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

WASHINGTON ­– FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Commonwealth of Virginia to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by the flooding and mudslides from July 13-14, 2022.

Public assistance federal funding is available to the commonwealth, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and repair or replacement of facilities, including direct federal assistance under public assistance in Buchanan and Tazewell counties.

Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Charles Monroe Maltbie III has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date.

amy.ashbridge Fri, 09/30/2022 - 21:14

FEMA, Federal Partners Continue Supporting Hurricane Ian Response

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell is in Florida today meeting with Gov. Ron DeSantis and surveying damages from Hurricane Ian. She visits the state the day after President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved a major disaster declaration allowing survivors in the hardest hit areas to begin applying for federal disaster assistance to help jumpstart their recovery. Federal interagency response efforts remain focused on Ian’s second landfall today, which is expected to cause flooding throughout areas of Georgia, South Carolina and Northwest Florida.  

President Biden approved South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster’s request for an emergency declaration Wednesday. The declaration authorizes FEMA to provide emergency protective measures including direct federal assistance at 75% federal funding.

State and federal search and rescue operations are underway in Florida in response to Hurricane Ian, conducted by state and federal Urban Search and Rescue team members and the U.S. Coast Guard. Additionally, approximately 5,000 Florida National Guard members and 2,000 National Guard members from other states are activated to help with the response.

DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas activated the DHS Surge Capacity Force Wednesday. The Surge Capacity Force is comprised of 7,500 members from other federal agencies who can help augment FEMA’s disaster staffing. Nearly 3,000 federal responders are working in Florida and the Southeast, including more than 1,600 FEMA staff are deployed to support. More than 850 emergency management personnel from other states have been deployed to Florida through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact.

Now is the time for residents in Georgia and South Carolina to have hurricane plans in place and closely monitor local media for forecast updates and follow directions provided by their local officials. People in Florida should continue to heed local warnings and listen to local officials for updated safety information.

Safety Considerations for Residents

• Stay off the roads. Emergency workers may be assisting people in flooded areas or cleaning up debris. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way. If you evacuated do not return home until local officials tell you the area is safe.
• Avoid downed power or utility lines. They may be live with deadly voltage. Stay away and report them immediately to your power or utility company.
• Be safe using generators. Generators can be helpful during a power outage, but they present serious health and safety concerns. Only use a generator outdoors and far from open doors and windows. Visit Power Outages | Ready.gov to learn how to use a generator safely.
• Stay out of floodwater. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines or contain hazards such as human and livestock waste, contaminates that can lead to illness, sharp debris or wild or stray animals. Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters.
• Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled.

State, Federal Response Actions

• The federal government deployed a Search and Rescue Coordination Group comprised of FEMA Urban Search and Rescue teams, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Department of Defense, Customs Border and Protection and the state of Florida to help coordinate rescue efforts with local officials. Gov. DeSantis said more than 700 rescues occurred following landfall thanks to these resources.
• The U.S. Coast Guard is using helicopters and fixed wing aircraft for immediate search and rescue response. The Department of Defense has more than 1,200 highwater vehicles and 25 watercrafts supporting search and rescue operations.
• More than 44,000 mutual assistance power crew personnel are assessing damage and making repairs, with additional teams ready to start restoration, weather permitting. Crews are on standby in areas preparing for Ian’s landfall in Georgia and South Carolina.
• More than 160 generators are available at Craig Field in Alabama, with more arriving today. The first Generator Staging Base in Immokalee is open with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 249th Engineer Battalion on site. An additional 60 generators are being shipped to a second generator staging base in Avon Park, Florida.
• More than 250 congregate shelters are open in Florida serving more than 33,300 people. Florida Department of Emergency Management deployed several hundred shelter support staff to assist open special need shelters.
• Volunteer agencies including the American Red Cross, Florida Baptist, Salvation Army, Feeding Florida, Farm Share, Midwest Food Bank, Operation BBQ Relief, Mercy Chefs and World Central Kitchen are preparing to perform feeding operations. FEMA and its partners have capacity to serve tens of thousands of meals per day,
• FEMA teams delivered 1.1 million meals and 1.6 million liters of water to the state of Florida. Other water and food supplies will be delivered pending safe conditions post-storm impact. FEMA is securing an additional 6.6 million liters of water and 5.5 million meals.
• FEMA activated a medical support contract for ambulances and paratransit seats. All 300 requested National Disaster Medical System assets arrived in Florida, including 400 ambulances, 15 bariatric paratransit ambulances and four rotary aircraft to evacuate medically vulnerable individuals in nursing homes and other medical facilities as needed.
• FEMA’s Incident Management Teams, Mobile Communications Operations Vehicles and Mobile Response Support teams are deployed in Atlanta, Miami, Tallahassee and Orlando supporting response efforts.
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a Public Health Emergency and deployed a 38-person disaster medical assistance team to Miami, and two other teams to Robins Air Force Base in Georgia. HHS also deployed health and medical task force teams and pharmacists.

• U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Routine non-criminal immigration enforcement operations will not be conducted at evacuation sites, or assistance centers such as shelters or food banks. Additionally, officers will be vigilant against any effort by criminals to exploit disruptions caused by the storm.

Resources to Jumpstart Recovery

• Florida survivors who live in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Orange, Osceola, Pinellas, Polk, Sarasota and Seminole counties can apply for federal assistance at www.disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App. Survivors using a relay service, such as a video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, can give the FEMA operator the number for that service.
• Small Business Administration disaster loans are available to businesses, homeowners, renters and nonprofit organizations in Florida counties approved for individual assistance. Applicants may apply at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov under declaration #17644. For help, call 800-659-2955 or send an email to DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov.
• If you are one of the 1.6 million Floridians with flood insurance, report your loss immediately to your insurance agent or carrier. Be sure to ask them about advance payments. Need help finding your insurance agent or carrier? Call 877-336-2627. To learn more about how to start your flood insurance claim, visit Floodsmart.gov.
• Mental health resources are available. Survivors experiencing emotional distress can call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1-800-985-5990. The national hotline provides free 24/7, crisis counseling for people who are experiencing emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. Deaf and Hard of Hearing ASL callers can use a videophone or ASL Now.
• Florida residents who did not evacuate but now need to leave their home can visit www.floridadisaster.org/shelter-status for open general and special needs shelters in Florida. If you do leave your home, do not leave pets or animals behind. You can also register other members of your household and your pets on Shelter in Place Survey (arcgis.com) to help local first responders locate you.
• Florida residents can call the Florida State Assistance Information Line at 800-342-3557 to receive up-to-date information regarding Hurricane Ian.
• Medically dependent residents of Florida who need electricity to operate medical equipment, transport services to evacuated due to a medical condition or need help getting medication during a disaster can register for assistance at FloridaDisaster.org/SNR.
• The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children has free reunification assistance for children and families impacted by disasters. If you or someone you know is missing a child related to a disaster or any other incident, please immediately call 911 and then 800-THE-LOST for assistance.
• Visit Hurricane Ian | FEMA.gov for information and resources available for Florida residents affected by the storm. The page will be available in Creole, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish and Vietnamese.

How to Help

• Please do not self-deploy. If you want to volunteer as part of the Hurricane Ian recovery, visit Florida’s official volunteer portal at VolunteerFlorida.org to find volunteer opportunities.
• Volunteer to help. There will be volunteer opportunities for months, often years, after the disaster. A list of agencies with volunteer opportunities can be found on the National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster website at www.nvoad.org.
• Cash is the best donation.  After a disaster, people always want to help, but It’s important to donate responsibly. When people support voluntary organizations with financial contributions, it helps ensure a steady flow of important services to the people in need after a disaster. You can make a donation at www.volunteerflorida.org/donatefdf or text DISASTER to 20222.
• Before donating supplies connect with organizations working in the affected area to identify what is needed, how much is needed and when it is needed. Used clothing is never needed in a disaster area. Unwanted donations can overwhelm charities on the ground because they need to be received sorted.
• If you need assistance locating a missing friend or relative call the Red Cross at 800-733-2767 and provide as much detail as you can to assist us in potentially locating your missing loved one.

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 09/30/2022 - 14:53

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for South Carolina

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of South Carolina to supplement the state, tribal and local response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Hurricane Ian beginning on Sept. 25 and continuing. 

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance, to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe for all 46 South Carolina counties.

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, under the public assistance program, will be provided at 75% federal funding.

Kevin A. Wallace, Sr. has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

amy.ashbridge Fri, 09/30/2022 - 13:28

Orange, Osceola, Polk and Seminole Counties Eligible for FEMA Assistance

ATLANTA – Orange, Osceola, Polk and Seminole counties are now eligible for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Ian.

Individuals and households in Orange, Osceola, Polk and Seminole counties can apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, which may include temporary housing assistance, basic home repairs and certain other uninsured disaster-related needs.

These counties join Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Pinellas and Sarasota counties, which were previously approved for Individual Assistance.

Survivors can apply for disaster assistance at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time, or by using the FEMA mobile 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.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

For information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit fema.gov/disaster/hurricane-ian. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

neily.chapman Fri, 09/30/2022 - 12:27

FEMA Offers Free Repair and Rebuilding Advice at Local Stores

FEMA is providing free information about how to make your home stronger and safer – whether it was damaged by this summer’s flooding or not. Investing now can help prevent or reduce costly flooding damage in the future.

You can speak directly with FEMA specialists at local home improvement stores.

Do-it-yourselfers and professionals can get answers to questions and discuss:

• Proven methods for preventing damage from future disasters

• Techniques for rebuilding homes

• Tips for reducing your disaster risk – whether you own or rent your home

Locations:

The Home Depot

10930 New Halls Ferry Rd

Saint Louis, MO 63136

The Home Depot

3891 Mexico Rd

Saint Charles, MO 63303

The Home Depot

1525 State Hwy K

O’Fallon, MO 63366

The Home Depot

8901 Page Avenue

Overland, MO 63114                                             

Dates: Monday, October 3, through Saturday, October 15

Hours: Monday—Saturday, 9 a.m.--7 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.--3 p.m.

For updates, follow us on Twitter @MOSEMA and @FEMARegion7.

Get the latest information at Recovery.MO.gov and FEMA.gov/disaster/4665.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status.

tiana.suber Thu, 09/29/2022 - 23:25

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Federal Cost-Share for Alaska

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of Alaska to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by a severe storm, flooding and landslides from Sept. 15-20, 2022.

The President authorized the federal cost-share for emergency protective measures to be increased from 75% to 100% for the first 30 days of the incident period. In the major disaster declaration issued for the state of Alaska, federal funding was made available for public assistance, the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and other needs assistance for total eligible costs.         

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 09/29/2022 - 22:35

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Ian

ATLANTA – Florida homeowners and renters in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Pinellas and Sarasota counties who were affected by Hurricane Ian may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

Survivors can apply for disaster assistance at www.disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern Time, or by using the FEMA mobile 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.

When you apply for assistance, have the following information ready: 

• 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

Survivors may be eligible to receive assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and losses resulting from the Hurricane Ian. 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.

Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs, as well as other disaster-related expenses.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

For information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit fema.gov/disaster/hurricane-ian. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

neily.chapman Thu, 09/29/2022 - 19:46

FEMA Awards $600,000 for Flood Reduction Project in Arlington Heights, Ill.

CHICAGO – FEMA has released $600,000 for a Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Congressional Community Project to upgrade and construct an underground stormwater storage system that will control drainage in the village of Arlington Heights, Ill. This community flood mitigation project addresses issues of flooding in residential areas along Chicago and Race avenues and is expected to minimize street ponding and flood damages. 

The city will be installing underground box culverts to hold excess water from rain events. New storm/sewer connections will also be installed to direct the water to the culverts and away from properties, protecting the area from future flood damage.  

For this project, FEMA will pay 65% of the $925,000 eligible project cost. The remaining funds will be provided by Arlington Heights. These PDM grants are selected and authorized by Congress and are not dependent on disaster declarations. For more information about Hazard Mitigation Assistance grants and resources visit:  Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grants | FEMA.gov.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters.

troy.christensen Thu, 09/29/2022 - 16:47

FEMA Awards $248,625 to Install a New Storm Water Pump Station in St. Clair Shores, Mich.

CHICAGO – FEMA has released $248,625 for a Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Congressional Community Project to reduce street flooding and maintain emergency access for residents near Lake St. Clair. The new storm water pump station located at the corner of Jefferson Avenue and Masonic Boulevard will include the replacement of sidewalks and pavement and a new storm conveyance system designed to prevent flooding to nearby roadways.

For this project, FEMA will pay 52% of the project’s total cost of $477,214. The remaining funds will be provided by the St. Clair Shores Water and Sewer Department. These PDM grants are selected and authorized by Congress and are not dependent on disaster declarations. For more information about Hazard Mitigation Assistance grants and resources visit:  Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grants | FEMA.gov.

 

# # #

FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

troy.christensen Thu, 09/29/2022 - 16:38

U.S. Virgin Islands Healthcare Facilities Advance Toward Recovery Five Years After the Storms

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands -- In September 2017, the heavy rain and strong winds of hurricanes Irma and Maria significantly damaged U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Health (VIDOH) facilities across the territory. These two Category 5 storms caused catastrophic structural damage. Many buildings sustained roof damage and were left flooded and ridden by mold. Some structures had to be demolished to prepare for temporary facility construction.

FEMA continues to help the territory rebuild. “We utilized the Bipartisan Budget Act (BBA) and Public Assistance Alternative Procedures for permanent work to restore medical facilities in the aftermath of hurricanes Irma and Maria in the U.S. Virgin Islands,” said Herbert Grigg, FEMA Public Assistance group supervisor of Health, Utilities and Transportation. “The BBA provides FEMA more flexibility in determining eligible work for Public Assistance Alternative Procedures projects to restore facilities that provide critical services.”

Critical services include hospitals and other healthcare facilities that provide emergency medical care and services, schools and facilities that provide power, water, and other types of critical services.  

FEMA-funded healthcare facility reconstruction projects include:

Charles Harwood Medical Center, St. Croix

FEMA approved the replacement of all seven buildings that comprise The Charles Harwood Medical Complex: the main building, annex, clubhouse, motor pool building; storage building, and the Emergency Medical Services permanent and maintenance buildings.

Through FEMA’s Public Assistance program, $251 million has been obligated for facility replacement, architectural and engineering costs, the installment of modular facilities, walkway and temporary parking lot. Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital, St. Croix

FEMA obligated $111.4 million for a 101-bed temporary structure at the Governor Juan F. Luis Hospital, architectural and engineering design costs and to increase space for administrative purposes.    

Charlotte Kimelman Cancer Institute, St. Thomas

FEMA obligated $45 million for facility replacement and architectural and engineering costs, including nearly $171,000 for hazard mitigation measures to protect against impacts from future events such as an upgraded generator which will provide power to the facility if the main system fails.

Charlotte Kimelman Cancer Institute provided cancer treatment to U.S. Virgin Islanders and to the Eastern Caribbean region. Services included comprehensive outpatient diagnostic and treatment, clinical, patient support and more.  Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center, St. John

The Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center on St. John provides urgent and primary care services to residents of the island. This includes maternal healthcare services, services to expectant mothers, pediatric patients and newborns. In June, FEMA approved the replacement of the permanent facility. FEMA obligated $695,000 for the architectural and engineering design costs to the replacement facility.

Critical service facilities must be able to withstand multiple hazards as they serve as the backbone to lifesaving and life sustaining operations. While the 2017 storms left damage and devastation across the territory — progress is being made,

Through the strength of continued efforts and strong partnerships between the territory, FEMA and our federal partners, together will ensure healthcare facilities are built back stronger and more resilient to protect against hazards from future storms.

gina.callaghan Thu, 09/29/2022 - 16:35

Eastern Kentucky Disaster Recovery Centers Change Hours of Operation

FRANKFORT, Ky. –Eastern Kentucky Disaster Recovery Centers will have new operating hours beginning  Sunday, Oct. 2.

The new hours are listed below:

Breathitt, Letcher, Perry, and Pike County Recovery Centers Have New Hours

Beginning Oct. 2, the following recovery centers will now be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, closed Sundays.

• Breathitt County: Breathitt Library — 1024 College Ave., Jackson, KY 41229
• Letcher County: Letcher County Recreation Center — 1505 Jenkins Rd., Whitesburg, KY 41858
• Perry County: Hazard Community College First Federal Center — 1 Community Dr., Hazard, KY 41701
• Pike County: Dorton Community Center — 112 Dorton Hill Rd., Pikeville, KY 41501

Knott County Recovery Center to be Closed Sundays

Beginning Oct. 2, the Knott County recovery center will continue to operate 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed Sundays.

• Knott County: Knott County Sportsplex — 450 Kenny Champion Loop #8765, Leburn, KY 41831

Clay and Floyd County Multi-Agency Resource Centers

The FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Clay County will cease operations at 3 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 30, and reopen Monday, Oct. 3, as a Commonwealth-managed Multi-Agency Resource Center.

The hours of the Resource Center in Clay County will be 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

• Clay County: Clay County Community Center — 311 Highway 638, Manchester, KY 40962

The hours of the Resource Center in Floyd County will be 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

• Floyd County: Christian Appalachian Project Foley Community Center — 6134 KY- 80 Martin, KY 41649

Kentuckians who suffered damage from the July 26 flooding are encouraged to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to receive one-on-one assistance with their case. However, you do not need to go to a center to apply for federal assistance, find out about the status of your application, or obtain information on disaster programs.

You can find the nearest recovery center by visiting www.fema.gov/drc or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621 3362. Survivors of the July 26 floods are welcome to visit any of the centers to apply for federal assistance or get information on the status of their applications.

To apply for federal assistance, find out about the status of your application or obtain information:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for other languages. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA the number for that service;
• Go online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
• Use the FEMA mobile app. Open the FEMA App on your smart phone and select “Talk to FEMA in person.”

For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Thu, 09/29/2022 - 15:34

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Caguas and Mayagüez

San Juan, Puerto Rico – Two Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are now open in Caguas and Mayagüez. The joint DRCs, a partnership between the Municipality, the Government of Puerto Rico and FEMA, will help Hurricane Fiona survivors apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents needed for their application and answer questions in person.

Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are on hand at the DRC to provide program information and explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, businesses, private nonprofits, and renters, and provide printed information about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.

Services are provided in English and Spanish. If you need a reasonable accommodation or a sign language interpreter to communicate with FEMA, please call 1-833-285-7448, press 2 for Spanish.

The center in Caguas is located at:     

Centro de Bellas Artes de Caguas

Calle Padial

Esquina Calle Ruiz Belvis

Caguas, PR 00725

Open 7 days a week 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The center in Mayagüez is located at:

Cancha de Baloncesto Bo. Colombia

Calle Desengaño

Barrio Colombia

Mayagüez, PR 00680

Open 7 days a week 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

A FEMA Hazard Mitigation Community Education Outreach Specialist will be on site to assist survivors in preparing for future incidents. 

To find a DRC nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: Fema.gov/drc.

You may also register for assistance with FEMA through your smart phone, home computer or by phone. The fastest ways to apply for assistance are:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• By phone at 1-800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. People who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week.
• Download FEMA’s mobile app. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 09/29/2022 - 15:02

FEMA, Federal Partners Continue Supporting Hurricane Ian Response

WASHINGTON -- President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’s request for a major disaster declaration this morning. The declaration authorizes FEMA to provide individual assistance for survivors in nine counties -- Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Pinellas and Sarasota counties. It also provides 100% federal funding for debris removal and emergency, life-saving measures for 30 days in those counties. FEMA continues to monitor Ian’s path, as a second landfall could happen on the coast of Georgia and South Carolina.  

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell will brief President Biden today on federal response efforts at FEMA’s National Response Coordination Center. Criswell will travel to Florida Friday to personally see response efforts and ensure recovery resources are available to survivors. The federal government coordinated and prepositioned supplies, and more than 1,300 responders ahead of Ian’s landfall to ensure resources could get where they need to be as quickly as possible. Federal responders are working alongside nearly 5,000 Florida National Guard members and other state response and emergency managers.

The federal government deployed a Search and Rescue Coordination Group comprised of FEMA Urban Search and Rescue teams, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Department of Defense, Customs Border and Protection and the state of Florida to help coordinate rescue efforts with local officials.

The National Hurricane Center downgraded Ian to a tropical storm, but extreme dangers persist, including life-threatening storm surge through Friday along the coasts of northeast Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. Additionally, widespread flooding with major-to-record river flooding will continue through the end of the week in northern Florida and southeastern Georgia and South Carolina.

Individuals should stay alert to continuing risks from Ian. Areas far inland will continue to experience dangerous weather conditions. Please be safe and listen to local emergency management officials.

Safety Considerations for Residents

• Stay off the roads. Emergency workers may be assisting people in flooded areas or cleaning up debris. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way. If you evacuated do not return home until local officials tell you the area is safe.
• Prepare for power outages. Residents in Georgia and South Carolina should plan now for potential power outages. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs when the power goes out. Use a generator safely. Keep it outside and away from doors, windows or vents.   
• Avoid downed power or utility lines. They may be live with deadly voltage. Stay away and report them immediately to your power or utility company.
• Stay out of floodwater. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines or contain hazards such as human and livestock waste, contaminates that can lead to illness, sharp debris or wild or stray animals. Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters.

State, Federal Response Actions

• More than 32,000 mutual assistance power crew personnel will begin assessing damages and making repairs today. Additional crews are on standby in areas preparing for Ian’s landfall in Georgia and South Carolina.
• Nearly 200 shelters are open in Florida, serving more than 10,000 people. Florida Department of Emergency Management deployed several hundred shelter support staff to assist counties that opened their special needs hurricane shelters.
• FEMA teams already delivered 1.1 million meals and 1.5 million liters of water to areas of Florida. Other water and food supplies will be delivered pending safe conditions post-storm impact. FEMA is securing an additional 6 million liters of water and 5.5 million meals.
• The U.S. Coast Guard is using helicopters and fixed wing aircraft for immediate search and rescue response. The Department of Defense has more than 1,200 highwater vehicles and 25 watercrafts supporting search and rescue operations.
• FEMA activated a medical support contract for ambulances and paratransit seats. All 300 requested National Disaster Medical System assets arrived in Florida, including 400 ambulances, 15 bariatric paratransit ambulances and four rotary aircraft to evacuate medically vulnerable individuals in nursing homes and other medical facilities as needed.
• More than 2,000 federal employees are supporting the response throughout the Southeast. FEMA has more than 3,200 reservist personnel available to deploy to support. Additionally, more than 7,500 Surge Capacity Force members are rostered to deploy if needed. The agency is establishing a personnel mobilization center to expedite forward movement when needed.
• Incident Management Teams are at the State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee, with additional teams in Miami and Atlanta. Mobile Emergency Response Support teams are also in Tallahassee and Orlando, as well as Montgomery, Alabama and Thomasville, Georgia to support any state coordination needs.
• Four Mobile Communications Operation Vehicles are staged at Maxwell Air Force Base with and additional unit in Orlando. Two Mobile Emergency Operations Vehicles and one Mobile Emergency Response Support team are in Florida.
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a Public Health Emergency and deployed a 38-person disaster medical assistance team to Miami, and two other teams to Robins Air Force Base in Georgia. HHS also deployed health and medical task force teams and four pharmacists to Atlanta.

• U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Routine non-criminal immigration enforcement operations will not be conducted at evacuation sites, or assistance centers such as shelters or food banks. Additionally officers will be vigilant against any effort by criminals to exploit disruptions caused by the storm.

Resources for Evacuees and Survivors

• Florida survivors who live in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Pinellas and Sarasota counties can apply for federal assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362) or by using the FEMA App. Survivors using a relay service, such as a video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, can give the FEMA operator the number for that service.
• Volunteer agencies are preparing to perform feeding operations including the American Red Cross, Florida Baptist, Salvation Army, Feeding Florida, Farm Share, Midwest Food Bank, Operation BBQ Relief, Mercy Chefs and World Central Kitchen. FEMA and its partners have capacity to serve tens of thousands of meals per day.
• Medically dependent residents of Florida who need electricity to operate medical equipment, transport services to evacuated due to a medical condition or need help getting medication during a disaster can register for assistance at FloridaDisaster.org/SNR.
• Visit Hurricane Ian | FEMA.gov for information and resources available for Florida residents affected by the storm. The page will be available in Creole, Simplified Chinese, Portuguese, Spanish and Vietnamese.

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 09/29/2022 - 14:29

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Florida to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Ian beginning Sept. 23 and continuing.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Pinellas and Sarasota.

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

Residents and business owners in the designated areas can apply for disaster assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA mobile 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.

Federal funding is available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations for debris and emergency protective measures, including public assistance, direct federal assistance, for debris removal for Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Hardee, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee, Pinellas and Sarasota counties.

In addition, all 67 counties and the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida and the Seminole Tribe of Florida are eligible for emergency protective measures. Federal funding is available for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including public assistance, direct federal assistance, at 100% of the total eligible costs for a period of 30 days.   

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

Thomas J. McCool has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date.

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 09/29/2022 - 13:42

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps for Portion of Coal County, Oklahoma Within the Choctaw Nation.

DENTON, Texas – Revised preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review for portions of Coal County, Oklahoma located within the Choctaw Nation. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with Tribal, local, state and FEMA officials. Community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.

The 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around Sept. 28, 2022. 

Appeals and comments may be submitted through Dec. 27, 2022 for:

• Portion of Coal County located within the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.

Residents may submit an appeal if they consider modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals. Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA) or contact Choctaw Nation’s Emergency Management Department at 1-800-522-6170. A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

 

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

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 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

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 https://www.floodsmart.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 09/28/2022 - 23:44

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps for Portion of Coal County, Oklahoma Within the Chickasaw Nation

DENTON, Texas – Revised preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review for portions of Coal County, Oklahoma located within the Chickasaw Nation. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with Tribal, local, state and FEMA officials. Community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.

The 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around Sept. 28, 2022. 

Appeals and comments may be submitted through Dec. 27, 2022 for:

• Portion of Coal County located within the Chickasaw Nation.

Residents may submit an appeal if they consider modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is to resolve all comments and appeals. Once these are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

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

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 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

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 https://www.floodsmart.gov.

 

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 09/28/2022 - 23:44

How To Apply for Federal and State Individual Assistance

ANCHORAGE, Alaska– Residents of the Regional Educational Attendance Areas of Bering Strait, Kashunamiut, Lower Kuskokwim and Lower Yukon who suffered property damage or loss from September’s severe storm, flooding and landslides are now eligible to apply for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the State of Alaska. Available aid includes temporary housing expenses, basic home repairs, or other essential disaster-related needs that are not covered by insurance.

The State of Alaska and FEMA’s Individual Assistance (IA) programs are separate, and each have their own application process. However, it is important that survivors apply for both FEMA and Alaska’s IA programs. If a survivor is found ineligible for federal assistance, they may qualify for assistance through the State of Alaska, but applications must be submitted for both.

State of Alaska Individual Assistance

The state’s IA program has two elements that may help with disaster-related expenses. The Individuals and Family Grant program can provide grant funding to survivors with damage to their homes, personal property, transportation, or medical/dental expenses. The Temporary Housing program can provide rental assistance to those with unlivable homes damaged by September’s severe storm.

The deadline to apply for Alaska’s IA program is Nov. 17, 2022. Survivors can apply for state assistance online at ready.alaska.gov/IA, or by calling the Disaster Assistance Hotline at 1-844-445-7131.

What is the FEMA Individuals and Households Program?

FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program (IHP) provides financial and direct services to eligible survivors who have disaster-related uninsured or underinsured necessary expenses and immediate needs. IHP is not a substitute for insurance and assistance is intended to meet the basic needs of the household, not to restore the home and contents to a pre-disaster condition. IHP can be divided into two categories: Housing Assistance (HA) and Other Needs Assistance (ONA).

Housing Assistance covers repairs to structural parts of a home including windows, doors, floors, walls, ceilings, cabinets, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system, utilities (electrical, plumbing and gas systems), and entrance and exit ways from the home.

FEMA may also pay up to the actual cost of the receipt or estimate for furnaces, wells and septic systems. If survivors have already repaired or replaced these systems, they may be able to submit valid receipts or estimates to see if they qualify for FEMA assistance.

Other Needs Assistance provides grants to survivors for uninsured, disaster-related expenses and needs. This assistance can include medical and dental expenses; funeral and burial costs; clothing; household items; specialized tools; subsistence equipment and supplies, educational materials; vehicles; and moving, storage or other necessary expenses related to the disaster.

The deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance is Nov. 22, 2022. Residents in the designated areas can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA mobile app. When calling, Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. Those who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give the FEMA operator the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. AKDT seven days a week.  

For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, visit youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

Small Business Administration

Some applicants may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to apply for a disaster loan. Long-term, low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofits may be available to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other sources.

Homeowners and renters should submit an SBA disaster loan application even if they are not sure they will need or want a loan. If SBA cannot approve the application, in most cases SBA will refer survivors to FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for possible additional assistance. If the application is approved, individuals are not obligated to accept an SBA loan but failure to return the application may disqualify them from other possible FEMA assistance.

Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.govfor more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.

###

For more information about FEMA’s support to Alaska’s severe storms, flooding and landslide recovery, visit the FEMA Disaster Site. Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates.

 

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

mary.j.edmon Wed, 09/28/2022 - 22:48

Disaster Recovery Center in South St. Louis City to Close One Day Early, on Friday, September 30

A Disaster Recovery Center in south St. Louis City will close on Friday, September 30 at 5 p.m., one day sooner due to a scheduled event at the location.  

Salvation Army Temple Center

2740 Arsenal St.

St. Louis, MO 63118

(Near the corner of Arsenal and California)

The recovery center will re-open on Monday, October 3, as a U.S Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Outreach Center (DLOC). Hours will be 9 a.m.—6 p.m., Monday—Friday.

At a DLOC, SBA customer service representatives are available to meet with businesses and residents from St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County, who were affected by the flooding and severe storms that occurred July 25–July 28, 2022. SBA representatives will answer questions, explain SBA’s disaster loan program and close customers’ approved disaster loans on the days and times indicated. No appointment is necessary.

Apply to FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. Or you can visit a disaster recovery center for help. To find a DRC nearby, visit https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.

tiana.suber Wed, 09/28/2022 - 20:37

FEMA Continues Supporting Hurricane Ian Response

WASHINGTON --  FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell urges anyone in the path of Hurricane Ian to heed the warning of local officials as this storm begins to make landfall. Ian is predicted to bring life-threatening storm surge and widespread flooding. Criswell said FEMA established a search and rescue coordination group in Miami that includes Urban Search and Rescue teams, Coast Guard, Department of Defense, Department of the Interior and local Florida rescue teams. These teams are prepared to coordinate search and rescue efforts by sea, air and land.

On Tuesday, Administrator Criswell briefed President Biden about federal response efforts. Together, President Biden and Administrator Criswell called mayors in Florida to check on evacuations and their local preparations ahead of Ian. President Biden also called Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis Tuesday to discuss state and federal coordination efforts ahead of landfall.

The National Hurricane Center issued hurricane and tropical storm warnings for much of Florida’s coastline. Hurricane Ian is expected to cause life-threatening storm surge, catastrophic winds and flooding in the Florida peninsula. Catastrophic storm surge inundation is expected somewhere along the southwest Florida coastline from Englewood to Bonita Beach, including Charlotte Harbor.

Florida officials issued mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders in 18 counties ahead of Ian. If you are not in an evacuation zone, consider sheltering in place but know your home and its ability to withstand strong winds.

Safety Considerations for Residents

• Manufactured homes are extremely vulnerable. If you live in a manufactured home, determine where you will go before the storm hits, as these types of structures may not withstand hurricane wind or surge damage.  

• Download the FEMA App. Use this free app to receive local weather alerts and warnings.

• Prepare for power outages. Take an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs when the power goes out. Have enough nonperishable food and water.  

State, Federal Actions

• On Saturday, President Joseph R. Biden approved Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ request for an emergency declaration. The declaration authorizes FEMA to support the state’s response efforts ahead of Ian. More than 5,000 Florida National Guard members from Florida and Tennessee are postured to support the response. 
• FEMA is prepositioning supplies and personnel to strategic locations in Georgia, Florida and Alabama. This will allow us to get help where it needs to be as soon as possible. This includes commodities at Maxwell Airforce Base in Alabama to include water, meals, infant/toddler kits, cots and other emergency supplies.
• FEMA has 3.7 million meals and 3.5 million liters of water staged in Alabama. Florida officials prepared 360 trailers with more than two million meals and more than one million gallons of water for distribution to affected areas.
• The U.S. Coast Guard staged 17 helicopters, 14 fixed wing aircraft and 18 small boats for immediate search & rescue response with an additional 15 aircraft and 20 small boats on standby.
• There are more than 1,300 federal response workers on the ground in Florida to support emergency operations. Nearly 840 FEMA personnel are supporting the response from Florida, and our other offices and field locations. The agency has nearly 3,500 reservist personnel available to deploy to support. Additionally, more than 7,500 Surge Capacity Force members are rostered to deploy if needed. The agency is establishing a personnel mobilization center to expedite forward movement when needed.
• Incident Management Teams are at the State Emergency Operations Center in Tallahassee, in Miami and Atlanta. Mobile Emergency Response Support teams are also in Tallahassee and Atlanta to support any state coordination needs.
• Four Mobile Communications Operation Vehicles are staged at Maxwell Air Force Base with and additional unit in Orlando. 
• Several hundred generators and pumps, in addition to debris removal equipment, have been staged for response and recovery efforts.
• A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers power restoration team is at Craig Field in Alabama ahead of the storm, additional personnel are en route to Broward County. FEMA also pre-staged 169 generators and 110,000 gallons of fuel and 18,000 pounds of propane.
• Approximately 30,000 power restoration mutual assistance individuals are prepositioned. Additional personnel are available to provide support post-landfall.
• FEMA activated a medical support contract for ambulances and paratransit seats. Federal and state resources have provided more than 300 ambulances for evacuations and response efforts.

• The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a Public Health Emergency. They deployed a 38-person disaster medical assistance team to Miami, and two teams are deployed to Robins Air Force Base in Georgia. HHS also deployed health and medical task force teams and four pharmacists to Atlanta.

• The state of Florida has completed 124 onsite visits to nursing homes and assisted living facilities that were previously identified as out of compliance with generator requirements. All operating long-term care facilities have a generator on-site.
• FEMA and Department of Energy are conducting ongoing analysis of impacts due to the potential damage or loss of 58 fuel racks in the Tampa area along with broader energy system analysis across Florida and adjacent systems in Georgia.

Resources for Evacuees and Survivors

• Volunteer agencies are preparing to perform feeding operations including the American Red Cross, Florida Baptist, Salvation Army, Feeding Florida, Farm Share, Midwest Food Bank, Operation BBQ Relief, Mercy Chefs and World Central Kitchen. FEMA and its partners have capacity to serve tens of thousands of meals per day.
• The USDA Food and Nutrition Service has approved Florida’s request to issue October Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits on Sept. 28.
• More than 90 shelters are open. The American Red Cross is prepared to open 60 post-disaster which can accommodate 30,000 individuals. Additional shelter supplies are on hand, including cots & blankets, to provide to non-Red Cross shelters to support an additional 30,000 people.
• For a list of open general and special needs shelters in the state of Florida, visit Shelter Information. Residents may also find assistance by calling 800-342-3557.The state of Florida is deploying several hundred shelter support staff to address staffing needs.
• Download the FEMA App for real-time weather alerts from the National Weather Service and directions to open shelters. The app also includes a customizable checklist of emergency supplies and disaster survival tips.

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 09/28/2022 - 16:06

Brighter Outlook Emerges to Harden Power Grid Across U.S. Virgin Islands

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands –Substantial progress has been made to create more resilient power grids throughout the U.S. Virgin Islands since hurricanes Irma and Maria left thousands of homes, businesses and critical facilities such as hospitals without power five years ago.

When disaster strikes, lifesaving and life-sustaining operations require a dependable power source required for critical facilities to provide survivors with food, water, shelter and medical treatment.

The partnership between FEMA and the V.I. Water and Power Authority (WAPA) over the past five years has played a significant role advancing the work needed to strengthen the power grids to better withstand future storms and to increase year-round reliability. There are several projects taking place throughout the territory to support the construction efforts, such as the repair of electrical substations, burying of electrical lines and installation of wind resistant composite power poles to replace older wooden ones.

Through FEMA’s Public Assistance program, nearly $721.7 million has been approved for permanent repairs to electrical distribution systems and substations on St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix and Water Island. This funding includes $506 million in hazard mitigation measures to strengthen both grids’ resilience to end the cycle of disaster damage and reconstruction.

"Projects for wind farms and microgrids are in the planning stages and it’s been shown that these systems deliver affordable, clean and efficient energy,” said FEMA USVI Recovery Director Kristen Hodge. “Additionally, President Biden's commitment to climate resilience through federal funding represents an investment that will ensure communities are better prepared for disasters before they strike.”

Microgrid projects align with FEMA’s 2022-2026 Strategic Plan Goal 2: Lead Whole of Community in Climate Resilience. An innovative microgrid would maintain power generation by disconnecting from the traditional framework and operate on its own using local energy generation in case of an emergency or disaster.

WAPA also plans to install 8,584 composite poles across the territory that are made to better withstand hurricane-force winds; 6,310 poles have been erected to date and the project is 74 percent completed.

Burying of electrical lines from Cruz Bay to the Myrah Keating Smith Community Health Center on St. John has been completed. Four electrical underground projects for Golden Grove, Midland, the Wilfred "Bomba" Allick Port and Transshipment Center in Frederiksted are underway on St. Croix.

FEMA and the territory will continue to their partnership to energize a legacy for renewable energy sources. In the western area of St. Croix, engineering and design work on a microgrid project will begin as WAPA has received a grant of $4.5 million through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). The estimated project cost is $129.7 million.

WAPA was also the sub-recipient of $4.3 million for engineering and design work on the Bovoni wind farm and microgrid project on St. Thomas. The estimated project cost is $59.3 million.

FEMA and the territory will continue to work together to strengthen the power grid, build back better to increase the resiliency of critical services and improve the quality of life for all Virgin Islanders.

gina.callaghan Wed, 09/28/2022 - 15:24