Disaster Recovery Centers Closed for Labor Day

FRANKFORT, Ky. – All Disaster Recovery Centers in Kentucky will be closed Monday, Sept. 2, in observance of the Labor Day holiday. The centers will reopen 10 a.m. local time, Tuesday, Sept. 3.

To find your nearest Disaster Recovery Center, you can visit fema.gov/drc. FEMA programs are accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.

Survivors in Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Christian, Clay, Greenup, Hopkins, Knox, Logan, Muhlenberg, Simpson, Todd, Trigg, Warren and Whitley counties can apply for FEMA assistance at any of the Disaster Recovery Centers. FEMA representatives can help with applications for federal assistance and provide information about other disaster recovery resources. In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will be available to assist survivors.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance or receive help with a pending application or appeal. Homeowners and renters in designated counties can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 
800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app to apply. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

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

To view information about how to apply for FEMA disaster assistance in American Sign Language with captioning and a voiceover, please check the YouTube link.

Homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, as well as news releases, fact sheets and other helpful documents in multiple languages, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Thu, 08/29/2024 - 18:42

Disaster Recovery Centers in Buena Vista, O’Brien, Palo Alto and Pottawattamie Counties to Close

The Disaster Recovery Centers in Buena Vista, O’Brien and Palo Alto will close permanently on Friday, August 30 at 6 p.m. The DRC in Pottawattamie will also close on Friday, Aug. 30 and reopen in alternate locations after Labor Day.

The DRCs are located at:          

Buena Vista County

Sioux Rapids

Municipal Pool

201 Eighth St.

Sioux Rapids, IA 50585

O’Brien County

City of Sheldon 

Community Services Center

416 Ninth St.

Sheldon, IA 51201

Palo Alto County

Iowa Lakes

Community College

3200 College Dr.

Emmetsburg, IA 51334

 

Pottawattamie County

Veterans Affairs Building 623 Sixth Ave.

Council Bluffs, IA 51501

 

Residents may visit any of the open DRCs listed below: 

Clay County

Spencer City Hall – 

Council Chambers

101 W 5th Street

Spencer, IA 51301

 

Dickinson County

Dickinson County Expo Bldg. meeting room

1602 15th St.

Spirit Lake, IA 51360

Lyon County

Forster Community Center

404 First Ave.

Rock Rapids, IA 51246

 

Sioux County

City Park Shelter House

1013 13th Ave.

Rock Valley, IA 51247

 

Woodbury County

Morningside Lutheran Church

700 S. Martha Street

Sioux City, IA 51106

 

Stay in Touch with FEMA

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Download and use the FEMA app
• Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)

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.

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. 

thomas.wise Thu, 08/29/2024 - 18:42

FEMA Opening Disaster Recovery Center in Lincoln County

SIOUX FALLS – FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center on Friday, August 30 at 7 a.m. in Canton, South Dakota to provide one-on-one assistance for people affected by the recent severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding.

Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain disaster assistance programs, help people complete or check the status of applications for federal assistance, and get information on additional resources offered by the State of South Dakota.

Disaster Recovery Center Location: 

Canton (Lincoln County) – FEMA Disaster Recovery Center

Canton Depot (Museum)

600 W. 5th St.

Canton, SD 57013

Hours of operation: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. seven days a week

More locations in affected areas will open in the coming weeks. To search for Disaster Recovery Centers, visit www.fema.gov/drc.

As of August 28, 2024, FEMA has approved over $3.6 million in assistance to individuals for the South Dakota disaster recovery.

How to Apply for Disaster Assistance

Residents can apply for disaster assistance at a Disaster Recovery Center, or in the following ways:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov for English, or DisasterAssistance.gov/es for Spanish.
• Use the FEMA mobile app in English or Spanish.
• Call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362) anytime from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week until further notice. 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

Disaster Recovery Centers are physically accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. They are equipped with assistive and adaptive technology such as assistive listening devices, resources for low vision, and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources.

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.

anthony.mayne Thu, 08/29/2024 - 18:33

Two Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Harris County August 30

AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening two Disaster Recovery Centers in Harris County Fri Aug. 30 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by Hurricane Beryl. 

Center locations:  

George H.W. Bush Community Center

6827 Cypresswood Drive

Spring, TX 77379

 

Milton Lusk Activity Center

1022 Mercury Drive

Houston, TX 77029

Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) operate from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday - Saturday, closed Sunday. Any DRC can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26 - June 5 storms and flooding. To find a center location near you, go to fema.gov/drc.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

Residents in Austin, Bowie, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Orange, Polk, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Walker, Waller and Wharton counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

To shorten wait times at the DRC, Texans are encouraged to apply to FEMA online, by phone or using the FEMA App before going to a center for follow-up help. To apply, homeowners and renters can:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
• Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 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.
• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.

To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Thu, 08/29/2024 - 18:01

In Honor of National Preparedness Month, FEMA Partners with National Council of Asian Pacific Americans to Solidify Stronger Connection with AANHPI Communities and Help Them Prepare for Disasters

WASHINGTON -- Each September, FEMA celebrates National Preparedness Month, a time to focus on preparing the nation for emergencies and disasters. FEMA’s 2023 National Household Survey showed that 65% of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander individuals (AANHPI) in the United States do not believe that taking a step to prepare will make a difference. To encourage AANHPI communities to take preparedness actions, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced last May that this year’s campaign will focus on reducing preparedness barriers for AANHPI communities. To underscore this historic effort, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell today signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA) and announced this year’s National Preparedness Month campaign theme, which is “Start a Conversation,” to close the preparedness gap and address barriers across these communities. 

“Preparing for emergencies on blue sky days can make all the difference when keeping communities safe during a disaster. For the past few years, we’ve focused on reaching communities in a culturally competent way and I am excited that this year’s National Preparedness Month will focus on preparing the AANHPI community,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “In honor of this historic commitment, we are proud to join with our partners at NCAPA to solidify our commitment to building stronger connections with the AANHPI community. We look forward to helping these communities become more prepared for future disasters.”

“NCAPA applauds the work of FEMA to ensure that Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander families across the country are prepared for emergencies and disasters. Language accessibility, in particular, is critical to reaching our communities effectively,” said Gregg Orton, executive director at NCAPA. “As extreme weather and climate events intensify, AANHPIs are particularly at risk -- and we have already seen a severe impact on our communities in places like Hawai'i. We will continue our work to ensure that all AANHPI communities can stay informed, aware and safe.”

This partnership formalizes the collaborative, strategic approach FEMA and NCAPA will take to engage trusted leaders and institutions in the AANHPI communities to build prepared communities and a resilient nation. To help AANHPI communities across the nation to take action to keep themselves, their families and neighbors safe, FEMA’s Ready Campaign’s will take the following steps to reach these communities where they are and create culturally competent and in-language messaging to help get them prepared.

Reaching Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Communities Where They Are

• Hosting Roundtables and Webinars: FEMA is coordinating and working to engage with AANHPI communities through roundtables across the country. These events will enhance FEMA’s understanding of how preparedness materials are used, identify appropriate channels to share materials and gain necessary insights to better support the needs of the AANHPI communities through culturally appropriate preparedness initiatives and messaging. To ensure that we are reaching AANHPI communities where they are and seeking their input, FEMA hosted a roundtable in Massachusetts and will host additional roundtables in Mississippi, Michigan and Colorado.

Later in September, FEMA will host the following webinars:

• Engaging Communities and Communicating Preparedness Webinar -- September 23 -- 2:30 PM EDT: FEMA and partners will discuss messaging strategies for communicators to prepare their communities for existing and emerging hazards. Presenters will share takeaways from the Risk Communications, Crisis Communications & Community Engagement Summit report and set the stage for continued convenings. Summit learnings will be applied to examples of successful community engagement and risk communications for disaster preparedness. Speakers from multiple sectors will present on a project or initiative that highlights these concepts and participate in a facilitated panel discussion. Click on the link to register for the webinar.
• Research Findings Webinar -- September 16 -- 1:30 PM EDT: The Ad Council and creative partners will present on their research and findings on the AANHPI communities. During the webinar, they will highlight how they have used data to create impactful and relevant preparedness campaigns, share lessons learned from this year’s focus groups, as well as helpful tips for communicators. This webinar is for state, local, tribal and territorial communicators. Registration link to follow. 

Creating Culturally Competent and In-Language Materials

• Providing Engaging Content: To help communities share information and start the conversation with neighbors and partners, the Ready Campaign has developed a toolkit with messaging and graphics in Chinese (simplified and traditional), Arabic, Korean, 'Ōlelo Hawai’i, Vietnamese, Tagalog and additional languages to help our partners uplift and amplify this year’s National Preparedness Month focus in a culturally competent way. Additionally, the agency is producing public service announcements featuring FEMA employees urging people in these diverse communities to take simple steps to prepare.
• Creating New Advertisements: Since 2021, FEMA and the Ad Council have created public service announcements (PSAs) designed to resonate with other communities who may also be disproportionately affected by disasters including Latino communities, Black and African American communities and older adults. Later this year, FEMA’s Ready Campaign will launch new PSAs highlighting the AANHPI communities and showcasing how the community can prepare for future disasters.

For preparedness messaging, graphics and resources for National Preparedness Month, visit: Ready.gov/September. 

amy.ashbridge Thu, 08/29/2024 - 17:35

Understanding Your FEMA Determination Letter and How to Appeal

SIOUX FALLS – If you applied for assistance from FEMA, you will receive a letter from FEMA in the mail or via email. The letter will explain your application status and how to respond. It is important to read the letter carefully because it will include the amount of any assistance FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds.

Next Steps

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 your 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 or call the FEMA 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. If you disagree with the determination, you have the right to appeal. Your appeal must be submitted within 60 days of the date of your decision letter.

You can submit your appeal and supporting documentation in the following ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov, where you can create an account and upload documents.
• In-person at a Disaster Recovery Center.
• By mail
  • FEMA Individuals & Households Program
  • National Processing Service Center
  • P. O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
• By fax
  • (800) 827-8112
  • Attention: FEMA - Individuals & Households Program

anthony.mayne Thu, 08/29/2024 - 15:17

Holiday Schedule for Disaster Recovery Centers in Florida

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– All Disaster Recovery Centers will be closed Monday, Sept. 2, in observance of Labor Day.

All centers except the one at Sarasota Christian Church will operate 9 a.m.- noon on Sunday, Sept. 1. The center at Sarasota Christian Church will be closed Sept. 1.

Centers will resume their normal schedules Sept. 3.

For Disaster Recovery Center locations, go online to fema.gov/drc.

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

 

 

 

Gaynell.Tinsey Thu, 08/29/2024 - 13:35

Disaster Recovery Centers in Hancock, Ohio Counties Closing

Aug. 28, 2024
DR-4787-WV MA-009
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Disaster Recovery Centers in Hancock, Ohio Counties Closing

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The state-federal Disaster Recovery Centers in Hancock and Ohio counties are closing permanently Friday, Aug. 30, 2024, at 6 p.m.

The centers are located at:

Hancock County Disaster Recovery Center

New Cumberland City Hall 

104 North Court St

New Cumberland, WV 26407

Hours of operation:

Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closing permanently at 6 p.m., Friday, Aug. 30, 2024

Ohio County Disaster Recovery Center

U.S. Army Reserve Center

25 Armory Dr.

Wheeling, WV 26003

Hours of operation:

Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closing permanently at 6 p.m., Friday, Aug. 30, 2024

Residents of all declared counties can continue to visit other disaster centers in West Virginia. To locate one, check the FEMA app or visit fema.gov/drc. The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Nov. 2, 2024.

If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a disaster center to learn more about next steps.  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.

Survivors do not have to visit a disaster center to register with FEMA. If it is not possible to visit one, call 800-621-FEMA (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.

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.

###

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, 08/29/2024 - 12:33

The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office Reminds Individuals to Protect their Personal and Financial Information to Avoid Fraud

SANTA FE, N.M. - The FEMA Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office (“Claims Office”) reminds individuals to be vigilant in protecting personal and financial information throughout the claims process. Bad actors may attempt to engage in fraudulent activity to gain access to claimant information and data. The Claims Office follows strict data management and security protocols when interacting with claimants and handling sensitive claimant information. 

“We strongly encourage all claimants to be vigilant in protecting themselves and their personal and financial information,” says Jay Mitchell, Director of Operations for the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office. “Individuals supporting claimants, from lawyers to Claims Office employees, will always be able to provide identification and will never request payment for services or request personal or financial information without providing identity verification.” 

If you receive a call, text, email, or in-person visit from someone claiming to work at the Claims Office or FEMA who is requesting personal and/or financial information, or if you have any suspicion of fraud, please do the following:

• Call the Claims Office Helpline: 505-995-7133.
• Call your claims navigator.
• Request email verification from the individual contacting you. Their email address should end in: @FEMA.dhs.gov.

Claimants and community members are advised to keep close hold of personal or financial information.

Anyone impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding is encouraged to start a claim with the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office if they haven’t already. Per the Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act, the deadline to submit a Notice of Loss is November 14, 2024. 

Claims Office compensation is not taxable. Receiving payment from the Claims Office will not impact eligibility for government assistance programs. Contact a tax professional for specific tax-related questions. Questions and concerns can also be addressed by calling your claim Navigator or the Claims Office Helpline at 505-995-7133.

The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is committed to meeting the needs of people impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding by providing full compensation available under the law as expeditiously as possible. At the time of publication, the FEMA Claims Office has paid $1.1 billion to claimants. 

For information and updates regarding the Claims Office, please visit the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office website at fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak. You can also follow our Facebook page and turn notifications on to stay up to date about the claims process, upcoming deadlines and other program announcements at facebook.com/HermitsPeakCalfCanyonClaimsOffice.  

erika.suzuki Wed, 08/28/2024 - 20:26

Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Rolling into Butler, Logan and Whitley Counties

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Three mobile Disaster Recovery Centers will open in Christian, Knox and Warren counties to assist Kentuckians who experienced loss from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides. 

These Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers will be available for a limited time at the following locations.

• Butler County (Mobile DRC): Cooperative Extension Service Office, 102 Parkway Ln., Morgantown, KY 42261. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Tuesday through Saturday, Sept. 3-7.   
• Logan County (Mobile DRC): Logan County Extension Office, 255 John Paul Rd., Russellville, KY 42276. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Tuesday through Saturday, Sept. 3-7.   
• Whitley County (Mobile DRC): Whitley County Cooperative Extension Office, 4275 N. Highway 25 W., Williamsburg, KY, 40769. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Tuesday through Thursday, Sept. 3-6, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Eastern Time, Friday, Sept. 6.  This DRC will end operations at 5 p.m. on Sept. 6.

In addition, four other Disaster Recovery Centers are also open: 

• Caldwell County (DRC): Caldwell County Emergency Operations Center, 102 Northfield Drive, Princeton, KY 42445. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday.
• Greenup County (DRC): Flatwoods Senior Center, 2511 Reed St., Flatwoods, KY 41139. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday.
• Hopkins County (DRC): Madison Square Shopping Center, 114 Madison Square Drive, Madisonville, KY 42431. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday.
• Muhlenberg County (DRC): Muhlenberg County Training Center, 61 Career Way, Central City, KY 42330. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday.

All Disaster Recovery Centers will be closed for the Labor Day Holiday Monday, Sept 2 and will reopen at 10 a.m. local time, Tuesday, Sept.3.

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

Kentucky homeowners and renters in Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Christian, Clay, Greenup, Hopkins, Knox, Logan, Muhlenberg, Simpson, Todd, Trigg, Warren and Whitley counties can apply for FEMA assistance at any of the Disaster Recovery Centers in Kentucky. FEMA representatives will help with applications for federal assistance and provide information about other disaster recovery resources. 

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

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration and agencies from the Commonwealth will be available to assist survivors.

Other Ways To Apply for FEMA Assistance

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. Survivors can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app to apply. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

Homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, as well as news releases, fact sheets and other helpful documents in multiple languages, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4and at facebook.com/fema.

To view information about how to apply for FEMA disaster assistance in American Sign Language with captioning and a voiceover, please check the YouTube link.

sandra.habib Wed, 08/28/2024 - 20:25

FEMA To Visit Additional County to Assist Storm Survivors

FEMA teams will begin visiting neighborhoods within Scott County to help survivors impacted by the severe storms, flooding, straight-line winds and tornadoes that occurred between June 16 and July 23, 2024. 

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams work in coordination with state and county emergency management.

FEMA can provide money to eligible applicants for help with serious needs, paying for a temporary place to live, home repairs and other needs not covered by insurance. The teams help survivors apply with FEMA and address immediate and emerging needs. They also provide application status updates and referrals to community resources.

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

How to Apply with FEMA

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Download and use the FEMA app
• FEMA works with every household on a case-by-case basis.

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

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. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish).

Types of FEMA Assistance Available

FEMA is offering a wide variety of help to people affected by the recent tornadoes. Every homeowner and renter who suffered damage is encouraged to apply.

FEMA can provide money to eligible applicants for help with serious needs, paying for a temporary place to live, home repairs and other needs not covered by insurance.

Money provided by FEMA does not have to be repaid and may include:

• Serious Needs: Money for lifesaving and life-sustaining items, including water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation.
• Displacement: 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 while you look for a rental unit.
• Home Repair: Money to help you repair your home damaged by the disaster. The money can also help with pre- existing damage to parts of your home where the disaster caused further damage.
• Rental Assistance: Money you can use to rent housing if you are displaced from your home because of the disaster.
• Personal Property: Money to help you repair or replace appliances, room furnishings, and a personal or family computer damaged by the disaster. This can also include money for books, uniforms, tools, medical equipment and other items required for school or work, including self-employment.
• Child Care: Money to help you pay for increased childcare expenses caused by the disaster.
• Transportation: Money to help you repair or replace a vehicle damaged by the disaster when you don’t have another vehicle you can use.
• Moving and Storage Expenses: Money to help you move and store personal property from your home to prevent additional damage.

thomas.wise Wed, 08/28/2024 - 20:23

FEMA Approves Utah Enhanced State Hazard Mitigation Plan

DENVER – On August 9, 2024, the Utah Enhanced State Hazard Mitigation Plan was approved by FEMA Region 8, marking a significant milestone for the state of Utah. Utah is the fourth state in Region 8 to become enhanced, joining Colorado, North Dakota and South Dakota, and the sixteenth state in the nation to achieve the enhanced designation.  

The Utah Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management served as the lead in developing the plan, while incorporating input from other state, local, tribal, and federal agencies, the private sector, and the general public. The new plan serves as Utah’s roadmap to reduce natural hazard risk and vulnerabilities in the face of climate change and other future conditions, such as changes in land use, development, and demographics. It also demonstrates the State’s whole-of-government commitment to holistic mitigation and details the integration of risk reduction programs, initiatives, and other planning efforts across partners, staff, and offices. 

“Utah’s plan showcases the state’s mitigation capacity, creativity, resources, and skills to build resilience for communities across the state – and goes above and beyond the minimum standard state hazard mitigation plan requirements,” said FEMA Region 8 Administrator Nancy Dragani. “I want to extend my sincerest congratulations to the state of Utah for achieving this enhanced designation and for continuing to be a leader in hazard mitigation across the nation.” 

FEMA provides additional incentives to states and tribes through enhanced mitigation plans. A state or tribe with a FEMA-approved enhanced mitigation plan can receive more funding under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) after a disaster declaration. Those with an enhanced plan receive HMGP funds based on 20% of the total estimated eligible Stafford Act disaster assistance, versus 15% for those with non-enhanced mitigation plans. This means Utah will receive 20% of estimated eligible Stafford Act assistance instead of 15%. Enhanced states share the responsibility for reducing risk across state agencies and departments. This “sharing the load” reduces risk more efficiently. It also connects the right resources with community needs. 

This enhanced status strengthens Utah’s ability to protect lives and property. Congratulations to State of Utah Division of Emergency Management (UT DEM) and all the partners that helped to make this historic achievement possible.

morgan.dzakowic Wed, 08/28/2024 - 19:25

Alachua, Jefferson Counties Eligible for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Debby

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Homeowners and renters in Alachua and Jefferson counties who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Debby can apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. Previously, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties were authorized for assistance to households.

The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. The deadline for applications is Oct. 9, 2024.

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/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

vernice.casey Wed, 08/28/2024 - 17:54

All FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Will Be Closed on Labor Day

All FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in Iowa will be closed Monday, September 2, in observance of Labor Day.

The centers will reopen on Tuesday, September 3 at 8 a.m. Before visiting a DRC, you can apply for FEMA disaster assistance 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.

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

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. 

thomas.wise Wed, 08/28/2024 - 17:50

Preliminary Flood Maps for Trinity County, Texas, Ready for Public View

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

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

This is Trinity County’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. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development and flood insurance.

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 Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal
• The Base Level Engineering-to-FIRM Viewer at https://webapps.usgs.gov/fema/ble_firm

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 Wed, 08/28/2024 - 14:54

FEMA Releases National Resilience Guidance to Build the Resilient Nation Communities Need and Deserve

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced the release of FEMA’s National Resilience Guidance. The Guidance focuses on actionable principles to create a more resilient nation from identifying threats to working collaboratively towards sustainable solutions. 

“Building resilience enables communities to respond faster and recover more effectively,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “To truly build nationwide resilience, it requires a multi-pronged approach and dedicated effort across the whole community. This new National Resilience Guidance provides critical concepts and key principles that communities can apply to strengthen resilience, setting the foundation for building more resilient communities.”

A resilient nation is created and sustained through thriving communities with secure social, economic, environmental, housing, infrastructure and institutional systems. The Guidance offers a unifying vision of resilience and the principles and steps all communities and organizations can take to increase their resilience in every sector and discipline. It explains the critical relationship between chronic community stressors and shocks. Importantly, the Guidance addresses resilience actions that are scalable for implementation by all stakeholders.

As FEMA continues to highlight 2024 as the Year of Resilience, communities will be able to use this new flexible and scalable National Resilience Guidance as a call to action for everyone from individuals to organizations to comprehensively implement resilience activities and protect themselves against future shocks and hazards, like disasters. 

The Guidance was developed through extensive stakeholder outreach and input from across federal, state, local, tribal, territorial governments, non-profit associations, emergency managers, faith organizations and community groups. The resulting guidance promotes a common understanding of resilience and addresses resilience planning and implementation across communities. 

The National Resilience Guidance is available at National Resilience Guidance.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 08/27/2024 - 20:23

Students in Kentucky May be Eligible for FEMA Assistance After May 21-27 Severe Storms

FRANKFORT, Ky. — College and university students in one of these Kentucky counties, Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Christian, Clay, Greenup, Hopkins, Knox, Logan, Muhlenberg, Simpson, Todd, Trigg, Warren and Whitley, may be eligible for disaster assistance. Students may qualify for a grant under FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for essential personal property and other needs.

Students do not need to be permanent residents of the designated counties to be eligible for assistance, but the property damage or loss must have occurred in a disaster designated county.

FEMA grants can help pay for disaster-related expenses that do not have to be repaid, such as:

• Financial assistance for immediate housing needs.
• Replacement or repair of necessary personal property, such as room furnishings, a computer damaged by the disaster, books and other items required for school.
• Replacement or repair of tools and other job-related equipment required for those who are self-employed.
• Replacement or repair of primary vehicles.
• Medical and dental bills as a result of the disaster.
• Financial assistance to help move and store personal property, 

How To Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance

• Visit a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center. To find your nearest Disaster Recovery Center, visit fema.gov/drc.
• Call FEMA at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Apply at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download and use the FEMA app.

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

Homeowners, renters, businesses, and nonprofit organizations can apply for long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at sba.gov/disaster.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, as well as news releases, fact sheets and other helpful documents in multiple languages, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA at x.com/femaregion4and facebook.com/fema.

To view information about how to apply for FEMA disaster assistance in American Sign Language with captioning and a voiceover, please check the YouTube link.

sandra.habib Tue, 08/27/2024 - 19:01

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Waterbury

A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open in Waterbury, at the Waterbury Armory from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The joint DRC, a temporary facility established in partnership between Waterbury, the state of Vermont and FEMA, will have disaster assistance specialists available to help disaster survivors apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, upload documents needed for their application and answer questions in person.

The DRC is located at:

Waterbury Armory

294 Armory Blvd

Waterbury, VT 05676

Sunday – Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

You do not need an appointment to visit a DRC.

Other DRCs open include:

• Barre Auditorium - 20 Auditorium Hill, Barre, VT 05641
• Goddard College - 123 Pitkin Road, Plainfield, VT 05667

All locations are open Sunday – Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. 

FEMA specialists and representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which can provide low-interest disaster loans to survivors, will be on hand at all DRCs to discuss available assistance. 

Those affected by the disaster do not have to visit a DRC in order to apply. Survivors can also register in one of the following ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. The FEMA website is accessible and includes language translation options. 
• By phone at 1-800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. 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 10 p.m. seven days a week.
• Download FEMA’s Mobile App. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 1-833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).

adrien.urbani Tue, 08/27/2024 - 18:56

West Virginia storm survivors get extension for FEMA registration

Aug. 27, 2024
DR-4787-WV NR-010
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

News release

West Virginia storm survivors get extension for FEMA registration

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The deadline for West Virginia storm survivors to register for federal assistance has been extended to Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) granted the extension at the request of West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice, citing a continued flow of new applications for federal assistance in the wake of the April 11-12 floods, landslides, and mudslides. 

FEMA disaster grants are available to homeowners and renters in the eight storm-impacted counties named in the presidential disaster declaration of July 3: Boone, Hancock, Kanawha, Marshall, Ohio, Roane, Wetzel and Wood. 

Disaster assistance for individuals may include money to help homeowners and renters with temporary housing, essential home repairs, personal property replacement, and serious disaster-related needs. Disaster assistance money is not taxable income and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicare and other federal and state programs. Disaster assistance does not have to be repaid to the federal government. 

One of FEMA’s federal partners in disaster recovery, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), has also extended its deadline to Nov. 2 for filing physical disaster loan applications for businesses, homeowners and renters. These long-term, low-interest loans may help with the repair and replacement of disaster-damaged property and real estate, supplies and inventory and homeowners’ and renters’ personal items. 

To apply with FEMA, homeowners and renters can:

• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. West Virginia residents can visit a disaster recovery center to get help registering for FEMA disaster assistance. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit fema.gov/drc. 
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA app for mobile devices.
• Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern. Language translation is available. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA with your number for that service when you apply. 

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 Tue, 08/27/2024 - 18:40

FEMA Establishes National Disaster & Emergency Management University, New Education for Emergency Managers

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA announced the agency is establishing a new university called National Disaster & Emergency Management University (NDEMU) to help train emergency managers to keep pace with the rapidly changing threat environment. 

Emergency management, as a practice, is constantly shifting to address the nation’s most pressing threats, risks and hazards from climate change to cyber to pandemic preparedness. To better address these needs, FEMA is announcing that its Emergency Management Institute (EMI), located in Emmitsburg, Maryland, is expanding into this new university and providing an expanded curriculum to help emergency managers continue to build capacity today to meet the hazards of tomorrow. EMI was originally founded in 1951 as the Civil Defense Staff College.

“Emergency managers are our nation’s chief problem solvers,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “The National Disaster & Emergency Management University provides an opportunity for emergency managers to further their professional development and prepare to solve an expanding set of challenges in an ever-changing threat landscape. This is a groundbreaking moment that will be transformational for the field of emergency management.”

By growing into a university model, NDEMU will offer comprehensive education and training programs spanning various disciplines within disaster and emergency management across the entirety of an emergency manager’s career, closing an identified gap in mid- and advanced career professional development that exists between EMI’s traditional technical training and the theoretical-based education programs. The NDEMU will partner more with other higher education institutions and the disaster research community to ensure emergency managers receive the most relevant and updated knowledge in the face of the ever-changing risk landscape.   

Every day, FEMA programs increase disaster resilience for all by deepening the nation’s understanding of risk, investing in resilience through risk reduction, recovery projects and transferring risk through insurance. Developing NDEMU as an institution now, during the Year of Resilience, allows FEMA to elevate the profession of emergency management by training, educating and resourcing a skilled emergency management workforce able to address future risks and meet the goals needed to achieve a resilient Nation.

The new NDEMU will include three schools: 

• The EMI will continue as a branded school within NDEMU to provide foundational training and development for early career emergency managers.
• The School of Disaster Leadership will focus programs for mid- and advanced career emergency managers seeking professional development and continuing education. It will emphasize leadership development, practical learning, research and idea generation. It will include programs like the Vanguard Executive Crisis Leaders Fellowship and targeted certificate programs.
• The School of National Resilience will serve as a bridge between the emergency management profession and whole community partners within the field of emergency management. It will combine training on emergency management with additional focus on risk reduction for a broad sector of hazards from public health, climate and national security risks.

FEMA continues to provide excellent training daily through our partners such as the Center for Domestic Preparedness, National Domestic Preparedness Consortium, Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security and others. Visit FEMA National Disaster & Emergency Management University (NDEMU) to learn more about NDEMU.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 08/27/2024 - 18:04