Floridians Must Listen to Local Authorities as Hurricane Milton Makes Landfall; FEMA Administrator Traveling to Florida Tonight Ahead of Landfall

Hurricane Milton will be catastrophic; FEMA is working in close coordination with state and local officials 

WASHINGTON – Ahead of Hurricane Milton’s landfall, FEMA Administrator Criswell will travel to Florida tonight to work alongside state and local officials as they prepare for the impacts of this catastrophic storm. Floridians in the storm’s path must continue following the instructions of local officials, as the storm is expected to bring destructive storm surge along portions of Florida’s west coast as well as devastating hurricane-force winds, heavy rainfall and life-threatening flooding across the Florida Peninsula. 

Floridians in Milton’s path in vulnerable parts of the state have been ordered to evacuate. Those who have stayed behind are urged to go immediately. Many residents outside of mandatory evacuation zones will experience significant rain and hurricane force winds. 

FEMA has over 1,000 responders on the ground in Florida supporting Milton and previous disasters. There are over 1,400 search and rescue personnel pre-staged to support Milton response efforts.

FEMA and its federal partners are leaning forward and already pre-positioned resources to support local and state response efforts ahead of Hurricane Milton. FEMA pre-staged seven FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams, eight federal Urban Search & Rescue and swift water rescue teams, three U.S. Coast Guard Swift Water Rescue teams, 10 HealthCare System Assessment Teams, two U.S Army Corps of Engineers temporary power teams, debris experts, Environmental Protection Agency wastewater experts, over 400 ambulances, 20 helicopters prepared to support medical requirements following landfall, and 60 High Water Vehicles with ladders from the Department of Defense. 

Additionally, FEMA has five incident staging bases with commodities including food and water. Right now, FEMA has 20 million meals and 40 million liters of water ready to deploy to address ongoing Helene and Milton response efforts with capacity to expand as needed.

President Biden granted emergency declarations for the state of Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida for Hurricane Milton, enabling FEMA to provide direct assistance to the state, local and tribal response, preposition supplies and response assets and mobilize hundreds of personnel in the state, many of whom were already in place supporting the Hurricane Helene response.

Stay Safe in the Storm

Those in the path of Hurricane Milton should take every precaution as the storm passes through.

• Move to higher ground: Free shuttles are operating this morning in Manatee, Pinellas, Pasco, Hillsborough and Sarasota counties. To locate shuttle locations, visit www.FloridaDisaster.org/updates.  Residents may also use Uber code MILTONRELIEF to receive free Uber ride to a shelter.
• Shelter in place: Do not attempt to travel during the storm. Hurricane winds are expected to impact a significant portion of the state, far away from the eye of the storm. Flash flooding, tornadoes, high-velocity debris, fallen trees and power lines will pose a significant danger.
• If you do not feel safe in your home: A list of emergency shelters, including those that can accommodate people who need assistance and those who have pets can be found at Shelter Status | Florida Disaster. If you plan to go to a shelter, do so before the storm arrives. 
• Stay out of floodwater: Walking or driving through flood waters is extremely dangerous. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines or contain hazards such as wild or stray animals, human and livestock waste, and chemicals that can lead to illness. 
• Be prepared for service outages:
  • Fill and freeze empty water bottles to help keep food cool in the event of a power outage. Fill your bathtub so you have a clean water supply in the event of water service disruption.
  • Charge all electronic devices, then put them in low power or battery saver mode. While cell service and power may be disrupted during the storm, your phone is a lifeline to family, friends, emergency assistance and alerts. Preserve your batteries so your devices are ready if you need them. Text messages or social network sites may be the best way to get in touch with family and friends as Hurricane Milton moves through the state.
  • Use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for emergency lighting. Never use candles during a blackout or power outage due to extreme risk of fire.
  • When using generators, always use them outdoors and at least 20 feet from windows, doors and attached garages. Make sure to keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding.

mashana.davis Wed, 10/09/2024 - 16:58

FEMA Offers Free Repair and Rebuilding Advice

Des Moines, Iowa — FEMA Mitigation Helpline is available to survivors who are ready and interested in talking with a repair/rebuilding specialist. 

Iowa residents with homes affected by this year’s flooding can get helpful advice from a specialist on the FEMA Mitigation Helpline at 833-336-2487. Lines are open Monday through Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. If no answer, leave a message with your name and number for specialist to call you back.

Your discussion with a FEMA Mitigation specialist will get you started in planning for repairs. As work progresses, experts are available to provide rebuilding tips, advise on building supplies, explain the importance of flood insurance and help you make a personal disaster plan.

Mitigation reduces a property’s risk to future events, and it allows residents to return home more quickly, with less damage, after the next storm. While it may involve a larger initial investment, mitigation pays off in the long run. In fact, estimates are that on average for every dollar spent on mitigation, six are saved from future losses.

Contact your local building official before rebuilding/renovating /retrofitting. Make sure your plans meet local and state government requirements. Get proper permits.

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. For Spanish, press 2. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. 

 

April.Bennett Wed, 10/09/2024 - 15:01

Get Repair, Rebuilding, Insurance Advice at Walgreens in Ruidoso

Maybe you have already begun fixing-up the damage to your home in the wake of the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding. Or maybe you have no idea of even where to begin. As New Mexicans are recovering from the disaster, FEMA has teamed with Walgreens in Ruidoso, for one week, to provide free information and tips on how to make homes damaged by the fires and floods stronger and safer. 

FEMA specialists will be available to answer questions and offer home improvement tips and proven methods to help prevent or reduce damage from future disasters. They will also share techniques for rebuilding hazard-resistant homes. Most information is aimed at do-it-yourselfers and general contractor work. 

Residents with fire- or flood-impacted homes will pick up tips on re-building smart, strong and safe to prevent future damage. Smart building includes mitigating damage against floods, strong winds and even tornadoes. Attendees will learn how such simple mitigation measures as elevating electrical and heating systems and anchoring fuel storage tanks can provide protection against severe conditions, and much more. Bring your questions.

In addition, FEMA Hazard Mitigation insurance specialists from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) will be on hand to answer questions about flood insurance. 

These experts will be available Tuesday, Oct. 15 through Saturday, Oct. 19, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at;

Walgreens
138 Sudderth Dr
Ruidoso, NM 88356 

angela.ambroise Wed, 10/09/2024 - 14:47

How to Replace Lost Documents in North Carolina

Raleigh NC - When applying for FEMA assistance after Tropical Storm Helene, North Carolinians may need to provide proof of identity, residence and other documentation. Here are some steps to help you replace important documents that were lost or damaged in the storm.

Insurance policy information: Call your insurance company or agent and ask for a copy of your policy, including the Declaration Page. 

Birth and death certificates, marriage and divorce documents: Order certificates online: NCDHHS: DPH: NC Vital Records: Order a Certificate

Driver Licenses: If your driver license has been lost or damaged, you may apply for a replacement at any driver license office. Standard licenses may also be replaced online: Official NCDMV: License Renewal & Replacement (ncdot.gov). If there is a change of address, North Carolina driver license or ID card holders have 30 days to update their address on the credential.

Social Security Cards: Replace Social Security card | SSA. You may be able to do this online, or you can fill out an application for a Social Security card and bring it to your local office along with unexpired identification. Documents must be original or have a signature, stamp, or raised seal from the issuing agency, no photocopies.

Medicare Cards: To replace your card, call Medicare at 800-633-4227(TTY 877-486-2048), visit your local Social Security office, request a new card through you online account with Social Security or visit MyMedicare.gov.

Green Card: Go to uscis.gov and complete the Form I-90 application to replace a permanent resident card, and file it online or by mail. Replace Your Green Card | USCIS.

Passports: How to Report a Passport Lost or Stolen (state.gov).

Federal Tax Returns: About Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return.

Military Records: Request Military Service Records | National Archives.

For the latest information about North Carolina’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4827. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

barbara.murien… Wed, 10/09/2024 - 13:53

FEMA Is Contacting People Affected by Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene

ATLANTA – Georgians who apply for disaster assistance for Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene may be eligible for assistance for both disasters. FEMA is placing calls to survivors in Bryan, Bulloch, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty, Long, and Screven counties who only registered for one of the disasters to inform them that they can apply for assistance for both disasters if they sustained damaged from both storms. 

These calls may come from unfamiliar area codes or phone numbers. FEMA may also send a text message if they are unable to reach you by phone. If you are concerned about verifying if it is FEMA, you can call 800-621-3362. FEMA representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. Their services are free.

Applications for both storms must be submitted separately. Eligible survivors affected by both storms may receive funds for food, water, baby formula and other emergency needs as well as money to help pay for a temporary place to stay. Federal grant funds may help with survivors’ immediate housing needs and can be used for the cost of staying with friends and family or hotel/motel lodging. If applicants already created a Login.gov account, they may use that same account in accessing both applications.

Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call 800-621-3362 to apply for FEMA assistance. 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.

When applying, people will need to describe what damage occurred and on what date, to ensure federal disaster assistance from the two storms is not duplicated. Keep all receipts for expenses associated both disasters, including:

• Home repairs
• Repairs to a septic system, water well or private road
• Purchase of a generator or chainsaw
• Replacement of personal property items such as appliances
• Vehicle repairs or replacement
• Insurance settlement or denial

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4821 and fema.gov/disaster/4830. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Wed, 10/09/2024 - 13:11

FEMA Calls May Come from Unfamiliar Phone Numbers

ATLANTA.– After Georgians apply for disaster assistance for Tropical Storm Debby, with an incident period of Aug. 4-20, 2024, or for Hurricane Helene, FEMA may call you to schedule an inspection of the damaged home, or to obtain more information to process your application for assistance. People who only applied for assistance for one of the disasters may also receive a call to inform them that they can apply for assistance for both disasters. 

These calls may come from unfamiliar area codes or phone numbers. It is important to answer the call as FEMA specialists may be calling to obtain more information to process an application or to follow up on an incomplete application. Incoming FEMA calls may be to schedule an inspection to determine whether your home is safe, sanitary, functional and accessible. If an inspection cannot be scheduled, it may cause a delay in FEMA’s review of the application.

The quickest way to apply for FEMA assistance is to go online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices, by visiting a Disaster Recovery Center or calling the FEMA Helpline toll-free at 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.

If you applied for disaster assistance with FEMA for either disaster, or both, be sure to “stay in touch”. If you changed your address or phone number — even if only temporarily — please update that information with FEMA. When updating your information, refer to the nine-digit registration number issued at registration. This number is on all correspondence applicants receive from FEMA and is a key to tracking assistance requests.

Missing or incorrect information could result in delays in receiving assistance. It’s a good idea to provide a secondary contact phone number — both a cell phone and a landline number (if you have one).

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4821 and fema.gov/disaster/4830. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Wed, 10/09/2024 - 13:09

Understanding Your FEMA Eligibility Letter

ATLANTA.– If you applied for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Helene, you will receive an eligibility letter from FEMA in the mail or by email.

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

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

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

If you have questions about your letter, or disagree with the initial decision, visit a Disaster Recovery Center, if available, or call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 to find out what information FEMA needs.

How to Appeal

The letter from FEMA will provide information on the types of documents or information that FEMA needs. It will also include an optional appeal form that you can use. Your appeal must be submitted within 60 days of the date of your decision letter.

You can appeal any FEMA decision or award amount by sending documents that show you qualify and need more help, like estimates for repairs, receipts, bills, etc. Each decision letter you receive from FEMA explains types of documents that may help you appeal your FEMA’s decision or award amount for that type of assistance.

Supporting documents may include:

• Receipts,
• Bills,
• Repair estimates,
• Property titles or deeds, or
• Any other information that may support the reasons for the appeal.

What should I include on documents I send to FEMA?

All documents you send to FEMA as part of your appeal should include your:

• Full name,
• Current phone number and address,
• Disaster Number (DR-4830-GA) and FEMA Application Number written on all pages, and
• Address of the disaster-damaged home.

Receipts, bills and estimates must include the business name and contact information to help FEMA confirm the information.

Can someone appeal for me?

Yes. If you send a written explanation for the appeal that is written by someone other than you, it must include their signature. FEMA will need your written permission to share information about your application. You can do this by completing an Authorization for the Release of Information Under the Privacy Act form and sending it to FEMA.

How can I send documents?

You can send appeals or supporting documents to FEMA by:

• Uploading to your disaster assistance account at DisasterAssistance.gov, 
• Mailing to FEMA, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055. 
• Faxing to 800-827-8112. 
• Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center, if available

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4830. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Wed, 10/09/2024 - 13:01

FEMA Individual Assistance Now Available for More Virginians

BRISTOL, Va. — Residents of Bedford, Bland, Carroll, Pittsylvania, Russell, and Wise counties and the city of Radford are now eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA under the Individual Assistance Program. FEMA assistance can help with costs from damage and losses due to Tropical Storm Helene.  

Residents of the city of Galax, as well as Giles, Grayson, Montgomery, Pulaski, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington and Wythe counties, remain eligible for assistance. 

FEMA may be able to help you pay for essential items, temporary housing, home repairs and other needs due to the disaster, including:

• Essential items such as water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, medical supplies and equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation;
• Financial assistance to help pay for hotel stays, stays with family and friends, or other options while you look for a rental unit as well as rental assistance if you are displaced because of the disaster;
• Repair or replacement of a vehicle, appliances, room furnishings, personal or family computer;
• Books, uniforms, tools, computers and other items required for school or work, including self-employment; and
• Moving and storage fees, medical expenses, childcare and funeral expenses.

For more information about the types of FEMA assistance available under the Individual Assistance Program, visit: fema.gov/ia.

You can apply for disaster assistance today: 

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov 
• Through the FEMA app
• By calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362
• At a Disaster Recovery Center. 

To watch an accessible video about how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance - YouTube.

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

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.

 

erika.osullivan Tue, 10/08/2024 - 22:27

Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Collier, Duval, Putnam, Union Counties Eligible for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – As the state of Florida and FEMA prepare for Hurricane Milton, President Biden approved seven additional counties for assistance for Hurricane Helene.

Homeowners and renters in Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Collier, Duval, Putnam and Union counties who had uninsured or underinsured damage or loss caused by Hurricane Helene can apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, essential personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. These counties along with Charlotte, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla counties are authorized for FEMA Individual Assistance.

Homeowners and renters can apply to FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA mobile app or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800-621-3362. Lines are 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. 

What You’ll Need When You Apply

• A current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security number.
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

If you have homeowners, renters or flood 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 about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

kirsten.chambers Tue, 10/08/2024 - 22:08

Federal Assistance for Hurricane Helene Exceeds $286 Million

FEMA Maintains Focus on Recovery for Helene Survivors While Preparing for Impacts of Hurricane Milton

WASHINGTON – FEMA, under the direction of the Biden-Harris Administration, continues to lead a comprehensive, whole-of-government approach to assist communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. Federal assistance for survivors of Helene has now surpassed $286 million with an additional $180 million in mission assignments to federal partners. FEMA continues to coordinate recovery efforts while preparing for the anticipated landfall of Hurricane Milton along Florida’s Gulf Coast. 

Administrator Deanne Criswell is on the ground directing FEMA’s response and recovery operations for the impacted states. The combined efforts of federal, state and local partners ensure that every available resource is mobilized to help those impacted by Hurricane Helene.

As FEMA maintains its focus on Helene response and recovery, the agency is also fully engaged in support of local, tribal and state response efforts ahead of Hurricane Milton. Residents in the storm’s projected path are urged to stay informed and prepare now. 

Hurricane Helene Response

The agency is actively working alongside state, local and tribal partners to assess damage and support those affected by Helene. Nearly 7,000 federal personnel are deployed, including FEMA staff. To date, FEMA has shipped over 16.2 million meals, more than 13.9 million liters of water, 210 generators and more than 505,000 tarps to the region. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected states helping survivors apply for assistance and connecting them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.

Disaster survivors in designated areas of Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia can begin their recovery process by applying for federal assistance through FEMA. People with damage to their homes or personal property who live in these areas should apply for assistance, which may include upfront funds to help with essential items like food, water, baby formula and other emergency supplies. 

Funds may also be available to repair storm-related damage to homes and personal property, as well as assistance to find a temporary place to stay. Homeowners and renters with damage to their home or personal property from previous disasters, whether they received FEMA funds or not, are still eligible to apply for and receive assistance for Helene.   

There are three ways to apply for FEMA assistance:  

• Online by visiting disasterassistance.gov. 
• Calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362.  
• Downloading and applying on the FEMA App. 

Voluntary Organizations

Voluntary agencies are supporting all affected states by providing critical feeding operations and support for survivors with hot and prepared meals and shelf-stable meals. Organizations are also providing personnel and resources to the hardest hit areas. The American Red Cross has hundreds of trained disaster workers providing comfort and operating shelters. 

People can receive free services like cutting fallen trees, tarping roofs and mitigating mold with the help of Crisis Cleanup by calling 844-965-1386. The hotline is open through Oct. 11 and can connect people with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and the faith-based community who may be able to assist.  

Additional support and assistance provided to each state includes: 

Support for North Carolina

Financial Support: FEMA has approved more than $40 million in housing and other types of assistance for over 30,000 households.

Staffing: As response efforts continue in North Carolina, more than 1,000 FEMA staff are on the ground, with more arriving daily. Over 1,000 Urban Search and Rescue personnel remain in the field helping people. These teams have rescued or supported over 3,200 survivors to date. President Biden ordered an additional 500 active-duty troops equipped with advanced technological assets to the area to further strengthen recovery operations in Western North Carolina. This brings the total number of active-duty military personnel supporting the response to 1,500. Experienced FEMA leaders from around the country are in the field to bolster response efforts. 

Sheltering: Shelter numbers continue to decline, with 18 shelters housing just under 800 occupants. Over 2,100 people who cannot return home are staying in safe and clean lodging through FEMA’s Transitional Sheltering Assistance program. Transitional Sheltering Assistance is available for North Carolinians displaced by Helene. Residents in declared counties who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA while they work on their long-term housing plan. People do not need to request this assistance. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message, and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance.

Power and Cellular Restoration: As of today, more than 86% of originally reported power outages have been restored. Cellular restoration continues to improve, with more than 85% of cellular sites operating. FEMA is boosting response coordination by providing Starlink units to ensure first responders can communicate with each other. 

Commodities: Commodity distribution, mass feeding, and hydration operations are underway in areas of western North Carolina. FEMA commodity shipments are enroute to support operations. Voluntary organizations are supporting feeding operations with bulk food and water deliveries coming via truck and aircraft. Mobile feeding operations are reaching survivors in heavily impacted areas, including three mass feeding sites in Buncombe, McDowell, and Watauga counties. 

The Salvation Army has 20 mobile feeding units supporting the massive operation and has provided emotional and spiritual care to more than 2,400 people. To date, The Salvation Army has served over 34,000 meals, 14,500 drinks, and 10,200 snacks. The American Red Cross is engaging in targeted distribution of emergency supplies in low-income communities with high levels of minor or affected residential damage. 

Resources: 

• Residents can visit: ncdps.gov/helene to get information and additional assistance.  
• Residents can get in touch with loved ones by calling 2-1-1 or visiting unitedwaync.org to add them to search and rescue efforts.  

Support for Florida 

Recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene continue in Florida even as the federal government is supporting the state in preparing for Hurricane Milton. FEMA has approved more than $129 million for over 35,000 households. FEMA specialists are canvassing Florida communities affected by Helene to help survivors apply for assistance. Additionally, FEMA inspectors are visiting applicants’ homes to verify disaster-caused damage.

Residents in need of information or resources should call the State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) at 1-800-342-3557. English, Spanish and Creole speakers are available to answer questions.  

Residents can find additional resources and information at Florida Division of Emergency Management’s website, FloridaDisaster.org. 

Support for South Carolina

In South Carolina, FEMA has approved over $65 million for more than 80,000 households. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are on the ground in neighborhoods across the affected counties continuing to help survivors apply for FEMA assistance and connect them with additional state, local, federal and voluntary agency resources.  

Residents with questions on Helene can call the state’s toll-free hotline, open 24 hours a day, at 1-866-246-0133. 

Residents who are dependent on medical equipment at home and who are without power due to Helene may be eligible for a medical needs shelter. Call the state’s Department of Public Health Care Line at 1-855-472-3432 for more information. 

Residents can find additional information at South Carolina Emergency Management Division’s website. 

Support for Georgia

FEMA has approved over $48 million for more than 59,000 households.

Resources: Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency.  

Support for Virginia

To date, FEMA has approved over $850,500 for over 123 households.

Residents can find resources like shelters and feeding sites at Virginia Department of Emergency Management’s website. 

Support for Tennessee

FEMA has approved more than $3.1 million for disaster assistance for 192 households. 

Residents can call 1-800-824-3463 to report a missing person. Callers should be prepared to provide as much information as possible including names, phone numbers, vehicle identification and last known whereabouts.  

Counties continue to establish donation centers. For the evolving list, visit Tennessee Emergency Management Agency’s website.

mashana.davis Tue, 10/08/2024 - 20:59

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for the Seminole Tribe of Florida

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the Seminole Tribe of Florida to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Hurricane Milton beginning Oct. 5 and continuing.

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. 

This declaration allows emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, at 75% federal funding for the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Additional designations may be made later if requested and warranted at the results of further damage assessments. 

Leda M. Khoury has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area.

mashana.davis Tue, 10/08/2024 - 20:51

Be Alert to Fraud After Tropical Storm Helene

ATLANTA -- Tennesseans should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft after Tropical Storm Helene. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from people affected by the disaster.

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 a FEMA application. If this happens, 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 you received a letter from FEMA, please call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Helpline specialists will submit a request to stop further processing of that application.

If you do want to apply for FEMA assistance after stopping an application made in your name without your knowledge, helpline specialists will assist you in creating a new application.

Scams

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams, housing inspectors and other officials will be working in areas impacted by Tropical Storm Helene. They carry official photo identification badges. FEMA representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. Their services are free.

Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment. 

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. 

If you believe you are the victim of a scam or price gouging, or you want to report a person or company for disaster relief scams or price gouging, immediately contact your local police or sheriff’s department. You may also report it to the Tennessee Division of Consumer Affairs by calling 615-741-4737; or go online and file a fraud complaint at TN Division of Consumer Affairs. 

If you have knowledge of fraud, waste or abuse, you can report these tips – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – to the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721. You can also email StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov to report a tip.

For the latest information about Tennessee’s Tropical Storm Helene recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4832. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Tue, 10/08/2024 - 20:49

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in Clay and Sioux Counties Closing Permanently

Des Moines, Iowa — FEMA’s Disaster Recovery Centers in Clay and Sioux counties will close permanently on Saturday, Oct. 12 at 5:30 p.m.

Iowa homeowners and renters affected by the flooding on June 16 through July 23, 2024, have until Oct. 22, 2024, to apply for FEMA assistance.

The DRCs are open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and closed on Sundays.  They are located at:

Clay County

Spencer City Hall

City Council Chambers

101 W. Fifth St.

Spencer, IA 51301

Sioux County

City Park Shelter House

1013 13th Ave.

Rock Valley, IA 51247

 

 You can apply for FEMA disaster assistance or get help with your case by:

• Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov
• Calling FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Downloading and use the FEMA app.

If you had flood related damage or storm-caused expenses or are self-employed and live in Buena Vista, Cherokee, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Humboldt, Lyon, Monona, O'Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Pottawattamie, Scott, Sioux and Woodbury counties, FEMA assistance can provide grants to help cover temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster related needs. U.S. Small Business Administration provides loans to help cover home repairs and other disaster-related needs along with business impacts.

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. For Spanish, press 2. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

April.Bennett Tue, 10/08/2024 - 20:04

How to Help After Tropical Storm Helene

ATLANTA - There are many ways to help those affected by Tropical Storm Helene across the Southeast. Here are some of the organizations providing support to people who experienced loss from the storm:

• Get in Touch: Family and friends of people in disaster-affected areas are urged to check social network sites for information about your loved ones. Visit the American Red Cross Safe and Well or Contact Loved Ones | Disaster Aid | Red Cross. 
• Text. Don’t Call: Texting leaves lines open for emergencies. 
• How to Help: Cash donations are the most effective way to help after a disaster. Visit Volunteer and Donate | FEMA.gov.

Additionally, National VOAD members and partners are assisting communities in need. National VOAD members and partners will serve these communities as long as necessary. There is no request for donations outside of cash. do not send unsolicited donated goods, and please do not self-deploy.

• North Carolina - North Carolina Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (ncvoad.org).

For the latest information about North Carolina’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4827. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

martyce.allenjr Tue, 10/08/2024 - 19:36

Disaster Recovery Center in Boone County Will Close Oct. 12

Oct. 8, 2024

DR-4787-WV-MA-014

FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597

FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Disaster Recovery Center in Boone County Will Close Oct. 12

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– A state-federal Disaster Recovery Center at Madison City Hall in Boone County is closing permanently on Oct. 12 at 6 p.m. 

The center is located at:

Boone County

Madison City Hall

255 Washington Ave 

Madison, WV 25130

Hours of operation:

Monday – Saturday, 8 a.m.– 6 p.m.

Closing Oct. 12

Survivors do not have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to register with FEMA or ask questions about the status of an application. You can call the FEMA helpline at 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.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4783, 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 Tue, 10/08/2024 - 19:33

FEMA, Federal Response Positioned to Fully Support Florida Ahead of Milton Landfall

Mandatory evacuation orders have been issued and others are underway. If local authorities issue evacuations, please listen and evacuate immediately. Your life could be at risk.

WASHINGTON -- FEMA and its federal partners are leaning forward and have pre-positioned resources to support local and state response efforts ahead of Hurricane Milton’s landfall. President Joseph R. Biden approved an Emergency Declaration for Florida on Monday, authorizing FEMA to coordinate Federal disaster relief efforts to save lives and protect the health and safety of those in the storm's path. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell is on the ground, meeting with officials across the impacted states to marshal the full capabilities of the federal government. 

This includes pre-staging a full slate of response capabilities in Florida and the region, including: seven FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams, eight FEMA Urban Search & Rescue and swift water rescue teams, three U.S. Coast Guard Swift Water Rescue teams, four Health Care System Assessment Teams, five Disaster Medical Assistance Teams and an Incident Management Team from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) temporary power teams, debris experts and a roofing team, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) debris removal and wastewater experts, 300 ambulances and 30 High Water Vehicles with ladders from the U.S. Department of Defense. Additionally, FEMA has five incident staging bases with commodities including food and water. Right now, FEMA currently has 20 million meals and 40 million liters of water in the pipeline to deploy as needed to address ongoing Helene and Milton response efforts and can expand as needed.

The National Hurricane Center forecasts Hurricane Milton will be a large and extremely dangerous hurricane when it approaches the west coast of Florida tomorrow, bringing devastating hurricane-force winds and life-threatening life surge. In addition to storm surge and extreme winds, Milton will bring heavy rain and the risk of life-threatening flooding, especially in areas with coastal and inland flooding. 

Hurricane Milton is an extremely dangerous, potentially deadly storm. Those in its path are urged to rush to complete preparations today, know how they are going to get information and listen to local officials.  

FEMA senior leaders across different regions are on the ground in Florida supporting response efforts. FEMA Region 10 Regional Administrator Willie Nunn will remain in Florida throughout the duration of Hurricane Milton. John Brogan, the Federal Coordinating Officer for Milton and Helene, will also remain in Florida. Nearly 900 staff are already supporting recovery efforts at the Joint Field Office in Tallahassee and operating across the designated counties for hurricanes Helene, Debby and Idalia. This includes more than 460 supporting Hurricane Helene recovery, more than 300 supporting Hurricane Debby recovery and more than 100 supporting Hurricane Idalia recovery.

FEMA officials are still actively supporting North Carolina, Georgia, South Carolina, Florida, Tennessee and Virginia as they respond to and recover from Hurricane Helene including more than 7,400 federal workers of which 1,500 are FEMA staff. FEMA will not divert personnel or resources from these ongoing responses. 

FEMA understands that people in the path of this storm may still be recovering from hurricanes Helene, Debby and Idalia and urges everyone to protect themselves and take care of others because time is running out to prepare for the hurricane's potentially deadly impacts.

Counties in Hurricane Milton’s path have issued evacuation orders. If you need to evacuate, please “evacuate out, not up.” People should visit FloridaDisaster.org/Know to determine if they live in an evacuation zone. 

• If you are told to evacuate, do so immediately.  
• Your gas tank and electric vehicle only need to be halfway full or halfway charged to ensure you can evacuate further inland to a safe location and away from storm surge. You may only need to travel tens of miles, not hundreds.
• If you live in a county with an evacuation order in place and need evacuation assistance, please call 1-800-729-3413 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. for the hurricane evacuation charter bus schedule. Again, this is for residents that are in areas with evacuation orders. Florida also partnered with Uber to provide free rides to a shelter using the code MILTONRELIEF.
• The state of Florida has activated the State Assistance Information Line. Residents needing information and resources can call 1-800-342-3557. There are English, Spanish & Creole speakers available to answer questions.
• A list of emergency shelters, including those that can accommodate people who need assistance and those who have pets can be found at Shelter Status | Florida Disaster.
• Additional resources and state updates on Hurricane Milton can be found by visiting FloridaDisaster.org/Updates.
• For live updates, follow FLSERT on X and Instagram and FDEM on Facebook.

Download the free FEMA App available in English and Spanish to receive real-time weather alerts and find local emergency shelters in your area.

mashana.davis Tue, 10/08/2024 - 18:13

Application Deadline Extended for FEMA Individual Assistance

Vermonters affected by both July severe weather events have until November 25, 2024, to apply for FEMA individual assistance.  

For the July 9-11 disaster, the deadline was extended from October 21 to November 25 for individuals and households in Addison, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Lamoille, Orleans, and Washington counties.

For the July 29-31 disaster, the deadline remains November 25 for individuals and households in Caledonia, Essex, and Orleans counties who were impacted. 

If you were affected by these severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides, you should apply as soon as possible. Vermonters affected by both July storms should submit separate applications for each event.

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.

adrien.urbani Tue, 10/08/2024 - 16:01

FEMA is Still Here for Hurricane Francine Survivors

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA remains in Louisiana to assist survivors recovering from Hurricane Francine. 

As of Oct. 7, more than 17,000 residents in Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes have received more than $46 million in assistance since Hurricane Francine made landfall on Sept. 11, 2024. 

This includes: 

• More than $12.6 million for Serious Needs Assistance, a one-time payment of $750 per household. This payment would be in addition to any other assistance from FEMA. The money can be used for emergency supplies like water, food, first aid, breastfeeding supplies, infant formula, diapers, personal hygiene items, or fuel for transportation. It is available to eligible survivors who apply within the first 30 days after the disaster was declared.
• More than $8.7 million for Displacement Assistance or money to help with housing needs if you cannot return to your home because of the disaster. The money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or other options.
• More than $2.5 million for the Clean and Sanitize program which is up to $300 from FEMA and the State of Louisiana to help clean up houses damaged by Francine that remain habitable.

Both Serious Needs Assistance and Displacement Assistance require an inspection to confirm eligibility before funds are provided to applicants.

In the nine parishes designated for federal assistance, Disaster Recovery Centers are open to support survivors. FEMA employees are on-hand to answer questions and assist with applications. Representatives of the U.S. Small Business Administration, the State of Louisiana and nonprofit and nongovernmental partners are also on available to assist survivors as they navigate their recovery. 

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).

DRCs are open at the following locations: 

Ascension Parish

Lemann Memorial Center

1100 Clay St.

Donaldsonville, LA 70346

Assumption Parish

Assumption High School, North Building

4880 Hwy 308

Napoleonville, LA 70390 

Jefferson Parish

Martin Luther King Community Resource Center

1042 31st St

Kenner, LA 70065

Lafourche Parish

Lafourche Parish Emergency Operations Center

4876 Hwy. 1

Raceland, LA 70394

St. Charles Parish

Alan Arterbury Building

14564 River Road

New Sarpy, LA 70078

St. John the Baptist Parish

Reserve Library

1482 Hwy 44

Reserve, LA 70084

St. James Parish

Convent Community Center

5775 Hwy 44

Convent, LA 70723

St. Mary Parish

Morgan City Municipal Auditorium
728 Myrtle St.
Morgan City, LA 70380

Terrebonne Parish

Terrebonne Parish Library

151 Library Drive

Houma, LA 70360

The centers will operate from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday. No appointment is necessary. 

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 Tue, 10/08/2024 - 15:54

Inclusive Response and Recovery: FEMA's Disability Integration Efforts During Hurricane Helene

FEMA Supporting Survivors with Disabilities Through Proactive and Inclusive Disaster Recovery Efforts

WASHINGTON -- FEMA’s Disability Integration Advisors are on the ground in areas impacted by Helene to ensure recovery resources are accessible to all survivors. At FEMA, accessibility isn’t confined to one program or specialist, it is incorporated into the execution of all our work and programs. The Disability Integration Advisors are experts in proactively addressing the disability community’s equities and work alongside FEMA leadership to guide FEMA staff in incorporating these equities into their work. Having these advisors on the ground now is crucial to developing recovery systems that are planned and executed with survivors with disabilities in mind. Their duties include ensuring the distribution of water and food factors in survivors who cannot get to reach points and those who require assistive aids to file a FEMA application receive what they need to begin the recovery process. 

At the direction of FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, Director of FEMA’s Office of Disability Integration Sherman Gillums plans to visit Helene-impacted areas to meet and collaborate with disability advocates and provide disability integration guidance to emergency managers. 

“Disability, in some form or fashion, affects just about every family in our country and it is impossible to have a successful response without keeping accessibility at the forefront,” said Director Sherman Gillums. “We’re making sure people can access the information they need to make informed decisions in their recovery. Along with our state, local and voluntary partners, we’re working to get people access to their care needs such as oxygen and prescription medications. Meeting these needs early prevents medical complications and helps preserve independence while reducing the likelihood of forced institutionalization or premature death.” 

As part of FEMA's broader efforts to ensure all survivors have access to vital recovery information, specialized teams are actively addressing the needs of the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing communities. FEMA’s Office of External Affairs’ Certified Deaf Interpreter and communication access specialists are working with disability integration specialists, non-profit partners and state agencies, such as the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services’ Division of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Emergency Preparedness team. Together, they are coordinating events to provide information on FEMA assistance, helping survivors complete the application for assistance and ensuring critical updates are communicated in accessible formats, including American Sign Language (ASL). This collaborative effort ensures that Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing survivors receive the support they need throughout the recovery process.

For those needing to apply for FEMA disaster assistance: You can apply online now or get help to apply using one of the methods below:

• Call the FEMA Helpline: 1-800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (in your time zone), 7 days a week.
  Hours may be longer during high disaster activity. If you use a video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone (CTS), or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Find a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) near you.
  DRCs are accessible and set up to provide help and answer questions after a disaster. The operating hours and services offered may vary at each DRC.
• Downloading and applying on the FEMA App. 

amy.ashbridge Mon, 10/07/2024 - 22:27

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Dixmoor

SPRINGFIELD – A FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center will open Tuesday, October 8, 2024, to help residents kickstart their recovery after the July 13 - 16, 2024, severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding.

Specialists from FEMA, the state of Illinois and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the center to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, get their questions answered in person, access other types of help that may be available and learn ways to make their property more disaster resistant.

The center will be open at the following location, days and hours:

Dixmoor Village Community Center
14336 Paulina St.
Dixmoor, IL 60426
Hours: Mon. – Sun. 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Additional recovery centers will be opening in other impacted counties soon. To find the center nearest you, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. Survivors may visit any center for assistance.

Assistance in languages other than English, including American sign language, and translated materials are available at these centers. Disaster Recovery Center locations are chosen for their accessibility, with the goal of reaching as many people as possible. Accessible parking spaces are available at all centers.

Survivors don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 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 Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4819.  

kimberly.keblish Mon, 10/07/2024 - 22:03