your local floodplain management and building department by searching for your city or parish at: http://floods.dotd.la.gov/lafloods/Community_Contacts.aspx.
• Learn more about documenting damage at: floodsmart.gov/flood/document-damage.

Immediately following flood damage, you should contact your insurance company which carries your flood-insurance policy to report new or additional losses.

• Louisiana residents with flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program: If you can’t remember the name or number of the insurance company that services your FEMA flood policy, call the NFIP at 877-336-2627 for that information.
• An insurance adjuster will be assigned to you and will contact you within a few days of starting your claim. Ask the adjustor if you are eligible for a remote claim adjustment and an advance payment to help you start recovering.

As Hurricane Delta survivors begin to return to their homes, FEMA stresses the importance of following guidance from your local officials.

• If you lost power, do not use a generator inside your home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. Keep it out of your living spaces and away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come inside. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that could kill you, your family and your pets.
• Learn more about returning home after a disaster at: ready.gov/returning-home

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

scott.reuter Sat, 10/10/2020 - 15:07

Alabama Communities Rebuild with Help of FEMA Disaster Assistance

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – State officials estimated $86 million in disaster assistance will help local governments rebuild infrastructure damaged or destroyed by Hurricane Sally.

Public Assistance (PA) is another essential element of disaster response. The PA program benefits everyone – neighborhoods, cities and states, as well as certain private nonprofit organizations – by reimbursing applicants for eligible work on damaged public facilities.

The funding is in addition to over $66 million in federal disaster assistance to date for the September storms that has helped homeowners, renters and small businesses recover from Hurricane Sally.

The major disaster declaration for the State of Alabama was amended on Oct. 9 to include additional FEMA Public Assistance Category C-G in Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile counties. The counties were already eligible for funding for emergency protective measures and debris removal. It also added Conecuh County for all categories of PA.  Additional designations may be made at a later date.

Public Assistance dollars:

• Debris removal
• Clean up communities and repair bridges
• Put water systems and utilities back in order
• Repair hospitals and emergency services
• Rebuild schools and universities; and
• Restore damaged public parks so families can enjoy them again.

PA will provide a minimum of 75 percent of the cost to repair or replace disaster-damaged infrastructure from Hurricane Sally.

FEMA estimates the federal share of nearly $64 million will help reimburse local governments for the emergency work and debris removal that took place in the storm’s immediate aftermath.

Other PA projects are now being developed and approved by local, state, and federal officials. Payments are made on a reimbursement basis.

“Public Assistance grants support the work that helps an entire community recover,” said FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer Allan Jarvis, who is in charge of the agency’s operations in Alabama “These are federal tax dollars coming back to Alabama to rebuild taxpayer funded infrastructure.”

Public Assistance funding applicants can include:

• state agencies
• local and county governments
• private nonprofit organizations that own or operate facilities that provide essential government-type services

To learn more about FEMA’s Public Assistance Grant Program, visit https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit

For the latest information on Hurricane Sally, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4563

felicia.jordan Sat, 10/10/2020 - 11:39

FEMA Hurricane Delta Response Update

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is leaning forward with our federal, state, local and tribal partners to mobilize teams and supplies to support a state managed, locally executed response to impacts from Hurricane Delta. President Trump approved Emergency Declarations for Louisiana and Mississippi, earlier this week, authorizing FEMA to provide emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance for designated parishes and counties. Alabama’s request for an Emergency Declaration is under review.

Commodities

FEMA has a total of 278 generators available for areas in need and  has provided 52 generators to the Army Corps of Engineers for their use and/or distribution. FEMA has pre-staged over 8 million meals and more than 7 million liters of bottled water near the expected areas of Hurricane Delta impacts. Additional staged commodities, including blankets, tarps, blue roof sheeting and cots, are available to each affected state, based on need and requests to FEMA. Transportation teams are standing by at staging locations to move commodities to distribution points per state requests.

Personnel Deployed

As of today, 520 FEMA responders have been deployed in support of Hurricane Delta, including Incident Management Assistance Teams.  Mobile Emergency Operations Vehicles are standing by to provide emergency communication capabilities for federal resources, if needed. Six Urban Search and Rescue Teams and an Incident Support Team have also deployed to the area, with three additional teams on alert. Louisiana and Mississippi National Guards are activated and standby to assist, if needed, and two Disaster Medical Assistance Teams are on stand-by in Dallas.

Additional personnel from the federal government, including the Department of Defense, Department of Transportation, Health and Human Services, Department of Energy, DHS Cybersecurity Infrastructure and Security Agency and Army Corps of Engineers, have been mission assigned to provide support to impacted states and tribes, as needed.

Gulf Residents

Hurricane Delta will continue to bring impacts, including rain, wind and tornadoes, to areas of Louisiana today.  Every storm is different, so even if you have experienced a hurricane, or have been under a hurricane warning this year it’s important to monitor your local news for updates and directions provided by your local officials and heed local evacuation orders. Use extreme caution when operating heavy machinery, generators, or removing debris. Never use generators indoors and keep them away from windows, doors and vents. For more information on generator safety, please visit the Ready.gov Power Outages page and Carbon Monoxide - Generator Safety Fact Sheet . If you have been evacuated, do not return until local officials tell you it is safe to do so.

Your state and local officials will have the most up-to-date information on evacuation orders and shelter locations. Residents in Louisiana should call 2-1-1 or text “LAShelter898211” for evacuation, sheltering and other resources for immediate needs. Residents in Mississippi can visit the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency page msema.org for more information on shelters and evacuations. The American Red Cross is prepared to shelter and support families. For assistance, call 3-1-1 or visit the  website.  In Louisiana, six congregate shelters are open with a population of 933. Twelve non-congregate shelters are open with a population of 8,600 occupants, with five  shelters on standby. In Mississippi, three congregate shelters are on standby.

If you have homeowners insurance, and if you received additional damages from Hurricane Delta, following Hurricane Laura, you must file an additional claim with your insurance company. Take photos of your damaged home and belongings and make a list of lost or damaged items.

Responding During COVID-19

While some aspects of program delivery may look different this year, our commitment to helping people before, during and after disaster remains our full focus, and we are ready to deliver on our mission.

FEMA will continue to work with our state, tribal and local partners as they plan for evacuating and sheltering operations in a COVID-19 environment. Finding shelter is critical in times of disaster. Shelter outside of the hazard area could include staying with family or friends, seeking a hotel room or staying in a mass shelter. FEMA, other federal agencies and the American Red Cross have modified policies and planning and have taken actions to ensure the federal government can respond to any disaster during our continued coronavirus response efforts.

In alignment with FEMA’s Pandemic Operational Guidance, FEMA is leveraging technology to deliver the agency’s programs at the highest level possible, while preserving our workforce and survivors. These methods include virtual damage assessments and inspections for FEMA Individual Assistance and Public Assistance programs, as well as National Flood Insurance Program claims.

In advance of hurricane and wildfire season, FEMA expanded the capacity of its National Response Coordination Center, response centers around the country and trained additional staff to be postured to respond to multiple on-going incidents.

zella.campbell Sat, 10/10/2020 - 11:08

Revised Preliminary Flood Maps for Nueces County, Texas are Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas –– New revised Flood Insurance Rate Maps (Firms) are now available for review by residents and business owners in the cities of Bishop and Corpus Christi. Maps of unincorporated areas of Nueces County are also are also available. Renters and property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

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

FEMA Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson states, “Flooding is the #1 natural disaster in the United States and most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover the effects of flooding. I encourage everyone to purchase flood insurance because more than 25 percent of flood damages occur outside the Special Flood Hazard Area and policies are typically less expensive.”

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

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online at the following locations:

• The Flood Map Change Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv

• The FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (click on the “Live Chat” icon)

• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com. 

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood. There are cost saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov/.

Carmen.Castro Fri, 10/09/2020 - 18:30