President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for U.S. Virgin Islands

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the U.S. Virgin Islands to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Tropical Storm Ernesto beginning Aug. 13, 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 the islands of St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas and Water Island.

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.

Christopher W. Allen has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 08/19/2024 - 14:44

Stay In Touch With FEMA

OKLAHOMA CITY – FEMA is still available for Oklahomans. Residents who have questions about their applications or appeals can contact the agency in one of three ways: 

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 and talk with one of FEMA’s multilingual operators.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Use the FEMA App.

Residents who applied for disaster assistance from FEMA following the May severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding are encouraged to stay in touch with the agency, especially if there are any changes in your contact information. It is important that FEMA be able to contact you. If there are changes in your phone number, current address, banking or insurance information, you should let FEMA know, or you may miss important telephone calls or correspondence. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may come from unidentified numbers.

For the latest information about Oklahoma’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4791. Follow the FEMA Region 6 X account at x.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.

martyce.allenjr Mon, 08/19/2024 - 14:07

FEMA Extends Deadline to Apply for Assistance to Oct. 19

If you suffered damage to your home or personal property because of the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding, which began June 17, you now have until Oct. 19, 2024, to apply for federal disaster assistance from FEMA. 

At the request of New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, FEMA has extended the application deadline 60 days for residents of Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba and San Juan counties and the Mescalero Apache Reservation.

Individuals and families affected by the fires and floods may be eligible for rental assistance, temporary housing, home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. 

How to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance

The first step for individuals and households to receive help is to apply to FEMA for federal disaster assistance. There are no costs involved to apply for, or receive, FEMA assistance. There are four ways to apply:

• Go online to disasterassistance.gov/ 
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. MT, seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center operated by the state of New Mexico and FEMA. For location and hours, visit fema.gov/drc

For an American Sign Language (ASL) video on how to apply for assistance, visit youtube.com/watch= WZGpWI2RCNw.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is now Oct. 19, 2024. The U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) deadline to apply for a long-term, low interest disaster loan has also been extended to Oct. 19, 2024. SBA representatives are available at disaster recovery centers. Homeowners and businesses can also visit www.SBA.gov/disaster, call SBA’s customer service center at 800-659-2955. Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals may call 7-1-1 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for information or to apply. 

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

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 08/19/2024 - 13:17

FEMA Remains Committed to Provide Life Saving and Life Sustaining Assistance

 SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – The Emergency Declaration approved by President Biden on August 14, authorized FEMA to provide Disaster Federal Assistance (DFA), to assist the Government of Puerto Rico only for life saving and life sustaining federal resources such as search and rescue teams and temporary generators, if needed. 

The Emergency Declaration does not provide for any reimbursement of expenses incurred or damages caused during Tropical Storm Ernesto.

FEMA encourages residents to remain attentive as the peak of Hurricane Season approaches. People who suffered damage due to Ernesto in their homes should contact their municipal government, the Puerto Rico Housing Department or the Puerto Rico Emergency Management Bureau (PREMB).

For additional information, visit: www.ready.gov/hurricanes and www.fema.gov which offer tools and resources to prepare for, respond to and recover from emergency events. 

manuel.deleon Mon, 08/19/2024 - 13:06

Damaged Vehicle Assistance Available for Kentuckians Impacted by May 21-27 Storms

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA may be able to provide financial assistance to help those whose vehicles were damaged due to the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides that occurred May 21-27.

The first step is for survivors to file a claim with their insurance company if they have a comprehensive policy. This type of policy usually covers storm-related damage to a vehicle. Federal disaster assistance may help fill the gaps for those whose coverage does not pay for any or all storm-related damage costs. Apply with FEMA even if you have insurance. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments, but underinsured applicants may receive help after their claims have been settled.

To be eligible for FEMA assistance, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• The vehicle was damaged during the May 21-27 storms within the disaster-designated area.
• The applicant can provide proof of ownership of the vehicle with valid registration and title.
• The vehicle was in compliance with the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s registration and insurance requirements at the time of the disaster.
• The applicant has no other usable vehicle.

Applicants with more than one storm-damaged vehicle, must write a statement explaining why the household needs more than one working vehicle. The statement should include the number of vehicles and an insurance settlement or statement for each vehicle.

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.

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, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA on X, formerly called Twitter, at x.com/femaregion4 and 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 Mon, 08/19/2024 - 12:50

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Brazoria County August 17

AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Brazoria County Aug. 17 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by Hurricane Beryl. 

Center location:  

Recreation Station

302 W. House St.

Alvin, TX 77511

Disaster Recovery Centers operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday - Saturday, closed Sunday. Any DRC can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26 - June 5 storms and flooding. To find a center location near you, go to fema.gov/drc.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. 

Residents in Austin, Bowie, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Orange, Polk, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Walker, Waller and Wharton counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

To shorten wait times at Disaster Recovery Centers, Texans are encouraged to apply to FEMA online, by phone or using the FEMA App before going to a center for follow-up help. To apply, homeowners and renters can:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA App  for mobile devices.
• Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.

To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Sat, 08/17/2024 - 22:03

FEMA Continues to Assist Texans Recovering from Two Major Disasters

Austin – Since May, FEMA has approved two major disaster declarations for Texans impacted by the Spring severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding, and Hurricane Beryl that followed in early July.

As Texans work to recover, nearly 700,000 individuals and families have been approved for disaster assistance following the Spring storms and Hurricane Beryl surpassing $844 million across both disasters. 

While the deadline to apply for federal assistance for the Spring storms has ended, there is still time for Texans who may need assistance following Hurricane Beryl.

It’s been nearly six weeks since the disaster declaration for Beryl, and FEMA has worked with the State to expedite Serious Needs Assistance to help more than 602,000 Texans thus far for a total of more than $451 million in financial assistance.

FEMA specialists continue working in the 22 counties impacted by the hurricane to help people apply for assistance. They have visited more than 95,000 homes and 1,189 public locations. FEMA has operated 33 Disaster Recovery Centers visited by more than 30,000 residents. More than 900 families with17,000 members have stayed in hotels temporarily at FEMA expense because they could not return to their homes.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved $162.5 million in low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofit organizations, and businesses.

There is still time to apply for assistance. Homeowners and renters in Austin, Bowie, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Orange, Polk, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Walker, Waller and Whartoncounties with uninsured losses from Hurricane Beryl who have not yet applied may be eligible for FEMA assistance.

Homeowners and renters have several options to apply for FEMA assistance:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. 
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices. 
• Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center location near you go to fema.gov/drc.

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofit organizations and businesses of any size. Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster or by calling 800-659-2955.  SBA representatives are available to provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants at the Disaster Recovery Centers throughout the affected area. Business Recovery Centers are operating at University of Houston Downtown Marilyn Davies College of Business, Trini Mendenhall Community Center in Houston and East Montgomery County Improvement District in Montgomery County.

To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For more information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at @femaregion6.

alexa.brown Sat, 08/17/2024 - 21:50

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Manatee County

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- FEMA has opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Manatee County to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Debby. 

Center location:

Manatee County

Lakewood Ranch Library 

16410 Rangeland Pkwy 

Bradenton, FL 34211

The center operates from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day. 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, 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 Sat, 08/17/2024 - 19:08

Boone County Added to Federal Disaster Declaration

Aug. 17, 2024
DR-4787-WV NR-007
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

News Release

Boone County Added to Federal Disaster Declaration

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Homeowners and renters in Boone County are now eligible to apply for FEMA assistance related to severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides of April 11-12, 2024.

Deadline to register is Sept. 3.                                                                     

Boone County residents join those of Hancock, Kanawha, Marshall, Ohio, Roane, Wetzel and Wood counties who were approved for assistance.

Disaster assistance may include money to help pay for temporary housing and essential home repairs, as well as other serious disaster-related needs such as medical and dental expenses. 

Those who had flood or storm damage should register with FEMA even if they have insurance. While those payments cannot be duplicated, under-insured applicants may be eligible for help after their claims have been settled. 

To apply with FEMA, homeowners and renters can:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA app for mobile devices.
• Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Eastern daily. Language translation is available. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, provide FEMA with your number for that service when you apply. 

Help available from the Small Business Administration

One of FEMA’s federal partners in disaster recovery, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), offers low-interest disaster loans for businesses of all sizes, homeowners, renters and private non-profit organizations. SBA disaster loans may cover repairs, rebuilding, and the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged real estate and personal property. 

For more information about SBA loans, call SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955, email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or visit http://www.sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also apply online via SBA’s secure website at http://www.sba.gov/disaster. People who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, should dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

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.

###

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 Sat, 08/17/2024 - 14:22

FEMA Assistance Available to Renters After Hurricane Debby

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – FEMA assistance is available to renters, including students, with uninsured losses from Hurricane Debby in Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Manatee, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties. 

FEMA may be able to help renters as well as homeowners with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs. 

The quickest way to apply 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.

U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Loans

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), FEMA’s federal partner in disaster recovery, may also be able to help. FEMA has streamlined the application process so people can apply to FEMA and SBA at the same time. SBA representatives will be available to provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants at Disaster Recovery Centers scheduled to open throughout the affected area. Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 for more information. 

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 Fri, 08/16/2024 - 20:09

FEMA Hiring in Minnesota to Support Disaster Recovery

ST. PAUL – FEMA is hiring Minnesota residents to support the June 16 – July 4 disaster recovery effort.

Qualified candidates with diverse backgrounds and a desire to serve are needed immediately. These temporary positions start as 120-day appointments and may be extended depending on the needs of the recovery mission.

FEMA is accepting applications for 27 positions in Mankato, Bloomington, Rochester and Duluth, with roles including human resources, logistics, product development, media and stakeholder relations, historic preservation, mitigation, planning, site inspection and recovery support coordination.

To see all open positions, visit usajobs.gov and type the keyword “FEMA” and enter “Minnesota” for the location.

Detailed information is provided for each position, including pay, benefits and how to apply.

Hiring locally helps build FEMA’s disaster recovery workforce. Many career FEMA employees began as local hires.

All applicants must be U.S. citizens, 18 years of age or older, and possess a high school diploma or GED. Individuals will be required to pass a background investigation that includes finger printing and credit check. Employees are also required to participate in mandatory direct deposit/electronic funds transfer for salary payment. If you are found qualified, you may be called to participate in an interview. Benefits include health, dental, and vision when eligibility criteria are met. FEMA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Minnesota, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4797.

kimberly.keblish Fri, 08/16/2024 - 19:55

Clay County Disaster Recovery Center Moving

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Clay County is relocating from Clay County’s Regional Events Center to Spencer City Hall - Council Chambers.

Clay County

Clay County Regional Events Center

Tower Gate Pavilion

800 W. 18th St

Spencer, IA 51301

Closing Saturday, Aug. 17 at 6 p.m.

Clay County

Spencer City Hall - Council Chambers

101 W 5th St

Spencer, IA 51301

Opening Monday, Aug. 19 at 1 p.m.

Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain assistance programs and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications.

FEMA funding is available to homeowners and renters in Adair, Adams, Buena Vista, Cedar, Cherokee, Clarke, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Harrison, Humboldt, Jasper, Lyon, Mills, Monona, Montgomery, O’Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Polk, Pottawattamie, Ringgold, Shelby, Sioux, Story, Union and Woodbury counties.

To save time, please apply with FEMA online or by phone before visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. All Disaster Recovery Centers are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Closed on Sundays.

 

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

Lyon County

Forster Community Center

404 First Ave.

Rock Rapids, IA 51246

 

 

O’Brien County

Sheldon City Hall

 (Community Services Center)

416 9th St.

Sheldon, IA 51201

Sioux County

City Park Shelter House

1013 13th Ave.

Rock Valley, IA 51247

 

Woodbury County

Siouxland Regional Transit System

6401 Gordon Dr.

Sioux City, IA 51106

 

How to Apply with FEMA

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Download and use the FEMA app.
• Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish)

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.

thomas.wise Fri, 08/16/2024 - 16:42

Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Rolling into Clay, Simpson and Todd Counties

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

• Clay County (mobile DRC): Clay County Community Center, 311 Highway 638, Manchester, KY 40962. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Eastern Time, Monday through Saturday, Aug. 19-24.   
• Simpson County (mobile DRC): Simpson County Health Department, 1131 South College Street, Franklin, KY 42134. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday, Aug. 19-24.   
• Todd County (mobile DRC): Todd County Dispatch Center, 813 South Main Street, Elkton, KY 42220. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday, Aug. 19-24.

 Six other Disaster Recovery Centers are currently 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, Monday through Saturday.
• 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): 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 Place Cadiz, KY 42211. Working hours are 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Central Time, Monday through Saturday.     

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.

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.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA on X, formerly called Twitter, at x.com/femaregion4 and 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 Fri, 08/16/2024 - 14:59

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

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in the cities of Lockhart, Luling, Mustang Ridge, Niederwald, San Marcos, and Uhland; and unincorporated areas of Caldwell 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.

For this Physical Map Revision, the FIRMs for Caldwell County 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

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.

alexa.brown Fri, 08/16/2024 - 14:31

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of South Dakota to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding from June 16 to July 8, 2024. 

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

Federal funding is also available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms, straight-line winds and flooding in Aurora, Bennett, Bon Homme, Brule, Buffalo, Charles Mix, Clay, Davison, Douglas, Gregory, Hand, Hanson, Hutchinson, Jackson, Lake, Lincoln, McCook, Miner, Minnehaha, Moody, Sanborn, Tripp, Turner, Union and Yankton counties.

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

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

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

erika.suzuki Fri, 08/16/2024 - 12:50

Child Care Assistance Is Available for Kentuckians Affected by May 21-27 Severe Weather

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky disaster survivors may be eligible for FEMA Child Care Assistance even if they did not have property damage. 

FEMA may award payment for Child Care Assistance under its Other Needs Assistance program to those with disaster-caused childcare expenses following the May 21-27 Kentucky severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides. Kentuckians in Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Christian, Clay, Greenup, Hopkins, Knox, Logan, Muhlenberg, Simpson, Todd, Trigg, Warren and Whitley counties may apply.

Child Care Assistance covers standard child care service fees and personal assistance services that support activities of daily living for individuals with disabilities. Assistance may be available for up to eight weeks per child or household. The maximum amount for child care for Kentuckians is $1,260 per child.

Eligibility Criteria

FEMA Child Care Assistance addresses disaster-related expenses for eligible households with children who are under the age of 13 or households with children with a disability up to age 21, who need assistance with activities of daily living such as eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring (walking) and continence.

Eligibility begins on the date of the incident period for the declared disaster and continues through the end of the 18-month period of assistance unless the time is extended.

Child care registration fees and health inventory fees are eligible expenses for applicants who require a new child care service provider.

• A registration fee is a one-time fee when registering an eligible child at an authorized child care provider.
• A health inventory fee is a medical office fee for processing required medical paperwork as part of the registration process.

To qualify for Child Care Assistance, the general conditions must be met for FEMA individual assistance eligibility, and the applicant must have necessary expenses (child care facility damaged or inoperable) caused by the disaster.

In addition to meeting the general conditions of eligibility as a direct result of the disaster, households must have a disaster-caused increase in financial burden for child care.

• The applicant’s gross household income has decreased; or
• The applicant’s child care expenses have increased.

Households must certify they cannot utilize child care services provided by any other source to qualify for Child Care Assistance. Households must submit documents showing a disaster-caused need for Child Care Assistance and amount of eligible expenses.

Documents Required

• Pre- and post-disaster gross household income documentation;
• Pre-disaster receipts, contract, or signed letter from the child care provider for child care expenses;
• Post-disaster receipts or estimates for child care fees, registration, and/or health inventory fees;
• A post-disaster child care provider’s license and post-disaster child care contract or agreement;
• Individualized Educational Plan (IEP), 504 plan, or a medical professional’s statement, if applicable, to verify disability for children up to age 21 who need assistance;
• A signed, written statement from the applicant.

Limitation and Exclusions

If a child is a member of multiple households, FEMA will only award Child Care Assistance to the primary custodial parent or guardian responsible for child care costs.

FEMA will not help with any of the following:

• Fees for extra-curricular activities, educational services and additional services;
• Fees not related to the day-to-day child care services provided to the eligible child;
• Fuel expenses related to transporting the child to and from the child care provider;
• Medical care or services;
• Recreational camps or clubs.

Households who did not have child care expenses pre-disaster but have incurred or will incur child care expenses because of the disaster may also be eligible but must meet additional eligibility requirements. 

For additional information, contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center near you, visit fema.gov/drc.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in designated counties can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 7 a.m.–midnight daily 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.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA on X, formerly called Twitter, at x.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

For an accessible video about how to apply for FEMA assistance, please check this link.

sandra.habib Fri, 08/16/2024 - 12:08

National Flood Insurance Can Be a Valuable Asset in New Mexico

Your house has never flooded. You have a homeowner's insurance policy. You're thinking: "I'm covered." Right? Probably not! 

Many New Mexico residents and business owners whose property was damaged by the South Fork and Salt Fires and floods may have believed they didn't need to buy flood insurance. But now they know better. Flooding in New Mexico is not uncommon, and only 1,223 homes carry a National Flood Insurance policy in Lincoln and Otero counties. Communities in New Mexico are eligible to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and become eligible for federal assistance following a disaster such as the one on June 17.

Flood damage can happen anywhere, to anyone, and often to the surprise of homeowners, renters and businesses who thought their property was covered for flooding. 

The damage sustained in a flood is not covered by most homeowner’s insurance policies.  

Flood insurance is a separate policy that can cover buildings, the contents of a building, or both, so it is important to protect your most important financial assets — your home, your business, your possessions.  

NFIP coverage is available regardless of federal disaster declarations. Insurance Coverage is available homeowners, renters and businesses for residential and commercial buildings: 

• Up to $250,000 in building coverage and up to $100,000 in contents coverage for single-to-four family residential structures.  
• Up to $500,000 in building coverage and up to $100,000 in contents coverage for five-or-more family residential structures. 
• Up to $500,000 in building coverage and up to $500,000 in contents coverage for businesses.  

Flood insurance gives you financial protection and peace of mind. Whether it’s a major flood event or a few inches of water in your home, flood insurance helps you protect the life you’ve built. One inch of floodwater can cause up to $25,000 of damage in a house. 

Call Your Insurance Agent or Company Today 

Whether you’re buying a new policy or renewing an existing policy, you can buy flood insurance by calling your insurance company or calling your local independent agent, who can write flood insurance directly with NFIP. There is a 30-day waiting period before new policies go into effect, so don't wait. 

Need Help Finding an Insurance Provider? 

Although not all counties participate in the NFIP, the flood insurance program partners with more than 50 private insurance companies and NFIP Direct to sell and service flood insurance policies. To find a list of flood insurance writers in New Mexico, visit: http://www.floodsmart.gov/flood-insurance-provider?. For more information about NFIP, to find out if you live in a participating community, and what’s covered by NFIP policies, contact your private insurance provider or visit FloodSmart.gov. 

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 08/15/2024 - 22:48

Child Care Assistance Is Available for Kentuckians Affected by May 21-27 Severe Weather

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Kentucky disaster survivors may be eligible for FEMA Child Care Assistance even if they did not have property damage. 

FEMA may award payment for Child Care Assistance under its Other Needs Assistance program to those with disaster-caused childcare expenses following the May 21-27 Kentucky severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides. Kentuckians in Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Christian, Clay, Greenup, Hopkins, Knox, Logan, Muhlenberg, Simpson, Todd, Trigg, Warren and Whitley counties may apply.

Child Care Assistance covers standard child care service fees and personal assistance services that support activities of daily living for individuals with disabilities. Assistance may be available for up to eight weeks per child or household. The maximum amount for child care for Kentuckians is $1,260 per child.

Eligibility Criteria

FEMA Child Care Assistance addresses disaster-related expenses for eligible households with children who are under the age of 13 or households with children with a disability up to age 21, who need assistance with activities of daily living such as eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring (walking) and continence.

Eligibility begins on the date of the incident period for the declared disaster and continues through the end of the 18-month period of assistance unless the time is extended.

Child care registration fees and health inventory fees are eligible expenses for applicants who require a new child care service provider.

• A registration fee is a one-time fee when registering an eligible child at an authorized child care provider.
• A health inventory fee is a medical office fee for processing required medical paperwork as part of the registration process.

To qualify for Child Care Assistance, the general conditions must be met for FEMA individual assistance eligibility, and the applicant must have necessary expenses (child care facility damaged or inoperable) caused by the disaster.

In addition to meeting the general conditions of eligibility as a direct result of the disaster, households must have a disaster-caused increase in financial burden for child care.

• The applicant’s gross household income has decreased; or
• The applicant’s child care expenses have increased.

Households must certify they cannot utilize child care services provided by any other source to qualify for Child Care Assistance. Households must submit documents showing a disaster-caused need for Child Care Assistance and amount of eligible expenses.

Documents Required

• Pre- and post-disaster gross household income documentation;
• Pre-disaster receipts, contract, or signed letter from the child care provider for child care expenses;
• Post-disaster receipts or estimates for child care fees, registration, and/or health inventory fees;
• A post-disaster child care provider’s license and post-disaster child care contract or agreement;
• Individualized Educational Plan (IEP), 504 plan, or a medical professional’s statement, if applicable, to verify disability for children up to age 21 who need assistance;
• A signed, written statement from the applicant.

Limitation and Exclusions

If a child is a member of multiple households, FEMA will only award Child Care Assistance to the primary custodial parent or guardian responsible for child care costs.

FEMA will not help with any of the following:

• Fees for extra-curricular activities, educational services and additional services;
• Fees not related to the day-to-day child care services provided to the eligible child;
• Fuel expenses related to transporting the child to and from the child care provider;
• Medical care or services;
• Recreational camps or clubs.

Households who did not have child care expenses pre-disaster but have incurred or will incur child care expenses because of the disaster may also be eligible but must meet additional eligibility requirements. 

For additional information, contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center near you, visit fema.gov/drc.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in designated counties can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 7 a.m.–midnight daily 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.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the May 21-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4804. Follow FEMA on X, formerly called Twitter, at x.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

For an accessible video about how to apply for FEMA assistance, please check this link.

gerard.hammink Thu, 08/15/2024 - 21:48

Disaster Recovery Center to Open in Virginia

ST. PAUL – A FEMA/State Disaster Recovery Center will open Friday, August 16, 2024, to help residents kickstart their recovery after the severe storms and flooding of June 16 – July 4. 

Specialists from FEMA, the state of Minnesota and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the center to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, upload documents, get their questions answered in person, access other types of help that may be available and learn ways to make their property more disaster resistant.

This center will be open at the following location, days and hours:  

St. Louis County Public Works Training Room
7823 Hwy 135 
Virginia, MN 55792
Hours: Mon. – Sun. 7:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

Additional recovery centers will be opening in other impacted counties soon. To find the center nearest you, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. Survivors may visit any center for assistance.

Assistance in languages other than English, including American sign language, and translated materials are available at these centers. Disaster Recovery Center locations are chosen for their accessibility, with the goal of reaching as many people as possible. Accessible parking spaces are available at all centers. 

Survivors don’t need to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Minnesota, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4797.  

kimberly.keblish Thu, 08/15/2024 - 20:21

One Week Left to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance

Des Moines, Iowa — Iowans affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding of April 26-27 and May 20-31 have until August 23, 2024 to apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance. 

Iowa homeowners and renters affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Adair, Adams, Cedar, Clarke, Harrison, Jasper, Mills, Montgomery, Polk, Pottawattamie, Ringgold, Shelby, Story and Union counties may apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance until August 23, 2024. 

How to Apply with FEMA

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call FEMA directly at 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 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. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish).

thomas.wise Thu, 08/15/2024 - 19:38