30 Days After Hurricane Helene, Recovery Continues in South Carolina

Hurricane Helene made landfall on Sept. 26, bringing destructive winds, flooding, tornadoes, and extensive damage to utility infrastructure and homes in South Carolina that evening into the following day. Since then, FEMA has deployed more than 650 personnel across the state and approved more than $203 million in housing and other types of assistance to over 204,000 South Carolina households. This includes: 

• More than $19 million in housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing.
• More than $184 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.

Kim Stenson, Director of the South Carolina Emergency Management Division, emphasized the advancements in recovery efforts. “In the wake of Hurricane Helene, our communities show remarkable recovery. We are making significant strides in delivering support and assistance alongside FEMA and our state and county partners. This success is possible thanks to collaboration and dedication at every level,” Stenson stated.

FEMA has completed more than 43,000 home inspections for Hurricane Helene survivors. Along with state and federal partners, 24 Disaster Recovery Centers have been opened with more to come in affected areas. The response has been a whole-of-community effort, with contributions from nonprofits, faith-based groups, government officials, individuals and the private sector. 

“We’ve made great progress over the past 30 days, but our work is not done,” said Brett Howard, FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer for South Carolina. “FEMA remains on the ground, side by side with local and state partners, ensuring that recovery remains steady and effective for the affected families and communities in South Carolina.”

Still Time To Apply for FEMA Assistance

Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation who were affected by Hurricane Helene still have time to apply for FEMA assistance. You can apply:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. (This is the fastest way to apply.)
• In person at any Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center close to you, visit fema.gov/DRC, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Example: “DRC 29169”).
• On your phone using the FEMA mobile app.
• By calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in many languages. The telephone line is open every day. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link. FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 

dalton.kramer Fri, 11/01/2024 - 12:10

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams (DSAT) Visit Local Neighborhoods to Help Residents Apply for Disaster Assistance

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams (DSAT) will begin visiting neighborhoods in the City and Borough of Juneau starting this week to help residents who experienced damage from the Juneau Mendenhall Glacier (Áakʼw Tʼáak Sít’ and Sít’ Aant’aakú) flooding on August 5-6. 

FEMA DSAT will coordinate with tribal, state, city, and borough officials. The teams help affected residents apply with FEMA and address immediate and emerging needs. Additionally, they provide application status updates and referrals to community resources. Tlingit & Haida Community Navigators are on site at the library ready to assist tribal citizens. 

FEMA staff can easily be identified by their federal photo identification and FEMA clothing or vests. Residents are encouraged to ask for official photo ID before providing personal information.

Residents do not have to meet with FEMA in person to apply for assistance.

Additional ways to apply for disaster assistance with FEMA:

• Visit the Juneau Disaster Recovery Center:
  
  Mendenhall Valley Public Library 
  3025 Dimond Park Loop
  Juneau, AK 99801
  
  Hours of Operation 
  Monday – Sunday, 8:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.
  Location closed November 4 - 6 for election activities.
   
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov for English, or DisasterAssistance.gov/es for Spanish.
• Use the FEMA mobile app in English or Spanish.
• Call the FEMA Alaska Call Center at 866-342-1699 between 7:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. AKT, Monday through Friday and 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. AKT, Saturday. Multilingual operators are available. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.

For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI

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Follow FEMA Region 10 on X 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, 10/31/2024 - 23:13

FEMA Awards $1 Billion for Emergency Work in Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA has provided more than $1 billion to help the State of Florida and local communities with the cost of emergency response to Hurricanes Milton, Helene and Debby.

To date, FEMA’s Public Assistance program has obligated $608.6 million for Hurricane Milton, $335.5 million for Hurricane Helene and $102.2 million for Hurricane Debby. The money reimburses the state, local governments and certain nonprofit organizations for emergency protective measures and debris removal. 

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster damaged public facilities and infrastructure. Houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations may also be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance.

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, nationality, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Office of Civil Rights if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Office of Civil Rights can be contacted at FEMA-OCR@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

wesley.lagenour Thu, 10/31/2024 - 22:14

Disaster Recovery Center to Close in Lafourche Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. –The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) serving Louisiana survivors of Hurricane Francine in Raceland will close permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, Nov. 1.

• The center (Lafourche Parish) is located at Lafourche Parish Emergency Operations Center, 4876 Hwy. 1, Raceland, LA 70394.

Additional locations in St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes are open. To find the DRC nearest to you, visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).

The centers operate from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday through Nov. 2.

Beginning Nov. 4, the hours will change for the recovery centers in St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes. The new hours will be 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday-Friday and 8 a.m. to noon, Saturday.

Residents in all nine parishes can visit the DRCs to meet with representatives of FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and other community partners. No appointment is needed to visit the center. 

The centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).

• The centers 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.
• Real-time captioning as well as information in Braille, large-print, audio and electronic versions are available.
• The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.
  • Specialists at the centers can also direct you to operators who can communicate in languages other than English and printed material in multiple languages.
  • Specialists can help you update your FEMA applications and learn about state and community programs and other available assistance. They can clarify information you have received from FEMA or other agencies; they can explain the rental assistance available to homeowners and renters; and they can fax your requested documents to a FEMA processing center and scan or copy new information or documents needed for case files.

You do not have to visit a 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 Thu, 10/31/2024 - 21:29

Changes to Schedule for Disaster Recovery Centers

Disaster Recovery Centers are open with new hours and locations to help Tennesseans affected by Tropical Storm Helene apply for FEMA assistance and get information and advice about community, state and federal resources.

New Hours

Beginning Monday, Nov. 4, all Disaster Recovery Centers will be open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET Monday to Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. ET Sunday. The centers are currently open at:

• Greene County: Greene County Courthouse/Annex, 204 N. Cutler St., Greeneville, TN 37745
• Hamblen County: Utility Commission Conference and Training Center, 441 Main St., Morristown, TN 37814
• Unicoi County: National Guard Armory/Unicoi Emergency Operations Center, 615 South Main Ave., Erwin, TN 37650

New Centers

Four Disaster Recovery Centers will open Tuesday, Nov. 5, in Carter, Cocke, Johnson and Washington counties. 

Locations of the Johnson County and Washington County centers are new. Their addresses are:

• Johnson County: Pioneer Village Shopping Center, 220 Pioneer Village Dr., Mountain City, TN 37683
• Washington County: Embreeville Volunteer Fire Department, 4061 Highway 81 S., Erwin, TN 37650

The Carter County and Cocke County locations will transition from Multi-Agency Resource Centers, which are run by the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, to FEMA-run Disaster Recovery Centers. Their addresses are:

• Carter County: 1749 Highway 19 E., Elizabethton, TN 37643
• Cocke County: Cocke County Recreation Department, 466 Learning Road or Learning Way (depending on your navigation provider), Newport, TN 37821

Carter, Cocke, Johnson and Washington will open from noon to 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Starting Nov. 6, their regular hours are 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET Monday to Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. ET Sunday.

MARC Closing

The Washington County MARC in Jonesborough will close permanently at noon ET Tuesday, Nov. 5.

Apply for Assistance

The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Monday, Dec. 2.

To apply, go to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to midnight ET and operators speak most languages. If you use a relay service such as Video Relay Service, captioned telephone or other service, you can give FEMA your number for the service when you call. 

You may also apply at a Disaster Recovery Center. To find one, visit fema.gov/drc. To watch an accessible video on how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance (youtube.com).

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 10/31/2024 - 20:35

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Polk County

RALEIGH, N.C. -  A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open Friday, Nov. 1 in Mill Spring (Polk County) to assist North Carolina survivors who experienced loss from Tropical Storm Helene.  

The Polk County DRC is located at:  

Polk County Recreation Complex (Parking Lot)

235 Wolverine Trail

Mill Spring, NC 28756

Open: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., Monday through Sunday

A DRC is a one-stop shop where survivors can meet face-to-face with FEMA representatives, apply for FEMA assistance, receive referrals to local assistance in their area, apply with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for low-interest disaster loans and much more.  

FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs, personal property losses or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses. 

To find additional DRC locations, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a zip code to 43362. Additional recovery centers will open soon. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.   

Homeowners and renters in 39 North Carolina counties and tribal members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians can visit any open center, including locations in other states. No appointment is needed.  

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA app. You may also call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

barbara.murien… Thu, 10/31/2024 - 19:29

FEMA Offers Free Rebuilding Tips in Atkinson County

ATLANTA – If you are making repairs to your home after Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene, you can get tips from FEMA to make your home safer and stronger.  

FEMA Mitigation Specialists will be available to answer questions and offer home improvement tips along with proven methods to prevent or reduce damage from future disasters. They will also offer tips and techniques on rebuilding hazard-resistant homes. 

Mitigation is an effort to reduce the loss of life and property damage by lessening the impact of a disaster. The FEMA specialists will be available during the dates and times listed at:

Location

Peoples Bank Extension Office

24 Fleetwood Avenue

Willacoochee GA 31650 

Dates and Times

Friday, Nov. 1 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. 

Monday, Nov. 4 to Friday, Nov. 8 from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia and fema.gov/disaster/4821. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Administrator Deanne Criswell on X @FEMA_Deanne.

larissa.hale Thu, 10/31/2024 - 18:07

Five Steps to Keep Your Disaster Recovery on Track

Recovering from a disaster is a continuous process with many options and it is important for disaster survivors to know the resources available to support their recovery efforts. Depending on your particular needs and the steps you’ve already taken, there are several additional steps you can take to recover from your losses and mitigate your property against future damage.

Here is a checklist to ensure you’ve taken all the steps in your federal assistance process:

• Visit a temporary Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) near you. A DRC is a place where you can receive in-person support, speak with FEMA and other federal representatives, upload documents, review the status of your application and submit appeals. Get answers to your questions while the DRC is open. Survivors of the August 18-19, 2024 Severe Storm, Flooding, Landslides and Mudslides in Connecticut can visit the following DRC: 
  • Until 6 p.m. November 4 – at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 910 Main Street, South, Southbury, CT 06488, operating Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday Closed. Note: This DRC will CLOSE permanently at 6 p.m. on Monday, November 4. 
  • NOTE: There will be no DRC service on Tuesday, November 5 and Wednesday, November 6.

  • Beginning 8 a.m. November 7 – at Southbury Town Hall, 501 Main Street, South, Southbury, CT 06488, operating Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday Closed. Note: This DRC will be OPEN on Monday, November 11. 

     

• Apply for a low-interest U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loan. SBA disaster loans are not just for businesses. Homeowners, renters and nonprofit organizations may also apply. Next to insurance, an SBA low-interest disaster loan is the primary source of funds for property repairs and for replacing contents destroyed in a disaster event. Know that you are never obligated to accept a loan.
  • To apply with the SBA: visit www.SBA.gov/disaster, call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 (if you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services), or send an email to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. 
  • Survivors of the August 18-19, 2024 Severe Storm, Flooding, Landslides and Mudslides in Connecticut can visit the following SBA Business Recovery Centers (BRCs): 
    • Oxford Town Hall, 486 Oxford Road, Oxford, CT 06478, operating Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Sunday Closed.
    • Monroe Police Department, 7 Fam Hill, Monroe, CT 06468, operating Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Sunday Closed.

  • NOTE: On October 15, 2024, it was announced that funds for the SBA Disaster Loan Program have been fully expended. While no new SBA Disaster loans can be issued until Congress appropriates additional funding, SBA remains committed to supporting disaster survivors. Applications will continue to be accepted and processed to ensure individuals and businesses are prepared to receive assistance once funding becomes available.

     

• Request continued temporary rental assistance forms. If you received initial rental assistance and remain unable to return to your pre-disaster primary residence due to a disaster declared event, make sure to apply for FEMA’s Continued Rental Assistance. If you did not receive a form by mail, you may request one by calling the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362.

   

• Stay in touch with FEMA. Disaster survivors who applied for assistance from FEMA are asked to please stay in touch with the agency to review their application status, update their contact information and provide required documentation as needed. It is critical to keep in touch with FEMA. Missing or out of date information could slow much needed disaster assistance. Let FEMA know if your address or phone number has changed. Download and use the FEMA Mobile App, visit DisasterAssistance.gov or call FEMA’s helpline at 1-800-621-3362. 

   

• Know your appeal options. If you disagree with FEMA decisions, you have the option to submit additional documentation such as your insurance settlement or prove home ownership or documentation to prove your identity to have your case reconsidered. The appeal should be submitted within 60 days of the initial FEMA decision and include supporting documentation, such as a copy of a verifiable contractor’s estimate for repairs.

For questions about federal disaster assistance, call the FEMA helpline: 1-800-621-3362. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week.

adrien.urbani Thu, 10/31/2024 - 16:41

FEMA Approves $1.2 Million to Spanish Fork, Utah for Flood Recovery

DENVER – FEMA has approved $1.2 million to help the city of Spanish Fork repair its water pipeline and damaged embankments. The funding is part of a major disaster declaration by President Biden issued in response to the Spanish Fork River flooding in 2023. 

Flooding from rapid snow melt damaged part of the drinking water pipeline and embankment in four locations, which affecting the community’s drinking water infrastructure. The $1.2 million in FEMA funding will bring the facility to pre-disaster function, and capacity, while making the waterline stronger to prevent future damages. The project is 75% funded by FEMA. 

The FEMA Public Assistance program provides funding to governmental agencies and certain private non-profits for eligible disaster response costs. For more information about the Public Assistance program, visit: https://www.fema.gov/assistance/public/program-overview.

anthony.mayne Thu, 10/31/2024 - 15:37

Revised Preliminary Flood Maps for Lafourche Parish, Louisiana, Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Revised Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in all communities and incorporated areas of Lafourche Parish, Louisiana.

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

This is Lafourche Parish’s first complete set of digital FIRMs. These maps serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Community leaders and residents can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards, development and flood insurance that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flood event.

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas.

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

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

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

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting floodsmart.gov.

alexa.brown Thu, 10/31/2024 - 15:10

Don’t Wait! Saturday is the Final Day to Apply for FEMA Assistance

Oct. 31, 2024
DR-4787-WV NR-015
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

News release

Don’t Wait! Saturday is the Final Day to Apply for FEMA Assistance

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Saturday is the final day for residents in Boone, Hancock, Kanawha, Marshall, Ohio, Roane, Wetzel and Wood counties to apply for FEMA Assistance if they had damages during the April 11-12, 2024, storms, floods, and landslides. THE DEADLINE TO APPLY IS SATURDAY, NOV. 2, 2024.

FEMA assistance for individuals and families affected by the flooding can cover home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.

The easiest way to apply for FEMA assistance is online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024, is also the final deadline to apply for a U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loan. Applicants can apply online at sba.gov/disaster, call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay service.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page,www.fema.gov/disaster/4787 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

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

Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

 

issa.mansaray Thu, 10/31/2024 - 14:30

Disaster Recovery Center in Galax, Va. Will Open Nov. 2

BRISTOL, Va.– A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will be opening in Galax at 816 Glendale Rd. on Saturday November 2, 2024, at 8 a.m. Disaster survivors can visit any DRC to receive assistance. This will be the ninth DRC open in the impacted area; to find the DRC closest to you, including addresses and hours, visit FEMA.gov/drc or text DRC and a ZIP code to 43362. 

A Disaster Recovery Center is an accessible facility that survivors can visit in person to learn more about FEMA and other agencies providing disaster assistance in Virginia. Residents, property owners, and business owners can go to a DRC to apply for assistance and obtain resources from other agencies based on their needs. Survivors do not need an appointment at a DRC to receive assistance. 

The center is located at:

City of Galax

816 Glendale Rd

Galax, VA 24333

Hours of operation:

Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Closed Sundays

Survivors do not have to visit a DRC to register with FEMA. You can call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. You can also register online at DisasterAssistance.gov or through the FEMA App on your phone.

The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Dec. 2, 2024.

If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps. DRC staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have. Learn more about what to expect at a DRC here.

FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response.

For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.  

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on 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. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination.  FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-OCR-ECRD@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

 

erika.osullivan Thu, 10/31/2024 - 14:29

FEMA Registration Deadline is Approaching Quickly for Hurricane Francine Survivors

BATON ROUGE, La. –Louisiana residents with damage from Hurricane Francine have just a few weeks remaining to apply for disaster assistance. Nov. 16 is the registration deadline for survivors in Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes.

Survivors with a loss or damage should apply with FEMA even if they don’t have repair estimates or insurance settlements yet. To be considered, people in the impacted areas need to register with FEMA to begin the process. FEMA will work with survivors to identify what information is needed to determine eligibility.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices. 
• Visit one of the Disaster Recovery Centers. To find a location, visit https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.
• Call toll-free 800-621-3362. The FEMA Helpline is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. CDT, and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, 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 Thu, 10/31/2024 - 12:25

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in York County

A Disaster Recovery Center will open in York County to provide in-person assistance to South Carolinians affected by Hurricane Helene.  

York County

York County Library 
138 E. Black St.
Rock Hill, SC 29730

Open Oct. 31, 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Nov 1-2, 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Nov. 4-6, 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; closed on Nov. 3

Additional Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open in other South Carolina counties. Click here to find centers that are already open in South Carolina. You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the state of South Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. 

To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. 

Homeowners and renters in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation can apply for federal assistance.

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 many 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. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.

FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. 

dalton.kramer Wed, 10/30/2024 - 22:02

FEMA Continues Work with the Disability Community on Helene and Milton Response, FEMA's Disability Director Visits Affected Areas to Meet with Survivors, Community Groups and Governmental Officials

WASHINGTON -- Since Hurricane Helene made landfall, FEMA has been working with governmental and voluntary disability support organizations to ensure survivors with disabilities have the tools they need to recover from the storm. Building relationships with these organizations pre-disaster has been crucial to getting support to survivors as quickly as possible. FEMA’s Disability Integration Advisors continue their work advocating for people with disabilities and connecting them with available resources to help speed their recovery.

Sherman Gillums, Jr., FEMA’s Director of the Office of Disability Integration and Coordination personally traveled to hurricane-impacted areas to support these advisors, survey recovery efforts and meet with state officials and local disability organizations. 

“It was important to me to talk to organizations and officials in person to show our unwavering commitment to people with disabilities,” said Director Gillums. “The relationships we’ve built with these organizations prior to the disaster allowed us to pinpoint the areas where people with disabilities needed help. My visit with Able South Carolina and independent living centers in Ashville highlighted ways we could assist with their recovery efforts. I deeply appreciated their insight and openness about their experiences which allowed us to work together on solutions to challenges.”   

The percentage of people applying for FEMA disaster assistance and identifying as having a disability is consistent with the demographic information we have for the hurricane affected areas. “This is really important,” said Director Gillums. “It is a good indication that we are reaching people with disabilities and getting them the tools they need to apply for assistance more quickly year after year. That doesn’t mean that there isn’t more work needed to get people with disabilities on the road to recovery, but it is an encouraging first step.

As disability advisors, Director Gillums and his staff work to integrate accessibility into all stages of recovery. This includes everything from helping survivors access medical necessities to getting them access to assistive devices like screen readers so they can apply for assistance. Most importantly though, the advisors support emergency management specialists throughout the recovery process, by helping them integrate accessibility and disability inclusiveness into their work. 

"This storm caused massive disruption to infrastructure that many of us take for granted,” Director Gillums commented after his travel in North Carolina, Virginia and South Carolina. “As a disability advisor, and a member of the disability community myself, I see how these challenges are compounded for people with disabilities. Getting access to electricity can be a matter of independence and even survival. During my deployment, I witnessed firsthand how communities were eager to be a part of the effort to ensure people with disabilities get what they need to sustain some semblance of independence. FEMA is working with these partners to make sure all survivors, including those with disabilities, are able to access the essential resources they need to be safe, informed and in charge of their lives.”

FEMA encourages Helene and Milton survivors to apply online as this remains the best way to apply for disaster assistance. Here are the ways to apply for federal assistance: 

• Applying online at disasterassistance.gov
• Using the FEMA App
• Calling 800-621-3362, Staffed daily from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. local time
• Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center to talk with FEMA and state agency officials and apply for assistance

Richmond, VA -- Federal Coordinating Officer Timothy S. Pheil discussing the disability integration strategy for the Hurricane Helene response with FEMA Disability Coordinator Sherman Gillums Jr. along with state access and functional needs staff in the situation room at the Virginia Emergency Operations Center. Columbia, S.C. (Oct. 14, 2024) - FEMA's Director of Disability Integration and Coordination, Sherman Gillums, Jr., visits the Association for Better Living and Education to show support for their ongoing efforts in supporting the disabled community. Director Gillums met with Dori Tempio, Sr., Director of Community Education, and Mandy Halloran, Director of Public Health. amy.ashbridge Wed, 10/30/2024 - 21:38

Disaster Recovery Centers to Close for Election Day

Disaster Recovery Centers for the storms and flooding that took place July 11-13 and July 29-31 will be closed for Election Day, Tuesday,  Nov. 5. 

These centers are located at the Newport Municipal Building (222 Main St) and at the Lyndon Public Safety Facility (316 Main St).

Because the center at the Hinesburg Town Hall ( 10632 Route 116) will be used as a voting site, it will be closed Monday, Nov. 4 through Wednesday, Nov. 6.

The DRCs at Newport and Lyndon will reopen at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 6.

The DRC in Hinesburg will reopen at 9 a.m. on Thursday, November 7. 

Hours for all DRCs are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Saturday. 

Residents affected by the flooding don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for or receive FEMA assistance. The deadline to apply is November 25, 2024. 

Three ways to apply include:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• The FEMA mobile app 
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (in your time zone), seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw..

adrien.urbani Wed, 10/30/2024 - 21:34

Updated Hours of Operations for the Montgomery & Pulaski County DRCs Oct. 31 through Nov. 6

BRISTOL, Va.– Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Montgomery and Pulaski counties have updated hours of operations this upcoming week. The Montgomery County Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will be temporarily closed Saturday, Nov. 2 – Tuesday Nov. 5 and the reopening is to be announced. The Pulaski County DRC will be temporarily closed from 4 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 31, 2024, through Tuesday Nov. 5, 2024. The center will reopen at 12 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024.

Disaster survivors can visit any DRC to receive assistance. To find the DRC closest to you, including addresses and hours, visit FEMA.gov/drc or text DRC and a ZIP code to 43362.  

The centers are located at:

Montgomery County   

Montgomery County Government Center

755 Roanoke Street

Christiansburg, Va. 24073

Updated Hours of Operation 11/01 - 11/05:

Nov. 1-5, 2024 – Closed  

Hours of Operation after 11/5

Reopening to be announced

 

Pulaski County 

New River Valley Fairgrounds 

5581 Fair Grounds Circle

Dublin, Va. 24084

Updated Hours of Operation 10/31 - 11/06:

Thursday Oct. 31, 2024 – 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Nov. 1 - 5, 2024 – Closed

Nov. 6, 2024 – 12 p.m. - 6 p.m. 

Hours of Operation after 11/6

Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Closed Sundays

Survivors do not have to visit a DRC to register with FEMA. You can call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. You can also register online at DisasterAssistance.gov or through the FEMA App on your phone.

The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Dec. 2, 2024.

If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps. DRC staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.

FEMA has set up a rumor response webpage to clarify our role in the Helene response. Visit Hurricane Helene: Rumor Response.

For more information on Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit vaemergency.gov, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page , fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.  

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

To apply for FEMA assistance, please call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362, visit https://www.disasterassistance.gov/, or download and apply on 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. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages). Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination.  FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-OCR-ECRD@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

 

 

erika.osullivan Wed, 10/30/2024 - 21:15

FEMA Direct Temporary Housing Approved for Tennessee

With affordable housing in short supply, FEMA has approved temporary housing for 18 months for homeowners and renters who had major or significant structural damage after Tropical Storm Helene’s floodwaters swept across Eastern Tennessee Sept. 26-30.

Direct Temporary Housing Assistance is approved for Helene survivors until April 2, 2026, and includes Direct Lease, Multifamily Lease and Repair, and Transportable Temporary Housing Units. 

For Direct Lease, FEMA leases existing, ready-to-occupy residential properties for use as temporary housing. Under Multifamily Lease and Repair, the agency funds the repair or improvement of existing, vacant multi-family rental properties that eligible applicants can use for temporary housing. 

Knowing that housing solutions are not one-size-fits-all and each survivor has a unique set of needs, FEMA will contact homeowners to determine if they would like a Transportable Temporary Housing Unit. These are furnished one-, two- or three-bedroom units provided at no cost to eligible survivors. If necessary, these units can be modified or improved to be compliant with the guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act, providing accessibility for individuals with disabilities or access and functional needs.

TEMA’s assessment of homes, barns, sheds and other structures estimates nearly $20.37 million in damage was caused by the record flooding from Helene. The assessment identified 114 affected structures including 48 that were destroyed, 51 with major damage and 12 with minor damage. Two other structures also sustained some damage. 

Between 346 and 414 applicants may be eligible for FEMA direct housing, the state’s preliminary estimates show.

Survivors whose primary residence is in one of six counties – Carter, Cocke, Greene, Johnson, Unicoi or Washington – must first apply for FEMA Individual Assistance before the Monday, Dec. 2, deadline to be eligible for Direct Temporary Housing Assistance. Assessments are ongoing for Hamblen and Hawkins counties.

To apply, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to midnight Eastern Time. Operators speak most languages; if you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, you can give FEMA your number for that service. You may also visit a Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.

To watch an accessible video on how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance (youtube.com).

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 10/30/2024 - 20:43

$16 Million in Federal Funding Fuels Tennessee’s Recovery a Month After Helene

A month after the major presidential disaster declaration for the Sept. 26-30 flooding from Tropical Storm Helene, Tennessee families and communities are recovering with $16.4 million in funding from FEMA as well as support from the state, other federal agencies, and voluntary and community organizations.

Helene’s rains devastated Eastern Tennessee, leaving mountains of debris strewn across a vast area, knocking out power and communications to thousands, and cutting off drinking water. Residents were left without cell coverage, internet connections and access to essential necessities. It may be years before these remote and rural communities resemble the charm they had before.

The disaster declaration was approved on Oct. 2, authorizing funding from FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program to the counties most heavily impacted by the storms: Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties. Survivors have until Monday, Dec. 2, to apply for FEMA assistance.

State, federal and voluntary organizations have collaborated to drive the recovery. As of Oct. 30, $16.4 million in FEMA funds has been approved for Tennessee’s homeowners, renters and businesses. And FEMA authorized a Direct Temporary Housing mission for survivors who had major or significant structural damage to their primary homes. 

The American Red Cross, Salvation Army and the Tennessee Department of Education have completed their mission after serving 140,903 meals to survivors.

In the early days after the storms, with communications down across a swath of rural communities, FEMA brought in a mobile unit that continues to provide high-speed internet by connecting to satellites.

Debris removal remains a major priority. The state and federal partners joined with local communities to clear more than 24,000 cubic yards of debris, a visible and vital step in recovery operations. Special attention is focused on Douglas Reservoir, located only a few miles from the Pigeon Forge-Gatlinburg area and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A mile-long curtain was installed to save the dam from damage by 1 million cubic yards of debris that rushed into the lake during the storms. Vegetation, construction and demolition equipment, and hazardous materials continue to line the shores even as the reservoir returns to pre-disaster water levels. 

Perhaps FEMA’s biggest challenge during the response operation has been the campaign to counter misinformation and harmful rhetoric about FEMA’s assistance programs, which was having a negative impact on Tennesseans desperately in need of help. The agency built a Helene Rumor Response webpage where survivors could find the facts themselves, and it continues to push messaging, in English and Spanish, about the many types of available assistance tailored to each survivor’s unique situation. FEMA accomplishes this by directing traffic to the state’s tn.gov/TEMA and fema.gov/Helene/Tennessee disaster pages as well as FEMA’s social media sites on Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube.

But the work of recovery has only just begun. Here are a few highlights:

• $16.4 million in funding from the Individuals and Households Program to provide financial help to those who are unable to meet their disaster-related needs through insurance or other means. 
• As part of that total, more than $8 million represents Housing Assistance to help homeowners repair or replace residential property damage that is not covered by insurance.
• $8.3 million in Other Needs Assistance covers necessary disaster-related expenses such as medical bills; money to clean, repair or replace household items; to repair or replace vehicles damaged by the disaster and other non-housing needs.
• The Direct Temporary Housing Assistance program will help homeowners and renters whose homes were destroyed or heavily damaged.
• More than $1.07 million for 186 claims was paid to National Flood Insurance policyholders. The program also extended the grace period for paying policy premiums to Tuesday, Nov. 26.
• FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists visited 6,277 homes, 288 businesses and 237 community facilities. They also referred 1,140 survivors to community resources.
• More than $53,000 was paid in Disaster Unemployment Assistance to Tennesseans who have been unable to work because of the disaster. FEMA funds the unemployment program, which is managed by the state.
• Some 1,311 survivors have visited FEMA’s Disaster Recovery Centers to apply for federal assistance, to get help uploading documents to their account or get answers to questions including decisions about eligibility for FEMA assistance. A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center is scheduled to open Nov. 1 in Johnson County.
• Specialists at the state’s three Multi-Agency Resource Centers in Carter, Cocke and Washington counties also help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional local, state, federal and voluntary agency resources.

Disaster assistance is also available to help communities respond to and recover from Helene’s deadly wrath. FEMA Public Assistance was approved for state and local governments and some private non-profits. These funds help communities cover the costs for debris removal, life-saving emergency protective measures and restoring public infrastructure.

Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program and FEMA’s largest grant program. FEMA typically covers 75% of funding and the state covers 25%. For Helene damage in Tennessee, President Biden authorized 100% federal funding for emergency work generated by the disaster. This means FEMA will cover all eligible costs incurred during any 45-day period of the state’s choosing during the first 120 days from the start of the disaster, or Sept. 26. This allows communities to maximize cost savings by selecting the 45 days when the greatest costs occurred.

Under Public Assistance, the federal share of funding is reimbursed through the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency to disburse to local agencies, local governments and certain private non-profits including houses of worship.

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 10/30/2024 - 20:38

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Laurens County

ATLANTA – FEMA opened an additional Disaster Recovery Center in Laurens County to provide one-on-one help for Georgians affected by Hurricane Helene. The center is open Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Center location: 

Laurens County

Old West Laurens Middle School

338 West Laurens School Road

Dublin, GA 31021

Additional centers are open in Appling, Chatham, Coffee, Liberty, Lowndes, McDuffie, Richmond, Toombs and Washington counties. Additionally, Mobile Disaster Assistance Centers are open in Berrien, Telfair and Ware counties for a limited time. Mobile centers give survivors another option to get help with their application and find other resources.

Open Monday – Saturday from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. and Sunday 1 – 6 p.m.

Appling County

Appling County Agricultural Center
2761 Blackshear Highway, Baxley, GA 31513

Chatham County

Savannah Technical College

Student Enrichment Center Building

5717 White Bluff Road, Savannah, GA 31405

Coffee County

The Atrium 
114 N. Peterson Avenue, Douglas, GA 31533

Liberty County

Miller Park/HQ Fire Station 

6944 E. Oglethorpe Highway, Midway, GA 31320

Lowndes County

City of Valdosta

4434 North Forrest Street Extension, Valdosta, GA 31605

McDuffie County

Thomson Depot           

111 Railroad Street, Thomson, GA 30824

Richmond County

Hub for Community Innovation

631 Chafee Avenue Augusta, GA 30904

Toombs County

Georgia Department of Human Services 

162 Oxley Drive, Lyons, GA 30436 

Washington County

Sandersville School Building Authority

514 North Harris Street, Sandersville, GA 31082

 

FEMA Mobile Registration Center location and hours

Berrien County 

Carrie Dorsey Library

315 W. Marion Ave., Nashville, GA 31639

Wednesday, Oct. 30, through Friday, Nov. 1 

8 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

 

Telfair County

Piggly Wiggly Parking Lot 

48 East Oak Street, McRae-Helena, GA 31055 

Monday, Oct. 28 through Saturday, Nov. 2 

8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Ware County 

Courthouse Annex 

305 Oak Street, Waycross, Georgia, 31501

Monday, Oct. 28 through Saturday, Nov. 2 

8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

    

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia and fema.gov/disaster/4821. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Administrator Deanne Criswell on Twitter @FEMA_Deanne.

larissa.hale Wed, 10/30/2024 - 18:31