President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Guam

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to Guam to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Tropical Storm Bolaven beginning Oct. 8, 2023, and continuing.

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate and provide appropriate assistance to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. 

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, limited to direct federal assistance under the public assistance program, will be provided at 75% federal funding.

Benigno B. Ruiz has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 10/09/2023 - 15:32

https://edit.fema.gov/press-release/20231008/guam-residents-urged-plan-possible-tropical-storm

FEMA continues to monitor and prepare for impacts from Tropical Depression Bolaven, on Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). 

In addition to federal teams and specialists continuing to help with recovery from Typhoon Mawar, FEMA is deploying an additional 175 federal staff to respond to Tropical Depression Bolaven, if federal help is needed. These additional personnel, includes two Incident Management Assistance Teams that will embed with Guam and CNMI officials prior to the storm’s landfall to enhance preparedness efforts. 

FEMA is coordinating other federal partners, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the American Red Cross, U.S. Coast Guard, and the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Defense and Health and Human Services. These agencies and organizations stand ready to lend their support to the response efforts in Guam and CNMI. 

FEMA's distribution center in Guam is a permanent federal storage facility that receives, stores, and ships critical disaster resources when needed.

Following the whole-community approach to emergency management, FEMA supports local and territory requests for lifesaving and life-sustaining activities. FEMA works closely with the local, territorial, non-profit organizations and private sectors partners to support incident management, communications, debris removal, engineering, infrastructure, health and medical, environmental response, military support and more. If the immediate needs of survivors affected by the storm supersede the local and territorial resources, FEMA is also prepared to provide essential commodities like meals, water, blankets, cots, tents, tarps, generators and more. 

 

Plan Ahead

Since disaster preparedness begins with families and communities, you can take actions now to be ready for Tropical Depression Bolaven:

• Have a plan for safe sheltering during the storm, check your disaster supplies and ensure you have adequate food, water, medication, fuel and other items. When the storm hits, take shelter in an interior room away from windows, putting as many walls as possible between yourself and the destructive winds. 
• Review your emergency plan: If you do not have a plan, learn how to create an emergency plan. Have plans for your family members and pets. If you are a person with disabilities or a caregiver for elderly, you may need to take extra steps to plan for those additional needs.
• Heed the warnings of local and territorial officials. Listen to officials and stay off the roads if told to do so. Find out now where your local shelters are if you are in a low-lying area that tends to flood or check to see if you can stay with friends and family.  
• Have an emergency kit prepared: Store enough food and water for your household for 7-10 days. Include medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies.   
• Get emergency alerts: Please stay informed by having a weather alert radio where you can listen to emergency news. Make sure to sign up to receive weather alerts in your community alerts in your community to stay updated on the latest weather news from the National Weather Service.  Please stay informed by downloading the FEMA app, which allows you to receive weather warnings for up to five locations of your choice across the nation.
• Gas your vehicles and get fuel for your generators. Pull cash from the ATM in case of power outages. Secure important documents: Keep copies of birth certificates, tax papers, and insurance documents in a water-proof bag. 
• Don’t drive through flood waters: Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low-lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle. 

More Information

Hurricane Safety Tips and Resources (weather.gov)

National Hurricane Preparedness | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (noaa.gov)

For more information on Guam’s disaster recovery, please visit our website.

Follow FEMA at Twitter and  Facebook.

 

### 

 

 

 

 

 

veronica.verde Mon, 10/09/2023 - 03:11

Guam Residents Urged to Plan for Possible Tropical Storm

As FEMA is closely monitoring the developing weather disturbance with the Guam Homeland Security, the Joint Typhoon Weather Center and the National Weather Center, FEMA urges Guam residents to plan ahead for possible tropical storm. 

More than 200 FEMA personnel are currently deployed in Guam, with more resources are in transit, preparing for the possible incoming severe weather. The FEMA distribution center in Guam is ready to support and provide commodities if needed to both Guam and Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. FEMA staff are coordinating with the territory and commonwealth leadership to integrate respective leads and identify resources that may be needed for the upcoming storm.  

You can help keep you and your family safe, prevent damage to your home and property, and help your community get back up and running after a disaster, by taking the following measures:

• Review your emergency plan: If you do not have a plan, learn how to create an emergency plan.
• Have an emergency kit prepared: Store enough food and water for your household for 7-10 days. Include medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies. 
• Get emergency alerts: Please stay informed by having a weather alert radio where you can listen to emergency news. Make sure to sign up to receive weather alerts in your community alerts in your community to stay updated on the latest weather news from the National Weather Service. 
• Plan ahead: Gas your vehicles and get fuel for your generators. Pull cash from the ATM in case of power outages.  
• Secure important documents: Keep copies of birth certificates, tax papers, and insurance documents in a water-proof bag.
• Don’t drive through flood waters: Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low-lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Listen to officials and stay off the roads if told to do so. 
• Find out now where your local shelters are if you are in a low-lying area that tends to flood or check to see if you can stay with friends and family. 
• Have plans for your family members and pets. If you are a person with disabilities or a caregiver for elderly, you may need to take extra steps to plan for those additional needs.

More information

Build A Kit | Ready.gov

Hurricane Safety Tips and Resources (weather.gov)

National Hurricane Preparedness | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (noaa.gov)
For more information on Guam’s disaster recovery, please visit our website.

Follow FEMA at Twitter and  Facebook

 

### 


Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

 

 

veronica.verde Mon, 10/09/2023 - 00:37

FEMA Urges Residents of Guam, Mariana Islands to Prepare Ahead of Tropical Storm Bolaven

WASHINGTON -- FEMA encourages all people in the path of Tropical Storm Bolaven to prepare now and follow instructions of local officials. Anyone in the forecasted path of the storm should monitor local weather alerts for updates and finalize their emergency plans now.

The current forecast anticipates Bolaven intensifying and passing through the Mariana Islands Tuesday evening. This storm has the potential to bring flooding due to heavy rain and storm surge. Strong sustained winds can lead to dangerous outside conditions and power outages. 

FEMA and the entire Biden-Harris Administration are prepared and prepositioned to support needs that may arise from this storm. FEMA has more than 200 staff working on Guam in response to Typhoon Mawar and an additional 175 federal staff have been deployed in preparation for Tropical Storm Bolaven. These additional personnel include two Incident Management Assistance Teams that will embed with Guam and Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) officials prior to the storm’s landfall to enhance preparedness efforts.

FEMA is working closely with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the American Red Cross, U.S. Coast Guard and the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Defense and Health and Human Services and stands ready to provide a whole-of-government response if needed. 

Now is the time to prepare. 

If you are in potentially affected areas, you should be familiar with evacuation routes, have a family emergency communications plan, keep a battery-powered radio handy and have plans for your family members and pets. If you are a person with disabilities or a caregiver for elderly, you may need to take extra steps to plan for specialized needs.

• Get Emergency Alerts: Make sure to sign up to receive weather alerts in your community and to stay updated on the latest weather news from the National Weather Service. 
• Gather Supplies: Have enough supplies for your household. Include medication, disinfectant supplies and pet supplies. After a storm, you may not have access to these supplies for days or weeks.
• Don’t drive through flood waters: Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle.
• Secure important documents: Place important documents, such as birth certificates, tax papers, and insurance documents, in a water-proof bag or container. If possible, have copies available electronically in a secure location on the cloud. 
• Personal Safety: Listen to officials and follow all instructions. They are for your safety.

Visit Ready.gov or listo.gov to learn how you can keep yourself, your family and your pets safe.
 

candace.herring Sun, 10/08/2023 - 15:52

FEMA is Hiring for the Illinois Disaster Recovery Team

CHICAGO – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has an immediate need to employ residents to work as temporary local hires to assist with disaster response and recovery efforts. Local hire employees are local residents who aid in the recovery of the community and help their fellow citizens in the recovery process. Apply for this exciting opportunity! Currently we are hiring for the following local hire positions. Job Announcements will begin to expire as soon as on Oct 9, 2023, so apply soon!  To learn more about the types of positions and their roles in FEMA, please visit Cadres | FEMA.gov.

Springfield

• Planning Specialist - USAJOBS - Job Announcement  
• Logistics Specialist - USAJOBS - Job Announcement
• Public Assistance Administrative Specialist –  USAJOBS - Job Announcement
• Public Assistance Site Inspector – USAJOBS - Job Announcement
• Public Assistance PA Program Delivery Manager - USAJOBS - Job Announcement

Morton Grove

• Voluntary Agency Liaison Specialist- USAJOBS - Job Announcement
• Logistics Specialist - USAJOBS - Job Announcement 

Most temporary local hires are employed through a streamlined hiring process. A local hire’s term of employment is up to 120 days, though it may be extended in 120-day increments. Visit the links above for additional information, including job responsibilities and compensation.

FEMA is an equal opportunity employer. Salaries are comparable to local pay rates.

Conditions of Employment:

• You must be a U.S. citizen to be considered for this position.
• You must successfully pass a background investigation.
• Selective Service registration is required for males born after Dec. 31, 1959.
• Review job announcements for additional conditions of employment.

To see other FEMA career postings, visit fema.gov/careers.

For additional information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4728. The deadline to register with FEMA is October 16, 2023.

###

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). 

nicole.wilson Sat, 10/07/2023 - 22:11

Temporary FEMA Disaster Assistance Centers To Open In Chicago Heights and Little Village for One Week

CHICAGO – Two temporary FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) will be open in Chicago Heights and Little Village from Tuesday, Oct. 10 through Saturday, Oct. 14 to help renters, homeowners and business owners affected by June 29-July 2 severe storms and flooding. 

Locations of the temporary DRCs:

Chicago Heights Public Library      Open 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.

25 W. 15th St.

Chicago Heights, IL 60411

Toman Branch, Chicago Public Library     Open 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

2708 S. Pulaski Rd.

Chicago, IL 60623

Specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration at these centers can help survivors affected by the June 29 – July 2, 2023, storms and flooding to apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, learn about ways to make their property more disaster resistant, and have their questions answered in person.

Anyone requiring a reasonable accommodation (ASL interpreting, Braille, Large print etc.) or a language interpreter may call 800-621-3362 to request assistance in advance or ask the recovery staff at the center for assistance.

For additional information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4728. The deadline to register with FEMA is October 16, 2023.

###

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). 

nicole.wilson Sat, 10/07/2023 - 21:59

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for the State of Vermont

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available for the state of Vermont to supplement recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms and flooding that occurred Aug. 3-5, 2023.

The President's action makes public assistance federal funding available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities in Addison County.

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

William F. Roy 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 damage assessments. 

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 10/06/2023 - 21:31

All Cook County Disaster Recovery Centers Closed Monday, October 9 for Holiday

CHICAGO – All FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Cook County will be closed Monday, Oct. 9 for the Columbus Day holiday. Centers will reopen Tuesday, Oct. 10 at 8 a.m.

Specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are at the centers to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, learn about ways to make their property more disaster resistant, and get their questions answered in person.

When possible, before visiting a recovery center, survivors should register for federal assistance one of the following ways:  

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.  
• Use the FEMA mobile app.  
• Call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.  

 

Individuals can visit any open center to get the help they need with the federal assistance process To find the location and operational hours of the nearest center to you, visit FEMA’s DRC locator page at fema.gov/DRCLocator. 

For more information about Cook County’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4728. The deadline to apply for disaster assistance is October 16, 2023.        

                                                                                                                  ###

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay).

karixia.ortizserrano Fri, 10/06/2023 - 19:22

Get Repair, Rebuilding Advice at the Hahira Honeybee Festival

ATLANTA – As residents repair and rebuild after Hurricane Idalia, FEMA will be at the 2023 Hahira Honeybee Festival to provide free information and tips on how to make homes damaged by natural disasters stronger and safer.
 

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

The FEMA booth will be open at the festival:

Friday, Oct. 6 – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 7 – 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The booth will be located near the Hahira Train Depot, 220 W. Main St. at Railroad Rd., in Hahira, GA 31632.
 

For more information about the 2023 Hahira Honeybee Festival, visit www.hahirahoneybeefest.com .
 

For the latest information on Georgia’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4738, follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

bree-constance… Fri, 10/06/2023 - 13:18

One Week Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance

This is the final week for Vermont residents affected by July’s severe storms, flooding, mudslides and landslides to apply for FEMA assistance.

The deadline to apply is October 12, 2023.

If you had storm-related expenses and live or own a business in Caledonia, Chittenden, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham or Windsor County, you should apply as soon as possible. FEMA assistance can provide grants and U.S. Small Business Administration loans for 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. 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.

To apply in person, visit a Disaster Recovery Center, where FEMA specialists can answer questions, help upload documents and refer you to available resources. Centers are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday (closed Sundays) at the following locations:

• Ludlow Community Center, 37 Main St., Ludlow, VT 05149
• Barre Auditorium, 16 Auditorium Hill, Barre, VT 05641 – closing 6 p.m. October 11
• Waterbury Armory, 294 Armory Drive, Waterbury, VT 05676 – closing 2 p.m. October 14

All centers will be closed Monday, October 9, in observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. They will reopen 8 a.m. October 10.

kwei.nwaogu Fri, 10/06/2023 - 12:20

FEMA Is Hiring in Florida

LAKE MARY, Fla. – Come to work for FEMA and help your community recover from recent disasters.

FEMA is conducting local hiring for 33 positions in Gainesville and Lake Mary. The agency is seeking people with experience in geospatial and data analytics, floodplain management, media relations, writing and editing, community design, human resources and training, hazard mitigation, administrative support and engineering and architecture, among other job categories. Employees will serve in disaster recovery operations for Hurricane Ian, Hurricane Nicole, Hurricane Idalia and Broward County flooding.

These positions are full-time, up to 120-day appointments, that may be extended depending on operational needs.

FEMA Local Hire employees are eligible for the following benefits:

• Health insurance for individual or family coverage. Employer contribution is 75% of premium. Local Hire employees are eligible for enrollment for health insurance coverage as of the official hire date/employment date with FEMA.
• Flexible spending accounts
• Federal long term care insurance
• Ability to earn 4 hours of paid sick leave per pay period.
• Holiday pay
• Worker’s compensation

Applicants must be U.S. citizens, 18 years of age or older, and possess a high school diploma or GED. Individuals will be required to pass a background investigation that includes finger printing and credit check, be able to furnish their own transportation to and from work and live within 50 miles of the employing office. Lodging and meals will not be covered or reimbursed by the agency. Employees are also required to participate in mandatory direct deposit/electronic funds transfer for salary payment.

How to apply:  Interested candidates are encouraged to apply online through USAJobs.gov. As the disaster operational needs shift, new positions will be posted on USAJobs. Candidates can be notified when FEMA Local Hire positions posts. You can save a search to help you look for jobs in your area of interest through USAJobs. For instructions, please visit: USAJOBS Help Center | How to save a search. 

barbara.murien… Thu, 10/05/2023 - 18:21

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Idalia

LAKE MARY, Fla. – Florida homeowners and renters in Charlotte and Hillsborough counties who had uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Idalia may now apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

FEMA may be able to help with temporary lodging, basic home repair costs or other disaster-caused needs. The two counties join 16 others previously approved for FEMA Individual Assistance.

Homeowners and renters in Charlotte, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties may apply. 

Call toll-free 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App for mobile devices or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. The telephone line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. The deadline to apply is Oct. 30, 2023. 

When you apply for assistance, please 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

Residents with homeowners, renters or flood insurance should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If the policy does not cover all disaster expenses, policy holders 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. 

barbara.murien… Thu, 10/05/2023 - 16:16

Disaster Recovery Centers to Close in Observance of Columbus Day and Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Will Reopen October 10

The three Disaster Recovery Centers in Vermont will be closed Monday, October 9 in observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Day and Columbus Day. They will reopen Tuesday, October 10 with normal hours.

If you were affected by Vermont’s July storms, visit a Disaster Recovery Center to get in-person help from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Specialists can help you apply for assistance, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.

Centers are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday (closed Sundays) at:

• Barre Auditorium, 16 Auditorium Hill, Barre, VT 05641 
  • Closing permanently 6 p.m. October 11.
• Waterbury Armory, 294 Armory Drive, Waterbury, VT 05676 
  • Closing permanently 6 p.m. October 14.
• Ludlow Community Center, 37 Main St., Ludlow, VT 05149

The deadline to apply for assistance is October 12, 2023.

To apply without visiting a center, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call 800-621-3362. 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.

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

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 10/05/2023 - 15:35

National Emergency Alert Test Results

 

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA, in conjunction with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), conducted a national test of Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) and the Emergency Alert System (EAS). The test message was sent nationwide via WEA to cellular phones and over EAS to radio and television stations, beginning at approximately 2:20 p.m. ET.

The testing process is designed to evaluate the effectiveness of the FEMA public alert and warning systems to distribute an emergency message nationwide and the operational readiness of the infrastructure for distribution of a national message to the public.

All the cell carriers that participate in WEA received the alert today. The EAS test alert was successfully processed and made available to broadcasters.

FEMA is conducting a survey on the WEA portion of the test to help us capture information about the geographic reach of the WEA Alert Message. Survey results will help FEMA and other WEA stakeholders, such as the FCC and public safety officials, enhance and expand WEA even further.

Final determination of population reach for the EAS test will come from data collected by the EAS Test Reporting System. Analysis will be done by FEMA and the FCC, and results could take approximately four months.

Additional information about the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) Emergency Alert Test can be found at IPAWS National Test 2023 and IPAWS 2023 National Test FAQs.

Examples from today’s National Wireless Emergency Alert System Test (FEMA photos)

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 10/04/2023 - 20:11

It’s Important to Submit an SBA Loan Application

LAKE MARY, Fla. – Homeowners, renters, business owners and certain nonprofits who had losses from Hurricane Idalia may be referred for a disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

FEMA may refer survivors to SBA with information on how to apply for a disaster loan. It’s important to submit the loan application as soon as possible. If the application is approved, they are not obligated to accept an SBA loan but failure to return the application may disqualify them from other possible financial assistance from FEMA and State of Florida.

• If referred to the SBA, some types of FEMA assistance may only be provided if you receive a denial for an SBA loan.
• SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors. SBA offers long-term, low-interest disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters.
• SBA disaster loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other resources. Survivors should not wait for an insurance settlement before submitting an SBA loan application. They may discover they were underinsured for the deductible, labor and materials required to repair or replace their home.
• Homeowners may be eligible for a disaster loan up to $500,000 for primary residence structural repairs or rebuilding. SBA may also be able to help homeowners and renters with up to $100,000 to repair or replace important personal property, including automobiles damaged or destroyed in the disaster.

Survivors may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/ela/s/. Disaster loan information and application forms can also be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/ and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

barbara.murien… Wed, 10/04/2023 - 16:50

Charlotte, Hillsborough Counties Now Eligible for FEMA Individual Assistance

LAKE MARY, Fla. – Homeowners and renters who sustained losses from Hurricane Idalia in Charlotte and Hillsborough counties can apply for FEMA Individual Assistance.

These counties join Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties, which were previously approved for Individual Assistance.

Survivors can apply by calling 800-621-3362, going online at disasterassistance.gov, or using the FEMA mobile app. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 10 p.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 your number for that service.

Disaster assistance may include financial help for temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-caused expenses.

The deadline for applications is Oct. 30, 2023.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit floridadisaster.org/updates/ and fema.gov/disaster/4734. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

barbara.murien… Wed, 10/04/2023 - 14:25

FEMA Registration Deadline Less Than Three Weeks Away

Anchorage, Alaska – Residents in the Copper River, Kuspuk, Lower Kuskokwim, Lower Yukon, and Yukon Flats Regional Educational Attendance Areas (REAAs) affected by the ice jam and snow melt flooding between May 12 and June 3, 2023 have less than three weeks to apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

The deadline is October 23, 2023. 

Even if you have already registered for the State of Alaska's disaster assistance program, you must also register with FEMA to determine if you may be eligible to receive additional funds through the agency. 

FEMA assistance is unable to duplicate benefits offered through insurance or other disaster assistance programs. But if your losses or damage go beyond disaster assistance available from other sources – or include items or categories not covered by other assistance – you may be eligible for additional funds from FEMA. 

Low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience are another important form of federal disaster assistance. These loans are not just for businesses. Homeowners, renters and private nonprofit organizations can also apply. The first step, to get all the eligible federal aid you may be entitled to, is to register with FEMA as outlined below before the close of business on October 23.

As of the close of business on Oct 1, FEMA had received 427 total registrations and approved more than $2 million in assistance for the spring ice jam and snowmelt flooding.  

FEMA and SBA disaster assistance staff have already visited numerous communities in the impacted areas. If you are unable to meet with FEMA staff visiting your community, you can still apply for FEMA assistance by visiting disasterassistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app, or contacting a FEMA specialist by calling 1-866-342-1699. The hotline has staff trained to answer Alaska-specific questions. For questions about SBA loans, call 1-800-659-2955.

If you require a reasonable accommodation -- such as language translation or interpretation, mobility assistance, or sign language interpretation -- call or text 907-727-6221 or email FEMA-language-access-request@fema.dhs.gov. You can also notify staff in the field.

#   #  #   #   #

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

FEMA is committed to providing equal access to our programs and services without discrimination. If you require a reasonable accommodation, call or text 907-727-6221 or email FEMA-language-access-request@fema.dhs.gov.  You can also let staff in the field know you require an accommodation such as spoken language resources, mobility assistance, or sign language interpreting services. If you feel you have experienced discrimination, call the FEMA Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 or 800-462-7585 (TTY/TDD) or email FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov.

 

mary.j.edmon Tue, 10/03/2023 - 23:37

Berrien and Brooks Counties Added for Individual Assistance; Four More Georgia Counties Approved for Public Assistance

ATLANTA – Homeowners and renters in Berrien and Brooks counties are now eligible for FEMA assistance to help them recover from Hurricane Idalia.
 

These counties join Cook, Glynn, and Lowndes counties, which were previously approved for Individual Assistance. Assistance for eligible survivors can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, and for other serious disaster-related needs, such as medical and dental expenses. Also, low-interest disaster loans from the U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available for businesses of all sizes (including landlords), private nonprofits, homeowners, and renters.
 

What’s Next?

The first step for individuals and households to receive assistance is to apply to FEMA for federal assistance. There are no costs involved to receive FEMA assistance.

Apply by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app, or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance, visit youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw.
 

If you live in Berrien, Brooks, Cook, Glynn or Lowndes county, the deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Nov. 6, 2023.

For more information about FEMA’s Individual Assistance program, visit www.fema.gov/assistance/individual.
 

In addition, FEMA has added four more counties to the Hurricane Idalia disaster declaration for assistance under FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) program. The additional PA counties are Burke, Montgomery, Toombs and Treutlen. Public Assistance funding is now available, on a cost-sharing basis, to eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, in 32 Georgia counties. Previously approved PA counties, impacted by the Aug. 30 hurricane are: Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Berrien, Brantley, Brooks, Bulloch, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Cook, Echols, Emanuel, Glynn, Jeff Davis, Jenkins, Lanier, Lowndes, Pierce, Screven, Tattnall, Thomas, Tift, Ware and Wayne.

PA provides help to communities impacted by Idalia to cover a full range of measures, including debris removal, life-saving emergency protective services and restoration of public infrastructure, including roads, bridges, dams and public parks and recreation facilities.
 

For the latest information on Georgia’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4738, follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

bree-constance… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 22:03

Glynn Disaster Recovery Center to Close; Others Change Hours

ATLANTA — The Glynn County Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Brunswick will cease operations permanently at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 6. The DRCs, operated by the state of Georgia and FEMA in Cook and Lowndes counties will remain open to continue serving Hurricane Idalia survivors, but with some change in hours of operation:

• Beginning Sunday, Oct. 8, both DRCs will be closed on Sundays.
• Beginning Monday, Oct. 9, DRC hours will be 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday (including Columbus Day).

Disaster Recovery Centers provide one-on-one help to people affected by Hurricane Idalia and survivors can visit any DRC. DRCs remain open at:
 

Cook County Extension Services

206 E. Ninth St.
Adel, GA 31620
 

Lowndes County Civic Center

2108 E. Hill Ave.
Valdosta, GA 31601
 

For information about Disaster Recovery Centers, view: Disaster Recovery Center (DRC): Your Resource After a Hurricane - YouTube. To find the DRC nearest you, visit fema.gov/drc.
 

It is not necessary to visit a DRC to apply for assistance. You can apply online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v= WZGpWI2RCNw.
 

The last day to apply for FEMA assistance is Nov. 6, 2023.

For the latest information on Georgia’s recovery from Hurricane Idalia, visit fema.gov/disaster/4738, follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

bree-constance… Tue, 10/03/2023 - 21:54

Continuing Resolution Allows FEMA to Lift Restrictions on Disaster Relief Funding

WASHINGTON -- The Continuing Resolution signed Sept. 30 enabled FEMA to resume funding for more than 2,400 projects across the country. 

FEMA lifted Immediate Needs Funding (INF) restrictions on Oct. 2. INF is a tool FEMA uses when the Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) is projected to be insufficient to meet all Stafford Act requirements. Under INF, FEMA prioritizes response and urgent recovery efforts without interruption. However, new obligations not necessary for lifesaving and life-sustaining activities are paused. 

“INF is never something we enter into lightly,” said Mary Comans, FEMA’s Chief Financial Officer. “Though necessary to prepare for future catastrophic emergencies, we understand the impact this has on communities, schools and hospitals waiting for funding. Now that INF is lifted, we are working to resume obligations to paused projects as quickly as possible.”

Delayed projects will be processed as quickly as possible in the order they were paused. FEMA estimates that all delayed projects will be funded within the next several weeks.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 10/03/2023 - 16:02