President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Florida

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Florida to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Sally from Sept. 14, 2020, and continuing.

Federal funding is available through FEMA’s Public Assistance program at a 75% cost share to state, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations for emergency work and repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Hurricane Sally in Escambia County.

Additionally, emergency protective measures, including any direct federal assistance, will be available to state and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations in Bay, Calhoun, Franklin, Gadsden, Gulf, Holmes, Jackson, Liberty, Okaloosa, Santa Rosa, Walton and Washington counties.

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

Jeffrey L. Coleman has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response and recovery operations in the affected area.

Designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

zella.campbell Thu, 09/24/2020 - 11:42

Disaster Recovery Center in Marshall County to Close October 3

Help is still available for derecho survivors

DES MOINES, Iowa – A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center will close in Marshall County on Saturday, October 3 at 6 p.m.  However, help for survivors of the August derecho is just a phone call, a mouse click or a tap away on the FEMA app.

The DRC in Marshalltown is located at:

101 Iowa Ave. W

Marshalltown, IA 50158

Behind the Marshalltown VA Clinic

(Please enter from W. Berle Rd and proceed south behind the building.)

 

As previously announced, the DRC in Cedar Rapids will close on Saturday, September 26 at 6 p.m. It is located at:

The parking lot between Cedar Rapids Kernels Stadium and Kingston Stadium

950 Rockford Rd. SW

Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

(Enter the parking lot from the corner of Veterans Memorial Drive and Kurt Warner Way).

 

DRCs are open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time

Closed Sundays

Survivors do not have to visit a DRC to register or submit documents to FEMA. 

Applicants may register in the following ways:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA Mobile App for smartphones.
• Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Central Time, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.

Documents also may be submitted in any of the following ways:

• Mail to FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program, National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055. 
• Fax to 800-827-8112.
• Submit them via a FEMA online account. To set up an online account,  visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Check Status” and follow the directions.

Survivors in Benton, Boone, Cedar, Jasper, Linn, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story and Tama counties have until October 19 to register for disaster assistance.

thomas.wise Thu, 09/24/2020 - 09:37

Look Out for Disaster Fraud, Scams

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – When natural disasters occur, it is common for some people to take advantage of survivors by posing as official disaster aid workers trying to help survivors complete their applications.

Scam attempts can be made over the phone, by mail or email, text or in person. In Puerto Rico, survivors of Tropical Storm Isaías should be aware of fraud and scams, and report any suspicious activity or potential fraud from scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals.

Federal and state workers never ask for or accept money, and they always carry identification badges. There is no fee required to apply for or to get federal disaster assistance.

During each disaster, it’s important to stay tuned to local media and trusted local and federal social media. They provide current updates about ongoing disasters with tips on disaster fraud.

If something makes you feel uncomfortable, check with FEMA or local law enforcement to ensure your identity is protected.

If you suspect fraud, call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721. You may also file a complaint with police.

FEMA also recommends you monitor your credit report for any accounts or changes you do not recognize. If you discover someone is using your information, you will need to take additional steps, including filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission through its website IdentityTheft.gov.

The first step to recovery is to apply with FEMA. To apply:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (FEMA) or (TTY) 800-462-7585. Press 2 for a Spanish-speaking operator. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
• Visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download FEMA’s mobile app. Select Disaster Resources and click on DisasterAssistance.gov. If you have an Apple device: Text APPLE to 43362 (4FEMA). For those with an Android device: Text ANDROID to 43362 (4FEMA). For more information go to: www.fema.gov/mobile-app.

For more information on Puerto Rico’s disaster recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4560

and Facebook: www.facebook.com/femapuertorico.

 

 

jassiel.oliveromelo Thu, 09/24/2020 - 09:25

Survivors Beware! Fraud, Scams Flourish After Disasters

CLANTON, Ala. – After a disaster, scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals often attempt to take advantage of disaster survivors. Federal and Alabama emergency management officials urge residents to watch for and report any suspicious activity.

When a disaster strikes, unscrupulous people may try to take advantage of survivors by posing as official disaster aid workers or even as relatives trying to help survivors complete their applications.

Common post-disaster fraud practices include:

Fake offers of state or federal aid: Federal and state workers do not solicit or accept money. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) personnel never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in completing applications.

Phony housing inspectors: Owners/applicants may be especially vulnerable to phony housing inspectors claiming to represent FEMA. Ask to see the inspector’s identification badge. All federal employees carry official, laminated photo identification. Housing inspectors have each applicant’s nine-digit registration number. Inspectors will call you on the telephone to make an appointment; they will not contact you by email.

There may be occasions when a FEMA representative must contact you to verify personal data.  You should request a FEMA identification number from the caller.  If you are unsure of the caller’s identification or you are suspicious of someone who says they’re a housing inspector sent by FEMA, call the FEMA Hotline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). 

Phony government workers: You may be contacted by scam artists posing as disaster workers who are seeking money for services.  Federal and local disaster workers do not solicit or accept money. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. Nor will federal disaster employees promise a disaster grant.

Fraudulent charitable solicitations: A list of reputable charities that are approved by the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance is available at Give.Org. Criminals exploit survivors by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating phony websites designed to solicit contributions.

The Alliance advises “do not respond to unsolicited emails, watch out for pushy telemarketers and look out for fake charities that sound real by using similar names.” For more information about avoiding charitable giving scams, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website at www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/scam-alerts.

Rental listing scams: The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has information on how rental listing scams work. For instance, scammers know that finding the right apartment or vacation rental can be hard work, and a seemingly good deal is hard to pass up. Learn more at www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0079-rental-listing-scams.

If you have knowledge of fraud, waste or abuse, you can report these tips - 24 hours a day, seven days a week - to the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721. Or, email disaster@leo.gov.

If you believe you or a loved one has become a victim of a scam or identity theft, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department, or contact the office of the Alabama Attorney General:

• Office Main Number: 334-242-7300
• Consumer Protection Hotline, 800-392-5658
• Office of Victim Assistance: 800-626-7676
• http://www.ago.state.al.us/Page-Consumer-Protection  

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

                                                                          ###

                         FEMA’s mission: Helping people before, during, and after disasters.

neily.chapman Thu, 09/24/2020 - 08:02

Public Notice - Sac & Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa (Meskwaki Nation), DR-4561

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) hereby gives notice to the public of its intent to reimburse tribal government and eligible private non-profit organizations for eligible costs incurred to repair and/or replace facilities damaged by severe storms on Aug. 10, 2020. This notice applies to the Public Assistance (PA) program implemented under the authority of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 USC §§ 5121-5207, as amended.

Under a major disaster declaration for Sac and Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa (Meskwaki Nation) FEMA-4561-DR, signed by the President on September 10, 2020, the following areas have been designated as adversely affected by this major disaster: 

Sac and Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa (Meskwaki Nation) and associated lands for Public Assistance.  The Sac & Fox Tribe of the Mississippi in Iowa will receive 75 percent federal funding and is eligible for HMGP funding.

This public notice concerns public assistance activities that may affect historic properties, activities that are located in, or affect, wetland areas or the 100-year floodplain (areas determined to have a one-percent probability of flooding in any given year) and critical actions within the 500-year floodplain. Such activities may adversely affect the historic property, floodplain or wetland, or may result in continuing vulnerability to flood damage.

Such activities may include restoring eligible damaged facilities located in a floodplain to pre-disaster condition. Examples of such activities include, but are not limited to, the following:

1.Non-emergency debris removal and disposal;

2.Non-emergency protective measures;

3.Repair/replacement of roads, including streets, culverts and bridges;

4.Repair/replacement of public dams, reservoirs and channels;

5.Repair/replacement of public buildings and related equipment;

6.Repair/replacement of public water control facilities, pipes and distribution systems;

7.Repair/replacement of public utilities, including sewage treatment plants, sewers and electrical power distribution systems; and

8.Repair/replacement of eligible private, non-profit facilities (hospitals, educational centers, emergency and custodial care services, etc.).

The President’s Executive Order 11988, Floodplain Management, and Executive Order 11990, Protection of Wetlands, require that all federal actions in or affecting the 100-year floodplain or wetland areas be reviewed for opportunities to move the facility out of the floodplain or wetland and to reduce the risk of future damage or loss from flooding and minimize harms to wetlands. However, FEMA has determined that in certain situations, there are no alternatives to restoring an eligible facility located in the floodplain to its pre-disaster condition.  These situations meet all of the following criteria:

1.The FEMA estimated cost of repairs is less than 50 percent of the estimated cost to replace the facility and the replacement cost of the facility is less than $100,000;

2.The facility is not located in a floodway or coastal high hazard area;

3.The facility has not sustained structural damage in a previous presidentially declared flood disaster or emergency;

4.The facility is not defined as critical (e.g., hospital, power generating plant, contains dangerous materials, emergency operation center, etc.).

FEMA will provide assistance to restore the facilities described above to their pre-disaster condition except when measures to mitigate the effects of future flooding may be incorporated into the restoration work. For example, insufficient waterway openings under culverts and bridges may cause water backup to wash out the structures. The water backup could wash out the facility and could damage other facilities in the area.  Increasing the size of the waterway opening would mitigate, or lessen, the potential for this damage. Additional examples of mitigation measures include providing erosion protection at bridge abutments or levees and extending entrance tubes on sewage lift stations.

Disaster assistance projects to restore facilities which do not meet the criteria listed above must undergo a detailed review. The review will include a study to determine if the facility can be moved out of the floodplain. The public is invited to participate in the review. The public may identify alternatives for restoring the facility and may participate in analyzing the impact of the alternatives on the facility and the floodplain. An address and phone number for obtaining information about specific assistance projects is provided at the end of this Notice. The final determination regarding the restoration of these facilities in a floodplain will be announced in future Public Notices.

Due to the urgent need for and/or use of the certain facilities in a floodplain, actions to restore the facility may have started before the federal inspector visits the site. Some of these facilities may meet the criteria for a detailed review to determine if they should be relocated. Generally, facilities may be restored in their original location where at least one of the following conditions applies:

1.The facility, such as a flood control device or bridge, is functionally dependent on its floodplain location;

2.The facility, such as a park or other open-use space, already represents sound floodplain management and, therefore, there is no need to change it;

3.The facility, such as a road or a utility, is an integral part of a larger network that could not be relocated economically.

4.Emergency action is needed to address a threat to public health and safety.

The effects of not relocating the facilities will be examined. In each case, the examination must show an overriding public need for the facility at its original location that clearly outweighs the requirements in the Executive Order to relocate the facility out of the floodplain. FEMA will also consult state and local officials to make certain that no actions taken will violate either state or local floodplain protection standards. The restoration of these facilities may also incorporate certain measures designed to mitigate the effects of future flooding. This will be the only Notice to the public concerning these facilities.

The National Historic Preservation Act requires federal agencies to take into account the effects of their undertakings on historic properties. Those actions or activities affecting buildings, structures, districts or objects 50 years or older or that affect archeological sites or undisturbed ground will require further review to determine if the property is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places (Register). If the property is determined to be eligible for the Register, and FEMA’s undertaking will adversely affect it, FEMA will provide additional Public Notices. For historic properties not adversely affected by FEMA’s undertaking, this will be the only Public Notice.

FEMA also intends to provide Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding under Section 404 of the Stafford Act to the State of Iowa for the purposes of mitigating future disaster damages. Hazard mitigation projects may involve the construction of a new facility (e.g., retention pond, or debris dam), modification of an existing undamaged facility (e.g., improving waterway openings of bridges or culverts), and the relocation of facilities out of the floodplain. Subsequent Notices will provide more specific information as project proposals are developed.

Information about assistance projects may be obtained by submitting a written request to the Regional Environmental Officer, Kate Stojsavljevic.  Requests can be sent via email to kate.stojsavljevic@fema.dhs.gov or mailed to DHS-FEMA Region VII; 11224 Holmes Road; Kansas City, MO 64131. Comments should be sent in writing to the Regional Environmental Officer, at the above addresses, within 15 days of the date of publication of this Notice.

thomas.wise Wed, 09/23/2020 - 17:33

Public Notice - Iowa DR-4557

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) hereby gives notice to the public of its intent to reimburse state and local Iowa governments and agencies, and eligible private non-profit organizations for eligible costs incurred to repair and/or replace facilities damaged by severe storms on Aug. 10, 2020. This notice applies to the Individual Assistance (IA), Public Assistance (PA), and Hazard Mitigation Grant (HMGP) programs implemented under the authority of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, 42 USC §§ 5121-5207, as amended.

Under a major disaster declaration for Iowa (FEMA-4557-DR-IA), signed by the President on August 17, 2020, the following counties in the state of Iowa have been designated adversely affected by the August 10 disaster incident and are eligible for PA:

Benton, Boone, Cedar, Clinton, Dallas, Greene, Grundy, Guthrie, Hardin, Iowa, Jackson, Jasper, Johnson, Jones, Linn, Marshall, Muscatine, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story, Tama, and Washington counties. All counties will receive 75 percent federal funding.

The following counties in the state of Iowa have been designated adversely affected by the disaster and are eligible for IA:

Benton, Boone, Cedar, Jasper, Linn, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story, and Tama.

All counties in the state of Iowa are eligible for HMGP.

This public notice concerns public assistance activities that may affect historic properties, activities that are located in, or affect, wetland areas or the 100-year floodplain (areas determined to have a one-percent probability of flooding in any given year) and critical actions within the 500-year floodplain. Such activities may adversely affect the historic property, floodplain or wetland, or may result in continuing vulnerability to flood damage.

Such activities may include restoring eligible damaged facilities located in a floodplain to pre-disaster condition. Examples of such activities include, but are not limited to, the following:

1.Non-emergency debris removal and disposal;

2.Non-emergency protective measures;

3.Repair/replacement of roads, including streets, culverts and bridges;

4.Repair/replacement of public dams, reservoirs and channels;

5.Repair/replacement of public buildings and related equipment;

6.Repair/replacement of public water control facilities, pipes and distribution systems;

7.Repair/replacement of public utilities, including sewage treatment plants, sewers and electrical power distribution systems; and

8.Repair/replacement of eligible private, non-profit facilities (hospitals, educational centers, emergency and custodial care services, etc.).

The President’s Executive Order 11988, Floodplain Management, and Executive Order 11990, Protection of Wetlands, require that all federal actions in or affecting the 100-year floodplain or wetland areas be reviewed for opportunities to move the facility out of the floodplain or wetland and to reduce the risk of future damage or loss from flooding and minimize harms to wetlands. However, FEMA has determined that in certain situations, there are no alternatives to restoring an eligible facility located in the floodplain to its pre-disaster condition.  These situations meet all of the following criteria:

1.The FEMA estimated cost of repairs is less than 50 percent of the estimated cost to replace the facility and the replacement cost of the facility is less than $100,000;

2.The facility is not located in a floodway or coastal high hazard area;

3.The facility has not sustained structural damage in a previous presidentially declared flood disaster or emergency;

4.The facility is not defined as critical (e.g., hospital, power generating plant, contains dangerous materials, emergency operation center, etc.).

FEMA will provide assistance to restore the facilities described above to their pre-disaster condition except when measures to mitigate the effects of future flooding may be incorporated into the restoration work. For example, insufficient waterway openings under culverts and bridges may cause water backup to wash out the structures. The water backup could wash out the facility and could damage other facilities in the area.  Increasing the size of the waterway opening would mitigate, or lessen, the potential for this damage. Additional examples of mitigation measures include providing erosion protection at bridge abutments or levees and extending entrance tubes on sewage lift stations.

Disaster assistance projects to restore facilities which do not meet the criteria listed above must undergo a detailed review. The review will include a study to determine if the facility can be moved out of the floodplain. The public is invited to participate in the review. The public may identify alternatives for restoring the facility and may participate in analyzing the impact of the alternatives on the facility and the floodplain. An address and phone number for obtaining information about specific assistance projects is provided at the end of this Notice. The final determination regarding the restoration of these facilities in a floodplain will be announced in future Public Notices.

Due to the urgent need for and/or use of the certain facilities in a floodplain, actions to restore the facility may have started before the federal inspector visits the site. Some of these facilities may meet the criteria for a detailed review to determine if they should be relocated. Generally, facilities may be restored in their original location where at least one of the following conditions applies:

1.The facility, such as a flood control device or bridge, is functionally dependent on its floodplain location;

2.The facility, such as a park or other open-use space, already represents sound floodplain management and, therefore, there is no need to change it;

3.The facility, such as a road or a utility, is an integral part of a larger network that could not be relocated economically.

4.Emergency action is needed to address a threat to public health and safety.

The effects of not relocating the facilities will be examined. In each case, the examination must show an overriding public need for the facility at its original location that clearly outweighs the requirements in the Executive Order to relocate the facility out of the floodplain. FEMA will also consult state and local officials to make certain that no actions taken will violate either state or local floodplain protection standards. The restoration of these facilities may also incorporate certain measures designed to mitigate the effects of future flooding. This will be the only Notice to the public concerning these facilities.

The National Historic Preservation Act requires federal agencies to take into account the effects of their undertakings on historic properties. Those actions or activities affecting buildings, structures, districts or objects 50 years or older or that affect archeological sites or undisturbed ground will require further review to determine if the property is eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places (Register). If the property is determined to be eligible for the Register, and FEMA’s undertaking will adversely affect it, FEMA will provide additional Public Notices. For historic properties not adversely affected by FEMA’s undertaking, this will be the only Public Notice.

FEMA also intends to provide Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding under Section 404 of the Stafford Act to the State of Iowa for the purposes of mitigating future disaster damages. Hazard mitigation projects may involve the construction of a new facility (e.g., retention pond, or debris dam), modification of an existing undamaged facility (e.g., improving waterway openings of bridges or culverts), and the relocation of facilities out of the floodplain. Subsequent Notices will provide more specific information as project proposals are developed.

Information about assistance projects may be obtained by submitting a written request to the Regional Environmental Officer, Kate Stojsavljevic.  Requests can be sent via email to kate.stojsavljevic@fema.dhs.gov or mailed to DHS-FEMA Region VII; 11224 Holmes Road; Kansas City, MO 64131. Comments should be sent in writing to the Regional Environmental Officer, at the above addresses, within 15 days of the date of publication of this Notice.

thomas.wise Wed, 09/23/2020 - 17:27

Plan Ahead Before Going Home

SALEM, Ore. – As evacuation levels change, people affected by the fires are eager to know when it is safe to go home. As conditions may be unknown in an area, it is important that residents follow the advice of local authorities to learn when it is safe to return. Residents should also check road closures and conditions to know the safest way to travel. Check roads by visiting Oregon Dept. of Transportation’s TripCheck.com.

Once local authorities have given the all-clear to re-enter properties, homeowners should take steps to protect themselves and others, when cleaning up after a wildfire. Many dangers may remain, such as ash and fire debris, which can be toxic.

Staying safe around ashes:

• If you see ash or a layer of dust, keep children away until it has been cleaned.
• Cloth face coverings, paper masks or bandanas are not effective at filtering out fine airborne ash, dust or asbestos fibers. N95 or KN95 respirators, if properly fit, tested and worn, can offer protection from airborne particles.
• Avoid activities that could stir up ash and make it airborne again, like using a leaf blower, dry sweeping, or vacuuming without a HEPA filter.
• Use rubber gloves when cleaning up ash. Wash any ash off of your body or clothing right away.
• To clean up ash outdoors: Gently dampen the ash – do not use a pressure washer, which will generate dust before it wets things down. Then use a vacuum with a high efficiency HEPA filter if you have one. If you don't have a HEPA-equipped vacuum, gently sweep or scoop up the ash.
• To clean up ash indoors: Use a damp cloth to clean surfaces, a wet mop on floors. Do not use a vacuum to clean up ash unless it has a high efficiency HEPA filter.
• Turn on an air purifier or ventilation system with a HEPA filter, if you have one, to help remove particles from indoor air.
• Find more safety tips on the Oregon Dept. of Environmental Quality website.

Making your yard safe:

• Extinguish hot embers. Check for them in yard debris, rain gutters or crawl spaces, on the roof, and under overhangs and decks.
• Clear away debris. Move it away from the house to the edge of your home.
• Check the electric meter. If there is visible damage, don’t turn the breaker on. Call your utility company.
• Stay clear of electrical wires on the ground. Report them to your utility company.
• Check the gas meter, gas lines or propane tank. If there is visible damage or if you smell gas, call your local utility or propane company.

Before entering structures: If you have safety concerns, have a qualified building inspector or structural engineer inspect your structures. Don’t enter if you smell gas. Turn off the power before you inspect your structure. Use a flashlight, but turn it on outside because the flashlight battery may produce a spark that can cause a fire.

Entering your structures safely:

• Check for immediate dangers. This includes remaining fire and fire damage, and wild or domestic animals that may have taken refuge.
• Check the attic. Embers may have entered through vents.
• Keep appliances turned off until you have determined the electric meter and electrical lines are undamaged.
• Discard food that has been exposed to heat, smoke, or soot.
• Don’t drink or use water from the faucet until emergency officials say it’s okay. Water systems may become polluted if there is post-fire flooding.
• Take safety precautions for utilities:
  • Electric – If you turn on the breaker and still have no power, contact your utility company.
  • Propane tank or  system – Turn off the valves and call your propane supplier to inspect the system.
  • Heating oil tank system – Call your supplier to inspect it before you use it.
  • Solar electrical system – Have it inspected by a licensed technician to verify the solar panels and wiring are safe.

Documenting Damage and contacting your insurance company. Call your insurance agent. Make a list of the damage and document it with photos and videos. Keep all receipts for repair and cleaning costs.

###

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-FEMA (3362)  711/VRS - Video Relay Service). Multilingual operators are available. (Press 2 for Spanish). TTY call 800-462-7585.

hannah.weinstein Wed, 09/23/2020 - 13:48

State and Federal Funds Approved for Waubay Flood Mitigation Project

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – FEMA has awarded a $1.66 million grant to the City of Waubay, South Dakota for home acquisitions. The grant will fund the purchase of ten properties that have been impacted by repetitive flooding caused by closed-basin lakes in Day County. This project will allow property owners to relocate away from the flood hazard and prevent future damage.

The project will include the purchase of each structure, demolition and returning the property to green space in perpetuity. These lots will be owned by the City of Waubay. The $1.66 million from FEMA represents a 75 percent cost-share of the project, which totals roughly $2.21 million. The State of South Dakota will contribute more than $221,000 with the local community responsible for the remaining costs.

“Acquisition projects like this allow property owners in high-risk areas a chance to relocate, permanently eliminating future flood losses.” Said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Jon Huss.

Funding for this grant is provided through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), which is designed to assist states, U.S. territories, federally-recognized tribes, and local communities in increasing their understanding and taking proactive action to help people reduce their losses from natural hazards. The goal is to reduce overall risk to the population and structures from future hazard events, while also reducing reliance on federal funding in future disasters.

The HMGP program is funded through a percentage of overall federal disaster response and recovery costs, ranging from 15 to 20 percent. South Dakota recently had an enhanced statewide hazard mitigation plan approved. This makes the state eligible for the maximum of 20 percent toward the program.

“Completing our enhanced mitigation plan demonstrated the commitment South Dakota has to minimizing the impact of future disasters,” said Tina Titze, State Coordinating Officer and the director of the state Office of Emergency Management. “The additional federal funding is helping to complete projects like this in Waubay and others around the state.”

Additional information about HMGP can be found at www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program. 

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 09/23/2020 - 13:05

Federal Aid for Utah Quake Tops $2 Million  

SALT LAKE CITY – Six months after the Magna Earthquake shook Salt Lake and Davis counties, federal agencies have provided more than $2.2 million in loans and grants to help Utahns recover from the March 18 disaster and its aftershocks.

FEMA has approved more than $664,000 through its Individuals & Households Program (IHP), the majority of which is going to housing assistance to help homeowners impacted by the quake make repairs or find a temporary place to live.

In addition, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved $1.6 million in low-interest disaster loans for Utah businesses, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters.

To date, more than 1,180 Utah residents have registered for federal assistance and FEMA housing inspectors have completed more than 520 virtual inspections of homes damaged by the quake and aftershocks.

For more information about fixing damages, rebuilding, and preparing for the next earthquake, email FEMA-R8-HMhelp@fema.dhs.gov.

For more information on Utah’s recovery from the Magna Quake, visit, www.fema.gov/disaster/4548, or https://earthquakes.utah.gov/magna-quake/. 

 

Brian.Hvinden Tue, 09/22/2020 - 17:32

Photos of Whole-of-Government Sally, Wildfires Response

WASHINGTON — FEMA continues close coordination with state, tribal and local governments for disaster response across the country, as the agency's administrator, Pete Gaynor, visited states impacted by recent fire and hurricane damage. President Trump approved a major disaster declaration for Alabama and emergency declarations for Alabama, Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi to provide federal assistance and coordinate disaster relief efforts across the Gulf Coast. Major disaster declarations were also declared for California and Oregon wildfire response. FEMA teams and disaster recovery resources are on the ground assisting with state recovery efforts. Residents in affected states should continue paying attention to their local emergency managers for safety instructions.

FEMA Administrator Sees Mitigation Results Firsthand in Alabama

GULF SHORES, Ala. (Sept. 20, 2020) – FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor (3rd from left) sees first-hand the mitigation efforts that the Lodge at Gulf State Park took that prevented any structural damage from Hurricane Sally. The hotel was rebuilt using mitigation measures to help withstand future storms, after being totally destroyed by Hurricane Ivan in 2004.

FEMA photo by Robert Kaufmann

Line Crews Work to Restore Power in Alabama

BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. (Sept. 18, 2020) -- Crews deliver replacement power poles to Baldwin County, Alabama. Restoring power following Hurricane Sally is a critical priority and one of the first steps in community recovery.   

   FEMA photo by Alexis Hall

Line Crews Work to Restore Power in Alabama

BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. (Sept. 18, 2020) -- Crews replace a power pole in Baldwin County, Alabama, following Hurricane Sally. Restoring electricity to homes and businesses is a critical priority and one of the first steps in community recovery.

FEMA photo by Alexis Hall

Supplies are Loaded at FEMA Distribution Center for Transport to Florida

ATLANTA (Sept. 19, 2020) – Tarps are loaded onto trucks at FEMA’s Distribution Center in Atlanta for transportation to Florida. These tarps will help Hurricane Sally survivors protect their homes.

FEMA photo Crystal Paulk-Buchanan

Search and Rescue Teams Scour Fire-Damaged Areas for Survivors

PHOENIX, Ore. (Sept. 19, 2020) -- A blend of FEMA Urban Search and Rescue teams from all over the United States complete searches of an area damaged by the Almeda Fire. Historic wildfires have left many people in Oregon homeless, with some still missing.

FEMA photo by David Yost

Search and Rescue Teams Scour Fire-Damaged Areas for Survivors

PHOENIX, Ore. (Sept. 19, 2020) -- Nyx, a search and rescue canine working with a handler from a FEMA Urban Search and Rescue team from Colorado, rests after searching through damage caused by the Almeda Fire. Historic wildfires have left many people in Oregon homeless, with some still missing.

FEMA photo by David Yost

Historic Wildfires Leave Destruction in their Wake

PHOENIX, Ore. (Sept. 19, 2020) -- Damage caused by the Almeda Fire has displaced people in Jackson County, located in southern Oregon. Historic wildfires have left many people in Oregon homeless, with some still missing.

FEMA photos by David Yost

Historic Wildfires Leave Destruction in their Wake

PHOENIX, Ore. (Sept. 19, 2020) -- Damage caused by the Almeda Fire has displaced people in Jackson County, located in southern Oregon. Historic wildfires have left many people in Oregon homeless, with some still missing.

FEMA photos by David Yost

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 09/22/2020 - 14:33

Louisiana Renters Can Apply for FEMA Assistance

BATON ROUGE, La. – Renters whose home or property was damaged by Hurricane Laura can apply for federal disaster assistance.

Federal grants can help pay for temporary housing if a renter or homeowner is unable to return to a disaster-damaged home. The initial rental grant is for a 60-day period and can be reviewed for further assistance.

The deadline to register for FEMA help is Oct. 27, 2020.

Renters as well as homeowners may qualify for grants for essential personal property and other disaster-related expenses as well. These may include repairing or replacing:

• Furniture, appliances, clothing, schoolbooks and supplies.
• Occupational tools and other job-related equipment required by an employer as a condition of employment.
• Primary vehicles.
• Medical and dental bills.

Visit DisasterAssistance.gov and enter your address to find out if your parish is declared for Individual Assistance.

To register for help:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585).
• Visit disasterassistance.gov/.
• Download the FEMA Mobile App.

Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

Survivors who have questions about the status of their federal disaster assistance applications or how to appeal determination letters may call the FEMA Helpline. They can also check the status of their disaster assistance applications online at DisasterAssistance.gov.

Part of the FEMA disaster assistance registration process includes providing a call-back phone number for FEMA to contact you to set up a remote home inspection for damage caused by the disaster and other Helpline information. It is strongly recommended if you use a relay service, such as your videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel to provide your specific number assigned to that service to FEMA. It is important that FEMA can contact you, and you should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.

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 Tue, 09/22/2020 - 13:34

Flood Insurance Policies Purchased After Hurricane Irma Expiring This Year

ATLANTA - Following the devastating disasters and hurricane season of 2017, FEMA purchased three-year flood insurance policies for thousands of disaster survivors whose homes were flooded. Those policies are set to expire this year, and survivors need to purchase a new flood insurance policy, or obtain other flood insurance, in order to remain eligible for future

FEMA assistance.

Part of the eligibility of receiving financial assistance after a flood is that a homeowner or renter must obtain and maintain flood insurance to ensure that there is no lapse in coverage. If a property affected by a flood is sold, the new owners are required to have flood insurance for the property as well.

Participants must purchase a flood insurance policy or they will be ineligible to receive most forms of assistance in subsequent disasters.

In Georgia there are 67 policies expiring this year from Hurricane Irma.

Flood Insurance Can Be Key to Recovery Flood insurance policies are crucial to recover quickly following a flood event as homeowners and renters’ policies do not typically cover flood damage.

Additionally, flood insurance will pay claims regardless of whether there is a major disaster declaration. Flood insurance claims can be paid for such events as flash flooding, storm sewer backup, river overflow, storm surge, mudslides or tropical systems.

Since its inception in 1968, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program has paid more than $69 billion in flood claims to help survivors rebuild their lives following flood events.

• To find an insurance carrier or agent, visit FloodSmart.gov, or call FEMA NFIP Direct toll-free, (800) 638-6620, option 2.
• For more information about the National Flood Insurance Program and or insurance, call the National Flood Insurance General Call Center at 800-427-4661.
• If you have questions about your Group Flood Insurance Policy, call the National Flood Insurance Direct Call Center at 800-638-6620.

                                                                            ###

                                     FEMA’s mission: Helping people before, during, and after disasters.

neily.chapman Tue, 09/22/2020 - 12:25

Flood Insurance Policies Purchased After Hurricane Irma Expiring This Year

ATLANTA - Following the devastating disasters and hurricane season of 2017, FEMA purchased three-year flood insurance policies for thousands of disaster survivors whose homes were flooded. Those policies are set to expire this year, and survivors need to purchase a new flood insurance policy, or obtain other flood insurance, in order to remain eligible for future FEMA assistance.

Part of the eligibility of receiving financial assistance after a flood is that a homeowner or renter must obtain and maintain flood insurance to ensure that there is no lapse in coverage. If a property affected by a flood is sold, the new owners are required to have flood insurance for the property as well.

Participants must purchase a flood insurance policy or they will be ineligible to receive most forms of assistance in subsequent disasters.

In Florida there are more than 2,500 policies expiring this year from Hurricane Irma.

Flood Insurance Can Be Key to Recovery Flood insurance policies are crucial to recover quickly following a flood event as homeowners and renters’ policies do not typically cover flood damage.

Additionally, flood insurance will pay claims regardless of whether there is a major disaster declaration. Flood insurance claims can be paid for such events as flash flooding, storm sewer backup, river overflow, storm surge, mudslides or tropical systems.

Since its inception in 1968, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program has paid more than $69 billion in flood claims to help survivors rebuild their lives following flood events.

• To find an insurance carrier or agent, visit FloodSmart.gov, or call FEMA NFIP Direct toll-free, (800) 638-6620, option 2.
• For more information about the National Flood Insurance Program and or insurance, call the National Flood Insurance General Call Center at 800-427-4661.
• If you have questions about your Group Flood Insurance Policy, call the National Flood Insurance Direct Call Center at 800-638-6620.

                                                                         ###

                                 FEMA’s mission: Helping people before, during, and after disasters.

neily.chapman Tue, 09/22/2020 - 12:19

FEMA Mobile Registration Intake Center Opens Tuesday in Oroville

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A FEMA Mobile Registration Intake Center serving wildfire survivors in Butte County will open Sept. 22.

The center will be hosted at the Tractor Supply Company store, 2000 Feather River Blvd., Oroville CA 95965, across the street from the LAC (Local Assistance Center), and is part of ongoing response and recovery mission for FEMA and the State of California to support wildfire survivors affected by the August/September fire siege. It is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. It is closed Sundays.

Survivors can also register with FEMA for federal aid in one of three 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) between 7 a.m. and 10:30 p.m. PDT. The helpline staff can also answer questions about applications already submitted.

 

U.S. Small Business Administration assistance

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has established a Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center that is open to help homeowners and renters. Customer service representatives are available daily to assist business owners and individuals answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help each person complete an electronic loan application.

Virtual Business Recovery Center and Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center

Mondays – Sundays

5 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific

FOCWAssistance@sba.gov

800-659-2955

###

bree-constance… Tue, 09/22/2020 - 12:04

FEMA Response Update: Hurricane Teddy, Tropical Storm Beta, Hurricane Sally and Western Wildfires

WASHINGTON - FEMA continues to support our federal, state, local, tribal and territorial partners by mobilizing teams and supplies to support a state-managed, locally executed response to Tropical Storm Beta in the Gulf of Mexico, impacts from Hurricane Teddy as it moves north along the East Coast, response efforts to Hurricane Sally in the Gulf Coast and the wildfires in the West. Tropical Storm Beta made landfall last night just north of Port O’Connor, Texas, and is expected to stall inland today then begin to move slowly along the coast of Texas through Wednesday with expected isolated storm totals up to 20 inches. Meanwhile, Hurricane Teddy is centered off the northeastern U.S. coast, and is expected to transition to a powerful post-tropical cyclone as it moves near or over portions of Atlantic Canada late today through Thursday.

FEMA urges anyone in the forecast path of the storms to monitor their local news for updates and directions provided by their local officials and heed local evacuation orders.

Tropical Storm Beta is forecast to bring additional rainfall of 6 to 12 inches with isolated storm totals up to 20 inches expected. Significant flash and urban flooding is occurring and will continue today, we urge everyone to stay focused on safety and encourage to practice the following:

• Do not return until local officials tell you it is safe to do so. If you have been ordered to shelter in place, please do so until advised it is safe.
• Don’t drive or walk through flood waters. Be aware of downed power lines, standing water, and other hidden hazards. 
• Stay off roads so that emergency workers can get through.
• Check on your neighbors. You may be the help they need right now.
• Property and business owners and renters and with a flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for property in communities where the general condition of flooding in the area exists or officials have issued evacuation orders can take protective action to minimize flood damage and losses to their buildings and personal property before a flood occurs under the “flood loss avoidance” provision.
  • ​These actions may include sandbags (including the sand to fill them), backfill to create temporary levees, water pumps, plastic sheeting and lumber used in connection with any of these items and the cost of labor.

Response efforts continue along the Gulf Coast, as President Trump approved a major disaster declaration for Alabama to provide assistance to the state and survivors of Hurricane Sally. Damage assessments and restoration efforts continue with the federal government fully postured to support state requests for assistance as required, FEMA continues to support the states impacted by Hurricane Sally with commodities, which are available to each affected state based on need and requests to FEMA for assistance.

• Over 4 million liters of bottled water
• 3.2 million meals
• 289,000 blankets
• 117,000 tarps
• 52,500 blue roof sheeting
• 6,500 cots
• 23 generators

FEMA has two Incident Management Assistance Teams (IMATs) deployed in response to Hurricane Sally. One team is deployed to Alabama and one to Florida. FEMA also deployed three Mobile Emergency Operations Vehicles, one to Alabama and two are in Florida to provide emergency communication capabilities for federal resources, if needed.

As of today, 87 FEMA responders have been deployed in support of Hurricane Sally.

• National Guard Bureau teams, including search and rescue and logistics operators, are staged throughout the affected areas.
• Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officers from the Department of Defense are deployed in support of Florida.

President Trump approved Emergency Declarations for Alabama, Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi to provide federal assistance and coordinate all disaster relief efforts in response to Hurricane Sally across the Gulf Coast.

Although Sally has moved offshore, there are still risks in areas impacted by the storm. Anyone in the forecast path of the storm should monitor their local news for updates and directions provided by their local officials and follow evacuation orders from local officials.

• State and local officials will have the most up-to-date information on evacuation orders and shelter locations.
• Alabama residents should call or text 2-1-1 for evacuation, sheltering and resources for immediate needs.
• The American Red Cross (ARC) is prepared to shelter and support families. For assistance, call 3-1-1 or visit the ARC website.
• Individuals in Alabama and Mississippi impacted by Sally may register for the American Red Cross Safe and Well program at safeandwell.communityos.org.
• Use extreme caution when operating heavy machinery, generators or while removing debris. Never use generatwww.ors indoors and keep them away from windows, doors and vents.
• If you have been evacuated do not return home until local officials tell you it is safe to do so.
• Don’t drive or walk through flood waters. Be aware of downed power lines, standing water and other hidden hazards.
• Stay off roads so that emergency workers are able to get through.
• Wear sturdy shoes or boots when walking on, or near, debris. Wear long sleeves and gloves when handling debris.
• When clearing debris from a property, make sure you know the location of all utilities, both underground and overhead to prevent personal injury. Do not place items in front of, around or on top of buried and above ground utilities.
• Use caution around any buried utilities. Cutting vital communications assets such as fiber optic lines can cause a loss of cellular networks, including cell phone service or access to the internet. Residents in Alabama and Florida should call 8-1-1 before digging so utilities can be marked in advance.
• Response is a whole community effort; if it’s safe to do so, check on your neighbors. You may be the help they need right now.
• Remember to stay safe, whether you’re a responder or survivor. Wear a mask in public settings especially when social distancing is not possible, and follow CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
• FEMA will conduct remote home inspections to expedite the delivery of recovery assistance to applicants based on their eligibility due to COVID-19 and the need to protect the safety and health of all Americans.

If your property has been flooded due to Hurricane Sally or Tropical Storm Beta, call your insurance agent or company to file a claim. Be sure to ask about advance payments. FEMA has nearly $7 billion available to pay flood claims. The agency also has the authority to borrow another $10 billion for claims if necessary.

• Have the name of your insurance company, your policy number and a telephone number or email address where you can be reached when you place your call.
• If you need help finding your insurance agent, carrier or policy number, call the Flood Insurance call center at 877-336-2627.
• 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. During that time, you'll work with your adjuster to take high-quality photos and detailed measurements.
• You should also discuss with your adjuster what your policy covers, ask any questions you may have about the claims process and determine your next steps.
• For additional information, visit floodsmart.gov/start.

WILDFIRES IN THE WEST

FEMA has the following commodities staged near the areas of impact for wildfires in the West. These commodities are available to each affected state, based on need and requests to FEMA for assistance.

• 227,000 liters of bottled water
• 208,896 meals
• 54,735 blankets
• 6,092 cots
• Hygiene kits, commonly used shelter items and 27 generators are also staged at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Washington.

FEMA has obligated more than $18 million in mission assignments and is processing 61 active resource requests in support of Oregon and California. FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are on the ground in California supporting survivor registrations and inquiries. Two Incident Management Assistance Teams have been deployed to Oregon and one team is deployed to California to support state operations.

As of today, 496 FEMA responders have been deployed in support of western wildfires.

• FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) specialists will be in each Oregon Individual Assistance declared county by Sept. 23.
• Three Mobile Communication Vehicles (MCVs) have been requested to support field operations. 
• FEMA Disability Integration and Civil Rights staff are collaborating to ensure DSA and MCV operations are accessible.
• Housing inspectors and quality control inspectors are completing inspections in all eight Oregon Individual Assistance declared counties.
• A Health and Human Services Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response Incident Management Team is operational in on alert.
• Health and Human Services Mortuary Affairs are deployed to Oregon to provide technical assistance.
• Two Health and Human Services Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Teams assessment team deployed to provide forensic assessment and support for US&R in Jackson county in Oregon. 
• Department of Agriculture (USDA) subject matter expertise, including sourcing available animal response equipment, deployment of one animal care and two (virtual) food and nutrition service subject matter experts to support pet and feeding operations, and deployment of one Veterinary Services IMT Incident Commander to support Oregon Department of Agriculture’s animal and agricultural response coordination. 
• Civil Air Patrol is capturing aerial imagery today for infrastructure sorties, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is processing current collected imagery.

President Trump approved Major Disaster Declarations for California and Oregon to provide federal assistance and coordinate all disaster relief efforts in response to ongoing wildfires throughout the Western U.S. Registration is open for those affected by wildfires in Clackamas, Douglas, Jackson, Klamath, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, and Marion counties in Oregon. Apply by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov, calling 800-621-3362 or using the FEMA app.

• Do not wait for a disaster recovery center or other fixed location to register for assistance.
• Save your receipts and take photos before you begin the clean-up process. Documentation of losses will help FEMA process your claim.
• Disaster assistance may include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Public safety is the No.1 priority: residents in at-risk areas should follow local officials’ instructions and be ready to take action.

• If you are in a safe place, you can help by staying home and off the road. Due to changes to the landscape, even areas that are not traditionally flood prone are at risk of flash flooding and becoming unsafe,
• If you are in an evacuation zone, heed warnings, and follow local official recommendations without delay.
• Stay informed by calling 2-1-1 or 866-698-6155. You can also text your zip code to 898211 (TXT211). You can also visit wildfire.oregon.gov for the latest information and resources available to those affected by wildfires.
• Know your evacuation levels! Level 1 - Be Ready. Level 2 - Be Set. Level 3 - Leave Immediately. DO NOT return the fire area until officials give the OK.
• For a list of temporary shelters, see the Red Cross Oregon website.
• If you are affected by the Oregon wildfires, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to discuss homeowner insurance policies and wildfire coverage.  The Oregon Insurance Commission has insurance resources available online.
• Please register for the Red Cross Safe and Well program at safeandwell.communityos.org.
• Visit ORVOAD.org to find out how to help Oregonians and donate to response organizations.
• Amid wildfire, smoke and erratic weather, the COVID-19 pandemic is still rampant. Face coverings are required in all parts of the state and Oregonians are reminded to maintain social distancing, and wash hands frequently. 
• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Disaster Distress Helpline provides 24/7 counseling and support to people experiencing emotional distress related to disasters. Call SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline at 800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to speak to a trained crisis counselor.

 For additional preparedness information on all types of disasters, visit Ready.gov and download the FEMA app.

zella.campbell Tue, 09/22/2020 - 11:23

41 Municipalities Among the Recipients of $91.4 million in FEMA Grants

Obligations include over $461,000 for the Punta Mulas Lighthouse and community center in Vieques

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – FEMA and the Puerto Rico Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience, or COR3, announced the obligation of over $91.4 million in additional funds for 135 projects related to the recovery and reconstruction of Puerto Rico after Hurricane María. These grants were obligated during the week of September 11-17.

Among the most recent allocations is about $461,000 for repairs to the historic Punta Mulas Lighthouse built in 1895 and its community center, located on the north coast of Vieques. Formerly the house of a French bullfighter, this cultural landmark served as the municipality’s first museum in the 90s. Today, it is a tourist attraction where the beautiful views of the island of Puerto Rico can be enjoyed.

“Within our urban area, [the lighthouse] is one of the top three places most visited by tourists. The Punta Mula community center was the main community center for all Viequenses. For us as a municipality it is an additional source of income, since both the center and the surrounding green areas are rented out,” said Vieques Mayor Víctor Emeric Catarineau.

Meanwhile, over $678,000 was approved for the municipality of Coamo to repave several roads in the Barrio Santa Catalina. These five streets allow around 125 families to reach their homes.

“The Municipality of Coamo will be working with the auction and contracting to expedite it as much as possible. These projects come to solve access and road safety problems for the residents of the mentioned areas,” said Coamo’s Mayor, Juan Carlos "Tato" Garcia Padilla.

On the other hand, just over $218,000 was obligated for the municipality of Hormigueros to repair five recreational facilities. Among these is the municipal greenhouse where more than 2,000 pounds of green peppers are grown each month and sold to local businesses, which also generates 5 direct employments. In addition, the Mirador Torre Vista a la Bahía located in the Hoya Grande Sector, with a view to the bay of Mayagüez, is also part of this list. Likewise, the Paseo de la Abolición, the municipality’s passive playground and the municipal pools and gazebos, which have a capacity for 50 people, will be repaired.

For his part, the first municipal executive indicated that all these projects are important for the development of the municipality and these assignments speed up the reconstruction process. “I am very happy that the agricultural greenhouse has received an obligation since it is a novel project where we demonstrate that it is possible to export and consume by producing locally,” added the mayor of Hormigueros, Pedro Juan García.

A part of these funds will be used to prevent future damage as mitigation measures. In Coamo, about $55,000 will be used to install an asphalt reinforcement system on all impacted roads. In Vieques, about $17,000 will be used to upgrade the Punta Mulas Lighthouse with metal exterior panels and the replacement of 1,800 square feet of asphalt roofing and for the community center to provide an anchorage system to resist wind pressure, among other measures. Meanwhile, in Hormigueros, roofing at Mirador Torre Vista a la Bahía will be reinforced.

The most recent approved grants are broken down as follows:

• Nearly $37 million for road and bridge repairs;
• Over $25.7 million for administrative expenses of municipalities and government agencies;
• Over $11.2 million for repairs to parks and recreational facilities;
• Over $8.5 million for emergency protective measures;
• Over $6.9 million for repairs to public buildings and equipment;
• Over $678,000 for debris removal; and
• Over $105,000 for utilities.

FEMA works with COR3 through the federal agency's Public Assistance program to obligate recovery funds to private nonprofit organizations, municipalities and agencies of the Government of Puerto Rico for expenses related to Hurricanes Irma and María. To date, over $7.3 billion has been awarded to Puerto Rico as part of FEMA's Public Assistance program.

For more information on Puerto Rico's recovery from Hurricane Maria, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on social networks at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and on Twitter @COR3pr.

For more details on the 135 most recent projects, click here. 

VIEQUES, Puerto Rico (September 18, 2020) – Among the most recent allocations is about $461,000 for repairs to the historic Punta Mulas Lighthouse built in 1895 and its community center, located on the north coast of Vieques. 

frances.acevedo-pico Tue, 09/22/2020 - 07:46

Seismic Retrofits Pay Off For Murray Schools

SALT LAKE CITY – “Earthquakes happen when they wanna happen,” says Doug Perry, public information officer for the Murray School District. “Unfortunately, the Magna Quake [March 18] happened in the middle of a pandemic. Not having to worry about our school buildings ─ that they survived and performed well ─ was a huge relief for our district.”

That’s because the Murray School District decided nearly a decade ago to mitigate against future earthquakes and other natural disasters by undertaking a multiyear retrofit program that brought all of its campuses up to current earthquake safety standards.

To some observers it seemed like an unnecessary move. Considerable time had passed since the last significant earthquake along the Wasatch Front and some people felt the threat was low.

However, that didn’t stop Murray School District from conducting a detailed risk assessment of its campuses as a part of a comprehensive capital planning effort in 2011.

“Seismic hazards, given that the schools that needed retrofits were constructed from the 1950s through the 1970s, came to the top of the list as the primary source of risk to the students and employees,” says John Masek, a licensed structural engineer who served as project manager for the Murray retrofits.

Rather than replace the older schools with brand new buildings, the district decided that retrofitting would be far more cost effective.

“Many professional journal articles and news articles have been published on the potential cost advantages of mitigating in advance ─ versus letting facilities be damaged during seismic events and then repairing them, if possible,” adds Masek.

“There’s often a large benefit–cost ratio to mitigating. In other words, it’s often much more cost effective to retrofit before an earthquake than repair or replace buildings after an earthquake damages them. Furthermore, and more importantly, seismic retrofitting helps to protect the lives of students and facility in the facilities.”

The long-term plan that emerged from the risk assessment determined that Riverview Junior High School was the first priority for seismic hazard mitigation.

Following severe flooding across the state, a major disaster declaration was declared in August of 2011, making FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funds available to Utah communities. Murray School District successfully applied for available HMGP funds through the state and was granted $910,516 for the seismic retrofit of Riverview.

In 2013, Utah lawmakers approved a public-school seismic study requiring all districts that requested bond funding to perform structural seismic investigations on buildings constructed before 1975. That same year, Murray prepared a Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan making the district eligible to apply for annual pre-disaster mitigation (PDM) funds.

The district secured two FEMA grants totaling $1,984,301 to perform seismic retrofits on four elementary schools in the district (McMillian, Parkside, Horizon and Viewmont.

These FEMA funds supplemented a larger effort by the district to retrofit all ten Murray campuses utilizing $4 million dollars of local bond funds.

The major thrust of the retrofit effort was establishing good exterior roof-to-wall connections on buildings with masonry walls. Meanwhile, some interior walls were braced to mitigate against possible collapse in an earthquake and there was some additional work related to vertical elements and structures.

The various life-safety retrofits were completed on all school buildings prior to the Magna Quake of March 2020. Murray School District reported damage to only one of its retrofitted campuses, a nonstructural footlong crack at Horizon Elementary. 

Had more serious damage occurred, a single new building could cost close to $40 million to construct and the life safety of almost 6,500 students throughout the district might have been at risk.

“It’s nice to see that there was virtually no damage to Murray School District structures,” says Masek. “However, several other buildings that were not part of the Murray School District ─ but were of a similar age, use, and in areas of similar ground shaking intensity ─ were damaged during the Magna Quake. I was pleased to hear that the Murray School District retrofits performed well.”

Murray’s multiyear mitigation project was successful because the district started with local planning/prioritization and raised local funds while also leveraging two federal grant programs over several years.

“The cool thing about Murray is the plan execution,” says Masek. “I’ve been involved in many mitigation plans over the years, and this was one of the best in terms of writing the plan and then executing the plan in less than five years. It’s really unusual to be able to do that. It was good work on the part of the district.”

“We’re always interested in putting together plans that will help mitigate risk and protect our students, staff and everyone in the community,” adds Perry. “Retrofitting and preparing ourselves for earthquakes is prudent. It’s simply something we should do, and we can rest easier at night knowing that we’ve done it.”

For more information on local earthquake risk and preparedness visit:  https://earthquakes.utah.gov/.

Brian.Hvinden Mon, 09/21/2020 - 18:08

FEMA Awards $5.3 Million for Hurricane Dorian Recovery in Florida

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has awarded grants totaling $5,302,190 for the State of Florida to reimburse applicants for the costs of recovery from Hurricane Dorian in 2019.

The FEMA Public Assistance grants include:

• Brevard County: $3,288,570 for beach renourishment, including the installations of 86,479 cubic yards of engineered beach sand and 439,000 native dune plants washed away by the storm.
• Florida Division of Emergency Management: $2,013,620 for management costs as a result of the storm.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including some houses of worship, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

The federal share for projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the nonfederal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with the subrecipients like local and county governments.

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 09/21/2020 - 14:23

FEMA Awards $39.1 Million for Hurricane Irma Recovery in Florida

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has awarded grants totaling $39,118,539 for the State of Florida to reimburse the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) and other applicants for the costs of response and recovery following Hurricane Irma.

The FEMA Public Assistance grants include:

• City of Lakeland: $1,133,077 for the costs of labor, equipment, materials and contracts for the city’s fire, police, public works, parks and recreation, telecommunications and water utilities departments, as well as for Lakeland Linder Regional Airport.
• FDOT: $1,696,899 for debris removal in Brevard, Flagler, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Sumter and Volusia counties. Crews removed 13,940 cubic yards of vegetative debris, 139 tons of construction and demolition debris, 242 hazardous leaning trees and 4,335 hanging limbs.
• FDOT: $4,946,968 for debris removal in Polk, Highlands, Okeechobee, Glades, Hendry, DeSoto, Hardee, Charlotte, Lee, Manatee, Sarasota and Collier counties. Crews removed 47,175 cubic yards of vegetative debris, 872 cubic yards of construction and demolition debris, 10,135 hazardous leaning trees and 571 hanging limbs.
• FDOT: $19,461,694 for debris removal in Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. Crews removed 361,406 cubic yards of vegetative debris, 157,746 cubic yards of construction and demolition debris, 1,094 large appliances,1,775 hazardous leaning trees and 1,941 hanging limbs.
• FDOT: $7,720,125 for debris removal in Miami-Dade and Monroe counties.  Crews removed 131,396 cubic yards of vegetative debris, 94,000 cubic yards of other debris, 359 hazardous leaning trees and 571 hanging limbs.
• Miami-Dade County: $2,318,790 for repairs to the Venetian and Rickenbacker Causeways. Expenses included repair of roof tiles and pedestrian/bicycle railings, replacement of shoreline protection and administrative costs.
• Polk County: $1,840,986 for administrative costs of tracking and accounting for 90 recovery projects after the storm.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including some houses of worship, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

The federal share for projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the nonfederal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with the subrecipients like local and county governments.

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 09/21/2020 - 14:15

Photos of Whole-of-Government Sally, Wildfire Response

WASHINGTON — FEMA continues close coordination with state, tribal and local governments for disaster response across the country. FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor has visited states impacted by recent fire and hurricane damage. President Trump approved a major disaster declaration for Alabama and emergency declarations for Alabama, Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi to provide federal assistance and coordinate disaster relief efforts across the Gulf Coast. Major disaster declarations were also declared for California and Oregon wildfire response. FEMA teams and disaster recovery resources are on the ground assisting with state recovery efforts. Residents in affected states should continue paying attention to their local emergency managers for safety instructions and opportunities for assistance.

Federal, Local Leaders Discuss Hurricane Sally Impacts

PENSACOLA, Fla. (Sept. 19, 2020) -- Florida Sen. Marco Rubio (left), FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor, and FEMA Region 4 Administrator Gracia Szczech speak with Florida and Escambia County officials about damage caused by Hurricane Sally.  

FEMA photo by Noah Golding

Power Crews Stage Equipment for Power Restoration

PENSACOLA, Fla. (Sept. 18, 2020) -- Power crews stage equipment as they work to repair damaged power lines and restore electricity to the area.

FEMA photo Noah Golding

Crews Work to Repair Powerlines, Clear Debris

MARION COUNTY, Ore. (Sept. 18, 2020) -- Crews work to clear the road and restore power along U.S. Highway 22.

FEMA photo by Dominick Del Vecchio

Crews Work to Repair Powerlines, Clear Debris

MARION COUNTY, Ore. (Sept. 18, 2020) -- Crews work to clear the road and restore power along U.S. Highway 22.

FEMA photo by Dominick Del Vecchio

Crews Work to Repair Powerlines, Clear Debris

ASHLAND, Ore. (Sept. 17, 2020) -- A FEMA Mobile Emergency Response Support technician works on an antenna tower trailer that was set up to support urban search and rescue operations.

FEMA photo by Jason Oud

 

Emergency Response Support Units are Supporting Search, Rescue Operations

LANE COUNTY, Ore. (Sep. 18, 2020) -- A FEMA Incident Response Vehicle provides communication support for urban search and rescue efforts from a burned-out orchard in the hills east of Springfield, Oregon.

FEMA photos by Don Sheppard

 

Historic Wildfires Leave Destruction in their Wake

LINCOLN COUNTY, Ore. (Sept. 18, 2020) -- Historic wildfires have left homes and neighborhoods destroyed in Lincoln County, Oregon. Most of the county, known as a coastal vacation spot, was placed under evacuation orders as a result of the Echo Mountain Complex Fire.

FEMA photos by David Yost

 

Historic Wildfires Leave Destruction in their Wake

LINCOLN COUNTY, Ore. (Sept. 18, 2020) -- Historic wildfires have left homes and neighborhoods destroyed in Lincoln County, Oregon. Most of the county, known as a coastal vacation spot, was placed under evacuation orders as a result of the Echo Mountain Complex Fire.

FEMA photos by David Yost

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 09/21/2020 - 13:39