Biden-Harris Administration Response Continues in Guam, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands with Whole Community Support of Federal Efforts Following Impacts from Typhoon Mawar

WASHINGTON -- Federal funding under President Biden’s major disaster declaration for Guam will help the territory recover from Typhoon Mawar as damage assessments are ongoing to determine the scope of damage from the disaster. The impacted areas continue to experience power outages, water service disruptions and communications are intermittent. Anyone trying to reach friends or relatives should remain patient as outages are being restored.

The first cargo flights with supplies, equipment and emergency responders landed at Guam’s International Airport today. The airport remains closed to commercial traffic and is expected to resume operations on Tuesday. All airports in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) are open for daylight operations only. More than 475 FEMA personnel are supporting response and recovery efforts in Guam and CNMI and working closely with local officials and voluntary organizations to assess damages.

Federal, Territorial, Commonwealth and Voluntary Actions

• The Guam Power Authority continues its restoration efforts, reporting more than 46% of substations have been restored, with power restored at Guam Memorial Hospital, Guam Regional Medical Center, five of seven dialysis centers and Guam Airport Authority. About 12 % of customer demand has been restored as well. There are more than 100 generators on the island to help provide power to critical facilities.
• The CNMI Commonwealth Utilities Corporation reports that 90% of customers in Sinapalo 2, the most populated area in Rota, have power. Saipan and Tinian are fully energized.
• The Guam Water Authority informed that it deployed four 60,000-gallon water tanks to help supplement water needs in the communities and that 50% of its operable wells are online. All of Guam and Rota drinking and wastewater systems have been impacted by power outages and are under boil water advisories.
• Feeding and bottled water missions continue, with a priority to distribute to healthcare facilities and shelters.
• Shelters remain open on both CNMI and Guam.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration is deploying personnel to conduct assessments and support recovery efforts as needed.
• FEMA is coordinating with its network of Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster to provide support and humanitarian aid. More than 120 voluntary personnel are headed to the impacted areas and 80 local staff are available to support the distribution of supplies and perform assessments.
• The Red Cross is on the ground in Guam providing emergency assistance items like tarps, flashlights, coolers and clean-up kits to residents. The American Red Cross of Guam hotline is operational: 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) for anyone trying to reach friends or relatives who are on the island.
• The National Disaster Distress Helpline is also activated and anyone who has been affected by Typhoon Mawar can call 1-800-985-5990 for immediate counseling and support.
• FEMA mission assigned the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to assist with temporary emergency power, temporary roofing and debris management support. USACE deployed personnel to provide public works and engineering technical expertise. USACE teams will conduct electrical assessments of critical facilities like hospitals, shelters and water treatment plants.
• The Guam National Guard remains activated assisting local and territorial police with traffic control.
• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services deployed two medical teams with a third team remaining on alert status for the Pacific.
• To learn more about the Typhoon Mawar response and recovery efforts visit, FEMA.gov.

Flood watches remain for both the territories as soil is oversaturated and drains are clogged. Residents should remain cautious and avoid floodwaters as they may contain downed power lines or waste that can lead to illness.

Safety Messages

• Residents who begin to clean-up should wear protective clothing and wear appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris. If possible, take pictures of any damage in your home for insurance purposes.
• As power remains unrestored in many areas, residents using power generators should always use them outside to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• For those seeking the status of family members or friends, but are having trouble connecting, the communications and electrical systems are being repaired and stabilized at this time.
• For real time updates, visit the following links for the latest information:
  • Guam Homeland Security: https://ghs.guam.gov
  • Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Office of the Governor: https://governor.gov.mp

 

amy.ashbridge Sat, 05/27/2023 - 16:18

Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Offices and Helpline Closed Monday in Observance of Memorial Day

SANTA FE, N.M. -- The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Offices in Mora, Las Vegas and Santa Fe will be closed on Monday May 29, 2023, in observance of Memorial Day.

Claims Office Helpline Navigators will also be observing Memorial Day this Monday. Please leave a voice message at (505) 995-7133 and we will return your call during normal business hours on Tuesday, May 30, 2023.

Following the Memorial Day observance, the Claims Office and Claims Office Helpline will resume normal business operations and can be reached Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. at (505)-995-7133.

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 05/26/2023 - 22:36

Broward County Disaster Recovery Centers Open Modified Schedule on Memorial Day

LAKE MARY, Fla. – The State of Florida and FEMA are operating Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Broward County.

Hours for all centers on Memorial Day, Monday, May 29 - 9 a.m. to Noon.

Fixed center locations:

• Sadkin Community Center, 1176 NW 42nd Way, Lauderhill, FL 33313
• Hortt Park, 1700 SW 14TH Court, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

Standard hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., closed Sundays.

There are also temporary centers operating Monday, May 29 as noted above, and Tuesday, May 30 through Saturday, June 3, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.:

• Samuel Delevoe Memorial Park, 2520 NW 6th Street in Fort Lauderdale
• Big Easy Casino, NE Parking Lot, 831 N Federal Highway in Hallandale Beach

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.

In addition to visiting a center, you can apply by going online to disasterassistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app  or calling 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET every day. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps, and restrooms.

In addition to the centers, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) crews are canvassing communities affected by the April 12-14 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Broward County to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and to answer questions about federal assistance. DSA crews wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service.

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For more information about recovery in Florida, visit fema.gov/disaster/4709 and  floridadisaster.org/. Follow us on Twitter: @FLSERT and @FEMARegion4.

bree-constance… Fri, 05/26/2023 - 19:43

Temporary Disaster Recovery Centers Operating in Broward County Extend the Stops

LAKE MARY, Fla. – The State of Florida and FEMA are operating Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Broward County.

Due to the unscheduled closing because of inclement weather, the temporary centers operating at these locations have added Saturday, May 27, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

• Samuel Delevoe Memorial Park, 2520 NW 6th Street in Fort Lauderdale
• Dania Beach Library/City Hall, 100 W Dania Beach Blvd. in Dania Beach

These are in addition to the fixed center locations:

• Sadkin Community Center, 1176 NW 42nd Way, Lauderhill, FL 33313
• Hortt Park, 1700 SW 14TH Court, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

Hours for fixed centers are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. except for Memorial Day, Monday, May 29, 9 a.m. to noon. Closed Sundays.

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.

In addition to visiting a center, you can apply by going online to disasterassistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app  or calling 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET every day. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps, and restrooms.

In addition to the centers, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) crews are canvassing communities affected by the April 12-14 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Broward County to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and to answer questions about federal assistance. DSA crews wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service.

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For more information about recovery in Florida, visit fema.gov/disaster/4709 and  floridadisaster.org/. Follow us on Twitter: @FLSERT and @FEMARegion4.

martyce.allenjr Fri, 05/26/2023 - 19:40

Two-Month Recovery Snapshot: More Than 3,500 Households Helped, More Than $28 Million in Support

MADISON, Miss. – Two months after tornadoes and severe storms hit communities across Mississippi, FEMA has helped more than 3,500 households with disaster assistance (as of May 26, 2023):

• More than $10.3 million in FEMA Individual and Households Program grants awarded to eligible homeowners and renters in Carroll, Humphreys, Monroe, Montgomery, Panola and Sharkey counties. These grants help pay for uninsured and underinsured losses and storm-related damage, including:

• More than $6.3 million in housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing, and
• Nearly $4 million in Other Needs Assistance grants to help pay for personal property replacement and other serious storm-related needs—such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses.

Additionally, the Small Business Administration has approved more than $17.7 million in long-term, low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes, and non-profit organizations -- to repair, rebuild or replace disaster-damaged physical property and to cover economic injury.

In total, federal support for households now totals more than $28 million.

Disaster Recovery Centers

The state and FEMA have staffed and operated six fixed-location Disaster Recovery Centers and six Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers, providing one-on-one assistance to survivors. The centers have tallied more than 7,600 visitors.

Disaster Survivor Assistance

Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams canvassed storm-impacted neighborhoods in every designated county. These teams went door-to-door in hard-hit neighborhoods, helping survivors apply for assistance. They visited homes, businesses, and nonprofit organizations. They helped people apply for assistance. They helped identify unmet needs. And they made referrals to other agencies and local nonprofits. DSA personnel visited more than 13,900 homes, interacting with more than 10,000 people.

Public Assistance

FEMA’s cost-sharing Public Assistance program includes reimbursing counties and municipalities for at least 75% of eligible costs of disaster-related debris removal. Contractors for county and city governments have cleared more than 1 million cubic yards of debris. Monitoring the work for FEMA, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers estimates that nearly 90% of that work has been completed, including 100% debris removal in Carroll, Montgomery and Panola counties.

 

For the latest information on recovery from Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and www.fema.gov/disaster/4697. On Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4).  

sandra.habib Fri, 05/26/2023 - 17:01

Biden-Harris Administration, Whole Community Respond to Support Guam and Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Following Impacts from Typhoon Mawar

WASHINGTON -- President Biden granted a major disaster declaration for Guam on Thursday, which unlocks additional FEMA funding to help the territory respond to and recover from Typhoon Mawar. The disaster declaration allows for federal funding to be available for emergency protective measures to help eliminate threats to public health and safety.

More than 400 FEMA personnel are supporting response activities in the Pacific, with more than 160 in Guam. Voluntary organizations, along with local and territory officials, are conducting feeding operations in both Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. FEMA is also coordinating with its network of Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters to provide support and humanitarian aid. More than 120 voluntary personnel are headed to the impacted areas and 80 local staff are available to support the distribution of supplies and perform assessments.

Governors of both territories lifted sheltering orders; however, communications and cell service remain intermittent due to network outages. Anyone trying to reach friends or relatives in the impacted areas should remain patient as outages are being restored. 

Federal, Territorial and Voluntary Actions

• The Guam Power Authority started restoration efforts, reporting more than 40% of substations have been restored, with power restored at Guam Memorial Hospital, Guam Regional Medical Center and Guam Airport Authority. There are more than 100 generators on the island to help provide power to critical facilities.
• Additional generators are being sent to Rota, where most customers remain without power. Only isolated power service interruptions in Saipan.
• Feeding and bottled water missions began today, with a priority to distribute to healthcare facilities and shelters. All of Guam and Rota drinking and wastewater systems have been impacted by power outages and are under boil water advisories.
• Shelters remain open on both the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam. Feeding operations are underway in Guam’s shelters where approximately 1,000 people remain.
• Guam’s International Airport remains closed to commercial traffic with commercial services anticipated to resume, at the earliest, on Tuesday, May 30.
• The Red Cross is working with local emergency management to meet the needs of the communities affected. As many as 200 trained disaster workers and emergency supplies are being deployed to the Pacific. The American Red Cross of Guam hotline is operational: 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
• The National Disaster Distress Helpline is also activated and anyone who has been affected by Typhoon Mawar can call 1-800-985-5990 for immediate counseling and support.
• FEMA mission assigned the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to assist with temporary emergency power, temporary roofing and debris management support. USACE deployed personnel to provide public works and engineering technical expertise.
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services deployed two medical teams with a third team remaining on alert status for the Pacific.
• To learn more about the Typhoon Mawar response and recovery efforts, visit FEMA.gov.

Damage assessments are ongoing in Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands as the territories continue to experience power outages, water service disruptions and local flooding events. Flood watches remain for both the territories through Saturday. Residents should remain cautious and avoid floodwaters as they may contain downed power lines or waste that can lead to illness.

Safety Messages

• As power remains unrestored in many areas, residents using power generators should always use them outside to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
• For those seeking the status of family members or friends on the island but are having trouble connecting, the communications and electrical systems are being repaired and stabilized at this time. For real time updates, visit the following links for the latest information:
  • Guam Homeland Security: https://ghs.guam.gov
  • Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Office of the Governor: https://governor.gov.mp

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 05/26/2023 - 16:51

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians to supplement tribal recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storm and flooding March 11-16, 2023.

Public assistance federal funding is available to tribal governments on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storm and flooding on tribal lands.

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

Benigno Bern Ruiz has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made if warranted by the results of further assessments.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 05/26/2023 - 14:47

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the territory of Guam to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Typhoon Mawar beginning on May 22, 2023, and continuing.

Funding is available to the territory and eligible local governments and certain nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance in the territory of Guam.

Funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the entire territory of Guam.

Benigno B. Ruiz has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the territory and warranted by the results of further assessments.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 05/26/2023 - 14:08

FEMA Seeks Public Input on Proposed Changes to the National Flood Insurance Program in Oregon

BOTHELL, Wash. – FEMA reopened the comment period for an additional 32 days of public input on proposed changes to the implementation of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) in Oregon. These changes may have significant impacts on Oregon communities, individuals, and businesses that intend on developing in the floodplain. FEMA encourages participation during the comment period.

Following findings that the NFIP in Oregon may harm salmon, steelhead, Southern Resident Killer Whale, and other endangered and threatened fish species, FEMA was required to make changes to how the NFIP is implemented in the state. In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, FEMA is currently developing an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to identify potential social and economic impacts of the proposed changes.

As part of the process, FEMA seeks public input relevant to proposed actions and reasonable alternatives to address in the EIS. The initial Notice of Intent (NOI) to prepare an EIS was published on March 6, 2023 and opened a 60 day public scoping process that ended May 5, 2023. To accommodate additional public input, the comment period will reopen May 25, 2023, for an additional 32 days, closing June 26, 2023.

FEMA will host virtual and in-person public meetings during the comment period. The two scheduled virtual public meetings are June 1 and 7, 4 – 6 p.m. Additional information on these and future in-person meetings is available on the project website.

FEMA administers the NFIP, a nationwide program that reduces future flood damage by requiring minimum floodplain management standards and provides protection for property owners against potential flood losses through insurance. Information about the EIS and how to submit comments can be found on the project website.

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Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

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

mary.j.edmon Thu, 05/25/2023 - 18:42

Disaster Recovery Centers Closed for Memorial Day Weekend

OKLAHOMA CITY – FEMA and the State of Oklahoma Disaster Recovery Centers in Cleveland, McClain and Pottawatomie counties will be closed Saturday, May 27 through Monday, May 29 in honor of Memorial Day. All locations will return to normal operating hours on Tuesday, May 30.

The centers assist Oklahomans affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes that occurred April 19-20.

The normal operating hours for the three locations include:

Cleveland County
12 Corners Baptist Church
15601 E Etowah Road
Noble, OK 73068
Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Thursday-Saturday.  
Wednesday, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Closed Sunday.

Pottawatomie County
130 N Louisa Ave.
Shawnee, OK 74801
Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday-Saturday.
Closed Sunday.

McClain County
Cole Community Center
26887 Main Street
Blanchard, OK 73010
Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday-Saturday.
Closed Sunday.

No appointments are necessary.

You do not have to visit a disaster recovery center to apply for assistance. The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov.

If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines will operate from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CDT on Memorial Day. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4706. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 05/25/2023 - 18:32

FEMA Suspends Flood Map Reviews in 38 California Counties

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will suspend processing two types of flood map revision requests in 38 California counties starting July 1, 2023. This pause will affect requests for Letters of Map Revision Based on Fill (LOMR-F) and Conditional Letters of Map Revision Based on Fill (CLOMR-F).

Applications from the following 32 counties are newly affected by the suspension: Alameda, Butte, Calaveras, Colusa, Contra Costa, Del Norte, Glenn, Humboldt, Lake, Marin, Mendocino, Merced, Monterey, Napa, San Benito, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Solano, Sonoma, Trinity, Placer, Sacramento, Shasta, Stanislaus, Sutter, Siskiyou, Tehama, Yolo and Yuba. FEMA will also continue the existing suspension, effective August 2020, in these six counties: Los Angeles, Orange, San Luis Obispo, San Diego, Santa Barbara and Ventura. Thus, a total of 38 counties containing designated critical habitat for listed anadromous fish in California are affected.

The suspension will last at least until FEMA formally consults with the National Marine Fisheries Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, as required by the Endangered Species Act of 1973. As part of these consultations, FEMA will evaluate the potential adverse impacts of issuing LOMR-Fs and CLOMR-Fs on identified threatened and endangered species and their habitats in California, particularly anadromous fish. Anadromous species include salmon and similar fish that spend their adult lives in the ocean and spawn in fresh water.

FEMA will continue to process new LOMR-F and CLOMR-F applications received on or before June 30. Requests to reopen CLOMR-F and LOMR-Fs, closed due to inactivity, must also be received before June 30. New requests received after June 30 will not be processed and applicants will be notified. In 2020, Los Angeles, Orange, San Luis Obispo, San Diego, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties were provided a similar CLOMR-F and LOMR-F application window, and as a result, FEMA will continue to suspend processing in those six counties.

More information is available by calling FEMA’s Map Information Exchange at 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627) or emailing nfip-esa-consultation-2020@fema.dhs.gov.

This announcement will not affect the sale of flood insurance or most flood map changes.

###

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9.

brandi.richard… Thu, 05/25/2023 - 16:48

FEMA and other Federal Agencies Continue to Support Typhoon Mawar Response

WASHINGTON -- FEMA, federal partners and territorial officials are working to determine any additional resources needed to respond to the impacts of Typhoon Mawar as it moves past Guam and the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands.

Typhoon Mawar caused significant impacts to essential services throughout portions of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam, including water, energy and transportation.

FEMA continues coordination with the impacted areas and is leveraging prepositioned teams, commodities and equipment to immediately respond and help stabilize community lifelines. Federal search and rescue teams supported by the Coast Guard and the Department of Defense are activated and ready to support as needed.

While typhoon warnings for some areas have been cancelled, residents should expect continued heavy rainfall, associated mudslides and local flooding. Residents should avoid flood waters and follow the instructions of their local emergency management authority.  

 Federal Actions and Safety Tips 

• Territorial and local authorities are leading whole community efforts, with FEMA coordinating federal support to help the people, government and communities on Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands in case resources, personnel and teams can assist with lifesaving and life-sustaining activities.
• Guam Power Authority reported approximately 51,000 customers are without power. Additional damage assessments and power restoration work will begin, starting with critical services including hospitals, wastewater facilities and shelters. Initial restorations may be slowed by debris removal operations.
• FEMA deployed or pre-staged more than 150 staff in the Pacific to be able to quickly supplement territorial and local response efforts to help save lives and protect property.
  • In total, 320 personnel are supporting the response as FEMA deployed an Incident Management Assistance Team sent to Guam before the typhoon and another team is pre-staged in Hawaii to deploy.
  • FEMA’s Distribution Center in Guam is fully stocked with about four times the amount of food and water compared to the commodity stock in place during typhoon Mangkhut in 2018.
  • The distribution center is also connected to a network of warehouses and logistics capabilities, with another large warehouse in Hawaii. Additional commodities and supplies stand ready, if needed.
• U.S. Health and Human Services Operation Center pre-positioned 35 personnel, including a Health and Medical Task Force from its National Disaster Medical System, as well as an incident management team and logisticians to assist with the response. A second task force has been placed on advisory status.
• The Red Cross is working with local emergency management to meet the needs of the communities affected. As many as 200 trained disaster workers and emergency supplies are being deployed to the Pacific.
• The U.S. Geological Survey storm team activated to share Coastal Change Hazards resources. Real time data can be viewed on the USGS Pacific Coastal and Marine Science Center website.
• FEMA mission assigned the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to assist with temporary emergency power, temporary roofing and debris management support. USACE deployed several personnel to provide public works and engineering technical expertise.
  • More than 60 generators are en route to the Pacific and more than 100 generators already in Guam for use.
• To ensure all residents affected by Typhoon Mawar have access to FEMA information, we are proactively identifying language needs and taking steps to make sure communities are informed in the language of their preference.  
• For those seeking the status of family members or friends on the island but are having trouble connecting, the communications and electrical systems are being repaired and stabilized at this time. For real time updates, visit the following links for the latest information:
  • Guam Homeland Security: https://ghs.guam.gov
  • Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Office of the Governor: https://governor.gov.mp/
  • The American Red Cross of Guam hotline: 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 05/25/2023 - 15:59

Disaster Recovery Centers Closing, Federal Support Continues

MADISON, Miss. –With the application period ending today, the Disaster Recovery Centers operated by FEMA and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency will close permanently at 5 p.m. today, May 25, 2023.

However, the following locations will transition into Document Assistance Drop Off Centers, where survivors can get help with their applications and submit documents that support their applications.

• Humphreys County: Humphreys County Library, 105 Hayden St., Belzoni, MS 39038
• Sharkey County: Sharkey Issaquena Nursing Home, 431 West Race St., Rolling Fork, MS 39159.

These service centers will be open:

• Friday, May 26
• Tuesday, May 30 – Friday, June 2
• Monday, June 5 – Friday, June 9
• 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Specialists will assist survivors who already have applied. Survivors can ask questions, update their applications, and get advice on appealing a FEMA determination.

Specialists from the Small Business Administration (SBA) also will be at these centers to answer questions and help with applications for low-interest disaster loans. Disaster loans help homeowners and renters, businesses of all sizes, and nonprofit organizations to fund repairs or rebuilding efforts and to cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged personal property.

For the latest information on recovery from Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and www.fema.gov/disaster/4697. On Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4).

sandra.habib Thu, 05/25/2023 - 12:20

Today, May 25, is the Last Day to Apply

MADISON, Miss. – For survivors of the March tornadoes, today is the last day to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. Homeowners and renters of Carroll, Humphreys, Monroe, Montgomery, Panola or Sharkey counties with uninsured or underinsured storm-related losses may be eligible. The deadline is 11:59 p.m., Central Time, today.

To apply:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 from 6 a.m. to midnight Central Time.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the free FEMA mobile app for smartphones.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). These DRCs are open today until 5 p.m.
  • Carroll County: North Carrollton Baptist Church, 300 George St., North Carrollton, MS 38947
  • Humphreys County: Humphreys County Library, 105 Hayden St., Belzoni, MS 39038
  • Monroe County: Monroe County Government Complex, 1619 Highway 25, Amory, MS 38821
  • Montgomery County: Montgomery County Coliseum, 200 Recreation Drive, Winona, MS 38967
  • Panola County: Mississippi State University Extension Center, 245 Eureka St. Suite C, Batesville, MS 38606
  • Sharkey County: Sharkey Issaquena Nursing Home, 431 West Race St., Rolling Fork, MS 39159

FEMA assistance cannot duplicate insurance benefits. People with homeowner's or renter’s insurance must file an insurance claim first. But if your policy does not cover all damage expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

For the latest information on recovery from Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and www.fema.gov/disaster/4697. On Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4.

sandra.habib Thu, 05/25/2023 - 12:18

FEMA and other Federal Agencies Continue Supporting Typhoon Mawar Response and Monitor Storm Closely

WASHINGTON -- Following President Biden’s emergency declarations on Tuesday for both the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands and Guam ahead of Typhoon Mawar, FEMA has more than 130 staff either already deployed to the Pacific or pre-staged to be able to quickly supplement territorial and local response efforts to help save lives, protect property, public health and safety. Also, over 100 generators as well as emergency communications equipment and specialized personnel have mobilized and ready.

Typhoon Mawar passed over the northern portions of Guam, however extremely strong winds remain in Guam, Rota and areas of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands for the next several hours.

FEMA has deployed and pre-staged more than 130 personnel to support the response, with dozens more federal partners on the ground to support incident management, communications, debris removal, engineering, infrastructure, health and medical, environmental response, military support and more, if needed. FEMA deployed one Incident Management Team to Guam, and another is staged waiting to deploy.

FEMA’s Distribution Center in Guam is fully stocked with about four times the amount of food and water compared to the commodity stock in place during typhoon Mangkhut in 2018. The distribution center is also connected to a network of warehouses and logistics capabilities, with another large warehouse in Hawaii. Additional commodities and supplies stand ready, if needed and requested.

Guam’s Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero said rescue missions are underway on the island and assessments will continue as the storm passes. Residents should continue heed the warnings of local and territorial officials, especially as power outages are occurring.

Federal Actions and Safety Tips 

• Territorial and local authorities are leading whole community efforts, with FEMA coordinating federal support to help the people, government and communities on Guam in case resources, personnel and teams can assist with lifesaving and life-sustaining activities.
• FEMA and other federal agencies are also staging staff, equipment and supplies in Hawaii for rapid deployment, if needed in the coming days.
• The FEMA National Response Coordination Center in Washington, D.C., and the FEMA Region 9 Regional Response Coordination in Oakland, California are activated today with other agencies and nonprofit organizations. This will help us coordinate federal, territorial and local agencies.
• If the immediate needs of survivors impacted by the storm supersede local and territorial resources, FEMA can also provide commodities like meals, water, blankets, cots, tents, tarps, baby supplies and more.
• U.S. Coast Guard Forces Micronesia Sector Guam informed that their crews are staffing all necessary watch sections and are actively working with on-island partners to be ready to conduct post-storm assessments.
• The Red Cross is working with local emergency management to meet the needs of the communities affected. More than a dozen Red Cross disaster workers are in Guam helping to support people in the path of this storm. Nearly 1,000 people stayed in more than 15 community and partner shelters across the islands as the storm passed. The Red Cross has relief items on the island and staged in strategic locations in preparation for this storm, including water, shelf-stable meals, clean-up kits, tarps and hygiene supplies.
• FEMA also recognizes that underserved and under-resourced communities, older adults and disabled populations face even greater risks and challenges when it comes to disasters. We are closely monitoring and coordinating with teams on the ground, the typhoon’s impact to electricity and power systems, communications and infrastructure for underserved communities, people with disabilities and older adults.
• Avoid downed power lines. Do not touch or drive over downed power lines. Always assume a downed power line is unsafe and contact the power company and emergency personnel. 
• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
• Use a generator safely. Residents using backup generators must remember to use them safely -- never use a power generator indoors, always store fuel outside and make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use the generator. 

Additional preparedness information is available in Ready.gov or by downloading the FEMA App where you can receive weather warnings for up to five different locations nationwide.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 05/24/2023 - 19:13

Tomorrow, May 25 is the Deadline to Apply

MADISON, Miss. –. Tomorrow, May 25 is the last day to apply for federal disaster assistance. If you are a survivor of the March tornados and severe storms and interested in help with your recovery, submit your applications.

The deadline is 11:59 p.m., Central Time.

Homeowners and renters in Carroll, Humphreys, Monroe, Montgomery, Panola or Sharkey counties who have uninsured or underinsured storm-related losses may be able to get federal assistance. FEMA grants can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs or other essential disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.

FEMA grants are nontaxable and do not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits.

Visit DisasterAssistance.gov. Or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 from 6 a.m. to midnight. If you use a Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

For the latest information on recovery from Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and www.fema.gov/disaster/4697. On Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4.

sandra.habib Wed, 05/24/2023 - 18:46

Protect Yourself from Contractor Fraud

OKLAHOMA CITY – As Oklahoma residents repair and rebuild their properties after the April 19-20 severe storms, those hiring a contractor should proceed with caution and heed the warning of local and state emergency management officials.

When selecting a contractor, you should keep these tips in mind:

• Do your research. Potentially fraudulent contractors will usually come to you to offer their services — either at your door, on the phone or through email — so be especially wary of solicitors.
  • Don’t offer personal financial information over the phone. Know who you are dealing with and always ask for identification.
  • Get estimates from multiple contractors and your insurance company.
  • Ask for references from past customers.
  • Ask who will be performing the work (often, the contractor is a "salesman" and may subcontract the work to inexperienced individuals who are paid in cash for the contractor to avoid paying taxes).
  • Make sure contractors have the proper licensing and are bonded.
  • Ensure contractors obtain the necessary permits to do the job.
  • Verify insurance. Contractors should have disability and workers' compensation insurance. If they don’t, you may be liable for accidents on your property.
  • Whenever possible, deal with local contractors who have roots in your community, and independently verify any address or other contact information the contractor provides to you.
  • Ask family, friends, coworkers or others whom you trust for contractor referrals.

• Use the Better Business Bureau, www.bbb.org, and internet search engines. Fraudulent firms change names frequently, so search the web for their address and phone number, and include terms like “review,” “scam” and “complaint.”
  • Demand satisfaction. Don’t sign completion papers or make final payment until the work is done correctly.
  • Don’t wire money or use reloadable debit or gift cards. There is no legitimate reason to use this form of payment.
  • Do not hire a contractor without a written agreement that includes all relevant details, including any guarantees, warranties, promises made by the contractor and specific start/end dates for the project and how to negotiate changes and settle disputes.
  • Take a picture of your contractor, their vehicle and license plate, business card and driver’s license.
  • If your project involves roof repair, make sure that the contractor is registered with the Oklahoma Construction Industries Board (www.ok.gov/cib or 405-521-6550).

If someone offers these services to you, they could be potentially fraudulent:

• The contractor claims to have materials left over from a previous job and offers to use them on your project for a steep discount.
• The contractor requires a substantial upfront payment and/or payment in cash.
• The contractor uses high-pressure sales tactics to push for a fast decision or does not take “no” for an answer.
• The contractor offers a discount on your project if you can refer other customers.
• If a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Use your best judgement.

When looking for a contractor, stay patient. Research companies and resist the urge to make quick decisions in the moment. If you feel you have been defrauded by a contractor, report your concerns to your local law enforcement agency. You can also call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 that is available 24-hours a day, or report the potential fraud to Oklahoma Attorney General Consumer Protection Unit at 833-681-1895 or ConsumerProtection@oag.ok.gov.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4706. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 05/24/2023 - 14:57

Beaches Prepare with FEMA Funds for this Summer’s Wave of Visitors

Over $9 million from federal agency support the reconstruction of these recreational areas

San Juan, Puerto Rico – The seaside towns of Aguadilla, Carolina and Manatí recently received nearly $1.6 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to restore its beaches. This obligation is part of over $9 million that the agency has earmarked for recreative areas in these and other beaches of the island.

Alanys Liranza González is one of the 8,000 people who frequently visits the Carolina Public Beach and she is glad to be back. “The atmosphere is always pleasant and practical, and the restoration of the area motivates one to return. The facilities have been great to bring friends and celebrate activities here.”

Due to its proximity to the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, the Carolina Public Beach — which will receive nearly $591,000 from the agency — is one of the beaches on the northeast coast with the largest number of visitors.

“With repairs completed and others in progress, the projects are already underway so that all Puerto Ricans can enjoy the variety of beaches on the island. Furthermore, the works are part of the 87 percent of Public Assistance projects that include mitigation measures to protect these spaces from future disasters,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

Miguel Hernández is a beach tennis instructor who will soon celebrate his tenth year of operations at this public beach, serving students from age five and over 60. “The sport brings the family together, [and] helps people of different ages to come and participate. The beach has always been very active and the fact that FEMA granted these funds to recover the facilities has kept people from all over the island visiting,” said the businessman.

Moreover, the recreational area of Los Tubos Beach in the Municipality of Manatí is already in its reconstruction phase, according to Mayor José Sánchez González. Known for its surfing competitions, Los Tubos will benefit from over $623,000 to repair gazebos, lighting and retaining walls, among others. The mayor emphasized that this is a tourism project that will take place without disturbing the Tortuguero Lake Natural Reserve, an ecological phenomenon in which the region’s salty marine waters and the fresh subterranean waters combine.

Ernesto Vélez Gandía, reef restorer and frequent visitor to the beach, mentioned that communication and community participation was key in the final design of the project, in which all sectors participated. “The community will have lots of benefits, firstly because there will never be a charge for anything, nor will spaces be restricted to individuals: it is a space for everyone and belongs to everyone, and that is invaluable. It is a precedent that will last for all generations, that my grandchildren will enjoy the beach as I did, that they will enjoy something as beautiful as this and make it last.”

National events such as bicycle rides and festivals have been held in Los Tubos. The area is also used for family activities, fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving. For Caritino Rivera, professional diver and owner of a scuba diving store in Manatí, his specialty is service to the tourists and the reconstruction of these facilities is important because Los Tubos beach “is one of the faces of the town of Manatí.” He explained that he also gets locals for diving lessons, as well as surfers from other towns and countries who come for surfing competitions.

Likewise, for the benefit of the more than 1,000 weekly visitors that enjoy the Crash Boat Beach, its recreational area will feature new lighting elements, gazebos, picnic tables and even sand.

Aguadilla Mayor Julio Roldán Concepción said that once the repairs are completed, for which nearly $340,000 has been earmarked, his goal is to resume weddings, birthdays, school events and summer festivals, among others. “We currently have several mobile businesses dedicated to gastronomy and cocktails. There're also short-term apartments and a beach restaurant,” he said.

One of those merchants is Alberto Cordero who explained that his guesthouse and beach business are focused on providing his clients with a “healthy, calm and beautiful” environment. His business has been operating since 2017 and as of that same year, he said, “Crash Boat suffered major damage. Since then, we’ve been working to improve the beach infrastructure.”

To date, FEMA has awarded over $30,400 million in Public Assistance funds for about 10,700 projects that will contribute to the reconstruction of a more resilient Puerto Rico.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 y recovery.pr. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

 

 

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 05/24/2023 - 14:50

Disaster Recovery Center Revisits Clinton County

INDIANAPOLIS – A Disaster Recovery Center will revisit Clinton County from May 22 – 24 to help survivors of the March 31 – April 1 storms and tornadoes continue their recovery.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the state, and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be at the center to help with FEMA applications, answer questions and provide referrals to local resources.

The center will be located at:

Clinton Emergency Management Building

1859 S Jackson St.

Frankfort, IN 46041

Center hours on May 22 -- 23 will be 8 a.m. -- 6 p.m. and hours for May 24 will be 8 a.m. -- 5 p.m.

Individuals and businesses in Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan and White counties can visit any open recovery center for help. Additional centers are open in Johnson, Morgan and Sullivan counties – to find one near you, visit fema.gov/drc.

To apply for FEMA assistance without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or use the FEMA App. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA your number for that service.

The deadline to apply for federal assistance is June 14, 2023.

###

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

For more information on Indiana’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4704. Follow us on our Facebook.com/FEMA page and Twitter at @femaRegion5.

FEMA does not discriminate against individuals based on their race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.

nicole.wilson Tue, 05/23/2023 - 20:26

FEMA Supporting Typhoon Mawar Response

WASHINGTON -- President Biden granted emergency declarations today to both the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands and Guam ahead of Typhoon Mawar. The declarations authorize FEMA to supplement territorial and local response efforts to help save lives, protect property, public health and safety. 

Typhoon Mawar is predicted to impact Guam as a potentially catastrophic Category 4 or 5 storm, with intense, damaging winds up to 160 mph and life-threatening storm surge across the island.

FEMA has more than 50 staff in Guam, with dozens more federal partners on the ground to support incident management, communications, debris removal, engineering, infrastructure, health and medical, environmental response, military support and more, if needed.

Residents should heed the warnings of local and territorial officials. Have a plan for safely sheltering during the storm, check your disaster supplies and ensure you have adequate food, water, medication and other items. When the storm hits, residents should take shelter in an interior room away from windows, putting as many walls as possible between yourself and the destructive winds.

Federal Actions and Safety Tips Ahead of Typhoon Mawar

• Typhoons bring high winds, flooding and storm surge. Residents should quickly heed safety warnings from local and territorial officials. Tune into local information sources and media for updates.
• Territorial and local authorities are leading whole community efforts, with FEMA coordinating federal support to help the people, government and communities on Guam in case resources, personnel and teams can assist with lifesaving and life-sustaining activities.
• If the immediate needs of survivors impacted by the storm supersede local and territorial resources, FEMA can also provide commodities like meals, water, blankets, cots, tents, tarps, baby supplies and more. 

FEMA's distribution center in Guam is also connected to a network of warehouses and logistics capabilities, with another large warehouse in Hawaii. Additional commodities and supplies stand ready, if needed and requested.

Additional preparedness information is available in Ready.gov or download the FEMA App where you can receive weather warnings for up to five different locations nationwide.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 05/23/2023 - 20:17