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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available for the state of Montana to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by straight-line winds that occurred on July 24, 2024. 

Public Assistance federal funding is available to state, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the straight-line winds in Missoula and Powell counties. 

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

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

amy.ashbridge Fri, 08/23/2024 - 20:49

Minnesota Survivors: Stay in Touch with FEMA

ST. PAUL – Minnesotans who applied for federal assistance may need to follow-up with FEMA and provide more information or documents to move their application forward. Those who still need help recovering after the June 16 – July 4 storms and flooding and haven’t yet applied, still have time to do so too.

Applicants with Insurance

If you applied with FEMA and reported having insurance for the damage to your home, you will need to submit the insurance settlement or denial letter to FEMA. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by other sources.  

Applicants Appealing an Initial FEMA Decision

Read your FEMA letter carefully: it will provide additional information on what to submit if you choose to appeal FEMA’s decision. You have 60 days from the date of your letter to do so.

You may submit documents to FEMA in many ways. 

• Online: Use your FEMA online account. To set up a FEMA online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Apply Online” and follow the directions. 
• By mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055
• By fax: 800-827-8112, Attention: FEMA
• In-person: Visit any Disaster Recovery Center. Find a center here: fema.gov/DRC.

Reminder: Application Deadline is September 27, 2024

For those who haven’t applied and need recovery help, start the application process by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading 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.

Be sure to apply before the September 27 deadline. For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Minnesota visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4797.

kimberly.keblish Fri, 08/23/2024 - 20:20

Get Repair, Rebuilding, Flood Insurance Advice in Alamogordo

Maybe you have already begun fixing-up the damage to your home in the wake of the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding. Or maybe you have no idea of even where to begin. 

As New Mexicans are recovering from the disaster, FEMA has teamed with Foxworth & Galbraith Home Improvement Center in Alamogordo to provide free information and tips on how to make homes damaged by the fires and floods stronger and safer. 

FEMA specialists will be available 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. 

Residents with fire- or flood-impacted homes will pick up tips on re-building smart, strong and safe to prevent future damage. Smart building includes mitigating damage against floods, strong winds and even tornadoes. Attendees will learn how such simple mitigation measures as elevating electrical and heating systems and anchoring fuel storage tanks can provide protection against severe conditions, and much more. Bring your questions.

In addition, FEMA Hazard Mitigation insurance specialists from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) will be on hand to answer questions about flood insurance.

These experts will be available Monday, Aug. 26, through Saturday, Aug. 31, 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at:

Foxworth & Galbraith Home Improvement Center
2318 N White Sands Blvd.
Alamogordo, NM 88310

kwei.nwaogu Fri, 08/23/2024 - 20:00

DHS Announces Funding Allocations for Fiscal Year 2024 Preparedness Grants

WASHINGTON -- Today, the Department of Homeland Security announced final allocations of nearly $724 million in six Fiscal Year 2024 competitive preparedness grant programs. This includes $454.5 million in funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program, an increase of $149.5 million from Fiscal Year 2023, which will provide critical funding for faith-based groups and others to prevent and protect themselves from the heightened threat environment we face today. 

These allocations, together with the more than $1.25 billion in non-competitive grant funding announced earlier this year, total almost $1.98 billion in Fiscal Year 2024 to help prepare our nation against threats and natural disasters.  

The grant programs provide funding to state, local, tribal and territorial governments, nonprofit agencies and the private sector to build and sustain capabilities to prevent, protect against, respond to and recover from acts of terrorism and other disasters. The total amount for each grant program is set by Congress and the allocations are made by the department through a competitive process. 

“The Department of Homeland Security is proud to work together with our federal, state, local, tribal, territorial and other partners to increase our nation’s resilience in a constantly evolving threat environment,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “The funds announced today will provide communities across the country with vital resources necessary to strengthen their security and guard against terrorism and other threats. The impact of these grants will be measured in lives saved and tragedies averted.”

Preparedness Grant Program Allocations for Fiscal Year 2024 

The following grants are competitive, with allocations announced today:  

Operation Stonegarden: Provides $81 million to enhance cooperation and coordination among state, local, tribal, territorial and federal law enforcement agencies to jointly enhance security along the United States land and water borders. 

Tribal Homeland Security Grant Program: Provides $13.5 million to eligible Tribal Nations to implement preparedness initiatives to help strengthen the nation against risk associated with potential terrorist attacks and other hazards. 

Nonprofit Security Grant Program: Provides $454.5 million to support target hardening and other physical security enhancements for nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of a terrorist attack. This year, $227.25 million is provided to nonprofits in Urban Area Security Initiative-designated areas and $227.25 million is provided to nonprofits outside those designated urban areas located in any state or territory. 

Port Security Grant Program: Provides $90 million to help protect critical port infrastructure from terrorism, enhance maritime domain awareness, improve port-wide maritime security risk management and maintain or re-establish maritime security mitigation protocols that support port recovery and resiliency capabilities. 

Transit Security Grant Program: Provides $83.7 million to owners and operators of public transit systems to protect critical surface transportation and the traveling public from acts of terrorism and to increase the resilience of transit infrastructure.  

Intercity Bus Security Grant Program: Provides $1.8 million to owners and operators of intercity bus systems to protect surface transportation infrastructure and the traveling public from acts of terrorism and to increase the resilience of transit infrastructure. Eligible applicants receiving approval for funding requested only $1,214,968 of the $1.8 million made available this fiscal year. 

The following non-competitive grants were announced earlier this year to recipients based on a number of factors: 

State Homeland Security Program: Provides $373.5 million to support the implementation of risk-driven, capabilities-based state homeland security strategies to address capability targets. Awards are based on statutory minimums and relative risk as determined by DHS/FEMA’s risk methodology. 

Urban Area Security Initiative: Provides $553.5 million to enhance regional preparedness and capabilities in 31 high-threat, high-density areas. Awards are based on relative risk as determined by the department’s risk methodology. 

Emergency Management Performance Grant: Provides $319.55 million to assist state, local, tribal and territorial emergency management agencies in obtaining the resources required to support the National Preparedness Goal’s associated mission areas and core capabilities to build a culture of preparedness. 

Intercity Passenger Rail: Provides $9 million to Amtrak to protect critical surface transportation infrastructure and the traveling public from acts of terrorism and increase the resilience of the Amtrak rail system. Award made per congressional direction. 

Further information on preparedness grant programs is available at www.dhs.gov and www.fema.gov/grants.

amy.ashbridge Fri, 08/23/2024 - 18:54

Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams in Boone County

Aug. 23, 2024
DR-4787-WV NR-009
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

News release

Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams in Boone County

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams will work in Boone County neighborhoods beginning Saturday, Aug. 24, to help people apply for FEMA assistance. 

These specialists can assist homeowners and renters impacted by the storm of April 11-12, 2024, with their applications, update their records and make referrals to community partners. They tailor the information and services they provide to the individual survivor’s needs. 

Like all FEMA field personnel, these representatives carry official identification. Residents are encouraged to ask for official ID before providing personal information.

In addition to the registration opportunity offered by recovery teams, survivors can register for assistance by:

• Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. Find one by calling 800-621-3362 or going online to fema.gov/drc. The Boone County center opens Friday, Aug. 23, and is located at:

Boone County Disaster Recovery Center

Madison City Hall

255 Washington Ave.

Madison, WV 25130

Hours of operation:

Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed Sundays

• Applying online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by phone at 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

By registering with FEMA, survivors may qualify for federal disaster assistance such as money for:

• Renting a temporary place to live.
• Essential home repairs not covered by insurance.
• Disaster-related needs not covered by insurance — such as medical, dental, transportation, funeral expenses, moving and storage fees, personal property loss and childcare.

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available to businesses of all sizes (including landlords), homeowners, renters, and private non-profit organizations to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance. Low-interest disaster loans help fund repairs or rebuilding efforts and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged real estate and personal property.  Economic injury disaster loans are available to businesses and private non-profits to assist with working capital needs. 

Applicants can apply online at sba.gov/disaster, call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for 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 service.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page,www.fema.gov/disaster/4787 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

issa.mansaray Fri, 08/23/2024 - 14:54

Farmers, Ranch Hands May Be Eligible for FEMA Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky farmers and ranch hands whose tools or equipment were damaged by the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides may be eligible for disaster assistance. FEMA assistance is available to replace disaster-damaged essential tools, supplies, equipment and items required for employment or for self-employment.

Coverage for Tools and Equipment

Family-owned farms typically have a variety of equipment needed to conduct business. These include, but are not limited to, tractors, plows, seeders or planters, harvesters, sprayers, hay balers and utility vehicles. These items are all potentially eligible for FEMA disaster assistance if the applicant can show that they were damaged by the disaster, the applicant does not have another working item that can meet this need, and the loss of the item was not covered by insurance. Crops and livestock are not “tools and equipment” because they are the products of a farming operation, whereas tools and equipment are the means of production.

Ranch hands may be eligible for assistance to replace disaster-damaged tools and equipment not covered by insurance when they can show these items are required by their employer.

Assistance is based on a need to replace disaster-damaged essential tools, supplies, equipment, items required by an employer as a condition of employment or required for education. This includes disaster-damaged tools and equipment, or other items required for a specific trade or profession, NOT provided or supplied by the employer.

Many of these items have substantial costs, but it is important to remember that assistance for uninsured or underinsured occupational tools is limited to the maximum amount of Other Needs Assistance an applicant may receive. Additional assistance to help meet these needs may also be available from the Small Business Administration and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

How To Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance

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

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

gerard.hammink Fri, 08/23/2024 - 14:27

Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Rolling into Christian, Knox and Warren Counties

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

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

• Christian County (Mobile DRC): Hopkinsville Public Works Complex, 705 North Main St., Hopkinsville, KY 42240. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday, Aug. 26-31.   
• Knox County (Mobile DRC): Redline Fire Truck Sales, 14453 North US25E, Corbin, KY 40701. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Eastern Time Friday. This DRC will end operations at 5 p.m. on Aug 30.
• Warren County (Mobile DRC): Sugar Maple Square Shopping Center, 1347 KY 185, Bowling Green, KY 42101. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Eastern Time Friday. This DRC will end operations at 5 p.m. on Aug 30.
• Clay County (Mobile DRC): Clay County Community Center, 311 Highway 638, Manchester, KY 40962. Working hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Eastern Time. This DRC will end operations at 5 p.m. on Aug 23.

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

• Caldwell County (DRC): Caldwell County Emergency Operations Center, 102 Northfield Drive, Princeton, KY 42445. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday.
• Calloway County (DRC): Calloway County Fairground, 211 Fairground Road, Murray, KY 42071. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Friday through Saturday. This DRC will end operations at 5 p.m. on Aug 24.
• Greenup County (DRC): Flatwoods Senior Center, 2511 Reed St., Flatwoods, KY 41139. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday.
• Hopkins County (DRC): Madison Square Shopping Center, 114 Madison Square Drive, Madisonville, KY 42431. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday.
• Muhlenberg County (DRC): Muhlenberg County Training Center, 61 Career Way, Central City, KY 42330. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday.
• Trigg County (DRC): Trigg County Emergency Operations Center, 39 Jefferson Street Cadiz, KY 42211. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday. This DRC will end operations at 5 p.m. on Aug 24.

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

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

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

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

Other Ways To Apply for FEMA Assistance

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

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

gerard.hammink Fri, 08/23/2024 - 14:01

FEMA Opening Disaster Recovery Center in Union County

SIOUX FALLS – FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center on Friday, August 23 at 1:00 p.m. Central Time in North Sioux City, South Dakota to provide one-on-one assistance for people affected by the recent severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding.

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

 

Disaster Recovery Center Location: 

North Sioux City (Union County) – FEMA Disaster Recovery Center

305 S Derby Lane

North Sioux City, SD 57049

Hours of operation: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. Central Time, seven days a week

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

As of August 22, 2024, FEMA has approved more than $1.4 million in assistance to individuals for the South Dakota disaster recovery.

 

How to Apply for Disaster Assistance

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

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov for English, or DisasterAssistance.gov/es for Spanish.
• Use the FEMA mobile app in English or Spanish.
• Call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362) anytime from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Central Time seven days a week until further notice. Multilingual operators are available. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.

For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI

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

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448.

anthony.mayne Thu, 08/22/2024 - 22:52

Disaster Recovery Centers in Cherokee, Emmet and O’Brien Counties to Close

The Disaster Recovery Centers in Cherokee and Emmet counties will close permanently on Wednesday, August 28 at 6 p.m. The DRC in O’Brien County will close permanently on Friday, August 30 at 6 p.m.

The DRCs are located at:

Cherokee County

Cherokee County Emergency Management

(Formerly the Cherokee County Work Services Bldg.)

322 Lake St., Suite B

Cherokee, IA 51012

Emmet County

St. Patrick's Church - Gym

903 Central Ave.

Estherville, IA 51334

O’Brien County

City of Sheldon

Community Services Center

416 Ninth St.

Sheldon, IA 51201

 

Help is still available by calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362).

Residents may visit any of the open DRCs listed below:

 

Buena Vista County

Sioux Rapids 

Municipal Pool

201 Eighth St.

Sioux Rapids, IA 50585

 

Clay County

Spencer City Hall – Council Chambers

101 W. 5th St.

Spencer, IA 51301

 

Dickinson County

Dickinson County Expo Bldg. meeting room.

1602 15th St.

Spirit Lake, IA 51360

 

Lyon County

Forster Community Center

404 First Ave.

Rock Rapids, IA 51246

Palo Alto County

Iowa Lakes 

Community College

3200 College Dr.

Emmetsburg, IA 51334

 

Sioux County

City Park Shelter House

1013 13th Ave.

Rock Valley, IA 51247

 

Stay in Touch with FEMA

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

Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. For Spanish, press 2. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. 

thomas.wise Thu, 08/22/2024 - 22:50

FEMA Needs Your Current Contact Information

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– After you apply for federal disaster assistance, it is important that FEMA be able to contact you. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may appear to come from unidentified numbers. Make sure that FEMA has your up-to-date contact information.

If there are changes in your phone number, current address, banking or insurance information, please let FEMA know as soon as possible or you may miss important telephone calls or correspondence.

FEMA may need to call some survivors in Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee,  Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties to continue processing their application for assistance after Hurricane Debby. FEMA also may contact some survivors to obtain more information for their application.

You can update your contact information in several ways: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

FEMA representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications. Their services are free. Don't believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment.

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

Gaynell.Tinsey Thu, 08/22/2024 - 19:13

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Lafayette, Suwannee Counties

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- FEMA has opened Disaster Recovery Centers in Lafayette and Suwannee counties to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Debby. 

Center locations:

Lafayette County

Mayo Community Center

150 NW Community Circle

Mayo, FL 32066

Open 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Sunday

 

Suwannee County

Hale Park

215 Duval St. NE

Live Oak, FL 32064

Open 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Sunday

 

To find other center locations for Hurricane Debby go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

Homeowners and renters in Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the State of Florida and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

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

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

Gaynell.Tinsey Thu, 08/22/2024 - 19:09

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Wyoming’s House Draw Fire

DENVER – This morning, FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the House Draw Fire burning in Johnson County, Wyoming.

FEMA Region 8 Administrator Nancy Dragani approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request this morning and determining that the fire threatened such destruction that it would constitute a major disaster.

At the time of the request, the House Draw Fire was threatening 60 homes and 150 residents, who were under an evacuation order. The fire started on August 21 and has burned more than 165,000 acres.

The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.

Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies. 

With the FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.

For more information on FMAGs, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.

minh.phan Thu, 08/22/2024 - 16:44

Kentuckians Have One Month Left To Apply for FEMA Assistance Following May 21-27 Storms

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Homeowners and renters in Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Christian, Clay, Greenup, Hopkins, Knox, Logan, Muhlenberg, Simpson, Todd, Trigg, Warren and Whitley counties who experienced damage or losses caused by the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides have one month to apply for federal disaster assistance. The deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance is Sept. 22, 2024.

How To Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance

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

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

If eligible, FEMA disaster assistance may include financial assistance for temporary housing while survivors are unable to live in the primary home, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs; funds to homeowners to help repair or replace disaster caused damage or loss to their primary residence, including privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads, or bridges; and funds for disaster-caused expenses and serious needs, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicle, funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, child care and other pre-approved miscellaneous items.

Applicants who wish to apply for disaster assistance should have the following information ready for their registration: Social Security number; pre-disaster address of the primary residence; name of all occupants of the pre-disaster household, types of insurance coverage; current telephone number and mailing address; bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of financial assistance, if eligible.

Survivors should keep their contact information updated with FEMA as the agency may need to call to schedule a home inspection or get additional information.

Disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and is not intended to compensate for all losses caused by a disaster. The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.

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

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

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

sandra.habib Thu, 08/22/2024 - 14:42

Citizenship and Immigration Status Requirements for FEMA Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA may provide direct and financial disaster assistance to U.S. citizens, non-citizen nationals and qualified non-citizens who were impacted by the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides. Disaster assistance may include money for temporary rental assistance, home repairs, personal property loss, medical expenses, funeral expenses and other serious disaster-related needs or expenses not covered by insurance or other sources.

A non-citizen national is defined as a person in an outlying possession of the U.S. (i.e., American Samoa or Swain’s Island) on or after the date the U.S. acquired possession, or a person whose parents are U.S. non-citizen nationals. All U.S. citizens are U.S. nationals, but not every U.S. national is a citizen.

A qualified non-citizen includes:

• Legal permanent residents (“green card” holders);
• Non-citizens granted asylum;
• Refugees;
• Non-citizens whose deportation status is being withheld for at least one year;
• Non-citizens paroled into the U.S. for at least one year for urgent humanitarian purposes or significant public benefit; 
• Cuban/Haitian entrants;
• Certain battered non-citizens or their spouses or children and
• Certain victims of a severe form of human trafficking, including persons with a “T” or “U” visa.

If an applicant does not meet the required citizenship or immigration status at the time of application, the household may still apply for certain forms of federal assistance if:

• The parent or legal guardian of a minor child who is a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national or qualified non-citizen applies on behalf of the minor child, so long as they live in the same household. The parent or legal guardian must apply as the co-applicant, and the minor child must be under age 18 at the time the disaster occurred. 

All individuals, regardless of citizenship and immigration status, affected by a major disaster may be eligible for crisis counseling assistance, disaster legal services, disaster case management, disaster supplemental nutrition assistance program and other non-monetary, in-kind emergency disaster-relief programs. These include medical care, shelter, food and water.

Many forms of disaster assistance, such as crisis counseling, legal services, case management and short-term, non-cash assistance, such as medical care, shelter, food and water are available to individuals and families regardless of citizenship status. The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Sept. 22, 2024.

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

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

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

sandra.habib Thu, 08/22/2024 - 14:19

Vermonters Encouraged to Beware of Fraud and Scams

When natural disasters occur, it's common for some people to try and exploit the situation by pretending to be official disaster aid workers. 

FEMA encourages survivors to be aware of fraud and scams. FEMA also encourages survivors to report any suspicious activity or potential fraud from scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals.

Survivors should also be aware that this kind of situation doesn’t happen only at the beginning of the response to the disaster when people might be more vulnerable. It can happen any time. It’s important to know that FEMA does not endorse any specific commercial businesses, products or services.

FEMA encourages survivors and business owners to be vigilant for these common post-disaster fraud practices:

FEMA Housing inspectors

• Be cautious if somebody asks for your nine-digit registration number. A FEMA inspector will never ask for this information. They already have it in their records.
• Ask the person to show you their identification badge. Federal employees always wear an official government badge to identify themselves.

Fake offers of local or federal aid

• Don’t trust someone who asks for money. Federal and local disaster workers do not ask for nor accept money. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) staff never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.
• Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant and asks for large cash deposits or advance payments in full.

Fraudulent building contractors

• Use licensed or verified local contractors backed by reliable references.
• To find licensed certified contractors check the Vermont Office of Attorney General Consumer Assistance Program at ago.vermont.gov/cap.
• Don’t pay more than half the costs of repairs in advance.
• Demand that contractors detail the job to be done with guarantees in writing.

If you suspect fraud, call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721.

If you suspect identity theft, visit the Federal Trade Commission’s website at identitytheft,gov. 

adrien.urbani Thu, 08/22/2024 - 14:14

Disaster Recovery Center Opening Friday in Boone County

 Aug. 21, 2024
DR-4787-WV MA-008
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Disaster Recovery Center Opening Friday in Boone County

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A state-federal Disaster Recovery Center will open at 8 a.m. Friday, Aug. 23, at Madison City Hall.

The center is located at:

Boone County Disaster Recovery Center

Madison City Hall

255 Washington Ave.

Madison, WV 25130

Hours of operation:

Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed Sundays

West Virginia residents affected by the April 11-12 severe storms can visit the disaster recovery center to get help registering for FEMA disaster assistance. The FEMA registration deadline is Sept. 3, 2024.

Other recovery experts from the U.S. Small Business Administration will also be available at the center to address additional needs.

Those who received a letter from FEMA about their application status may visit a disaster center to learn more about the next steps. Staff at the center can help them submit additional information or supporting documentation and answer any questions.

Survivors do not have to visit a center to register with FEMA. They may do so by calling 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page,www.fema.gov/disaster/4787 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

issa.mansaray Thu, 08/22/2024 - 12:20

State/Federal Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Doniphan

Cape Girardeau, MO – A joint Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) opens Wednesday, August 21 in Doniphan to give Missourians impacted by the late May storms an opportunity to talk face-to-face with disaster recovery specialists. 

The center is located at the Ripley County Caring Community Partnership building, 209 West Highway St. Doniphan. Hours of operation are: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. until further notice. The center will be closed on Sundays. 

DRCs are a one-stop shop for disaster survivors who have applied with FEMA and need to provide additional documentation or have questions about the status of their cases. In addition to FEMA staff, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be on hand to help survivors apply for low-interest disaster loans to help fund recovery efforts. 

The Doniphan site is the third DRC that has opened to help Missourians get individual help with their recoveries. On August 1, a DRC opened in Sikeston at the YMCA, 511 Taylor St. A second DRC opened August 5 in Dexter at the Bootheel Regional Planning Commission building, 105 E. North Main St. Hours of operation are the same for all three DRCs. 

Homeowners, renters and self-employed business owners in 10 Missouri counties who were impacted by May 19-27 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding can visit any of the three centers for one-on-one help, regardless of where they live. Services at the centers are free. 

The 10 counties are: Barry, Butler, Carter, Howell, New Madrid, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Texas.     

Assistance under President Biden’s July 23 federal disaster declaration also was granted for 15 Missouri counties to cover the costs of emergency protective measures and to help repair or replace eligible public infrastructure. 

Federal assistance to eligible individuals and households can be in the form of grants to: find a temporary place to live, make minimal home repairs and/or to replace certain personal property. Eligible survivors who need accessibility equipment also may benefit from these grants. 

Survivors are encouraged to apply with FEMA before visiting a DRC to make the visit most efficient.  Individuals who are having difficulty applying can go to a DRC and get help with filing their initial application. 

Here are the 3 best ways to apply: 

• Online: www.disasterassistance.gov 
• Phone: 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Download and use the FEMA app
• Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.

For more disaster-related information, visit the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency online at www.sema.dps.mo.gov or FEMA at www.fema.gov and www.fema.gov/disaster/4803. 

thomas.wise Thu, 08/22/2024 - 00:37

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Connecticut to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides beginning on Aug. 18, 2024, 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. This assistance is for Fairfield, Litchfield and New Haven 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.

Robert V. Fogel has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area.

amy.ashbridge Wed, 08/21/2024 - 21:03

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

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

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

This is Panola County’s first complete set of digital FIRMs. These maps serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development and flood insurance.

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas.

Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting the local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify community FPAs. Specialists are available by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

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

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

abigail.barrientez Wed, 08/21/2024 - 20:47

One Week Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Survivors of the severe storms and tornadoes that ripped through eight counties in northern Arkansas May 24-27 have one week remaining to apply for federal assistance. The application deadline is August 28.

Residents in Baxter, Benton, Boone, Fulton, Greene, Madison, Marion or Randolph counties impacted by the severe storms may be eligible for FEMA assistance for temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured disaster-related expenses.

All Arkansans in the designated area who sustained damage are encouraged to apply with FEMA by the deadline, even if they don’t have repair estimates or insurance settlements yet. To be considered, residents should apply with FEMA to begin the process and FEMA will work with the applicant to identify what information is needed to determine eligibility.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov,
• Download the FEMA App.
• Visit the Disaster Recovery Center at the Northwest Arkansas Community College, Shewmaker Center for Workforce Technologies (Building 15) at 1000 SE Eagle Way, Room B103 in Bentonville.
• Call toll-free 800-621-3362. The phone line is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. CDT, and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.

If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call FEMA’s Civil Rights Resource Line: 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).  The line is open Monday through Friday 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CDT.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4788. Follow the FEMA Region 6 X account at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/. 

bree-constance… Wed, 08/21/2024 - 19:35