How to Apply for FEMA Assistance after Nebraska Tornadoes

LINCOLN, Neb. – FEMA funding is now available to homeowners and renters in Douglas and Washington counties. This comes after President Joe Biden approved Gov. Jim Pillen’s request for a major disaster declaration for devastating tornadoes that struck Nebraska April 25-27.

FEMA works with every household on a case-by-case basis. Here’s how to apply:

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

FEMA can provide money that does not have to be repaid for:

• Serious needs, such as food, water, medicine, baby formula
• Displacement, if you can’t stay in your home because of the damage.
• Home repairs and rental assistance
• Other needs, such as replacing personal property

Only one registration per household is needed. When you apply, have the following information available:

• Address with Zip Code
• Condition of your damaged home
• Insurance information, if available
• Social Security Number of one member of the household
• Phone number where you can be contacted
• Address where you can get mail or an email address
• Bank account information for direct deposit of funds

By law, FEMA is not allowed to pay for losses covered by insurance, so please stay in close contact with your insurance agency. If insurance will not cover all your losses, you are encouraged to apply. You can apply whether you have insurance or not.

In coming days and in coordination with state and local emergency management, FEMA will have staff visiting impacted neighborhoods. They will carry official ID and will not ask for money. This will include staff who are assessing damage and providing information to residents.

amy.ashbridge Sat, 05/04/2024 - 22:04

Oklahomans -- Be Alert to Fraud After a Disaster

OKLAHOMA CITY – Survivors should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft after a disaster. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors.

If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge to create a FEMA application. If so, please inform the inspector that you did not apply for FEMA assistance so they can submit a request to stop further processing of the application.

If you did not apply for assistance, but receive a letter from FEMA, please call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline will submit a request to stop any further processing of that application.

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

Scams

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams, housing inspectors and other officials are working in areas impacted by the storms. They carry official identification badges with photo IDs. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.

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

Be wary of unexpected phone calls or visits to your home from people claiming to be FEMA housing inspectors or people claiming they work for FEMA. Agency representatives will have a photo-ID badge and your FEMA application number.

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, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff's department or contact the Office of the Oklahoma Attorney General Consumer Protection Unit at 405-521-2029 or toll-free at 833-681-1895 or by email at ConsumerProtection@oag.ok.gov.

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 visit fema.gov/disaster/4776. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Sat, 05/04/2024 - 12:41

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Nebraska

WASHINGTON-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Nebraska to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes from April 25 – 27, 2024. 

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Douglas and Washington counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. 

Federal funding is also available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for debris removal and emergency work by the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes in Douglas and Washington counties. 

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide. 

Andrew P. Meyer has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments. 

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.  

amy.ashbridge Fri, 05/03/2024 - 21:02

FEMA Recognizes National Building Safety Month During May: Highlights Building Professionals Who Make Our Built Environment More Resilient

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell marks the 44th annual campaign to raise awareness about building safety.

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. issued a proclamation this week to recognize and reaffirm the nation's commitment to make our buildings stronger, more sustainable and resilient in the wake of increasing climate related threats. It emphasizes the government's dedication to promoting safety measures and serves as a call to action for individuals and communities to prioritize building safety and work together towards making communities safer and more resilient.

National Building Safety Month occurs every May and stresses the importance of modern building codes and strong building code enforcement. Led by the International Code Council, FEMA supports these efforts and is committed to the work of keeping our nation’s buildings safe and built to last for generations to come.

The proclamation also recognizes FEMA’s National Initiative to Advance Building Codes which is an interagency task force including 19 federal agencies.  These agencies oversee more than 100 federal programs that impact, on average, over $600 billion in federal funding or financing of construction each year. These federal efforts are providing new means for individuals and communities across the nation to adopt the latest natural hazard-resistant building codes, improve climate resilience and reduce energy costs.  

FEMA continues to implement its building codes strategy to integrate building codes and standards across the agency’s programs and to strengthen nationwide capability for superior building performance. When a community adopts and enforces hazard-resistant building codes and standards, a baseline foundation is laid for increased resilience and a culture of preparedness by making mitigation a standard practice. 

Today, 31% of hazard-prone communities have adopted current, natural hazard-resistant building codes. There is much room to increase these numbers in local jurisdictions that are more vulnerable to natural hazards such as fires, floods and storms. For information on the current codes adopted in your community for damaging winds, hurricane winds, tornado, floods and seismic hazards risk, visit and research FEMA’s Building Codes Adoption Tracker.

As FEMA continues its focus on a Year of Resilience, the five themed weeks support the agency’s focus to build local capacity to withstand tomorrow’s hazards. The campaign – Mission Possible – kicks off with an introduction to building safety and to understand the mission of Building Safety Month and how building safety affects us all. The weekly themes include:

Understanding the Mission

Includes an introduction of building safety, what Building Safety Month is and how building safety affects us all.

Preparing a Building Safety Plan

Highlights available educational resources (water/fire, sustainability & resiliency/disaster preparedness), including downloadable brochures, for building safety tips and best practices at home and in your community.

Learning from the Pros

Shines a spotlight on building safety professionals, including what they do, how to work with them and how to become one yourself.

Engaging Your Community

Includes information on how to advocate for building safety in your community, including actionable tips on how to be a proponent of building safety and ways to get kids involved.

Celebrating Success in Building Safety

Highlighting individuals and communities who are making a difference in building safety (editorial spotlights), including sharing the current year's Building Safety Month celebrations and events.

Join FEMA and the International Code Council and support the National Building Safety Month efforts on social media with #BuildingSafetyMonth2024. 

Visit FEMA’s website for more information about the agency’s building codes efforts. 
 

amy.ashbridge Fri, 05/03/2024 - 20:58

Tshuav Ib Lub Lim Tiam Ntxiv Kom Tso Npe Rau Kev Pab Rov Zoo Ntawm Kev Puas Tsuaj; Hnub Kawg Yog Lub Tsib Hlis Ntuj Tim 8

LANSING, Mich. – Cov neeg dim Lub Yim Hli Ntuj Tim 24-26, 2023 cov cua daj cua dub, khaub zeeg cua thiab dej los nyab nyob rau hauv cov cheeb tsam Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland thiab Wayne counties tshuav ib lub lim tiam ntxiv kom tso npe rau tseem fwv kev pab.

Lub caij tso npe rau tseem fwv kev pab rov zoo ntawm kev puas tsuaj yuav kaw thaum Hnub Wednesday, Lub Tsib Hlis Ntuj Tim 8, 2024.

Yog koj muaj nqi kho tsev los rov zoo ntawm kob nag cua thiab koj nyob los yog muaj ib lub lag luam rau hauv cov cheeb tsam Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland thiab Wayne counties, ces koj yuav tau tso npe sai li sai tau. FEMA kev pab pub tau nyiaj txiag thiab SBA muaj nyiaj qiv rau tsev nyob ib ntus, nqi kho tsev  thiab lwm yam kev toob kas ntawm kev puas tsuaj.

Kom thiaj tso npe, mus saib DisasterAssistance.gov, siv qhov FEMA App los yog hu mus rau FEMA Tus Xov Tooj Pab rau ntawm 800-621-3362 nruab lub sij hawm 7 moo sawv ntxov thiab 11 moo tsaus ntuj. Muaj neeg tshaj lij uas txawj hais ntau yam lus khoom pab. Yog koj siv cov cuab yeej pab tham xov tooj xws li kaw duab thaum tham xov tooj (VRS), sau cov lus uas hais los yos lwm yam lub cuab yeej, ces muab koj tus xov tooj rau txoj kev pab cuam ntawd pub rau FEMA thaum koj tso npe.

Kom thiaj kawm ntxiv txog kev rov zoo ntawm kev puas tsuaj nyob rau hauv lub xeev Michigan, mus saib www.fema.gov/disaster/4757.

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FEMA tsis xaiv neeg raws li lawv haiv neeg, nqaij xim, haiv neeg, poj niam los txiv neej, nyiam poj niam los txiv neej, kev ntseeg ntuj, hnub nyoog, qhov xiam oob qhab, txawj hais lus Meskas, los yog vim muaj nyiaj los tsis muaj. FEMA muab kev pab dawb rau tib neeg kom pab lawv sib tiv tauj nrog peb thiab to taub txog FEMA cov khoos kas: 

• Muaj ntaub ntawv rau cov dig muag kov, tsiaj ntawv loj, los yog rau neeg mloog. 
• Muaj ntaub ntawv fai fab uas yooj yim nkag nyob rau ntawm FEMA qhov vev xaib. 
• Cov kws txawj piav tes. 
• Cov kws txhais lus ua ntau yam lus. 
• Muaj ntaub ntawv uas muab sau ua lwm yam lus. 

Yog koj xav tau kev pab kom siv FEMA ib lub khoos kas los yog txoj kev pab cuam, los yog ib lub khoos kas los txoj kev pab cuam uas FEMA pub nyiaj rau los sis xav qhia kev txhawj xeeb los kev tsis txaus siab vim raug ntsej muag xaiv, thov hu mus rau FEMA rau ntawm (833) 285-7448 [Nias 1 rau Lus Meskas, 2 rau Lus Mev, 3 rau Lwm Yam Lus] los sis xa email mus rau FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov. 

larissa.hale Fri, 05/03/2024 - 19:08

Disaster Assistance Teams Meeting Survivors Where They Are

OKLAHOMA CITY – After a disaster, recovering from and dealing with loss can be overwhelming. To ensure survivors can apply for assistance, FEMA sends teams of Disaster Survivor Assistants (DSA) into disaster-affected neighborhoods, often going door-to-door to assist survivors. Teams began visiting neighborhoods in Sulphur on Wednesday.

Assistance teams may help survivors apply for federal assistance, identify potential needs and help make connections with local, state, federal and voluntary agencies.

These teams will be easily recognizable by their official photo identification (ID). If you meet people offering assistance, first ask to see their ID before giving any personal information. They may have FEMA clothing, but that can be easily imitated. 

These teams can help survivors in many ways including:

• Checking the status of an application already in the system and making minor changes to applications.
• Making callouts to faith-based organizations, community-based organizations, private sector (businesses) and public libraries that may have the capability to distribute disaster-related information to survivors in the impacted counties.
• Identifying organizations providing disaster-related services and/or resources to the public for immediate and long-term recovery.
• Gathering situational awareness about impacts to communities.
• Providing flyers explaining how to apply for disaster assistance.
• Providing civil rights and disability integration assistance information to ensure equal access.

If residents have not already done so and they live in Hughes, Love or Murray counties, they are encouraged to apply for assistance. There are several ways to apply:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The Helpline is available daily from 7 a.m. to 12 a.m. (midnight) CDT. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish).
• Download the FEMA mobile app (also in Spanish), available at Google Play or the Apple App Store.

Team members will continue visiting neighborhoods damaged by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding that began April 25. Representatives may also attend community events or meetings upon request.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4776. Follow FEMA Region 6 at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Fri, 05/03/2024 - 17:14

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Ohio

WASHINGTON – FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Ohio to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by tornadoes on March 14, 2024.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Auglaize, Crawford, Darke, Delaware, Hancock, Licking, Logan, Mercer, Miami, Richland and Union counties.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Toney L. Raines has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments. 

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.  

amy.ashbridge Thu, 05/02/2024 - 21:53

FEMA Assistance Available for Oklahoma Survivors following April Tornadoes

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans who sustained damage from severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding beginning April 25 may be eligible for disaster assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. Eligible applicants may qualify for rental assistance, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other eligible expenses related to storm damage. Currently, survivors living in Hughes, Love or Murray counties may be eligible for disaster assistance. Additional counties may be added at a later date. 

Rental Assistance for Temporary Housing
If you currently reside in Hughes, Love or Murray counties and suffered damage to your primary residence, FEMA may be able to provide rent for a temporary place to live while you are displaced. Rental assistance is intended to cover monthly rent, security deposit and cost of essential utilities such as electricity and water.

Lodging Expense Reimbursement
FEMA may provide lodging expenses reimbursement for you if:

• You incurred out-of-pocket temporary lodging expenses and
• You had damage to your home because of the severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding.

Major Repairs and Out-of-Pocket Expenses
FEMA’s Individuals and Household Program assistance is intended to help jumpstart your recovery. Here are some examples of basic needs:

• Home Repair Assistance may be provided to homeowners to repair the structural parts of your home. This includes windows, doors, floors, walls, ceilings, cabinets, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system (HVAC), utilities (electrical, plumbing and gas systems) and entrance ways. FEMA may also reimburse for the actual cost to repair or replace your furnace, private well and septic system that was damaged or destroyed by the disaster.
• Other Needs Assistance may be provided to homeowners and renters for eligible uninsured property or items your insurance doesn’t cover, such as:
  • Serious Needs Assistance for lifesaving and life-sustaining items, including water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation.
  • Displacement Assistance for immediate housing needs to help survivors who cannot return home right after the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding.
  • Medical and dental expenses; funeral and burial costs; replacement of household furniture and appliances; specialized tools you must have for your job; a personal computing device, educational materials and moving, storage and other necessary expenses related to the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding.
  • Personally owned, disaster-damaged cars and trucks in need of replacement or repairs.
  • The purchase or rental expense of generators used at a primary residence to power medically required equipment necessary for an existing medical condition.

Apply to FEMA
You can apply to FEMA in several ways including online at DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA App for mobile devices, or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Calls are accepted every day from 6 a.m. to 12 a.m. (midnight) CDT. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. 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/4776. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/. 

alexa.brown Thu, 05/02/2024 - 21:49

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Waldo County

The State of Maine and FEMA have opened a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Waldo County. The DRC is a temporary facility established to help survivors recover from the severe storms and flooding from January 9-13. The location of the DRC is:

Former Superior Courthouse
137 Church Street
Belfast, ME 04915
The hours of operation for all centers are 9:00 am–5:00 pm, Monday-Saturday, closed Sundays.  

Other DRCs currently open to assist survivors:

York County: Wells Fire Station, 585 N Berwick Rd, Wells, ME 04090

Hancock County: Moore Community Center, 125 State St, Ellsworth, ME 04605

Cumberland County: Old Orr’s Island Schoolhouse, 1594 Harpswell Islands Road, Orr’s Island, ME  04066

Washington County: University of Maine, Torrey Building, 40 University Drive, Machias, ME  04654

 

DRCs provide disaster survivors with information from Maine state agencies, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, update applications and learn about other resources available.

DRCs are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.

 

It is not necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply. Survivors can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call 800-621-3362. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 05/02/2024 - 15:47

FEMA Approves More Than $1.3 Million for City of Rolling Fork

MADISON, Miss. – FEMA has approved $1,308,485 to reimburse the city of Rolling Fork for debris removal following the March 24-25, 2023, severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes.

The severe storms left debris throughout the city and created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the residents. The work completed included the removal of:

• 192,742 cubic yards of construction and demolition debris
• 7,841 cubic yards of vegetative debris
• 4,869 cubic yards of concrete debris

All work and expenses took place between May 26 and Sept. 22, 2023.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grant reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster-damaged public facilities and infrastructure. 

For the latest information on recovery from the March tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4697. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4.

Gaynell.Tinsey Thu, 05/02/2024 - 15:08

One Week Left to Apply for Disaster Assistance; Deadline is May 8

LANSING, Mich. – Survivors of the Aug. 24-26, 2023, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties have just one week left to apply for federal assistance. 

The registration period for federal disaster assistance ends on Wednesday, May 8, 2024.

If you had storm-related expenses and live or own a business in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties, you should apply as soon as possible. FEMA assistance can provide grants and SBA may offer loans for temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster-related needs.

To apply, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. 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 when you apply.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757.

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FEMA does not treat people differently because of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. FEMA provides free aids and services to people to help them communicate with us and understand FEMA programs: 

• Information available in Braille, large print, or audio. 
• Information available in accessible electronic formats on FEMA’s website. 
• Qualified sign language interpreters. 
• Qualified multilingual interpreters. 
• Information written in other languages. 

 

If you need assistance to access a FEMA program or service or a program or service funded by FEMA or want to report a concern or complaint of discrimination, please contact FEMA at (833) 285-7448 [Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish, 3 for the Language Line] or email FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov.

darrell.habisch Wed, 05/01/2024 - 19:03

FEMA Seeking Public Comment on Alerting and Notification Plan in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Alerting and Notification exercise scheduled for the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station

PHILADELPHIA – The Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will host a public meeting to seek public comment on a significant plan change to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s alert and notification system for nuclear power plant emergencies within the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station emergency planning zone.  FEMA will conduct an exercise to evaluate the new system on May 9, 2024. 

“FEMA is seeking the public’s comments on the proposed plan change to replace sirens with wireless emergency alerts via cellular phones as the primary alert and notification system.  This drill will test the government’s ability to alert and notify the public with the new system in the event of an emergency at the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station,” said MaryAnn Tierney, Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 3. “We will assess the plan changes that replace the sirens with wireless emergency alerts received through cellular phones within the emergency planning zone of the Susquehanna Steam Electric Station.” 

FEMA will use the exercise results to make its decision on approving the significant plan change. 

FEMA will hear from members of the public and present preliminary findings of the exercise during a public meeting at 10:00 a.m. on May 10, 2024. The meeting will be conducted Talen Energy East Mountain Business Center, 1190 East Mountain Boulevard, Wilkes-Barre, PA.  Planned speakers include representatives from FEMA.
At the public meeting, FEMA may request that questions or comments be submitted in writing for review and response. Written comments may also be submitted after the meeting by emailing FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov or by mail to:

MaryAnn Tierney
Regional Administrator
FEMA Region 3
615 Chestnut Street, 6th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19106

FEMA created the Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) Program to (1) ensure the health and safety of citizens living around commercial nuclear power plants would be adequately protected in the event of a nuclear power plant accident and (2) inform and educate the public about radiological emergency preparedness.

REP Program responsibilities cover only “offsite” activities, that is, state and local government emergency planning and preparedness activities that take place beyond the nuclear power plant boundaries. Onsite activities continue to be the responsibility of the NRC.

More information about FEMA IPAWS/WEA can be found at Integrated Public Alert & Warning System.

Additional information on FEMA’s REP Program is available online at FEMA.gov/Radiological-Emergency-Preparedness-Program. 

amy.ashbridge Wed, 05/01/2024 - 18:54

One Week Left to Apply for Disaster Assistance; Deadline is May 8

LANSING, Mich. – Survivors of the Aug. 24-26, 2023, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties have just one week left to apply for federal assistance. 

The registration period for federal disaster assistance ends on Wednesday, May 8, 2024.

If you had storm-related expenses and live or own a business in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties, you should apply as soon as possible. FEMA assistance can provide grants and SBA may offer loans for temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster-related needs.

To apply, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. 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 when you apply.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757. 

kirsten.chambers Wed, 05/01/2024 - 17:44

FEMA Continues to Streamline Recovery in Puerto Rico, Enhances Resilient Outcomes and Equitable Solutions

The Puerto Rico Region 2 Interim Progress Report was published today and highlights recovery on the ground and FEMA’s ongoing efforts to build back better.

Washington -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell today announced the agency published its first-ever Puerto Rico Interim Progress Report to highlight progress on the island after hurricanes María and Fiona, and the earthquakes in 2020. FEMA’s efforts to help rebuild are paving the way for an unprecedented recovery and, in coordination with the Government of Puerto Rico, the pace of the recovery has gained momentum in the last several years as new infrastructure, permanent repairs and reconstruction can be seen across the island.

“Collectively, we are working on over 11,000 recovery projects from these disasters that will dramatically impact the everyday lives of residents,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “With each site that is rebuilt, we are investing in Puerto Rico’s economy and helping to build the Island’s resilience to severe weather events. This critical work will also help boost the Island’s recovery and response capabilities for future generations—ensuring communities are safer and more secure in this increasingly challenging disaster landscape.” 

FEMA is maximizing this historic opportunity to ensure the island is built back in a way that is stronger and can lessen the impacts of other natural disasters in the future. By partnering with communities and local leaders to understand their vulnerabilities, FEMA is leading the way to find equitable solutions that help advance equity and climate adaptation and ensure recovery is community-driven. Through funding to implement current building codes across the island and other rebuilding projects to mitigate historic flooding in the Caño Martín Peña community in San Juan, for example, FEMA is ensuring recovery efforts result in resilient outcomes. Residents in this community will benefit from improvements to the sanitary sewer system and stormwater infrastructure in the area, among other significant permanent work.

The entire federal family is helping to boost island’s resiliency efforts through innovative practices that will strengthen communities and better serve the island’s residents. Working closely with other federal agencies, recovery partners and the communities, FEMA is focused on ensuring efforts on the ground are community-driven and support the unique needs and challenges of residents. Partnerships with the University of Puerto Rico to assess hurricane damage along the island’s coast and the U.S. Department of Energy to help the island reach 100% renewable energy by 2050, among others. are helping inform the way forward through the lens of climate change and climate adaptability.  

“Puerto Rico continues to recover due to our workforce’s commitment to the task of rebuilding a resilient island.  While preserving its historic and environmental heritage, they take great pride in knowing that their efforts contribute to building a strong, beautiful and resilient island for future generations,” said Regional Administrator David Warrington, FEMA Region 2.  “With each project that is rebuilt, the island moves closer to becoming an example of resilience in the Caribbean.”

FEMA, together with local communities and whole of government, is committed to Puerto Rico’s longterm recovery and will continue to offer unwavering support as the island and its people build towards a bright and resilient future. 

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 05/01/2024 - 16:54

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Oklahoma

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Oklahoma to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding beginning on April 25, 2024 and continuing.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Hughes, Love and Murray counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding is also available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance in Hughes, Love and Murray counties.

Federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.

Benjamin Abbott has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.  

amy.ashbridge Wed, 05/01/2024 - 14:58

To Qualify for Federal Assistance, You Must Apply with FEMA

Survivors in Cumberland, Hancock, Lincoln, Knox, Sagadahoc, Waldo, Washington and York counties who had loss or damage from the severe storms and flooding that occurred Jan. 9-13, 2024, may have already reported their damages to the State of Maine, spoken to someone from FEMA, or registered for assistance with a community organization. That does not mean they have applied for federal assistance with FEMA. 

In order to be eligible for federal assistance, you must apply directly with FEMA before the May 20 deadline. 

Once you complete the application for federal assistance with FEMA, you will receive a FEMA registration number which will confirm your enrollment.

Remember, renters and homeowners must apply with FEMA to be eligible for federal assistance. Businesses can only apply to the Small Business Administration (SBA) for assistance.

FEMA’s Individual Assistance may be able to help with:

• Lodging Expense Reimbursement
• Rental Assistance for Temporary Housing
• Repairs and Out-of-Pocket Expenses

There are several ways to apply for FEMA assistance:

• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center near you, go online to: DRC Locator, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Ex: DRC 04074)
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. The Helpline is available daily from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish).
• Download the FEMA mobile app (also in Spanish), available at Google Play or the Apple App Store.

Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For information about how an SBA loan may benefit you, visit sba.gov/disaster, call 800-659-2955 or send an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, If you are deaf, hard-of-hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-877-8339. Applications for disaster loans may be submitted online using the MySBA Loan Portal at https://lending.sba.gov.

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 05/01/2024 - 12:59

FEMA’s 2024 Hurricane Season Campaign Communicates Flood Risk with Emphasis on Outreach to Multicultural Audiences

Campaign to Target New Audiences in English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Haitian and Vietnamese Languages

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) will launch its 2024 Hurricane Season Campaign on April 29 and will target new communities using culturally competent messaging. The campaign communicates flood risk messages in six languages to residents in some of the nation’s most vulnerable locations affected by tropical storms and flooding.

“Given that hurricanes are intensifying and becoming more frequent, one of the most important steps homeowners and renters can take to prepare is to purchase flood insurance,” said Administrator Criswell. “Along with financial protection, flood insurance also brings peace of mind and we want multiple communities in hurricane-prone states along the coast to take advantage of these benefits. This is why we’re working to take cultural differences into consideration and add additional languages to our marketing for this important program. Our hope is to make flood insurance more accessible and common in households across America—especially in communities susceptible to flooding.”

Going into hurricane season, when flooding increases heavily, the six-month campaign encourages residents in hurricane-prone states to learn about the rising risk of flooding and obtain a quote for a flood insurance policy to help residents protect themselves financially. The campaign includes multicultural outreach to residents in hurricane-prone counties across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas.

This year’s campaign theme—Your Winning Choice— frames the choice to get flood insurance as actionable and transformative, since protecting yourself from loss is itself a big win. It shows that people should make a winning choice to get flood insurance and achieve peace of mind prior to a potential hurricane.

The 2024 hurricane campaign includes multilanguage strategic placements of radio, web and digital advertisements, interviews with local radio and television outlets, emails to insurance agents, new social media content and graphics and other materials targeting 48 million residents in more than 195 counties.

Multi-language Approach

To optimize and diversify its community outreach, the NFIP identified multiple languages spoken in each state targeted. To date, campaign advertisements have been created to connect with new audiences in English, Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Haitian and Vietnamese languages. 

Vietnamese consistently appears in the top three languages across nearly all the campaign’s target states. To reach Vietnamese-speaking communities, the campaign includes banner advertisements, social media posts and a landing page on floodsmart.gov in the Vietnamese language to complement the English and Spanish language webpages. 

This is the first time the National Flood Insurance Program has created a webpage in any language other than English and Spanish. Additionally, FEMA will pitch audio news releases touting the benefits of flood insurance to Vietnamese-speaking media.

The outreach is designed to be inclusive of multicultural audiences by delivering important information to a variety of different communities and aligning with FEMA’s 2022–2026 Strategic Plan of instilling equity as a foundation of emergency management. The NFIP also offers print publications in these languages.

Importance of Flood Insurance

The National Flood Insurance Program provides about $1.2 trillion in coverage to approximately 4.7 million policyholders across the nation. 

Over the past 20 years, 99% of counties in the United States have experienced a flood event. Most homeowners’ and renters’ insurance does not cover damage caused by flooding.

“Flood insurance can be the difference between recovery and financial devastation,” said senior executive of the National Flood Insurance Program David Maurstad. “No one can control when flooding happens, but we can take control of how to protect our homes, possessions and businesses. With the climate landscape we now face, don’t delay another day, call an insurance agent and get the coverage you need ahead of this hurricane season.” 

There is typically a 30-day waiting period for a flood insurance policy to take effect. To find a flood insurance agent online go to floodsmart.gov/find. 

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 04/30/2024 - 21:57

FEMA Approves $6.4M for Hurricane Ian Debris Removal in Orange County

LAKE MARY, Fla. – FEMA has approved $6,419,944 in grant funding to reimburse Orange County for debris removal expenses after Hurricane Ian.

The storm left extensive debris, resulting in a threat to public health and safety. Approximately 115,165 cubic yards of vegetative debris and 250,802 cubic yards of hurricane-generated debris were removed from roads and public property. 

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, local, territorial and tribal governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

Applicants work with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to the Florida Division of Emergency Management after final approval. Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to complete the grant process and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/infoand fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA on X, formerly Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

david.heckard Tue, 04/30/2024 - 14:04

Two Disaster Recovery Centers Set to Close May 1

LANSING, Mich. – Two Disaster Recovery Centers in Wayne (South East) and Wayne (Detroit) County are scheduled to close permanently May 1.

Recovery centers help residents in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties continue their recovery after the Aug. 24-26, 2023, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding. 

The registration period for federal disaster assistance ends on Wednesday, May 8, 2024.

You don’t need to visit a disaster recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance or to check on the status of your application. 

The easiest way to reach FEMA is to call the toll-free Helpline at 800-621-3362. Specialists are available 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. to help you apply, answer your questions and provide referrals to resources. Language translation is 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 when you apply. 

You also may go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA App.

The two remaining disaster recovery centers will close permanently at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 1. They are located at:

Wayne County Community College 

Downriver Campus​

21000 Northline Road ​

Taylor, MI 48180

 

Butzel Family Recreation Center

7737 Kercheval Ave.

Detroit, MI 48214

Hours are 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday, except for the Wayne County (South East) center in Taylor, which closes at 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Both centers are closed Sundays. You may visit either center for assistance through May 1.

FEMA and the SBA specialists at the disaster recovery centers can help you upload documents, answer questions and provide information on available resources. The centers serve as one-stop shops for survivors who need one-on-one help. 

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757.

kirsten.chambers Mon, 04/29/2024 - 18:52

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Disaster Declaration for Washington

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available for the state of Washington to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe winter storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides from Jan. 5-29, 2024.  

Public assistance federal funding is available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe winter storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides in the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation and Clallam, Clark, Cowlitz, Ferry, Grays Harbor, Island, Jefferson, King, Klickitat, Lewis, Mason, Okanogan, Pacific, Skagit, Skamania and Wahkiakum counties. 

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.  

Lance E. Davis has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments. 

amy.ashbridge Mon, 04/29/2024 - 15:37