You are here
Feed aggregator
FEMA Distributes More Than $677,000 in Disaster Assistance for Severe Storm, Flooding, Landslide Survivors
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico –The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has distributed more than $677,000 in disaster assistance to help survivors affected by the severe storm, flooding, and landslides that occurred Feb. 4 - 6, 2022.
Nearly $329,000 has been distributed to individuals for housing assistance to cover expenses related to home repair and rehabilitation. In addition, more than $348,000 has been distributed for other needs assistance. Housing Assistance (HA) and Other Needs Assistance (ONA) are part of FEMA’s Individual Household Program.
ONA is available for necessary expenses and serious needs directly caused by the disaster, including: child-care expenses, medical and dental expenses, damages to essential household items (room furnishings, appliances); clothing; tools (specialized or protective clothing and equipment) required for your job; necessary educational materials (computers, schoolbooks, supplies), clean-up items (wet/dry vacuum, dehumidifier), damage to an essential vehicle, moving and storage of essential household goods to prevent further damage, and returning property to the applicant’s primary residence.
Survivors from the affected municipalities of Cataño, Dorado, Toa Baja, Vega Alta, and Vega Baja are eligible to apply for disaster assistance. To get additional information, find the Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: fema.gov/drc.
You may also apply 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 800-621-3362. 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, give 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.
For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery from the February floods, visit fema.gov/disaster/4649. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/FEMAregion2.
frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 05/02/2022 - 15:15
Disaster Recovery Centers Are Changing Operating Hours
SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) are changing operating hours beginning Sunday May 1, 2022. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) currently has five DRCs open to help survivors affected by the severe storm, flooding, and landslides that occurred Feb. 4 - 6, 2022.
DRCs at Cataño, Dorado, Toa Baja, Vega Alta, and Vega Baja will be open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. seven days a week.
Pabellón Comercial Rafael Hernández Colón
Calle Méndez Vigo #349
(in front of Residencial El Dorado), Dorado
Centro Comunal Los Naranjos
Barrio Cabo Caribe
Comunidad Los Naranjos
Parcela 119-A, Vega Baja
Centro de Usos Múltiples - Luis Muñoz Marín
PR-647 Km 12.5,
Barrio Bajuras, Sector Machuchal, Vega Alta
Junta de Inscripción Permanente de Candelaria
RR-865
Barrio Candelaria, Toa Baja
Centro de Usos Múltiples
Carr. PR-5, Km 2.6
Sector Juana Matos, Cataño
Survivors from the affected municipalities can continue to visit DRCs during these hours and talk to FEMA specialist to apply for assistance, follow up or update their applications. Residents may also apply with FEMA through their smart phone, home computer or by phone. The fastest ways to apply for assistance are:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
- By phone at 800-621-3362. 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, give 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.
To get additional information, find the Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: fema.gov/drc. For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery from the February floods, visit fema.gov/disaster/4649. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/FEMAregion2.
frances.acevedo-pico Fri, 04/29/2022 - 20:11Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Fairfax County, VA
PHILADELPHIA - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Fairfax County, Virginia. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.
The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.
The 90-day appeal period will begin on or around April 22, 2022. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that 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 the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.
Submit appeals and comments by contacting Mr. Dipmani Kumar at Dipmani.Kumar@fairfaxcounty.gov. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer: https://arcg.is/09vTC4.
For more information about the flood maps:
- Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
- Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. 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 and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.
Fairfax County, VA Flood Mapping Milestones
- April 6, 2020 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
- April 30, 2021 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
- August 5, 2021 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
- April 22, 2022 –Appeal Period starts.
- May 2023 — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.
###
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.
Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3
charles.elison Fri, 04/29/2022 - 17:17FEMA Awards Nearly $2.2 Million To Maine Medical Center For Covid Testing Expenses
The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $2.2 million to the State of Maine to reimburse Maine Medical Center in Portland for the cost of testing staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $2,171,014 Public Assistance grant will go to cover the cost of screening and providing COVID-19 tests for staff between May 2020 and October 2021. The 637-licensed-bed teaching hospital and flagship facility for MaineHealth contracted to set up a web-based program with a COVID-19 screening questionnaire which required employees to complete and pass to be permitted to enter any facility for the day.
Employees who failed the screening questionnaire were then directed to get a COVID-19 test. The grant also covers the cost of testing 22,267 employees who failed screening protocols at Maine Medical Center’s hospitals, primary care clinics, and ancillary service offices.
“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Maine Medical Center with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”
So far, FEMA has provided more than $116 million in Public Assistance grants to Maine to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program is available at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. To learn more about the COVID-19 response in Maine, please visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4522.
adrien.urbani Wed, 04/27/2022 - 14:45FEMA Awards More Than $3.3 Million To Connecticut For Covid Testing Expenses
BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $3.3 million to the State of Connecticut to reimburse the state for the costs of providing testing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $3,312,499 FEMA’s Public Assistance grant to the Connecticut Office of State Comptroller will reimburse it for testing a variety of vulnerable populations for COVID-19, including students at the Connecticut state universities, between April and June 2021.
The office contracted with SEMA4 Genomics and Griffin Hospital to provide 34,279 tests, and outbreak testing was conducted as needed.
“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the State of Connecticut with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”
FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.
So far, FEMA has provided almost $396 million in Public Assistance grants to Connecticut to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program is available at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. To learn more about the COVID-19 response in Connecticut, please visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4500.
adrien.urbani Wed, 04/27/2022 - 14:43FEMA Awards Almost $61.4 Million To Connecticut For Covid Personal Protective Equipment
BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending almost $61.4 million to the State of Connecticut to reimburse the state for purchasing, storing and distributing personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $61,376,306 FEMA’s Public Assistance grant to the Connecticut Department of Corrections will reimburse it for operating a system of warehouses and distribution centers around the state between March and September 2020 and purchasing large quantities of PPE.
The department contracted to lease two warehouse facilities and set up eight points of distribution in five regions across the state, and to purchase more than 96 million various PPE items including goggles, masks, face shields, respirators, gowns, gloves, and shoe coverings.
It also contracted for warehouse support in the form of staffing, warehouse equipment, material management, and tracking services to distribute PPE to other state entities, agencies, towns, and to those most vulnerable but unable to get the items themselves.
“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the State of Connecticut with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”
FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.
So far, FEMA has provided almost $396 million in Public Assistance grants to Connecticut to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program is available at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. To learn more about the COVID-19 response in Connecticut, please visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4500.
adrien.urbani Wed, 04/27/2022 - 14:40FEMA Awards More Than $7.3 Million To Yale New Haven Hospital For Covid Meals Costs
BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $7.3 million to the State of Connecticut to reimburse the Yale New Haven Hospital for the additional costs of preparing and distributing meals to patients and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The private, not-for-profit 1,541-bed teaching hospital with multiple campuses is a subsidiary of Yale New Haven Health Services Corporation, and will recive a total of $7,344,662 in federal funding through FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program to reimburse the hospital for the additional cost of providing meals between January 2020 and December 2021.
Morrison Food Service, with whom the hospital had a pre-existing contract to stock, prepare, and distribute food at their facilities, pivoted their service to COVID patient meal preparation and distribution, cleaning of high-touch services in the meal preparation areas, and purchasing of disposable materials (e.g. paper-plates/Styrofoam containers/plastic silverware) for COVID patient meal delivery.
“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the State of Connecticut with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”
FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.
So far, FEMA has provided almost $396 million in Public Assistance grants to Connecticut to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program is available at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. To learn more about the COVID-19 response in Connecticut, please visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4500.
adrien.urbani Wed, 04/27/2022 - 14:38
FEMA Awards Nearly $2.2 Million To Boston Public Health Commission For Covid-19 Testing Costs
BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $2.2 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the Boston Public Health Commission for the cost of testing residents during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $2,181,415 Public Assistance grant will go to the Boston Public Health Commission for contracting with five health centers to provide community-based coronavirus testing between September and December 2020.
As of August 20, 2020 the city had reported over 15,000 confirmed cases and 746 deaths due to COVID-19, and the commission had to continue its regular operations in addition to conducting 53,373 tests in order to reduce the spread of the virus.
“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”
FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.
So far, FEMA has provided more than $947 million in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program is available at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. To learn more about the COVID-19 response in Massachusetts, please visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4496
adrien.urbani Wed, 04/27/2022 - 14:29
FEMA Awards More Than $3.4 Million To Stonehill College For Covid-19 Testing Costs
BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $3.4 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Stonehill College for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $3,410,558 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private Catholic college in Easton for the cost of providing 129,008 coronavirus tests between July 2020 and June 2021. The college also purchased handheld sprayers, disinfectant, temporary physical barriers, forehead thermometers, and personal protective equipment (PPE) such as disposable masks and face shields.
“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Stonehill College with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”
FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.
So far, FEMA has provided more than $947 million in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program is available at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. To learn more about the COVID-19 response in Massachusetts, please visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4496
adrien.urbani Wed, 04/27/2022 - 14:26FEMA Awards Nearly $2.2 Million To Massachusetts To Keep Registry Of Motor Vehicles Open During Pandemic
BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $2.2 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the state for the cost of keeping the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) operating during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $2,194,891 Public Assistance grant will go to the Massachusetts Department of Transportation for emergency protective measures taken by the RMV between January and September 2020, including:
- Contracting for disinfecting and cleaning services at various RMV facilities, including driver testing vehicles;
- Purchasing personal protective equipment (PPE) including face masks, face shields, and gloves;
- Purchasing safety equipment such as temperature scanners to monitor staff and customers, sneeze guard barriers, canopies for drive through protection, communication devices for drive up windows, and drop boxes for public document delivery; and
- Purchasing disinfecting supplies for facility cleaning, hand sanitizer, and dispensers.
“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”
FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.
So far, FEMA has provided more than $947 million in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program is available at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. To learn more about the COVID-19 response in Massachusetts, please visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4496
adrien.urbani Wed, 04/27/2022 - 14:22
FEMA Awards Vermont Nearly $1.5 Million For Covid Emergency Meals Program
BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $1.5 million to the State of Vermont to reimburse the costs of providing emergency meals for residents in need during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $1,473,362 Public Assistance grant will go to the Agency of Commerce and Community Development for providing meal preparation and delivery service to high-risk populations under the the state’s emergency feeding program “Vermont Everyone Eats” between January and February 2022.
During that time the agency entered into an agreement with Southeastern Vermont Community Action, Inc. (SEVCA), which established and coordinated with state-wide subcontractors (Hubs) that oversaw restaurant engagement, production, and distribution of 117,869 meals to Vermonters experiencing food insecurity.
The program launched in August 2020 with $5 million from the state’s Coronavirus Relief Fund and has continued with additional funding through FEMA.
“FEMA is pleased to support Vermont’s innovative approach to assisting its most vulnerable populations,” said FEMA Region I Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “By involving the private sector in the preparation and distribution of meals, both those faced with food insecurity and those who work at restaurants are helped.”
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program is available at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. To learn more about the COVID-19 response in Vermont, please visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4532.
adrien.urbani Wed, 04/27/2022 - 14:20
FEMA Awards Vermont More Than $2 Million For Covid Response Costs
BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $2 million to the State of Vermont to reimburse the costs of responding to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $2,025,369 Public Assistance grant will go to the Vermont Agency of Human Services for contracting with security and consultation providers between March 2020 and December 2021.
Those contracts were to provide security services at non-congregate sheltering locations and subject matter expertise and liaisons to the Vermont Department of Health (VDH), Department of Public Safety (DPS), Vermont Emergency Management (VEM) and other critical federal, state and local emergency response partners in the state’s development and implementation of COVID-19 emergency response plans.
“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the State of Vermont with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program is available at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. To learn more about the COVID-19 response in Vermont, please visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4532.
adrien.urbani Wed, 04/27/2022 - 14:18FEMA Awards Nearly $3.4 Million To The College Of The Holy Cross For Covid-19 Testing Costs
BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $3.4 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse the College of the Holy Cross for the cost of testing students, faculty and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The $3,387,116 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private Jesuit college in Worcester for the cost of providing 96,487 coronavirus tests between January and June 2021.
The college worked with its healthcare provider, Evans Medical Foundation, to determine who was eligible to be tested and how often, as well as contracting to provide health monitoring for students and staff and purchasing materials such as face masks.
“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the College of the Holy Cross with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”
FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.
So far, FEMA has provided more than $947 million in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program is available at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit. To learn more about the COVID-19 response in Massachusetts, please visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4496
adrien.urbani Wed, 04/27/2022 - 14:05ICYMI -- FEMA Administrator Celebrates Earth Day with AmeriCorps and FEMA Corps
WASHINGTON -- On April 22, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell joined AmeriCorps Chief Executive Officer Michael Smith, community group Washington Parks & People Executive Director and President Steve Coleman, AmeriCorps and FEMA Corps team members for an Earth Day service project at Marvin Gaye Community Center in Washington, D.C.
During the event, the team planted trees, removed trash from the park and Watts Branch Stream, a local tributary of the Potomac River.
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (left) and Washington Parks & People Executive Director and President Steve Coleman remove trash from Watts Branch Stream during an Earth Day service project at Marvin Gaye Park April 22. (FEMA photo by Graham Haynes)
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (far left), AmeriCorps Chief Executive Officer Michael Smith, Parks & People Executive Director and President Steve Coleman (far right) and FEMA Corps team members after the Earth Day service project at Marvin Gaye Park April 22. The team removed trash from the park and planted trees during the event. (FEMA photo by Graham Haynes)
The Marvin Gaye Community Center staff and volunteers practice resilience in everyday life, by maintaining a community garden that provides fresh produce for visitors and the community, removing invasive plant species and cleaning up litter from the stream.
To learn more about how FEMA is practicing resilience, including fighting against climate change, visit FEMA.gov.
mayshaunt.gary Mon, 04/25/2022 - 22:00Free Legal Help Available for Puerto Rico Severe Storms Survivors
San Juan, Puerto Rico – Survivors of the severe storm, flooding, and landslides that occurred Feb. 4 - 6, 2022 can now receive free legal assistance for certain disaster-related issues to help them through the recovery process. To be eligible for these services survivors must have been directly affected by the disaster and not have sufficient means to hire an attorney.
To learn about the available resources in your area, call the toll-free legal aid hotline Monday – Friday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. at 800-981-5342. This service is provided by the American Bar Association (ABA), Young Lawyers Division (YLD) and Servicios Legales de Puerto Rico in collaboration with FEMA.
Some examples of legal disaster-related issues include:
• Handling insurance claims (life, medical, and property)
• Dealing with home repair contracts and contractors
• Help with consumer protection matters, remedies, and procedures
• Counseling on landlord/tenant issues or mortgage foreclosure problems
• Replacement of wills, deeds, titles, and other important legal documents destroyed or lost in the disaster
• Assistance with securing FEMA and other benefits available to disaster survivors
Survivors from the affected municipalities of Cataño, Dorado, Toa Baja, Vega Alta, and Vega Baja are eligible to apply for disaster assistance. To find the Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: fema.gov/drc.
You may also apply 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 800-621-3362. 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, give 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
For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery from the February floods, visit fema.gov/disaster/4649. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/FEMAregion2.
frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 04/25/2022 - 16:07FEMA Comment Period Open for Certain Disaster Recovery Activities in Kansas Resulting from the December 2021 Severe Storms
Kansas City, Mo. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is announcing that an Initial Public Notice (IPN) is now available for review and comment in connection with disaster recovery activities associated with the Dec. 15, 2021 severe storms and straight-line winds in Kansas.
Persons wanting to provide input on FEMA’s proposed activities have until May 6, 2022 to submit comments or questions in writing. A copy of this public notice is posted online.
Specifically, this IPN announces the agency’s intention to reimburse eligible local and state governmental entities, tribal nations and certain non-profits in Kansas for approved costs to repair or replace public facilities damaged by the Dec. 15, 2021 storms.
This public notice concerns activities that may affect historic properties, activities located in, or may affect wetland areas or the 100-year floodplain, and critical actions within the 500-year floodplain.
FEMA is required by law to provide a public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities via the Public Assistance (PA), Individual Assistance (IA), or Hazard Mitigation Grant (HMGP) programs. The general public is not required to comment on the agency’s proposed activities, but comments received are taken into consideration as the agency evaluates the recovery activities’ impact to or by floodplains and wetlands, and effects to historic resources.
This may be the only public notice provided regarding these FEMA actions.
Questions and/or comments should be directed to Kate Stojsavljevic, Regional Environmental Officer, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Region 7, 11224 Holmes Road, Kansas City, MO 64131 or by emailing Kate.stojsavljevic@fema.dhs.gov.
mayshaunt.gary Thu, 04/21/2022 - 20:47Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Johnson County, Texas
DENTON, Texas – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review in Johnson County, Texas. 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 local, state and FEMA officials. Significant 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 periods.
The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around April 21, 2022.
Appeals and comments may be submitted through July 20, 2022 for:
- The cities of Cleburne, Mansfield and Venus; and the unincorporated areas of Johnson County
Comments only may be submitted through July 20, 2022 for:
- The cities of Burleson, Godley and Joshua
- 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 http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” 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.
Kurt.Pickering Thu, 04/21/2022 - 19:18
FEMA to Evaluate Readiness of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the State of Maryland
PHILADELPHIA – The Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will evaluate a Biennial Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercise for communities around the Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station. The exercise will occur during the week of April 25, 2022 to assess the ability of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the State of Maryland to respond to an emergency at the nuclear facility.
“These drills are held every other year to evaluate government’s ability to protect public health and safety,” said MaryAnn Tierney, Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 3. “We will assess state and local government emergency response capabilities within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the State of Maryland.”
Within 90 days, FEMA will send its evaluation to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for use in licensing decisions. The final report will be available to the public approximately 120 days after the exercise.
FEMA will present preliminary findings of the exercise during a public meeting at 10:30 a.m. on April 29, 2022. The meeting will be conducted in a virtual format via Zoom. Planned speakers include representatives from FEMA and the NRC. Access to the public meeting is provided below:
Join ZoomGov Meeting https://fema.zoomgov.com/j/1614341555
Meeting ID: 161 434 1555 Passcode: 688311
At the public meeting, FEMA may request that questions or comments be submitted in writing for review and response. Written comments may also be submitted after the meeting by emailing FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov or by mail to:
MaryAnn Tierney
Regional Administrator
FEMA Region III
615 Chestnut Street, 6th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19106
FEMA created the Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) Program to (1) ensure the health and safety of citizens living around commercial nuclear power plants would be adequately protected in the event of a nuclear power plant accident and (2) inform and educate the public about radiological emergency preparedness.
REP Program responsibilities cover only “offsite” activities, that is, state and local government emergency planning and preparedness activities that take place beyond the nuclear power plant boundaries. Onsite activities continue to be the responsibility of the NRC.
Additional information on FEMA’s REP Program is available online at FEMA.gov/Radiological-Emergency-Preparedness-Program.
###
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.
Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3
charles.elison Thu, 04/21/2022 - 13:35FEMA Assigns Over $16 Million for Forests, Natural Reserves and Wildlife Refuges
The renovations to the recreational areas at La Parguera and the Toro Negro Forest will promote sustainable tourism
Guaynabo, Puerto Rico –Trails, natural pools, reservoirs and even camping areas: these are some of the recreational areas of the Toro Negro State Forest, located on about 8,000 acres of land between central and southern Puerto Rico. The forest has the highest mountain on the island: Cerro Punta.
Toro Negro is one of the forests, nature reserves and wildlife refuges that will benefit from around $16 million in allocations from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The award seeks to repair damage caused by Hurricane María in these spaces for the enjoyment of its visitors.
“In commemoration of International Earth Day month, we emphasize on the importance of preserving our natural resources. The funds obligated for these 36 projects will help make the facilities fit for recreation, while supporting our island’s ecological welfare,” said the Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator in Puerto Rico, José G. Baquero.
The official also highlighted the leading role played by the agency’s Environmental and Historic Preservation (EHP) division in the restoration of these areas. FEMA’s EHP experts provide technical assistance on the respective federal regulations, directives and legal mandates put in place to protect and minimize impacts to these valuable resources.
In the case of Toro Negro, the strong currents from the hurricane rains accelerated erosion in areas of the trail and destroyed part of the facilities. With the allocation of nearly $138,600, it will be possible to repair its eleven miles of trails, the areas of the natural pool, the gazebos, the offices, the camping residences and the warehouse, among other areas.
The Amigos del Bosque organization was founded in 2016 with the purpose of providing and promoting education about conservation and enjoyment of the forest, while driving sustainable, responsible, community-based development.
For the Ala de Piedra neighborhood, the community next to the forest, the repairs would mean more employment opportunities for the 300 families who live there. “The fact that it can be made much better and more accessible is an opportunity for the people of the community to work and to empower themselves in the forest. If the natural pool is repaired, it would bring many jobs, because we are talking about lifeguards, maintenance, ticket office,” explained Báez Vitali.
The forest is also known for being a scientific research area. At this time, there are two active studies on coquíes and mongooses: doctoral students often camp there to research the forest’s flora and fauna.
Another landmark that will benefit from a $295,000 allocation is the La Parguera Nature Reserve in the municipality of Lajas. The reserve's role is to protect the mangroves and coral reefs; the Caracoles, Enrique and Mata la Gata keys; as well as the famous Playa Rosada.
Meanwhile, the mayor of Lajas, Jayson Martínez Maldonado, explained that the reserve is still open to the public and receives around 1,000 tourists per month. Also, he estimates that the repairs will start on June of this year and will be completed by March of 2023, which he projects will increase the arrival of more tourists to the area by 30 to 40 percent.
Today, according to the municipality, the La Parguera region is one of the most productive fishing areas locally. Some 2,000 people reside in the area, where over 150 jobs are generated.
The approval of funds represents good news for resident Angel Cruz Acevedo, who has lived in La Parguera for 40 years. “The improvements at Playa Rosada would be for the good of all the residents of La Parguera who have been using the facilities for a long time. Families would go to those areas for tourism and entertainment.”
La Parguera Nature Reserve also welcomes local and international scientists who conduct research on the flora, fauna and ecosystem of the reserve. It also serves as a research laboratory for different universities and entities in Puerto Rico.
One of the researches being conducted by the Mayagüez Campus of the University of Puerto Rico there seeks to characterize some shallow reefs in La Parguera, obtain data and compare them with reefs experiencing coral tissue loss (SCTLD). The research will monitor the seafloor, describing in detail the biodiversity and other relevant ecological factors in the area.
For his part, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said “the development of the reconstruction projects of these recreational facilities are important to continue promoting Puerto Rico as a tourist destination, both for local and foreign tourists. With the increase of visits to these natural reserves, the socioeconomic development of the communities is supported. To date, COR3 has reimbursed $21.8 million to the DNER for multiple projects that will revitalize facilities affected by Hurricanes Irma and Maria, as well as earthquakes. COR3 will continue to support the DNER in the technical processes related to the development of permanent works.”
For more information on Puerto Rico's recovery from Hurricane María, please visit fema.gov/es/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow our social media pages at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr
frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 04/21/2022 - 12:39
Mapas de inundaciones del Condado de Nueces, Texas se vuelven definitivos
DENTON, Texas –Los nuevos mapas de inundaciones se han finalizado y entran en vigencia el 13 de octubre de 2022 para el condado de Nueces, Texas. Durante los próximos seis meses, un especialista en cumplimiento de FEMA trabajará con la comunidad para actualizar cada ordenanza de valle de inundación y adoptar estos nuevos mapas de inundaciones.
Se anima a los residentes a examinar los mapas para determinar si se encuentran en una zona de inundación de riesgo bajo a moderado o alto. Se puede ver el Mapa de Tasas de Inundación actual y los mapas futuros en la pagina web del Visualizador de Cambios del Mapa de Inundación de FEMA en https://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.
Al comprender los riesgos de inundación, las personas pueden decidir cual opción de seguro es la mejor para su situación. Los líderes comunitarios pueden usar estos mapas para tomar decisiones informadas sobre los estándares de construcción y el desarrollo que harán para que la comunidad sea más resiliente y disminuyan los impactos de una inundación.
Aquellos sin seguro de inundación corren el riesgo de pérdidas no aseguradas de su hogar, propiedad personal o su negocio. El seguro de inundación está disponible a través de aseguradoras privadas o a través del Programa del Seguro Nacional de Inundación (NFIP, por sus siglas en inglés) para aquellos en las comunidades que participan en el NFIP. Los residentes con hipotecas respaldadas por el gobierno federal deben tener un seguro de inundación si sus estructuras se encuentran en Áreas Especiales de Riesgo de Inundación.
Comuníquese con su administrador local de valles de inundación (FPA, por sus siglas en inglés) para obtener más información sobre su riesgo de inundación. Un especialista en mapas de FEMA puede ayudarlo a identificar la FPA de su comunidad y también responder preguntas sobre los mapas. Póngase en contacto con ellos por teléfono o chat en línea.
- Para utilizar un servicio de chat en vivo sobre mapas de inundaciones, visite http://go.usa.gov/r6C (simplemente haga clic en el icono "Chat en vivo").
- Para comunicarse con un especialista en mapas de FEMA por teléfono, llame al 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) o envíe un correo electrónico a FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.
Hay opciones de ahorro de costos disponibles para aquellos recién asignados a una zona de inundación de alto riesgo. Obtenga más información sobre sus opciones de seguro de inundación hablando con su agente de seguros o visitando https://www.floodsmart.gov/es.
Kurt.Pickering Wed, 04/20/2022 - 19:42Pages
