Lincoln County Residents Invited to Attend Flood Risk Information Open House

CHICAGO – Representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will host an online Flood Risk Information Open House for communities in Lincoln County, Minnesota, on February 23, 2022, from 5 – 7 p.m. CT.  The open house will give residents the chance to review a recently completed preliminary Flood Insurance Study (FIS) and its accompanying preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM).

The FIS and the FIRMs provide base flood (also known as the 1-percent-annual-chance event) information, designate areas that are subject to significant flood hazards within areas of the county and offer information that public officials may use when permitting development in the floodplain.

The online open house will be staffed with representatives from various local, state and federal agencies who will provide the most current information about flood risk, flood insurance, floodplain development regulations, and the process for floodplain mapping within Lincoln County. The newly prepared preliminary floodplain maps can also be reviewed at the meeting. Once the maps become effective, they will be used as the basis for flood insurance ratings as well as local flood protection regulations adopted under the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA also intends that they be used as tools to assist planning processes and outreach efforts to quickly respond to and recover from future events. Details for the meeting are as follows:

WHAT:              Lincoln County online Flood Risk Information Open House

WHEN:             Wednesday, February 23, 2022, from 5 – 7 p.m.

WHERE:           Visit www.zoom.com and enter the following meeting ID and passcode.                          This requires registering for a free Zoom account or click the following link: https://fema.zoomgov.com/j/1615589158.                          Meeting ID: 161 558 9158, Password: 456654  

You may also call into the meeting by using one of the following telephone numbers and entering the meeting ID and passcode shown above. Long-distance charges may apply.

 669-254-5252    646-828-7666    551-285-1373  

Property owners, realtors, lenders and insurance agents are urged to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about flood risk and hazard mitigation within their community. Digital files of the preliminary FIRM and FIS report can be downloaded from https://hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/prelimdownload/.

If you need a reasonable accommodation (sign language interpreters, Braille, CART, etc.), please send an email to FEMA-Region5-FloodInsuranceOutreach@fema.dhs.gov at least 48 hours before the event. Last minute requests will be accepted but may not be possible to fulfill.

For more information, contact the FEMA News Desk at FEMA-R5-News-Desk@fema.dhs.gov.

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

troy.christensen Thu, 02/10/2022 - 17:02

DFA Renews Its Facilities with Million-Dollar Allocation from FEMA

The funds will address repairs in its offices around the island

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico –The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved over $1.9 million to the Department of Family Affairs (DFA) for permanent construction work in its central offices in the Barbosa Avenue in Hato Rey and regional offices at 15 municipalities.

Some the most significant work at DFA’s Central Office is the cleaning, decontamination and archiving, as well as the removal and replacement of contents in the agency's Secretariat, for which FEMA obligated over $1.1 million.

“This obligation of funds results in the benefit of thousands of participants that visit the DFA’s facilities to get assistance for the programs offered by the Agency,” said the Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator in Puerto Rico, José G. Baquero.

The Department of Family Affairs is the umbrella agency in charge of providing social services programs in Puerto Rico. These include food support through the Nutritional Assistance Program (PAN, by its Spanish acronym) to approximately 870,000 families, administering Head Start, Early Headstart and Childcare funds, assisting low-income families and ensuring the livelihood and well-being of children and the elderly through various other programs.

“These allocations have a positive impact on the reach of the services directed towards accomplishing a better and more effective participation, equity and social justice in the affected regions,” stated the Family Affairs Secretary, Carmen Ana González Magaz.

Likewise, the Arecibo region of the DFA was allocated nearly $235,000 for similar removal and replacement of contents work. Due to the flooding caused by Hurricane María, this office lost almost all its movable property. This obligation includes work at its offices in Barceloneta, Lares, Las Marías, Manatí, Morovis, Quebradillas, Utuado and Florida.

The multi-service facilities in Bayamón, Ponce, Guayama, Humacao, Mayagüez, Carolina and Caguas also underwent movable property replacement work, for which nearly $181,000 was granted. There, citizens can get educational and preventive social services, which helps reduce the risk factors that cause violence in the family in the form of child neglect, abuse and gender-based violence.

To date, FEMA has obligated over $7.5 million to the Department of Family Affairs for 18 projects, to address emergency work caused by Hurricane María and permanent work.

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

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 02/10/2022 - 11:03

FEMA Provides $85.6M to Delaware Emergency Management Agency for COVID-19 Response

Philadelphia – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) announced today that $85,642,325.12 million in federal funding has been made available to DEMA for emergency protective measure costs related to the state’s COVID-19 Pandemic response under the federal disaster declaration of April 5, 2020.

This funding will reimburse DEMA for eligible reimbursable costs related to providing COVID-19 testing and reporting statewide from October 12, 2020, to September 12, 2021. Approximately $3.08 million of the grant covered COVID-19 materials for emergency protective measures and $82.56 million for contract costs that were directly related to and used for COVID-19 patients.

“This grant funding supports Delaware’s response as it rapidly enhanced capabilities to ensure equitable expansion of COVID testing among some the most vulnerable populations,” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an important resource for state and local governments, as well as eligible private non-profits to cover certain COVID-19 expenses. FEMA continues to assist state, local, tribal and territorial governments in the pandemic fight.”

This funding reimburses expenses for Delaware’s comprehensive, state-wide COVID-19 testing plan and the establishment of its Urgent Response Testing program. The Urgent Response Testing program is a joint effort between the Delaware Department of Health and DEMA in coordination with county and community partners, to quickly mobilize testing resources in response to an outbreak of COVID-19 in Delaware’s communities.

“From May of 2020, Delaware has worked to have a layered testing approach to keep people safe,” said DEMA Director AJ Schall. “Through the FEMA Public Assistance program, we have been able to address testing demand and have regularly exceeded the testing goal set by the CDC.”

The plan included key considerations such as access, equity, and cost, and is structured to define specific strategies for key populations, including long-term care residents and staff and other congregate settings, vulnerable populations, such as elderly Delawareans and members of low-income and minority communities, and certain front-line essential workers.

In November 2021, President Biden announced that funding to support all eligible COVID-19 work will continue at a 100% federal cost share through April 1, 2022.

This funding is authorized under the January 21, 2021, Presidential Memorandum for the Secretary of Defense & the Secretary of Homeland Security and Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

For the COVID-19 response, FEMA has simplified the Public Assistance application and funding process to address the magnitude of this event and to allow local officials to receive eligible funding more quickly. These reimbursements play a critical role as state, local and tribal officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.   

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

Follow DEMA on Twitter at twitter.com/DelawareEMA and on Facebook at facebook.com/DelawareEMA

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

charles.elison Wed, 02/09/2022 - 23:57

Donated Labor, Resources Help Reduce Financial Burden of Tornado Recovery

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Volunteers and organizations have been rallying to support Kentucky communities after the Dec. 10-11 tornadoes. Their donations of labor and resources may also count as in-kind contributions and help reduce the Commonwealth’s cost that is owed to the federal government for recovery projects.

After the presidential disaster declaration, many recovery projects came under consideration for federal reimbursement funding under FEMA’s Public Assistance program. The federal cost-sharing program reimburses applicants, including local and state agencies and certain private nonprofits, for not less than 75 percent of eligible costs for disaster-related work such as debris removal or repairs of disaster-damaged infrastructure. State, local and nonprofit applicants are responsible for the remaining 25 percent.

Because of the severity and extent of the early December tornado damage, Kentucky received a break from the federal government.

President Biden authorized 100 percent federal funding for emergency work. However, at this time the full federal coverage is only for 30 days. The Commonwealth can decide which 30-day period they wish to identify to apply for 100 percent funding.

Outside of the 30-day period, the Commonwealth still may be responsible for as much as a 25 percent share for eligible projects.

That’s when donated labor and materials come into play.  

The FEMA Public Assistance program allows eligible applicants to use donated labor and resources to help offset the non-federal share of expenses. For example, if a volunteer performs 40 hours of labor to benefit the recovery, the Commonwealth may apply the dollar-value of that labor to its share of the cost of federal public assistance. The same is true for donated equipment and materials.

Eligible state and local agencies and certain non-profits applying for Public Assistance may provide FEMA with proof of labor and resource contributions. However, they are required to keep careful, verifiable records and follow FEMA’s strict guidelines to get credit. FEMA program delivery managers assigned to Commonwealth agencies and nonprofit organizations can answer questions about this process.

Examples of donated labor and resources that may be eligible for reimbursement include volunteer labor for debris removal, sandbagging, search and rescue operations, shelters and food distribution as well as donated facilities, land, logistical support and equipment. All donated work should follow the Public Assistance program’s eligibility guidelines and must be guided by state/county or local officials.  

Twenty-three Kentucky counties are designated as eligible for at least one category of Public Assistance for the Dec. 10-11 severe storms and tornadoes: Barren, Breckinridge, Bullitt, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Grayson, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Meade, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Shelby, Spencer, Taylor, Todd and Warren.

How to Help

• Volunteer or offer other assistance by completing this online form.
• To donate money, visit the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund.
• Find a list of trusted organizations at National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster.

For more information

• Get more details by downloading the FEMA fact sheet: Donated Resources and Public Assistance.
• For more information about Kentucky tornado recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630.
• Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion4.

scott.reuter Wed, 02/09/2022 - 21:40

Disaster Recovery Center in Trumann to Close Permanently

LITTLE ROCK, AR – The remaining State/FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Trumann will close permanently on Sat., Feb. 12. The hours of operation will remain the same until it closes. DRCs in Monette and Newport closed previously.

Survivors who were affected by the December severe storms and tornadoes can meet face to face with specialists from FEMA, the Small Business Administration (SBA) and state and local agencies to have their questions about disaster assistance answered. They may also upload any documents needed for their applications at the center.

After the DRC closes, survivors can still view the status of their application online or contact FEMA through the Helpline if they have questions. Survivors may also still apply for assistance if they have not already done so. They can visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CST. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. The deadline to apply for assistance is Feb. 22, 2022.

Trumann DRC closure date and remaining hours of operation:

Poinsett County

Will close permanently Sat., Feb. 12 at 6 p.m.

Parkview Missionary Baptist Church

104 N. Parkview Dr.

Trumann, AR 72472

Hours of operation until closure: Wed. – Sat. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Residents of any of the five counties approved for individual assistance, Craighead, Jackson, Mississippi, Poinsett and Woodruff may visit the disaster recovery center in Trumann.

Carmen.Castro Wed, 02/09/2022 - 20:43

FEMA Provides $91.8M to Wisconsin for COVID-19 Response Costs

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM) announced today that $85,656,957.40 in federal funding has been made available to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services and $6,231,721.77 to the Wisconsin Department of Administration for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration on April 4, 2020.

The $86.6 million grant will reimburse the Wisconsin Department of Health Services for costs to provide emergency medical care for diagnostic testing to reduce the threat of COVID-19 transmission statewide. The funding for the Wisconsin Department of Administration will reimburse for costs to provide emergency and inpatient clinical care for COVID-19 patients through staff augmentation in primary care medical facilities.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an important resource for state, tribal, territorial and local governments and eligible private non-profits to cover eligible COVID-19 expenses,” said Moises Dugan, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “These grants ensured the availability of critical medical care across the state of Wisconsin, helping to combat the spread of COVID-19.”

“We are very appreciative of this funding and also want to thank FEMA for our ongoing partnership,” said Secretary-designee Karen Timberlake of the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. “This assistance ensures people can continue to access the important testing resources and medical care that are essential to slowing the spread of COVID-19.”

FEMA provides a 100 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for these projects.  

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides supplemental grants to state, tribal, territorial and local governments, and certain types of private non-profits so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit

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

troy.christensen Wed, 02/09/2022 - 20:30

Tennessee Tornado Survivors: Avoid Contractor Fraud

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Disasters often bring communities together but con artists, identity thieves and other criminals may target survivors working to rebuild after last December’s severe weather and tornadoes. The most common types of post-disaster fraud include phony housing inspectors, fraudulent building contractors, bogus pleas for disaster donations, fake offers of municipal or federal aid and charging for free services.

Scam attempts can be made over the phone, by mail or email, through the internet, or in person. It is important to remain alert, ask questions and always ask for identification when someone claims to represent FEMA or another government agency. Con artists are creative and resourceful. If an offer sounds too good to be true, it should be questioned.

Here are some tips to protect yourself:

• Ask who will be performing the work (often, the contractor is a "salesman" and may subcontract the work to inexperienced individuals who are misclassified as subcontractors and paid in cash for the contractor to avoid paying taxes).
• Hire only licensed contractors – verify their license at: https://verify.tn.gov/.
  • Review these "Search Tips" on looking up licensees and spotting forged certificates.  Verifying the license online ensures it is active, not revoked, and the type of license.
• Tennessee’s Home Improvement law prohibits contractors from asking for a down-payment of more than 1/3 of the total contract.
• Take a picture of your contractor, their vehicle and license plate.
  •  In addition, take a picture of your contractor's business card and driver's license.
• Get a written contract. Read the contract carefully, and if you don’t understand every word, take it to an expert. Never sign a contract with blank spaces to be filled in. 
  • Tennessee tornado survivors in need of free legal advice regarding storm-related matters may reach out to attorneys online at https://tn.freelegalanswers.org/. Disaster legal services are authorized by FEMA in cooperation with the Tennessee Bar Association and the Tennessee Alliance for Legal Services.
  • Make sure the contract details all work to be performed, the costs, a projected completion date and how to negotiate changes and settle disputes.
• Get estimates from multiple contractors and your insurance company.
• Don't wire money or pay with reloadable debit cards or gift cards. There is no legitimate reason to request those forms of payment.   
• Use the Better Business Bureau, www.bbb.org and internet search engines to research the contractor. Fraudulent firms change names frequently, so search the web for their address and phone number, and include terms like “review,” “scam” and “complaint.”
•  FEMA does not certify contractors.
• Verify insurance. Contractors should have disability and workers' compensation insurance. If they don’t, you may be liable for accidents on your property.
•  Demand satisfaction. Don’t sign completion papers or make final payment until the work is done correctly.
• Report your concerns. Potential fraud should be reported to your local law enforcement agency. You can also contact the Tennessee Attorney General & Reporter, Division of Consumer Affairs by calling (615) 741-4737, file a complaint online or call the free FEMA DISASTER FRAUD HOTLINE AT 866-720-5721 any time night or day.

As a reminder, Tennessee homeowners and renters in the 12 counties designated for Individual Assistance who sustained tornado damage may still apply with FEMA through March 15, 2022.

• The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov. There is no wait to apply online and the website is accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• If it is not possible to apply for disaster assistance online, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Multilingual specialists are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others:
  • Update the "Current Phone" field using the relay service phone number
  • Add "Relay Service" to the Note box; provide FEMA with your number.
• Use the FEMA app, which can be easily downloaded to a smartphone.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4637. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Wed, 02/09/2022 - 18:04

Continued Rental Assistance Now Available in 16 Counties

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Some residents of 16 Kentucky counties who have received initial FEMA rental assistance because of damage to their homes from the Dec. 10-11 severe storms and tornadoes may be eligible for continued rental assistance.

If you are a resident of Barren, Caldwell, Christian, Fulton, Graves, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Logan, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Taylor or Warren County, you may qualify for continued rental assistance while you seek more permanent housing. You would need to demonstrate your storm-related financial need and show you are developing a long-term or permanent housing plan.  

How to apply for continued assistance

Fifteen days after receiving your initial rental assistance grant, FEMA will mail to you an “Application for Continued Temporary Housing Assistance.” You must complete the form and document your need for continued rental assistance by providing:

• A copy of your current lease;
• Receipts showing the proper use of federal disaster housing assistance;
• Your current household income, and
• Any household financial obligations you may have.

Sign the application and mail it, along with your supporting documents, to FEMA, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055.

If you cannot gain entry to your home to find these documents or the originals were destroyed during the tornadoes, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Duplicates of many types of official documents may be available through your municipal government, utility company or bank.

If you have created an account at DisasterAssistance.gov, you may upload documents through the Upload Center in your online account.

If you did not receive the “Application for Continued Temporary Housing Assistance” or you have questions, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

Extensions on rental assistance may be granted for three-month periods, for up to 18 months from the date of the presidential disaster declaration. In Kentucky, the tornado disaster was declared Dec. 12. It is important to keep FEMA updated with your contact information and housing status.

Your rental can be a house, apartment, hotel or recreational vehicle that can keep you near your job, home and place of worship. The assistance covers rent, security deposit and essential utilities such as electricity and water, but not cable or internet.

The approved rental amount will be based on fair market rates for your area as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

To apply for FEMA assistance, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA the number for that service. Helpline operators are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CST daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.

For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

For referrals to Kentucky’s health and human services agencies as well as community organizations, dial 211, text your ZIP code to 898-211, or view resources online via https://www.uwbg211.org/.

For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

scott.reuter Wed, 02/09/2022 - 17:32

Disaster Recovery Center in Deming Will Close Feb. 11

LACEY, Wash. – The Disaster Recovery Center at the Nooksack Indian Tribe in Deming (Whatcom County) will close Feb. 11. Survivors of the Nov. 5 - Dec. 2, 2021 flooding, straight line winds, severe storms, landslides and mudslides can still apply for FEMA assistance by phone, online or mobile app. Survivors can also still apply in person at the Disaster Recovery Centers in Everson, Sumas or Ferndale.

The center in Deming, jointly operated by FEMA and the Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division since Feb. 3, will cease operation at 6 p.m.

Homeowners and renters in Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, Quileute Tribe and all tribes in the designated areas can apply for FEMA assistance online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Several other Disaster Recovery Centers are operating in designated areas to help with applications and recovery information. To find the nearest center, go online to FEMA.gov/DRC or call 800-621-3362.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for temporary housing, basic home repairs or other disaster-related needs such as childcare, transportation and medical, funeral or dental expenses.

Disaster survivors have until March 7, 2022 to apply for FEMA assistance.

For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

For more information about Washington flood and mudslide recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4635. Follow the FEMA Region 10 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion10.

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

The Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division leads and coordinates mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery in Washington State to minimize the impact of disasters and emergencies on the people, property, environment and economy.

mary.j.edmon Wed, 02/09/2022 - 02:12

Preliminary Flood Maps for Oklahoma County, Oklahoma Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in portions of the Oklahoma City and unincorporated areas of Oklahoma County, Oklahoma.

Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the appeal and comment periods for the maps.

For this Physical Map Revision, the FIRMs for Oklahoma County serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). 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 stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas.

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

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

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

Carmen.Castro Tue, 02/08/2022 - 20:53

Preliminary Flood Maps for Cleveland County, Oklahoma Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in portions of the cities of Moore and Oklahoma City and unincorporated areas of Cleveland County, Oklahoma.

Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the appeal and comment periods for the maps.

For this Physical Map Revision, the FIRMs for Cleveland County serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). 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 stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas.

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

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

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

Carmen.Castro Tue, 02/08/2022 - 20:49

FEMA Updates Shelter Locator Texting Feature

WASHINGTON -- Having the right information at the right time is often key to surviving a disaster. FEMA’s updated texting feature allows the public to access shelter addresses when they need it most. Users can text “shelter” and their ZIP code to 43362 to get a list of nearby shelter locations. This effort is made possible through collaboration with the American Red Cross.

“Disasters frequently disrupt communications systems which can leave survivors feeling overwhelmed and helpless when they are trying to locate shelters,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Since texting capabilities are often unaffected during disasters, our updated Text to Shelter option is an easy and accessible way survivors can locate nearby shelters with a tap of a button. This feature will help keep our communities safe.”

FEMA’s old text feature only showed shelters within the requested ZIP code. This new feature uses Geographic Information System (GIS) capabilities to give users shelter addresses within 200 miles of their ZIP code. The texting feature is available across all 50 states and U.S. territories. Standard texting rates with the user’s carrier may apply, but there is no additional fee to use this service. In phones with a standard map feature, users will be able to click on the shelter address inside the text message and view directions. The text can be easily shared with friends and family so they know where the user is going or where they themselves can take shelter.

Shelters identified through the text feature are pulled from data managed by the American Red Cross. FEMA does not run shelters. Remember that in a disaster situation it is always important to follow the immediate instructions of state and local officials, as they may be able to point survivors to additional shelters and resources not included in the text feature.

Disasters can strike anywhere, anytime. Save this number, 43362, in your phone today so you’ll be able to find a safe space to shelter during a disaster. Information on different types of shelters and sheltering can be found at Shelter | Ready.gov. Additional ways to find shelter can be found at FEMA.gov/Shelter or redcross.org/shelter.

Graphic mayshaunt.gary Tue, 02/08/2022 - 17:57

Deadline March 7 to Apply for FEMA Assistance

LACEY, Wash. – Washington residents who have uninsured losses resulting from the Nov. 5 - Dec. 2, 2021, severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides have until March 7, 2022 to apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

Homeowners and renters in Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, Quileute Tribe and all tribes in the designated areas can apply for FEMA assistance online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

As of Feb. 6:

• FEMA has approved $4.1 million in assistance to 762 individuals and households.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved $5.8 million in disaster loans for 100 homeowners, renters and businesses.
• The National Flood Insurance Program has received 378 claims and paid $16.1 million.

Disaster Recovery Centers in the following locations can help with applications and provide face-to-face information and guidance about disaster assistance:

• Clallam County Emergency Operations Center (County Courthouse Building) 223 E. 4th St., Port Angeles, WA 98362; Feb. 7-9
• Skagit County, Old Sedro-Woolley Library, 802 Ball Street, Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284
• Skagit County: Hamilton Fire Department parking lot, 951 Pettit St., Hamilton, WA 98255, Feb. 4-5 and Feb. 10-12
• Skagit County: East County Resource Center, 45770 Main St., Concrete, WA 98237; Feb 7-9
• Whatcom County, parking lot, 1208 E. Main St., Everson, WA 98247
• Whatcom County: Sumas A.C. Church, 125 W. Front St., Sumas, WA 98295
• Whatcom County: Ferndale Chamber of Commerce, 2007 Cherry St., Ferndale, WA 98248
• Whatcom County: Nooksack Indian Tribe, 5084 Mount Baker Highway, Deming, WA 98244,

Long-term, low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofits from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) may be available to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other sources.

Homeowners and renters should submit an SBA disaster loan application even if they are not sure they will need or want a loan. If SBA cannot approve your application, in most cases SBA will refer you to FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for possible additional assistance.

March 7, 2022 is the deadline to apply to the SBA for physical property damage. The deadline for working capital applications is Oct. 5, 2022.

Applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela. Paper applications may be requested by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 TTY) or by sending an e-mail to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

SBA is operating a Business Recovery Center at Everson Mercantile Building, 128 W. Main St., WA 98347 where business owners can meet with SBA representatives and get help applying for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans.

For more information about Washington disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4635. Follow the FEMA Region 10 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion10.

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

The Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division leads and coordinates mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery in Washington State to minimize the impact of disasters and emergencies on the people, property, environment and economy.

mary.j.edmon Mon, 02/07/2022 - 22:05

Helping Children Cope with Trauma after Kentucky Tornadoes

Helping Children Cope with Trauma after Kentucky Tornadoes

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Kentucky children who lived through the December tornadoes may feel trauma for years, if it is not addressed. Families are encouraged to seek professional help to get the children to process their reactions and help them heal.

The trauma caused by the Dec. 10-11 tornadoes that damaged thousands of homes, razed entire towns and counted 12 children among its casualties, could last long after the event for those who survived. Even as schools reopen, the stressors continue. Some displaced students now live far from their schools without transportation, and others attend school beside empty desks where their classmates once sat.

From news reports, here are the children’s own words: “It just sucked everything up, the Christmas tree … with the presents,” said an 8-year-old. A middle-schooler searched for a descriptor: “There’s not really words that you can put to say about it.” Children with these anxieties need their parents to be aware of how to get help.

From caregivers

Mental health experts in the Commonwealth’s health system provided the following suggestions:

Children often look to their caregivers for support and to learn how to cope with adversity and trauma. It’s a good time to listen to the children, understand what they’re feeling, and reassure them their feelings make sense because what they experienced was scary and difficult. Professionals suggest parents and caregivers can:

• Create a stable environment by establishing a regular routine.
• Find ways to be present, connect, spend time together and have fun.
• Remind children of ways they are staying safe.
• Focus on the positive; identify small successes or strengths.
• Ask children how they are doing and listen to their answers; let them talk when they feel worried but never force them to talk.
• Allow and encourage children to ask questions; explain what happened honestly and clearly.
• Reduce exposure to media images and stories about the tornadoes.
• Practice calming exercises together such as breathing or relaxation exercises.

How to Tell When a Child May Need Help Coping

Behavior experts say parents should observe their children for signs they feel troubled after the disaster. Some signs, such as nightmares, may be similar to those of adults but an important difference is that children often lack the vocabulary to explain what is upsetting them.

These normal signs of trauma could indicate a need for additional support if they persist beyond several months, worsen, or are severely impacting daily life: 

• Nightmares
• Changes in eating or sleeping habits 
• Flattened emotions
• Irritability
• Hearing scary noises that aren’t there or preoccupation with the weather

Help is Available

You are not alone. These Community Mental Health Centers, supported federally and by the Commonwealth, are available in Kentucky:

• The Adanta Group (Serves Adair, Casey, Clinton, Cumberland, Green, McCreary, Pulaski, Russell, Taylor and Wayne counties) Website: https://www.adanta.org/client-information/client-services-guide Crisis Line: 800-633-5599
• Communicare (Serves Breckinridge, Grayson, Hardin, LaRue, Marion, Meade, Nelson, and Washington counties) Website: https://www.communicare.org/behavioral-health Crisis Line: 800-641-4673
• Four Rivers Behavioral Health (Serves Ballard, Calloway, Carlisle, Fulton, Graves, Hickman, Livingston, Marshall, and McCracken counties) Website: https://4rbh.org/resources-after-a-disaster-crisis-or-trauma/ Crisis Line: 800-592-3980
• LifeSkills (Serves Allen, Barren, Butler, Edmondson, Hart, Logan, Metcalfe, Monroe, Simpson, and Warren counties.) Website: https://www.lifeskills.com/crisis Crisis Line: 800-223-8913
• Pennyroyal Center (Serves Caldwell, Christian, Crittenden, Hopkins, Lyon, Muhlenberg, Todd, and Trigg counties.) Website: https://pennyroyalcenter.org/services/behavioral_health/ Crisis Line: 877-473-7766 Text: CONFIDE to 839863 for youth or RESPOND to 839863 for adults.
• RiverValley Behavioral Health (Serves Daviess, Hancock, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Union, and Webster counties) Website: https://www.rvbh.com/crisis-line/ Crisis Line: 800-433-7291 (call or text)

Other resources:

• The American Red Cross uses professional therapists to meet all survivors' emotional needs in the aftermath of a disaster. Call 800-733-2767 (or 800-Red-Cross) to be connected to someone in your area.
• Family Resource Centers and Youth Services Centers: Your child’s school has valuable resources in the Family Resource Centers in elementary schools and Youth Services Centers in middle and high schools.
• The Kentucky Crisis Text Line: To reach a volunteer crisis counselor, text KY to 741-741.
• The National Child Traumatic Stress Network has several free resources on helping children cope after a tornado at https://bit.ly/3GBFgHy.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

scott.reuter Mon, 02/07/2022 - 20:40

For Many an SBA Disaster Loan is the Key to Recovery

NASHVILLE, Tenn.– Those affected by last December’s severe storms and tornadoes may need more financial assistance for long-term recovery than FEMA can provide. Most disaster survivors do.

However, many residents and business owners in the designated counties of Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Henderson, Henry, Lake, Obion, Stewart, Sumner, Weakley, and Wilson may be reluctant to take out a low interest disaster loan which the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers. Before rejecting the idea of applying, survivors should consider the following:

• There is no cost to apply for an SBA disaster loan, or to accept the loan if approved.
• However, if FEMA refers you to SBA, you must apply before you can be considered for certain kinds of FEMA grant money. If you are not approved for a loan, FEMA may be able to provide grants to cover disaster related expenses for personal property, vehicle repair or replacement and/or moving and storage feed.
• You do not need to own a business to apply for an SBA low interest disaster loan. If your primary residence was located in a designated county and sustained disaster damage, you are eligible to apply.
• Your insurance may not cover all the replacement, repair and rebuilding costs needed. A disaster loan could help pay the difference, including the policy deductible.
• Homeowners may be eligible for a disaster loan up to $200,000 for primary residence structural repairs or rebuilding. SBA may also be able to help homeowners and renters with up to $40,000 to replace important personal property, including automobiles damaged or destroyed in the disaster.
• Businesses and nonprofit organizations may be eligible to borrow up to $2 million for repair costs and disaster related working capital needs.
• Currently, interest rates for physical loss loans are as low as 1.38% for homeowners and renters. For businesses, it’s at 2.830% and for nonprofits it’s 1.875%. Monthly repayments can be stretched out over 30 years to help make the loan more affordable. Loan payments do not begin until 18 months from date on the SBA Note provided at closing.  Ask your loan officer for more information.
• In addition, you may be eligible for a loan amount increase of up to 20% of the physical damage to make your home or business safer. Eligible work could include building retaining walls, elevating or retrofitting the flood prone structure or relocating utilities to protect against future damage.

If you applied for FEMA Individual Assistance and were referred to the SBA, you may soon receive a phone call. A team of SBA specialists are reaching out to survivors to discuss the SBA application process and answer questions.

For more information:

• Visit SBA’s secure website at https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance.
•  You may also call the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call 800-877-8339.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance:

• Call 800-621-3362 anytime from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, seven days a week. Multilingual specialists are available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others:

Update the "Current Phone" field using the relay service phone number

Add "Relay Service" to the Note box; provide FEMA with your number.

• You may also register via the FEMA app by downloading it to a smartphone or tablet, or at www.disasterassistance.gov.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4637. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter@FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Mon, 02/07/2022 - 19:57

FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance State-by-State Breakdown

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has provided over $1.78 billion to more than 273,000 people to assist with COVID-19-related funeral costs for deaths occurring on or after Jan. 20, 2020.

Eligibility determinations are not driven by state/location; instead, they are based on when the applicant submits all required documentation.

“Applications” in the below chart reflect the number of individuals who called to begin the assistance process.

Please find state-specific information below:

State/Territory

Applications

Amount Approved

Number of Awards

ALABAMA

9,644

$44,845,109

6,549

ALASKA

359

$1,029,185

197

AMERICAN SAMOA

Less than 10

$33,802

Less than 10

ARIZONA

7,318

$21,703,845

4,311

ARKANSAS

4,427

$18,745,895

2,956

CALIFORNIA

36,197

$161,212,123

24,944

COLORADO

3,878

$11,861,861

2,111

COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS

23

$26,584

Less than 10

CONNECTICUT

4,152

$20,674,673

3,003

DELAWARE

1,223

$5,142,070

817

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

661

$2,933,878

433

FLORIDA

28,625

$112,469,779

19,944

GEORGIA

17,085

$79,963,675

11,564

GUAM

28

$115,033

16

HAWAII

551

$1,829,919

311

IDAHO

1,453

$4,370,741

752

ILLINOIS

16,305

$71,821,456

10,499

INDIANA

8,222

$33,229,002

4,758

IOWA

3,566

$16,574,398

2,315

KANSAS

3,554

$14,394,267

2,224

KENTUCKY

7,099

$31,973,507

4,416

LOUISIANA

7,453

$35,062,179

5,100

MAINE

770

$2,323,055

424

MARYLAND

7,151

$32,367,851

4,812

MASSACHUSETTS

7,103

$33,687,637

4,870

MICHIGAN

14,653

$54,133,154

8,891

MINNESOTA

4,430

$18,476,699

2,709

MISSISSIPPI

6,337

$28,764,750

4,254

MISSOURI

8,250

$33,343,527

5,276

MONTANA

1,034

$2,999,293

586

NEBRASKA

1,827

$7,990,406

1,147

NEVADA

3,671

$12,062,653

2,201

NEW HAMPSHIRE

1,017

$3,832,805

622

NEW JERSEY

14,121

$68,276,759

9,938

NEW MEXICO

2,518

$7,042,138

1,366

NEW YORK

31,047

$146,215,579

21,322

NORTH CAROLINA

13,655

$60,057,123

9,122

NORTH DAKOTA

982

$5,047,981

681

OHIO

16,940

$69,959,832

10,779

OKLAHOMA

6,334

$26,217,936

4,111

OREGON

1,882

$5,163,876

1,081

PENNSYLVANIA

19,208

$86,438,058

13,099

PUERTO RICO

1,780

$4,261,452

1,140

RHODE ISLAND

1,393

$6,927,257

1,016

SOUTH CAROLINA

9,246

$41,937,890

6,116

SOUTH DAKOTA

961

$4,742,258

659

TENNESSEE

11,636

$52,395,280

7,617

TEXAS

38,490

$176,672,388

26,997

U. S. VIRGIN ISLANDS

55

$256,738

40

UTAH

1,931

$7,921,468

1,129

VERMONT

213

$820,698

142

VIRGINIA

9,316

$39,354,227

5,932

WASHINGTON

3,487

$10,792,020

1,949

WEST VIRGINIA

2,882

$11,516,087

1,692

WISCONSIN

6,676

$27,164,772

4,144

WYOMING

639

$2,177,727

394

 

* Funeral assistance data can/will change daily; the information reflects data as of 8 a.m. EST today.

Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. Please note, phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Applicants who use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, should give FEMA the number for that service.

While COVID-19 funeral assistance can be processed as a reimbursement, applicants are not required to pay for funeral expenses prior to receiving assistance. Applicants must provide FEMA with a signed funeral home contract, invoice, or similar legal documentation that shows the individual incurred COVID-19-related funeral expenses on or after Jan. 20, 2020.

Additional information about COVID-19 funeral assistance, including frequently asked questions, is available on FEMA.gov.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 02/07/2022 - 18:40

FEMA Awards Nearly $1M to Michigan Community Impacted by 2020 Dam Failure

CHICAGO – Through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $931,930 to the village of Sanford, Michigan, for the acquisition and demolition of 14 homes that were damaged following the Midland dam break in May 2020. Located in the floodplain of the Tittabawassee River, this area is susceptible to recurring flooding unless mitigation measures are taken. To reduce the community’s flood vulnerability and mitigate risk to life and property, these structures will be removed from the flood hazard area, and the location will be reverted to open space maintained by the city.

“FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program enables communities to implement critical mitigation measures to reduce or eliminate the risk of disaster losses,” said Moises Dugan, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “The damage sustained from the dam breaks in Midland, Michigan, was substantial and this project will increase the community’s resilience to future flooding.”

“The Sanford community is still dealing with some of the devastating impacts of the floods nearly two years ago,” said Capt. Kevin Sweeney, commander of Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security division. “We are grateful to our federal partners for their continued efforts to help the community recover and become more resilient.” 

HMGP provides grants to state, tribal and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures following a natural disaster. For this project, FEMA will pay 75% of the $1,242,573 eligible project cost with the remaining 25% of the funds, $310,643, provided by the village of Sanford. FEMA will also provide an initial $25,000 in sub-recipient management costs to assist Sanford in managing this grant. To learn more about HMGP or FEMA’s other Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs, visit www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation.

# # #

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

troy.christensen Mon, 02/07/2022 - 17:11

Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Prince Edward County

PHILADELPHIA - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Prince Edward County, Virginia. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.

The 90-day appeal period will begin on or around Feb. 16, 2022. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer: https://arcg.is/1yuSXC.

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

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

Prince Edward County Flood Mapping Milestones

• July 10, 2020 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• April 14, 2021 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• April 28, 2021 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
• Feb, 16, 2022 – Appeal Period starts.
• Spring 2023* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.

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

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

charles.elison Mon, 02/07/2022 - 16:43

Disaster Recovery Center to Open at Lummi Nation Administration Center

LACEY, Wash. – A Disaster Recovery Center, jointly operated by FEMA and the Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division, will open in the Lummi Nation Feb. 8, operating by appointment only through Feb. 12.

The location:

• The Lummi Nation Administration Center, Qwenes Conference Room, 2665 Kwina Road, Bellingham, WA 98226.

For an appointment, call 360-312-2123.

Center personnel will schedule appointments for these dates:

• Feb. 8, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Feb. 9, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Feb. 10, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.
• Feb. 11, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Feb. 12, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and Washington state agencies will be available to help residents of Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, the Quileute Tribe and all tribes in the designated areas apply for federal assistance and receive information about help available for homeowners, renters and business owners.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for assistance. Residents in the designated areas can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for temporary housing, basic home repairs or other disaster-related needs such as childcare, transportation and medical, funeral or dental expenses.

For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

For more information about Washington disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4635. Follow the FEMA Region 10 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion10.

###

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

The Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division leads and coordinates mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery in Washington State to minimize the impact of disasters and emergencies on the people, property, environment and economy

mary.j.edmon Sun, 02/06/2022 - 05:17

Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Concrete

LACEY, Wash. – A Disaster Recovery Center, jointly operated by FEMA and the Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division, will open in Concrete (Skagit County) Feb. 7, to help survivors of the Nov. 5-Dec. 2, 2021, severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides.

Center location:

• East County Resource Center, 45770 Main St., Concrete, WA 98237, hours Feb. 7, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Feb. 8, noon to 8 p.m., Feb. 9, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.  
• Recovery specialists from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and Washington state will be available to help residents of Clallam, Skagit and Whatcom counties, the Lummi Nation, Nooksack Indian Tribe, Quileute Tribe and all tribes in the designated areas, apply for federal assistance and receive information about help available for homeowners, renters and business owners.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for assistance. Residents in the designated areas can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for temporary housing, basic home repairs or other disaster-related needs such as childcare, transportation and medical, funeral or dental expenses.

For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

For more information about Washington disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4635. Follow the FEMA Region 10 Twitter account at twitter.com/femaregion10.

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

The Washington State Military Department’s Emergency Management Division leads and coordinates mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery in Washington State to minimize the impact of disasters and emergencies on the people, property, environment and economy.

mary.j.edmon Sat, 02/05/2022 - 02:04