FEMA Updates Flood Maps in Maricopa County and Buckeye, Gila Bend and Goodyear

OAKLAND, Calif. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has delivered preliminary flood maps for unincorporated Maricopa County and the cities of Buckeye and Goodyear and the town of Gila Bend. The maps identify revised flood hazards along the Lower Gila River, Agua Fria River, Centennial Wash and nearby tributaries. The new maps will help building officials, contractors and homeowners make effective mitigation decisions, thereby contributing to safer and more disaster resilient communities.

Before the new Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) become effective, there is a 90-day appeal period from Jan. 26, 2023 to Apr. 26, 2023. During that time, residents or businesses with supporting technical and scientific information, such as detailed hydraulic or hydrologic data, can appeal the flood risk information on the preliminary maps, which can be viewed at fema.gov/preliminaryfloodhazarddata.

Flood hazards are dynamic and change frequently for many reasons, including weather patterns, erosion and community development. Officials from FEMA, Maricopa County and the cities of Buckeye and Goodyear and the town of Gila Bend worked together to provide updated information that accurately reflects the flood risk. These changes may also affect future building standards or insurance requirements.

The local mapping project is part of a national effort led by FEMA to increase local knowledge of flood risks and support actions to address and reduce the effects of flooding on new and improved structures. FEMA encourages residents to review the preliminary flood maps to learn about local flood risks, potential future flood insurance requirements and identify any concerns or questions about the information provided.

Risk of flooding affects almost every corner of the nation. In total, 98% of counties have experienced a flood event, which makes floods the most common and widespread of all weather-related natural disasters.

For more information, contact Maricopa County at (602) 506-6762 or lisa.blyler@maricopa.gov. Other community information is available for the cities of Buckeye at (623) 349-6217 or szipprich@buckeyeaz.gov, Goodyear at (623) 882-3004 or stephen.scinto@goodyearaz.gov, and the town of Gila Bend at (928) 683-2255 or kvalenzuela@gilabendaz.gov.

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

robert.barker Thu, 01/26/2023 - 15:24

FEMA Updates Flood Maps in Colusa County, Colusa and Williams

OAKLAND, Calif. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has delivered preliminary flood maps for unincorporated Colusa County and the cities of Colusa and Williams. The maps identify revised flood hazards along the Sacramento River, Stone Corral Creek near Maxwell, Salt Creek at Williams, and two reaches of Elk Creek. The new maps will help building officials, contractors and homeowners make effective mitigation decisions, thereby contributing to safer and more disaster resilient communities.

Before the new Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) become effective, there is a 90-day appeal period from Jan. 25, 2023 to Apr. 26, 2023. During that time, residents or businesses with supporting technical and scientific information, such as detailed hydraulic or hydrologic data, can appeal the flood risk information on the preliminary maps, which can be viewed at fema.gov/preliminaryfloodhazarddata.

Flood hazards are dynamic and change frequently for many reasons, including weather patterns, erosion and community development. Officials from FEMA, Colusa County and the cities of Colusa and Williams worked together to provide updated information that accurately reflects the flood risk. These changes may also affect future building standards or insurance requirements.

The local mapping project is part of a national effort led by FEMA to increase local knowledge of flood risks and support actions to address and reduce the effects of flooding on new and improved structures. FEMA encourages residents to review the preliminary flood maps to learn about local flood risks, potential future flood insurance requirements and identify any concerns or questions about the information provided.

Risk of flooding affects almost every corner of the nation. In total, 98% of counties have experienced a flood event, which makes floods the most common and widespread of all weather-related natural disasters.

For more information, contact Colusa County at (530) 458-0466 or Colusacountydpw@countyofcolusa.com. Other community information is available for the city of Colusa at (530) 458-4740 or citymanager@cityofcolusa.com, and Williams at (530) 235-3279 or kramsaur@cityofwilliams.org.

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

robert.barker Thu, 01/26/2023 - 15:20

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Autauga, Dallas and Elmore Counties

CLANTON, Ala. – FEMA and the state of Alabama are opening disaster recovery centers in Autauga, Dallas and Elmore counties to assist tornado survivors. The centers open at 1 p.m. Central Time, Jan. 26 and will provide one-on-one help to people affected by the Jan.12 severe storms, straight-line winds, and tornadoes.

Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be available to provide information on available services, explain assistance programs and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications for assistance.

WHERE:

Autauga County

Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief Center 

118 Jesse Samuel Hunt Blvd.

Prattville, AL 36066

 

Dallas County

Parking lot of Crosspoint Christian Church

1710 W. Dallas Ave.

Selma, AL 36701

 

Elmore County

Elmore County Court House

100 E. Commerce St.

Wetumpka, AL 36092

 

HOURS: Open Monday-Sunday, 7 days a week, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CT daily

 

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center.

Survivors may also apply for assistance by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA app for smartphones or calling 800-621-3362. The helpline is open, and help is available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

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

For information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4684. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Wed, 01/25/2023 - 22:31

Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Process Public Comments Posted – What’s Next?

SANTA FE, NM – More than 300 comments about the interim rule were submitted online and at six public meetings during the 60-day public comment period which closed on Jan. 13. Your input is being used to shape the final regulations, but many activities remain underway to keep the claims process moving, and keep you informed along the way.

“I want to thank everyone who provided comments at the public meetings and online, including our Tribal Nations and state partners,” said Angela Gladwell, Director of the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Claims Office. “We are using your ideas and concerns to shape the final regulations and program implementation as we get ready to open offices.”

What to Expect Next

We are working to build out the Claims Office team and offices. Our team met with more than a hundred potential candidates at three hiring fairs and reviewed resumes submitted by email. The Office is working to review candidate qualifications and match skilled candidates with positions with the intent to fill as many positions with qualified New Mexicans from the impacted areas as possible. Hiring will be conducted in phases.

The Office expects to begin on boarding full-time, dedicated staff in February. Local claims offices in Mora, Las Vegas and Santa Fe are expected to open within the next two months. We will also announce schedules for mobile offices.

There are things you can do as we make final preparations to open the claims offices. The first step is filing a Notice of Loss form. Submitting this form means you would like to begin the claims process and that you are choosing to seek compensation for losses from the Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Fire through the Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act.

You can also gather and prepare any paperwork related to your damaged property or claim for losses from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire.

If you haven’t filled out a Notice of Loss form yet, visit fema.gov/disaster/current/hermits-peak#form for a link to download or print the form. For instructions on how to file, including where to submit your form by email or by mail, visit fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema.gov_hermits-peak-calf-canyon-fire_how-to-submit-notice-of-loss-form_20221114.pdf.

If you have already submitted a Notice of Loss: As our Claims offices begin to open, we will soon follow up with you to ensure the Notice of Loss is complete, and then we will formally acknowledge receipt of your form. Once the Office reviews your form, confirms it is complete and acknowledges it, the Claims Office will have 180 days to make a determination on the amount of payment to compensate you for your losses.

The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act provides compensation for those impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire. Compensation may cover eligible losses, including personal injury, loss of property, business loss or financial loss. For more information, visit fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 01/25/2023 - 22:08

Calaveras County Added to Major Disaster Declaration

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Calaveras County has been added to the major disaster declaration for California’s severe storms and flooding, meaning residents who had damage or losses from the storms that began Dec. 27, 2022, may now apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

The federal disaster declaration now allows FEMA to provide direct support to individuals and households in eight counties under the Individual Assistance program: Calaveras, Merced, Monterey, Sacramento, San Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Santa Cruz.

Homeowners and renters in the designated counties who had damage or losses as a direct result of the storms are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance. Disaster assistance may include grants to help pay for temporary housing and essential home repairs as well as other serious disaster-related needs such as medical and dental expenses, transportation, childcare, and moving and storage expenses.

To apply for FEMA assistance, go to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Helpline operators are available from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language. For an accessible video on how to apply, got to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

You can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center and meet with FEMA staff and representatives of other federal and state agencies who can provide information about disaster assistance. To find a recovery center near you, visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Thursday, March 16.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 01/25/2023 - 21:29

Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Spalding County

ATLANTA – A FEMA disaster recovery center will open Wednesday, Jan.25 in Spalding County to provide one-on-one assistance to people directly affected by the Jan. 12 severe storms, straight line winds and tornadoes.

Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain assistance programs and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications.

The disaster recovery center location is:

Spalding County Senior Center 855 Memorial Dr. Griffin, GA 30223

Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.  EDT – 7 days a week.

People directly affected by the severe storms may visit the recovery center or apply with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-3362.

For needs directly related to the Jan.12 weather systems, FEMA may be able to provide Individual Assistance grant money that does not have to be repaid for:

• Rental Assistance if you need to relocate because of storm-related damage
• Personal Property that was damaged or destroyed by these weather events
• Lodging Reimbursement if you had to stay in a hotel temporarily
• Basic Home Repairs for homeowners whose primary residence was damaged by these weather events
• Other Serious Needs caused by the recent storms, winds and tornadoes

In addition to the assistance listed, please note the following:

• Only one application per household
• FEMA does not pay for lost or spoiled food

By law, FEMA is not allowed to duplicate insurance payments or assistance provided by other sources.

Additional disaster recovery centers are expected to be announced soon.

For information on Georgia’s disaster recovery visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4685. Follow us on Twitter at Twitter.com/FEMAregion4.

felicia.jordan Tue, 01/24/2023 - 21:34

FEMA Gives Free Rebuilding Advice in Municipalities Across the Island

San Juan, Puerto Rico — Disaster survivors who are repairing their homes after Hurricane Fiona can visit Walmart in Cayey, Home Depot in Mayagüez, and National Lumber hardware stores in Salinas to talk with FEMA mitigation specialists about their damage and discuss how to make homes stronger and safer during the rebuilding process.

FEMA mitigation specialists will share tips about rebuilding and protecting homes from future disaster-related damage, such as high winds and water. They will also provide information on topics such as selecting contractors, understanding flood insurance coverage and emergency preparedness. No appointment is needed.

FEMA mitigation specialists will be available at the following locations from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Jan. 31 – Feb. 4. Puerto Rican Sign Language (PRSL) interpreters will also be available.

Walmart

Walmart Cayey

Plaza Cayey 102

8000 Ave. Jesus T. Piñero

Cayey, PR 00736

PRSL available: Jan. 30/Feb. 3

 

Home Depot

Home Depot Mayagüez

Western Plaza

Carr. Núm. 2, Km 149.5

Mayagüez, PR 00682

PRSL available: Jan. 31/Feb. 2

 

National Lumber

National Lumber Salinas

Monserrate Mall

Carr. Núm. 1, Km 1.8

Calle Luis Muñoz Rivera

Salinas, PR 00751

PRSL available: Jan. 30/Feb. 1

 

kimberly.keblish Tue, 01/24/2023 - 17:46

FEMA Individual Assistance Appeal Deadline Approaching March 10, 2023 for Hurricane Ida Survivors in Pennsylvania

PHILADELPHIA — The period of FEMA disaster assistance for Hurricane Ida survivors in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will close on March 10, 2023. Under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program, disaster assistance, including Continued Temporary Housing Assistance for rent and Home Repair Assistance, is limited to 18 months following the date of the Presidential disaster declaration. The Hurricane Ida disaster in Pennsylvania (DR-4618-PA) was declared on September 10, 2021. Therefore, if you applied for FEMA Individual Assistance following Hurricane Ida, your opportunity to receive additional assistance, if eligible, or to appeal the denial of assistance, ends on March 10, 2023. Be sure to submit all final requests, required documentation, and/or appeal letters before then.

Appealing FEMA’s Eligibility Determination

If you applied for assistance and don’t agree with FEMA’s decision or have new information relevant to your application, you can generally appeal.

FEMA sends letters of determination to applicants who provide incomplete information. Maybe you didn’t show proof of identity, verification of homeownership, or documentation that you lived in your home before Hurricane Ida. By submitting this information, FEMA can reconsider your case.

While most FEMA decisions may be appealed, applicants cannot appeal. These awards are one-time payments for survivors who meet eligibility requirements.

Include Evidence to Support Your Appeal

To appeal a decision, you must understand why FEMA considered the application ineligible or is holding off on a decision. Carefully read your FEMA letter, because it specifies why you are ineligible and recommends actions that may change the decision. Often, the reason is simply a missing document or information. For example, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits from other sources, including insurance. However, if your policy doesn’t cover all your essential needs, or your company denied your claim, you may submit your insurance settlement or denial letter for FEMA to review. 

45 Days Are Remaining to Send FEMA Your Appeal

One of the most important parts of the appeal process is sending it in on time. Survivors must appeal initial eligibility determinations within 60 days of the date on their eligibility notification letter. Your last chance to submit an appeal for Individual Assistance for Hurricane Ida is March 10, 2023. Keep in mind that after FEMA receives your appeal, you may receive a phone call or a follow-up letter asking for more information.

In your letter to FEMA, explain the decision you're appealing and the supporting information you've included to support your claim. Sign and date the letter. Don't forget to include your nine-digit FEMA application number, the disaster number for Hurricane Ida (DR-4618-PA) and any additional documentation to support your appeal.

You can send your appeal by any of these ways:

• Mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055 
• Fax: 1-800-827-8112, Attention: FEMA
• Online: upload the documents to your FEMA online account. To set up an account or to upload documents, go to www.DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Check Your Application and Log In” and follow the directions.

Requesting assistance with your application or case

If you were impacted by Hurricane Ida and you still have unmet needs like home repair, rental assistance, furnishings, transportation, or help navigating your FEMA application in York, Bucks, or Montgomery Counties, please call 833-461-8432. For Chester, Delaware, Philadelphia, Bedford, or Northampton Counties, please call 267-888-7471. You will be connected to a case manager who can help you navigate the process, specific to your individual needs.

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

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

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

amanda.hancher Tue, 01/24/2023 - 16:54

Knott County Board of Education Approved for More Than $1.6 Million to Reimburse Disaster Response Activities

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA has approved more than $1.6 million in federal funding to reimburse the Knott County Board of Education for its response to the July 26, 2022, Eastern Kentucky floods.

FEMA approved $1,620,104 for emergency cleaning and mold and flood remediation conducted throughout the Knott County School District between Aug. 2 and Aug. 23, 2022. During this time, the board utilized contractors to perform those services at Knott County Central High School, Hindman Elementary and ATC Vocational School.

This project was funded at a 100% federal cost share, meaning FEMA reimburses 100% of eligible costs.

FEMA obligates funding for these projects directly to the Commonwealth. It is the Commonwealth’s responsibility to ensure that the eligible sub-recipients receive these awards. Following the Commonwealth's review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, they will reimburse the sub-recipients.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including eligible houses of worship.

For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the floods, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4(@femaregion4)/Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 01/24/2023 - 15:58

FEMA Helps 67,000 Florida Households with Hurricane Ian Housing Needs

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has awarded grants to 63,000 households affected by Hurricane Ian for rental assistance or basic repairs of their storm-damaged home, and to date more than 4,000 households have participated in temporary hotel stays paid for by FEMA. This assistance is part of $5.2 billion in total federal support provided to Florida following this disaster through FEMA grants to households, disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration and claims payments from the National Flood Insurance Program.

FEMA’s Direct Temporary Housing mission has also placed 118 families in travel trailers or manufactured housing units, with another 220 units being prepared for occupancy and site inspections underway for more units.

Additionally, more than 119,000 people have visited Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in 26 counties, and Disaster Survivor Assistance teams have visited more than 354,000 homes in counties designated for Individual Assistance after Hurricane Ian, as FEMA continues to meet people where they are and helps them with their recovery. Currently, 18 DRCs are operating for Hurricane Ian.

By the Numbers

Support for Hurricane Ian Survivors:

• $5.2 billion in federal grants, disaster loans and flood insurance payments
  • $917 million in FEMA Individual Assistance approved for 373,350 households
  • $1.54 billion in U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loans approved
  • 45,800 National Flood Insurance Program claims filed; $2.29 billion paid
  • $504 million in FEMA Public Assistance approved for emergency response costs
• 1,260 households (3,062 members) checked into hotel rooms under FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance for households
• 20,119 Blue Roofs installed by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (mission completed)

Support for Hurricane Nicole Survivors:

• $19.8 million in federal grants, disaster loans and flood insurance payments
  • $3.2 million approved for FEMA Individual Assistance to support 1,113 households
  • $3.4 million approved in U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest disaster loans
  • 1,400 National Flood Insurance claims filed for Hurricane Nicole; $13.2 million paid

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 01/23/2023 - 19:46

Application Period Opens for FEMA's Youth Preparedness Council

CHICAGO – FEMA announced today young leaders across the nation can now apply to become a part of the 2023 Youth Preparedness Council (YPC).    YPC members are students in grades 8 through 11 who are selected to support disaster preparedness and make a difference in their communities. The YPC is an opportunity for young people to engage with FEMA and provide their perspectives, feedback and opinions related to preparedness, grow their leadership skills and support the resilience of their communities.

YPC members are chosen based on their passion for preparedness and helping others, their involvement in their community and their aptitude for working in a team and as a leader.

Students from Region 5—Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin—who apply for the National Youth Preparedness Council, will also be considered for a place on the Region 5 Youth Preparedness Council (Region 5 YPC). The Region 5 YPC is an additional service and leadership opportunity for high school students living in these states.

“FEMA is committed to involving America’s youth in building a culture of preparedness across the nation,” said FEMA Region 5 Regional Administrator Tom Sivak. “Young people can bring innovation and energy to emergency management, working with us to protect our communities against increasing and complex disaster risks now and in the future.”

The online application opened today, January 23, 2023, and students must complete their applications and provide two letters of recommendation by March 6, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. PT to be considered. To access the application materials, read about the current council members and learn more about the Youth Preparedness Council visit https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/individuals-communities/youth-preparedness-council.

Individuals can also learn more about the YPC application including application requirements, deadlines, and tips for success by joining the FEMA National YPC Application Information Sessions on January 30, 2023, at 7 p.m. CT or February 28, 2023, at 7 p.m. CT. Register for the free virtual session in January at this link or the February session at this link.

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

troy.christensen Mon, 01/23/2023 - 17:49

FEMA Seeks Leaders for National Youth Preparedness Council

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is accepting applications for the Youth Preparedness Council, a program that brings teens together from across the nation who are interested and engaged in community preparedness.

Council members are selected based on their dedication to public service, their efforts in making a difference in their communities, and their potential to expand their impact as national leaders for emergency preparedness. Students in grades eight through 11 are eligible to apply.

“FEMA is committed to empowering and bringing young voices to the table when discussing ways to bolster our nation’s disaster preparedness. Our nation’s youth offer unique perspectives that are especially important considering the affect climate change and associated extreme weather events will have for generations to come,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “By joining the Youth Preparedness Council, young people from across the country will have the opportunity to learn and grow as emergency managers while helping their communities become safer and more resilient to all hazards.”

During their one-year term, council members will collaborate virtually with each other to develop projects that promote preparedness on a local and national scale. Members will also attend the council summit in July and engage with top leaders within FEMA, the federal government and national non-profit organizations.

Youths interested in applying to the council must submit a completed application form and provide two letters of recommendation. All applications and supporting materials must be submitted no later than 11:59 p.m. PT, March 6, 2023. New council members will be announced in June.

To access the application materials, read about the current council members, and for more information about the Youth Preparedness Council visit https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/individuals-communities/youth-preparedness-council.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 01/23/2023 - 17:28

Understanding Your FEMA Letter

ATLANTA – Disaster survivors in Autauga, Coosa, Dallas, Elmore and Hale counties who applied for assistance from FEMA will receive an eligibility determination letter from FEMA in the mail or via email.

The letter will explain your application status and how to respond. It is important to read the letter carefully because it will include the amount of any assistance FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds.

Applicants may need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process an application for financial assistance. Examples of missing documentation may include:

• Proof of insurance coverage
• Settlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider
• Proof of identity
• Proof of occupancy
• Proof of ownership
• Proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of the disaster

If you have questions about your letter, call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 to find out what information FEMA needs.

A FEMA inspection may be required to determine whether a home is safe, sanitary, accessible, and functional. FEMA considers the following factors in the home inspection:

• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system (HVAC) or other heating and cooling sources.
• Access and egress, including privately-owned roads, privately-owned bridges, and privately-owned docks.
• Blocking, leveling, and anchoring of a mobile home, and reconnecting or resetting its sewer, water, electrical, oil, and fuel lines and tanks.
• The exterior of the home is structurally sound, including the doors, roof and windows.
• The electricity, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer or septic systems function properly.
• The interior’s habitable areas are structurally sound, including the ceiling and floors.
• The home is capable of functioning for its intended purpose.
• There is safe access to and from the home.

FEMA assistance is not the same as insurance. FEMA assistance only provides funds for basic work to make a home habitable, including items such as toilets, a roof, critical utilities, windows and doors.

Appealing FEMA’s Decision

Applicants who disagree with FEMA’s decision, or the amount of assistance, may submit an appeal letter and documents supporting their claim, such as a contractor’s estimate for home repairs. Applicants have 60 days to send FEMA the appeal letter.

FEMA cannot duplicate assistance provided by another source, such as insurance settlements. However, those who are underinsured may receive further assistance for unmet needs after insurance claims have been settled by submitting insurance settlement or denial documents to FEMA. FEMA does not provide assistance for insurance deductibles.

Appeals must be in writing. In a signed and dated letter, explain the reason(s) for the appeal. It should also include:

• Applicant’s full name
• Disaster number (DR-4684 for Alabama)
• Address of the pre-disaster primary residence
• Applicant’s current phone number and address

• The FEMA application number on all documents

If someone other than an applicant or co-applicant writes the appeal letter, that person must sign it and provide FEMA with a signed statement authorizing the individual to act on behalf of the applicant. Letters must be postmarked within 60 days of the date of the determination letter. Appeal letters and supporting documents may be submitted to FEMA by fax or mail or via a FEMA online account. To set up an online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Apply Online” and follow the directions.

By mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055

By fax: 800-827-8112 Attention: FEMA

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

For information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4684. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Mon, 01/23/2023 - 15:03

FEMA Obligates Over $60.2 Million for Power Grid Repairs in Six Municipalities

San Juan, Puerto Rico –The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) obligated over $60.2 million distributed among 12 subprojects for the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) that include generation, transmission and distribution units in Bayamón, Caguas, Mayagüez, Ponce, San Juan and Toa Baja.

These federal funds are part of nearly $1.7 billion that were obligated to PREPA up to date for total of 87 approved subprojects for the energy grid under the FEMA’s Accelerated Awards Strategy, known as FAASt.

“At FEMA, we continue to work with PREPA and the Government of Puerto Rico to keep improvements moving forward. This obligation will benefit nearly 900,000 people living in these municipalities, who will be able to rely on an improved electrical grid, not only for their homes, but also for schools, hospitals and other facilities in the area. Some of these projects include hazard mitigation proposals to avoid similar damage in the future, such as the replacement of concrete poles with galvanized steel poles, among other measures,” said Deputy Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator Andrés García.

One of the facilities that completed the proposed work with FEMA funding is the Palo Seco Power Plant in Toa Baja. With an obligation of over $53.7 million for transmission works, PREPA purchased and installed three PWPS Mobile Gas Turbines, or mega generators. These turbines will be used as a temporary power source to bypass the needs of certain transmission lines and/or generation power plants. Another obligation of over $2.6 million for generation purposes, was used to complete the replacement of a demineralized water tank and stainless-steel pipes. It included other works such as a soil study and environmental compliance tests.

According to PREPA Executive Director, Engineer Josué A. Colón Ortiz, the agency was able to complete all the necessary work and tests to put the mega-generators in Palo Seco into service.

“An additional benefit of having the mega-generators in service is that these modern units are much more efficient than the existing peaking units replaced by them, resulting in a lower cost for customers in Puerto Rico,” said Colón Ortiz, who also mentioned that “with the support of FEMA and COR3, PREPA has been able to make the necessary repairs to several generating units during the past year, which has helped stabilize the generation system in Puerto Rico.”

For works on distribution, an obligation of over $3.8 million was distributed among 10 facilities located in Bayamón, Caguas, Mayagüez, Ponce and San Juan. Included in this allocation are the repairs to distribution pole and conductor of San Juan Group 8, that includes distribution feeders Venezuela, Hato Rey, Tres Monjitas, Baldrich, Las Lomas 4 and Las Lomas 5. With an obligation of more than $483,000, existing poles and hardware were removed to install new ones with concrete foundation bases in the same location. This project captures funding of nearly $106,000 for a hazard mitigation proposal to increase the wind tolerance of all materials and replace concrete poles by galvanized steel poles.

“I thank FEMA for this million-dollar obligation, which allows us to continue fulfilling the commitment of Governor Pedro Pierluisi’s administration to renew the power generation, transmission and distribution system with modern and efficient equipment. At COR3, we support PREPA and LUMA throughout the technical process required to complete their reconstruction projects. To date, some 10 permanent works have been completed and another 113 projects valued at $415.2 million are in the construction or design stage,” said the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera.

To date, FEMA has obligated over $29 billion in Public Assistance funds for roughly 10,400 projects that will support the rebuilding 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 Mon, 01/23/2023 - 12:20

FEMA Teams Working in Alabama

ATLANTA – FEMA is meeting survivors where they are to help jumpstart their recovery from the Jan. 12 severe storms and tornadoes. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are going door-to-door in impacted neighborhoods to help individuals apply for FEMA assistance.

Using mobile technology, DSA personnel can help survivors apply for assistance, update a FEMA application, and answer questions about federal assistance.

DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service.

It is not necessary to wait for a visit from DSA to apply for assistance. Survivors can go online to disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app  or call 800-621-3362, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

For information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4684. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Fri, 01/20/2023 - 21:51

FEMA Teams Working in Georgia

ATLANTA – FEMA is meeting survivors where they are to help jumpstart their recovery from the Jan. 12 severe storms and tornadoes. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are going door-to-door in neighborhoods impacted by the storms to help individuals apply for FEMA assistance.

Using mobile technology, DSA personnel can help survivors apply for assistance, update a FEMA application, and answer questions about federal assistance.

DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service.

It is not necessary to wait for a visit from DSA to apply for assistance. Survivors in Butts, Henry, Jasper, Meriwether, Newton, Spalding, and Troup counties can go online to disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app  or call 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

For information on Georgia’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster 4685. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Fri, 01/20/2023 - 21:33

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Lee County

LAKE MARY, Fla. – FEMA and the State of Florida are opening another disaster recovery center in Lee County to assist Hurricane Ian survivors at the following location:

WHERE: 

Mt. Olive A.M.E Church

2754 Orange St.

Fort Myers, FL 33916

Hours:

Saturday, Jan. 21, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Although the deadline to apply for assistance for damage or loss from Hurricane Ian has passed, survivors who were affected by Hurricane Ian can also get updates about applications, learn about the appeals process or check the status of their application the following ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. The line is open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/info and fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

bree-constance… Fri, 01/20/2023 - 21:30

Coosa, Elmore and Hale Counties Eligible for FEMA Assistance

ATLANTA – Coosa, Elmore and Hale counties are now eligible for FEMA assistance after the Jan. 12 storms and tornadoes in Alabama.

Individuals and households in Coosa, Elmore and Hale counties can apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, which may include temporary housing assistance, basic home repairs and certain other uninsured disaster-related needs.

These counties join Autauga and Dallas counties, which were previously approved for Individual Assistance.

Survivors can apply for disaster assistance at disasterassistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling 800-621-3362. The helpline is open, and help is available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time in most languages. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

For information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4684. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

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felicia.jordan Fri, 01/20/2023 - 16:06

Federal Support for Hurricane Ian Recovery Totals $5.2 Billion

LAKE MARY, Fla. – Less than four months after the major disaster declaration for Hurricane Ian, the Biden-Harris Administration has provided $5.2 billion in financial assistance, disaster loans and flood insurance for Floridians.

These efforts have been supported by more than 4,000 responders from FEMA and other federal agencies who were on the ground since landfall.

Providing safe, secure and sanitary housing is a priority for FEMA. The agency has housed 100 families in manufactured housing units and travel trailers, and 182 units are being made ready for occupancy. Site inspections have been completed for 1,235 more units. FEMA Direct Temporary Housing may be available for up to 18 months for eligible survivors.

In addition, more than 1,300 households with 3,200 members are currently staying in hotels temporarily at FEMA’s expense while they look for other lodging. Previously, 3,100 households participated in hotel stays under FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program and have found other lodging.

“This has been an extraordinary effort,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Tom McCool. “We are working closely with the Florida Division of Emergency Management in their sheltering mission. We know how badly people are hurting and this brings a sense of urgency to our mission. We will be here until the mission is complete.”

Federal assistance to Florida includes:

• $906 million in FEMA awards to 372,000 individuals and households, including $566 million for rental of temporary housing and basic repair of damaged dwellings
• $1.5 billion in U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loans
• $2.3 billion in National Flood Insurance Program payments to policy holders
• $504 million in FEMA Public Assistance to reimburse local and state expenses for emergency response and debris removal

To meet survivors where they are, FEMA is operating 18 Disaster Recovery Centers in communities affected by Hurricane Ian. More than 118,000 people have visited these centers and 20 others that operated to help jumpstart survivors’ recovery from the storm. Another center in Dunbar opens Saturday.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams have visited 345,000 homes and interacted with 153,000 individuals to help them apply for assistance.

For the latest information on Florida's recovery from Hurricane Ian and Nicole, visit floridadisaster.org/info and fema.gov. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

bree-constance… Fri, 01/20/2023 - 14:18

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Increase in Disaster Assistance for California

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to California by authorizing an increase in the level of federal funding for emergency work undertaken as a result of severe winter storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides, beginning on Dec. 27, 2022 and continuing.

Under the President’s major disaster declaration for California issued on Jan.14, 2023, federal funding for the approved cost-share programs was made available at 75% of the total eligible costs. 

Under the President’s order today, the federal share increased to 100% of the total eligible costs for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance under the Public Assistance program, for 60 days from the start of the incident period.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 01/19/2023 - 21:18