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FEMA Celebrates Climate Week NYC, Officials Across the Agency Participate in Events, Promote FEMA’s Year of Resilience
WASHINGTON – As extreme weather events caused by climate change continue to increase across the nation, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, FEMA Deputy Administrator for Resilience Victoria Salinas, and FEMA Regional Administrator Region 2 David Warrington will attend Climate Week NYC and lead FEMA’s largest contingent of FEMA officials to ever attend the annual gathering. During the week, FEMA officials will highlight FEMA’s Year of Resilience, host several engagements, and participate in Climate Week NYC Events.
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will attend several events and address topics including extreme heat, climate risk, resilience, and how climate change is impacting the insurance market. Administrator Criswell will be a keynote speaker at the WSJ House, Bloomberg Sustainable Finance Forum, AON’s Resilience and Adaptation: Ensuring Economic Progress and Combating Climate Risk, and Global Citizen Addressing the Human Costs of Extreme Heat - Financing Measures to Safeguard Human Health at an International and National Level.
As New York City hosts the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in addition to Climate Week NYC, FEMA is proudly supporting efforts to ensure a safe event each year and is dedicated to ensuring a unified coordinated effort between Local, State, and Federal agencies throughout the greater New York City area throughout the week.
Kicking off Climate Week NYC this year, the U.S. Fire Administration will host a Fire Chiefs Roundtable: Climate Change Driven Risks, Response and Resilience: Fire Chiefs’ Perspective to bring together officials to discuss the current wildfire situation and what it will take to get ahead of future wildfire ignitions and the devastating impacts of intensifying storms. The roundtable will build on discussions and information exchanges that occurred during the inaugural World Fire Congress convened by FEMA/USFA in Washington, D.C. in May 2024.
FEMA will also host a Risk Communications Webinar, where presenters will share successful strategies to communicate risk and inspire preparedness action in the face of increasingly frequent hazards—an alarming consequence of climate change.
FEMA and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are partnering for a full-day summit exploring resilient infrastructure challenges and innovative solutions through discussions on the recently published National Resilience Guidance, nature-based solutions, energy efficiency, net-zero energy, and sustainable disaster debris management.
The following events are open to the media:
Monday, September 2310:00 AM: U.S. Fire Administration to Host a Fire Chiefs Roundtable: Climate Change Driven Risks, Response and Resilience: Fire Chiefs’ Perspective (Virtual; In-Person Registration is Closed)
What: The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) will host an interactive roundtable discussion on climate change driven risks, response and resilience during Climate Week NYC. This interactive roundtable brings together fire chiefs and their government counterparts including U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, FEMA Associate Administrator for External Affairs Justin Ángel Knighten, FEMA Associate Deputy Administrator for Resilience Robin Keegan, FEMA Regional Administrator Region 2 David Warrington, Fire Chief Orange County Brian Fennessy, Fire Chief Los Angeles County Tony Marrone, Fire Chief Fairfax County John Butler, Fire and EMS Chief Washington, D.C. John Donnelly and acting Fire Chief New York City John Esposito. Discussion topics will include the current wildfire situation and what it will take to get ahead of future wildfire ignitions and the devastating impacts of intensifying storms. FEMA Region 2 will host the roundtable discussion including stakeholders from academia, nongovernmental organizations, U.S. and international government representatives and fire service leaders. The roundtable will build on discussions and information exchanges that occurred during the inaugural World Fire Congress convened by FEMA/USFA in Washington, D.C. in May 2024.
2:30 PM: FEMA to Host National Webinar – Risk Communications (Virtual)
What: Presenters will share successful strategies to communicate risk and inspire preparedness action in the face of increasingly frequent hazards—an alarming consequence of climate change. This event is a valuable opportunity for risk and crisis communicators, community leaders, emergency management professionals and stakeholders involved in disaster preparedness. Participants will learn strategies for creating awareness and activities that help communities plan for disasters and build resilience amid the climate crisis. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions to support communications best practices related to developing and sharing critical preparedness messaging.
Tuesday, September 249:00 AM – 4:00 PM: FEMA and EPA to Host Event: Climate Resilient Infrastructure: Building a More Sustainable Future (Virtual and In-Person Registration Required)
What: FEMA and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are partnering for a full-day summit exploring resilient infrastructure challenges and innovative solutions through discussions on the recently published National Resilience Guidance, nature-based solutions, energy efficiency, net-zero energy and sustainable disaster debris management. Attendees will get to hear from FEMA and our public, private and academic partners on several topics including nature-based solutions, net-zero energy projects, energy efficiency efforts, the use of salvaged materials and how each of these fit into nationwide resilience strategy.
Where: Climate Week NYC: Climate Resilient Infrastructure: Building a More Sustainable Future.
2:45 PM: FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell to Speak at WSJ House
What: FEMA Administrator Speaks at Wall Street Journal Live on resilience.
Where: Bryant Park Grill, 25 W 40th St, New York, NY 10018.
To register for this event, please contact WSJ Live.
Wednesday, September 259:20-10:00 AM: FEMA Administrator to speak at AON’s Resilience and Adaptation: Ensuring Economic Progress and Combating Climate Risk
What: FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will join a panel discussion on how the unprecedented risk environment has upended the traditional balance where insurance was the dependable safeguard enabling the flow of capital across the economy. Severe weather and a changing climate are rendering historically safe investments uninsurable, sending shockwaves through the financial systems and threatening the livelihoods and progress of institutions and individuals alike. This high-level dialogue will touch on the major challenges a lack of insurance access creates for the public and private sectors, what needs to be done and the potential for new paradigms to bring the system back into balance.
Where: Aon Corporate Headquarters, One Liberty Plaza (165 Broadway), New York, NY 10006.
To register for this event, please contact Aon.
11:00 AM: FEMA Administrator to speak at Global Citizen Addressing the Human Costs of Extreme Heat - Financing Measures to Safeguard Human Health at an International and National Level
What: FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will join a panel discussion to discuss extreme heat.
Where: Guastavino's located at 409 E 59th St, New York, NY 10022.
To register for this event, please contact Global Citizen.
Thursday, September 261:30 PM-2:00 PM: FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will speak at Bloomberg’s Sustainable Finance Forum
What: FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will headline the Bloomberg Sustainable Finance Forum at Bloomberg Headquarters for a fireside chat with Bloomberg Intelligence Director of ESG Research Eric Kane.
Where: 731 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10022.
To register for this event, please contact Bloomberg Sustainable Finance Forum.
3:00 PM-4:00 PM: Climate Resiliency Fireside Chat with FEMA, NASA and NOAA (Virtual Registration Required)
What: FEMA, NASA and NOAA will be discussing climate resiliency and the importance of forward-thinking programs that equip communities for the climate challenges of today and tomorrow. Panelists include FEMA Deputy Administrator for Resilience Victoria Salinas, NASA Chief Scientist Dr. Kate Calvin and NOAA Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and Deputy Administrator Jainey Bavishi. This is a unique opportunity for community leaders and members from federal, state, local, tribal and territorial governments, nonprofits, the private sector and academia to connect with subject matter experts, share knowledge and deepen understanding of how to build resilient communities in the face of a changing climate.
amy.ashbridge Mon, 09/23/2024 - 15:31Ruidoso Disaster Recovery Center Posts New Weekly Hours
The State of New Mexico/FEMA Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at Horton Complex, 237 Service Road, Ruidoso, NM will change its weekday hours of operation beginning Monday, Sept. 23. The new hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday hours are unchanged, noon to 5 p.m. Closed Sunday.
Residents of Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba and San Juan counties, as well as the Mescalero Apache Reservation can visit the center to apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents, learn about available resources and get their questions answered in person. Recovery specialists from the state, FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and other organizations are available at the DRC to meet with visitors. No appointment is needed. Two Spanish language interpreters are also on hand to help residents impacted by the Southfork and Salt Fires and flooding.
You can also apply, update your contact information or upload documents in several ways:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov
- Download the FEMA app for smartphones.
- Call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Lines are open from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. MT, seven days a week. Help is available in most languages.
The deadline to apply for assistance is October 19, 2024.
The deadline to apply to Small Business Administration (SBA) for property damage is Oct. 19, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is March 20, 2025. Applicants may apply at https://lending.sba.gov. Business owners also may apply in-person by visiting SBA Business Recovery Center at the Ruidoso Public Library. For more information, applicants may contact SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center by calling (800) 659-2955. Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals may call 7-1-1.
angela.ambroise Mon, 09/23/2024 - 14:34Last Day for Kentuckians To Apply for FEMA Assistance
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Survivors of the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides, and mudslides have only a few hours left to apply for FEMA assistance. The application deadline is 11:59 p.m. ET, Sept. 23.
How To Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance- Call FEMA at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download and use the FEMA app.
FEMA programs are accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.
In addition, today is the final day for homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Kentucky residents and businesses can apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster.
gerard.hammink Mon, 09/23/2024 - 12:54FEMA Offers Free Repair and Rebuilding Advice in Davison and Union Counties
SIOUX FALLS – Whether you were affected by this summer’s severe storms and flooding or are simply seeking ways to enhance your home’s safety and resilience, FEMA will be providing free mitigation, repair, and rebuilding advice coming up in Davison and Union Counties.
FEMA mitigation specialists will be available at the following locations:
Davison County
Menards
815 E Spruce St
Mitchell, SD, 57301
Sept. 25 through Sept. 29 from the hours of 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Union County
Olson’s Ace Hardware
305 NW 13th St, Beresford, SD 57004.
Oct. 2 through Oct. 5 from the hours of 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Oct 6 from the hours of 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Mitigation specialists can answer questions and discuss topics such as:
- Proven methods for preventing damage from future disasters
- Techniques for rebuilding homes
- Tips for reducing your disaster risk – whether you own or rent your home
Mitigation reduces a property’s risk to future events. It can allow residents to return more quickly to a home with less damage. While it usually takes an initial investment, mitigation pays off in the long run. On average, every $1 spent on mitigation saves $6 in future losses.
Advice is available to all homeowners and renters, not only those affected by the recent severe storms and flooding.
The public also may contact a FEMA mitigation subject matter expert with questions by emailing fema-r8-hmhelp@fema.dhs.gov or by calling the FEMA Hazard Mitigation Helpline at 833-336-2487.
To learn more about how mitigation efforts help individuals and communities visit https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/risk-management.
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1 Day Left To Apply for FEMA Assistance
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentuckians affected by the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides have until 11:59 p.m. ET, Monday, Sept. 23, to apply for FEMA assistance.
How To Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance- Call FEMA at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download and use the FEMA app.
FEMA programs are accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.
Survivors who don’t agree with FEMA’s decision can always file an appeal. To learn more about the appeals process, read How To Appeal FEMA’s Decision.
In addition, Monday is the final day for homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Kentucky residents and businesses can apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster.
gerard.hammink Mon, 09/23/2024 - 12:512 Days Left To Apply for FEMA Assistance
FRANKFORT, Ky. — FEMA would like to remind Kentuckians that there is still time to apply for federal disaster assistance. Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. ET, Monday, Sept. 23.
How To Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance- Call FEMA at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download and use the FEMA app.
FEMA programs are accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.
Survivors who don’t agree with FEMA’s decision can always file an appeal. Please refer to the link to learn more about the appeal process.
In addition, Monday is the final day for homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations to apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Kentucky residents and businesses can apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster.
gerard.hammink Mon, 09/23/2024 - 12:47Disaster Recovery Center Opens in St. Mary Parish
BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA and the State of Louisiana will open a Disaster Recovery Center in Morgan City on Monday, Sept. 23 to provide one-on-one help to Louisiana residents affected by Hurricane Francine.
Center location:
St. Mary Parish
Morgan City Municipal Auditorium
728 Myrtle Street
Morgan City, LA 70380
The center will operate from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Residents in Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes can visit the center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, along with other community partners. No appointment is needed to visit the center.
The center is accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and is equipped with assistive technology. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).
You do not have to visit the center to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The quickest way to apply is by going online at disasterassistance.gov/.
Additional options when applying include:
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
- Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m. 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.
- To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
alexa.brown Sun, 09/22/2024 - 22:26President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms and flooding from August 8-10, 2024.
Public Assistance federal funding is available to the Tribal Nation and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms and flooding.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures.
Catherine O. Fan has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the Tribal Nation and warranted by the results of further assessments.
amy.ashbridge Sat, 09/21/2024 - 00:02President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Connecticut
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Connecticut to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides from August 18-19, 2024.
The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Fairfield, Litchfield and New Haven counties.
Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Robert V. Fogel has been named 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 state and warranted by the results of further assessments.
Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
amy.ashbridge Fri, 09/20/2024 - 22:54Application Deadline Extended for FEMA Individual Assistance
ST. PAUL–Homeowners and renters who suffered damage to their property from the severe storms and floods of June 16 -July 4 have additional time to apply for federal disaster assistance.
FEMA has extended the application deadline to October 27, 2024, for survivors in the 21 Minnesota counties designated for Individual Assistance.
FEMA assistance may include funds for temporary housing while you are unable to live in your home, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs; funds to support the repair or replacement of your primary home, including privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads, or bridges; and funds for disaster-caused expenses and serious needs, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicles, funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, child care, funeral expenses, and other pre-approved miscellaneous items.
Disaster survivors who have not yet applied for FEMA assistance should apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App on your phone, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.
For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Minnesota visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4797.
kimberly.keblish Fri, 09/20/2024 - 22:18President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Illinois
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Illinois to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding from July 13-16, 2024.
The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will and Winnebago counties.
Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Darrin Ricketts has been named 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 state and warranted by the results of further assessments.
Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
amy.ashbridge Fri, 09/20/2024 - 21:51Previous Federal Disaster Assistance May Not Affect Eligibility for Hurricane Francine
BATON ROUGE, La.– Homeowners and renters in eight parishes, who have suffered losses following Hurricane Francine, are encouraged to apply for FEMA disaster assistance, even if you have applied for assistance for previous disasters.
Residents in Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary, and Terrebonne parishes should apply regardless of your previous losses and assistance.
Disaster assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
There are several ways to apply: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call 800-621-3362 from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. CT daily. 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.
To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
If you have flood, homeowners or renters insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
alexa.brown Fri, 09/20/2024 - 21:27FEMA Specialists Helping Floridians Apply for Assistance After Hurricane Debby
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. - FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance crews continue to work in Florida neighborhoods helping people apply for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Debby.
The crews have worked in Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties. Now they are beginning work in Baker, Citrus, Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.
DSA specialists wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. They go door to door in impacted neighborhoods using mobile devices to help residents apply for assistance, check the status of an application, identify potential needs and make connections with organizations that can provide resources. DSA specialists never ask for, or accept, money. Local law enforcement officials are informed when DSA crews work in a community and residents can verify their presence with local law enforcement.
The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. The deadline for applications is Oct. 9, 2024.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
kirsten.chambers Fri, 09/20/2024 - 17:16Federal Assistance Tops $22 Million in Fires, Flooding Recovery
It has been 90 days since President Biden declared a major disaster for the state of New Mexico following the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding June 17 through Aug. 20, 2024. To date, more than $22 million in federal assistance has been approved for New Mexican families affected by the disaster.
FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) have approved grants, loans and insurance settlements for recovering homeowners, renters and businesses in Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba and San Juan counties and the Mescalero Apache Reservation. This assistance helps pay for eligible losses and disaster-related damage repair and replacement of homes and personal property, temporary housing, cleaning and sanitizing, moving and storage, childcare, medical and dental expenses and other needs of New Mexicans affected by the fires and flooding.
“We are working closely with our federal, state and local stakeholders to help those that need assistance to recover from fires and flooding,” said Federal Coordinating Officer James McPherson.
As of Sept. 19, FEMA Individual Assistance totaled more than $6.68 million in grants to eligible homeowners and renters, including:
- More than $3.99 million in housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
- More than $2.69 million grants to help pay for personal property replacement and other serious disaster-related needs, such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses.
- The first household licensed in for Direct Housing took place on Sept. 9, with seven households currently occupying a temporary travel trailer, 14 more households are in the process of being housed.
The deadline to apply to FEMA for federal disaster assistance is Oct. 19, 2024.
Public AssistanceFEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) program for the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding reimburses the state, counties, local governments, tribes, and certain private nonprofits (including houses of worship) for eligible costs of disaster-related debris removal and emergency protective measures. PA is available, on a cost -sharing basis, in all five designated areas: Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba and San Juan counties and the Mescalero Apache Reservation.
- Under the direction of the state, private contractors have removed 146,000 cubic yards of debris from impacted areas. This is the equivalent of 14,000 dump trucks lined up end-to-end, stretching 38 miles - the distance between Ruidoso and Tularosa, NM.
FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program, to date, has settled claims for homeowners and businesses totaling more than $1.74 million.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved more than $13.62 million in long-term, low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, businesses and non-profit organizations. Of that amount, more than $11.5 million was approved for homeowners and renters; the rest is approved for businesses.
Applicants may apply at https://lending.sba.gov. Business owners also may apply in-person by visiting SBA Business Recovery Center at the Ruidoso Public Library. The deadline to apply to SBA for property damage is Oct. 19, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is March 20, 2025.
How to Apply for FEMA Disaster AssistanceThe first step for individuals and households to receive assistance is to apply to FEMA for federal assistance. There are no costs involved to apply for or receive FEMA assistance. There are four ways to apply:
- Go online to disasterassistance.gov/
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. MT. 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.
- Visit the Disaster Recovery Center operated by the state of New Mexico and FEMA at the Horton Complex, 237 Service Road, Ruidoso, NM. Hours are., Monday through Friday. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, noon to 5 p.m.
For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance, visit youtube.com/watch= WZGpWI2RCNw.
The deadline to apply to FEMA federal disaster assistance is Oct. 19, 2024.
For more information about FEMA’s Individual Assistance program, visit www.fema.gov/assistance/individual.
angela.ambroise Fri, 09/20/2024 - 16:14Monday Is Last Day To Apply for FEMA Assistance
FRANKFORT, Ky. — Monday, Sept. 23 is the last day for Kentuckians who were impacted by the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides to apply with FEMA. Survivors have until 11:59 p.m. ET, Monday to apply for FEMA assistance.
How To Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance- Call FEMA at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download and use the FEMA app.
Homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster.
For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, as well as news releases, fact sheets and other helpful documents in multiple languages, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.
To view information about how to apply for FEMA disaster assistance in American Sign Language with captioning and a voiceover, please check the YouTube link.
sandra.habib Fri, 09/20/2024 - 15:4730 Days Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance
Vermonters affected by severe storm, flooding, landslides and mudslides from July 9-11, 2024, have until October 21, 2024 to apply for FEMA assistance.
This October 21 deadline is for residents of Addison, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Lamoille, Orleans, and Washington counties.
If you were affected by the severe weather, you should apply as soon as possible. FEMA may be able to help with temporary housing, home repairs, privately-owned roads and bridges, and other disaster-related needs – and the faster you apply, the sooner you can get aid.
There are four ways to apply:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
- Download the FEMA’s Mobile App.
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. For location and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.
To watch a video about how to apply, featuring American Sign Language, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance (youtube.com).
adrien.urbani Fri, 09/20/2024 - 13:16
More than $15M and Other Resources Supporting Minnesota Recovery
ST. PAUL –Minnesota residents have already been approved for more than $15 million in federal assistance to recover from the summer storms and flooding, including over $11.3 million in FEMA grants and more than $4.8 million in long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration.
While federal financial assistance continues to be approved, FEMA, the state of Minnesota, and many other partners are helping in even more ways too, meeting survivors where they are to support their road to recovery.
Additional Recovery Resources Available- Free Legal Help Hotline Now Available. Minnesota disaster survivors can be connected to free legal services by calling 1-877-MY-MN-LAW (1-877-696-6529) and leaving a message. Include your name, phone number and county of residence, so Minnesota lawyers can return your calls as soon as possible. Learn more by visiting Minnesota Severe Storms and Flooding - LSC Disaster Website : LSC Disaster Website (ladrc.org).
- Minnesota Department of Revenue Disaster Tax Relief. Taxpayers in the federally declared counties who were affected by the recent severe storms and flooding will get extra time to file Minnesota returns and pay Minnesota taxes. Learn more by visiting Disaster Relief | Minnesota Department of Revenue (state.mn.us).
- Other State Financial Resources. Financial disaster recovery resources may be available for individuals as well as veterans and farmers through state assistance programs. Visit Disaster Recovery - Disaster Recovery and Assistance (mn.gov) for more information.
Prioritizing an Accessible Recovery
- FEMA Speaks Your Language. In addition to posting translated materials into languages such as Spanish, Somali and Hmong on the disaster webpage, FEMA provides American Sign Language (ASL) and language interpreter services on FEMA’s Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use Video Relay Services (VRS), captioned telephone service, or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages. FEMA also offers interpreting services during home inspections, at FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers and during visits with FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance team members.
- FEMA in the Community. Disaster Survivor Assistance teams have already visited more than 45,000 homes, more than 1,600 businesses and over 1,700 other locations and public spaces in affected communities to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance, get their FEMA questions answered and identify additional resources to support their recovery. These teams continue to focus their efforts in high impact areas, ensuring Minnesotans can access the recovery help they need. In addition, nine Disaster Recovery Centers have been opened across the state since early August, serving more than 1,400 individuals with one-on-one support.
For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Minnesota, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4797 or Disaster Recovery - Disaster Recovery and Assistance (mn.gov).
kimberly.keblish Thu, 09/19/2024 - 20:26Be Alert to Fraud After a Disaster
BATON ROUGE, La. – Louisianans should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft after Hurricane Francine. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors.
If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge to create an application. If so, please inform the inspector that you did not apply for FEMA assistance so they can submit a request to stop further processing of the application.
If you did not apply for assistance, but receive a letter from FEMA, please call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline will submit a request to stop any further processing of that application.
If you want to apply for FEMA assistance after stopping an application made in your name without your knowledge, the helpline will assist you in creating a new application.
Scams
FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams, housing inspectors and other officials are working in areas impacted by the hurricane. They carry official identification badges with photo IDs. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.
Don't believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment. They don’t represent FEMA.
Don't give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information.
How to Report Fraud
If you believe you are the victim of fraud or a scam, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff's department or contact the Office of the Louisiana Attorney General Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-351-4889.
If you suspect fraudulent activity involving FEMA, you can report it to the FEMA Fraud Branch at: StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov, fax: (202) 212-4926 or write to: FEMA Fraud and Internal Investigation Division, 400 C Street SW Mail Stop 3005, Washington, DC 20472-3005.
If you suspect identity theft, please visit Identity Theft | FTC Consumer Information or IdentityTheft.gov.
To view an accessible video about fraud, visit: FEMA Accessible: Fraud FEMA (youtube.com).
For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and facebook.com/femaregion6.
alexa.brown Thu, 09/19/2024 - 19:49Disaster Recovery Center in Taylor County to Close Sept. 20
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– The Disaster Recovery Center in Taylor County will close permanently at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20.
Center location:
Taylor County
Loughridge Park
1100 W. Hampton Springs Ave.
Perry, FL 32347
Open 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Friday
For other Disaster Recovery Center locations, go online to fema.gov/drc.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
kirsten.chambers Thu, 09/19/2024 - 19:26FEMA Announces $25 Million to Help New York and Puerto Rico Communities Address Impacts from Growing Flooding Threats
NEW YORK - As part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s ongoing efforts to reduce flooding impacts, FEMA announced that New York is eligible for up to $20 million and Puerto Rico is eligible for $5 million in funding to reduce flood risks. The funding is available through the Fiscal Year 2024 Swift Current funding opportunity, totaling $300 million, made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
“Swift Current, a Flood Mitigation Assistance initiative, allows FEMA to expedite funding to help communities build resilience against future flooding events,” said Region 2 Administrator David Warrington. “As storms continue to intensify across the United States, accelerating flood mitigation dollars is critical to supporting disaster survivors after an event and better preparing communities for future events.”
Dedicated funding is distributed on a rolling basis to state, local, territorial and Tribal governments for projects after presidentially declared flood events. Eligible projects include property acquisition, demolition, elevation and relocation for buildings insured through the National Flood Insurance Program.
Visit FEMA.gov for a full list of FY24 Swift Current activations.
FEMA will distribute funding on a rolling basis as eligible applicants submit applications until the total available funding amount of $300 million is exhausted. These are the first activations for this funding cycle which closes in late-May 2025.
This is the third round of Swift Current funding. Visit FEMA.gov for more information.
Swift Current is designed to get funding distributed as soon as possible after a declared flood-related disaster to help communities implement resilience activities to reduce their flood risk. This funding will support National Flood Insurance Program policyholders who have experienced repetitive or substantial flood-damage to eligible buildings. New York and Puerto Rico had a presidentially declared major disaster related to flooding since June 2024.
FEMA continues to help build local capacity to withstand future events. The announcement aligns with the FEMA 2024 Year of Resilience theme to build local capacity to withstand tomorrow’s hazards.
Swift Current provides more equitable access to mitigation grants by increasing the federal cost share for eligible applicants above the standard 75% cost share up to 100% to support disadvantaged communities that often face challenges meeting their non-federal match.
As flood declarations occur through May 2025, FEMA will work with states, territories, the District of Columbia and Tribal Nations to explore their participation during the Fiscal Year 2024 application period. Potential applicants who have questions may contact their FEMA regional office, while interested subapplicants should contact their state or territory hazard mitigation officer.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
kate.macedo Thu, 09/19/2024 - 18:20Pages
