Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Allen Parish, Louisiana

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review in Allen Parish, Louisiana. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

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

The 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around July 18, 2024. 

Appeals and comments may be submitted through Oct. 16, 2024, for:

• The Village of Reeves and the unincorporated areas of Allen Parish

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

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

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

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 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 floodsmart.gov/.

alexa.brown Thu, 07/18/2024 - 15:19

One Month Remains for Floridians to Apply for FEMA Assistance

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- Floridians who sustained loss from the May 10 severe storms and tornadoes have one month to apply for federal assistance. The deadline to apply is Aug. 19, 2024.

One month after the disaster declaration for the storms, FEMA has approved $5.6 million in assistance to households.

If you sustained loss from the May 10 severe storms and tornadoes and live in Leon County, FEMA may be able to help. You may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured disaster-related expenses. 

Call toll-free 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. The telephone line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4794. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

david.heckard Thu, 07/18/2024 - 13:29

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Texas Fire in Idaho

BOTHELL, Wash. -  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Texas Fire burning in Latah and Nez Perce Counties, Idaho.

The state of Idaho’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at 8:50 p.m. PT. He determined that the Texas Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the first FMAG declared in 2024 to help fight Idaho wildfires. 

At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the community of Kendrick. The fire also threatened several cell towers, radio towers, private transmission lines, and agricultural assets in the area.

FMAGs 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. This 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. 

In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $985,111 will be available to Idaho through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires 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. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.  

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Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

 

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

 

 

 

 

natalie.shaver Wed, 07/17/2024 - 21:00

FEMA Inspecting Homes After Hurricane Beryl

AUSTIN – After Texans apply for FEMA assistance, a home inspection may be necessary to help determine whether the home is safe, sanitary and livable.

The inspectors do not make decisions regarding eligibility for assistance. Information gathered during the inspection is only one of several criteria by FEMA to determine if applicants are eligible for federal assistance. 

The housing inspector will consider:

• The structural soundness of the home, both inside and outside.
• Whether the electrical, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer/septic systems are all in working order.
• Whether the home is safe to live in and can be entered and exited safely.

Housing inspectors will make an appointment with the applicant before coming. They will already have the applicant’s FEMA application number. They carry photo identification and will show it to the applicant. For security reasons, federal identification may not be photographed. Inspectors will never ask for, or accept, money. Their service is free. 

The inspectors will call or text applicants to arrange to meet at the home. They will leave messages and/or texts on the phone number listed on the FEMA application. These communications may come from unfamiliar phone numbers, and it is important that applicants respond so their application can be processed.

A typical home inspection takes about 45 minutes to complete. After the inspection, applicants should allow seven to 10 days for processing. If they have questions about the status of their application, they can call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362.

alexa.brown Wed, 07/17/2024 - 20:23

Cass County Residents Invited to Attend Flood Map Open House

CHICAGO — FEMA will be hosting a Flood Map Open House for Cass County, MI on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, from 5 – 7 PM. Local officials will be joined by FEMA who will be presenting the preliminary flood maps to help leaders and residents identify known flood risks and use that information to make decisions about future development and buying flood insurance.

Homeowners, renters, and business owners in Cass County are encouraged to attend and meet with experts one-on-one to view their own addresses on the new maps. They’ll learn about their specific risk and ways to help prevent flood loss.

WHAT:              Cass County—Flood Map Open House  

WHEN:             Wednesday, July 24, 2024
                            5 – 7 PM

WHERE:           Board of Commissioners Chambers
                            120 N Broadway ST
                            Cassopolis, MI 49031

Digital files of the preliminary maps can be viewed and downloaded from www.fema.gov/preliminaryfloodhazarddata. If you need a reasonable accommodation (sign language interpreters, Braille, CART, etc.), please send an email to FEMA-Region5-FloodInsuranceOutreach@fema.dhs.gov at least 48 hours before the event. Last minute requests will be accepted but may not be possible to fulfill. 

For more information, contact FEMA-R5-MAP@fema.dhs.gov. You may also email the FEMA News Desk at FEMA-R5-News-Desk@fema.dhs.gov. 

kimberly.keblish Wed, 07/17/2024 - 19:17

Columbia County Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- Local governments and certain nonprofit organizations in Columbia County are now eligible for FEMA Public Assistance grants for debris removal, emergency protective measures and permanent work to repair public facilities that were damaged by the May 10 severe storms and tornadoes.

This county joins Baker, Gadsden, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Santa Rosa, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla counties which were all previously approved for FEMA Public Assistance.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster damaged public facilities and infrastructure. Houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations may also be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4794. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

david.heckard Wed, 07/17/2024 - 18:52

FEMA Reminds Southeast Michiganders to Maintain Flood Insurance Coverage

CHICAGO – July marks the third anniversary of the 2021 disaster declaration in southeast Michigan, and FEMA is reminding flood survivors who received a temporary Group Flood Insurance Policy (GFIP) of the need to purchase an individual flood insurance policy. The three-year GFIP will expire in September 2024, so policyholders must plan now to switch to a standard flood insurance policy to ensure continuous flood insurance coverage.

Following the 2021 disaster, FEMA purchased GFIP policies for disaster survivors whose homes were flooded. Part of the eligibility of receiving future financial assistance after a flood is that a homeowner or renter must obtain and maintain flood insurance to ensure that there is no lapse in coverage. If a property affected by a flood is sold, the new owners are required to have flood insurance for the property as well.

Southeast Michigan households who received a group policy need to purchase a new, standard flood insurance policy, or obtain other flood insurance for at least the amount of assistance that they received for repairs and replacement of property to remain eligible for future FEMA assistance. Those who received a GFIP policy as part of their FEMA disaster assistance after the disaster but don’t buy a standard flood insurance policy will likely not receive federal disaster assistance for home repairs if they experience another flood event.

Steps to Take Now

Purchase an individual flood insurance policy through a local insurance agent before your GFIP expires. There is typically a 30-day waiting period between submitting the policy application and the effective date. An insurance agent can help you select a flood insurance policy tailored to your specific needs.

• To find an insurance carrier or agent, visit FloodSmart.gov, or call FEMA NFIP Direct toll-free, (800) 638-6620, option 2.
• For more information about the National Flood Insurance Program and or insurance, call the National Flood Insurance General Call Center at 800-427-4661.
• If you have questions about your GFIP call the National Flood Insurance Direct Call Center at 800-638-6620.

FEMA will send you a reminder letter 45 days before your GFIP expires, as well as when your GFIP expires. FEMA will also mail you a reminder of these requirements each year.

Flooding is the nation’s most common and costly natural disaster.  Flood insurance policies are crucial to recover quickly following a flood event as homeowners and renters’ policies do not typically cover flood damage. Visit FloodSmart.gov to learn more.

kimberly.keblish Wed, 07/17/2024 - 18:34

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Spring Valley Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on July 16 at 7:00 p.m. PDT / 10:00 p.m. EDT to assist the state of Nevada to combat the Spring Valley Fire burning in Douglas County.

On July 16, the state of Nevada submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 1,200-1,500 homes in and around Double Springs, Holbrook Junction and Topaz Ranch Estates, population 1,750. 100% of the threatened homes are primary residences and 0% are secondary residences.

The fire started on July 16, 2024, and had burned more than 200 acres, 80 acres of State and Private land and 120 acres of Tribal land. The fire was 3% contained. There are two large fires burning uncontrolled within the State. 

FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to become a greater incident.

Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.

For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at x/femaregion9.

brandi.richard… Wed, 07/17/2024 - 17:52

Disaster Recovery Center in Nicholas County, W.Va., Closing

July 17, 2024
DR-4783-WV MA-035
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Disaster Recovery Center in Nicholas County, W.Va., Closing

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The state-federal Disaster Recovery Center at the Nicholas County Office of Emergency Services in Summersville is closing permanently tomorrow, Thursday, July 18, 2024, at 6 p.m.

The center is located at:

Nicholas County Disaster Recovery Center

Nicholas County Office of Emergency Services

449 Water St.

Summersville, WV 26651

Hours of operation:

Closing permanently at 6 p.m., Thursday, July 18, 2024

Residents of all counties can continue to visit other DRCs in West Virginia. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).

If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps.  DRC staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.

Survivors do not have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to register with FEMA. If it is not possible to visit a DRC, call 800-621-FEMA (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.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page,www.fema.gov/disaster/4783 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 Wed, 07/17/2024 - 17:52

Disaster Recovery Center is Opening in Hancock County, W.Va.

July 17, 2024
DR-4787-WV MA-003
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Disaster Recovery Center is Opening in Hancock County, W.Va.

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– A state-federal Disaster Recovery Center will open at New Cumberland City Hall in New Cumberland, Thursday, July 18, 2024, at 8 a.m.

The center is located at:

1. Hancock County Disaster Recovery Center

New Cumberland City Hall 

104 North Court St

New Cumberland, WV 26407

Hours of operation:

Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed on Sundays

West Virginia residents who were impacted by the April 11-12 severe storms can visit a disaster recovery center to get help registering for FEMA disaster assistance. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).

• The FEMA registration deadline for the April 11-12 storm is Sept. 3, 2024.

If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps. Staff at the center can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.

Survivors do not have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to register with FEMA. If it is not possible to visit a center, call 800-621-FEMA (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.

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 Wed, 07/17/2024 - 17:44

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Cherokee County

FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Cherokee on Saturday, July 20 to provide one-on-one help for people affected by recent flooding and severe storms.

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.

Cherokee County – FEMA Disaster Recovery Center

Cherokee County Emergency Management

Formerly the Cherokee County Work Services Building

322 Lake St., Suite B

Cherokee, IA 51012

 

Open Saturday, July 20 from 1–6 p.m.

Then, open every day from 8 a.m.– 6 p.m., until further notice

 

Four other FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open in northwest Iowa. Survivors can visit any location:

Spencer -

Clay County

Clay County Regional Events Center

Tower Gate Pavilion

800 W. 18th St.

Spencer, IA 51301

Open Monday – Sunday 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Rock Valley -  

Sioux County

City Park Shelter House

1013 13th Ave.

Rock Valley, IA 51247

Open Monday – Sunday 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Estherville – 

Emmet County

St. Patrick's Church - Gym

903 Central Ave.

Estherville, IA 51334

Open Monday – Sunday 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Rock Rapids – 

Lyon County

Forster Community Center

404 First Ave.

Rock Rapids, IA 51246

Open Monday – Sunday 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

FEMA can provide money to eligible homeowners and renters for help with serious needs, paying for a temporary place to live, home repairs, rental assistance and other needs not covered by insurance.

Designated counties are Adair, Adams, Buena Vista, Cedar, Cherokee, Clarke, Clay, Emmet, Harrison, Jasper, Lyon, Mills, Montgomery, O’Brien, Plymouth, Polk, Pottawattamie, Ringgold, Shelby, Sioux, Story, Union and Woodbury.

To save time, please apply with FEMA online or by phone before visiting a Disaster Recovery Center.

To find closest Disaster Recovery Center near you, please visit: https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator

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 Wed, 07/17/2024 - 15:48

New Mexico Residents with Damaged Homes Can Apply for an SBA Loan; Business Recovery Center Now Open in Ruidoso

Long-term, low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to New Mexico residents and businesses impacted by the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding that began on June 17. If your damaged home or business is in Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba and San Juan counties or on the Mescalero Apache Reservation, you are eligible to apply. 

FEMA partners with other agencies to help meet needs after a disaster. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is the largest source of funds to help private property owners pay for disaster losses not covered by insurance or other recoveries. The program covers deductibles and increased cost of compliance after a disaster. Applicants should not wait for an insurance settlement before submitting an SBA loan application. 

New Mexicans who suffered damage from the wildfires and flooding may apply for help from both FEMA and SBA at the same time. 

Interest rates can be as low as 4% for businesses, 3.25% for private nonprofit organizations and 2.688% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

Homeowners may be eligible for a disaster loan up to $500,000 for primary residence repairs or rebuilding. SBA may also be able to help homeowners and renters with up to $100,000 to replace important personal property, including automobiles damaged or destroyed in the disaster. 

If your application is approved, you are not obligated to accept an SBA loan.

Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. SBA representatives are available to provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants at Disaster Recovery Centers operated by the State of New Mexico and FEMA. 

Low-Interest Disaster Loans for Businesses

Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged property, destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. SBA can also lend additional funds to help with the cost of improvements to protect, prevent or minimize disaster damage from occurring in the future.

For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster (EID) loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available to businesses regardless of any property damage.

Applicants may apply at https://lending.sba.gov. Business owners also may apply in-person by visiting SBA Business Recovery Center in Ruidoso at: 

Ruidoso Public Library
Archive Room
107 Kansas City Road
Ruidoso, NM  88345

Monday - Friday, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Closed Sunday

The deadline to apply for property damage is Aug. 19, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is March 20, 2025.

kwei.nwaogu Wed, 07/17/2024 - 14:23

Over $6.4 Million from FEMA for Projects in Vieques and Culebra

Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO ― Four projects in the island municipalities of Vieques and Culebra are in design or construction thanks to an allocation of over $6.4 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). In Vieques, the funds will be used to repair the Antonio Rivera Rodríguez Airport and the Luis González Camareno Municipal Coliseum, while in Culebra they will be used for the Government Center and the Multi-Use Center.

“These projects will favor the over 10,000 residents of Vieques and Culebra and will have a positive impact not only on their daily lives, but also on their sports, cultural and social activities. Furthermore, the repairs to the Vieques airport will support tourism, which is vital to its economy. These and other federal allocations are proof that FEMA remains firm in its commitment to helping Puerto Rico’s comprehensive recovery and, undoubtedly, this includes the entire archipelago,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

The Antonio Rivera Rodríguez Airport in Vieques, built in 1995 and managed by the Puerto Rico Ports Authority, serves about 40,000 people each year and offers flights to the San Juan, Isla Grande and Ceiba airports. The facility consists of a main terminal, an air rescue building, a lounge, a hangar and two storage buildings. 

“The airport is one of the main routes for the movement of passengers and cargo, such as mail and different means of delivery like USPS, UPS, DHL and others. Its optimal operation assures residents the continuity of these services,” said Vieques Vice Mayor Adolfo Rosa Miranda.

Currently, this vital project for the municipality is in the design phase. With the federal allocation of over $4.1 million, the floors, elevator system, generator, fire prevention system and structural beams and columns will be replaced. Here the replacement of roofs, transformers, light poles and the runway lamp sensor have already been completed.

Construction work at the Luis González Camareno Municipal Coliseum is also underway. This project has an allocation of over $628,000 to paint the basketball court, repair cracks and replace doors, emergency lights, fire hose, metal roof, folding wooden bleachers, electrical outlets and lighting poles, among others.

For the vice mayor, this facility is vital for the development of multiple sports, as it is the only indoor coliseum available in the municipality island also known as Isla Nena. “Basketball, boxing, volleyball and other very important recreational activities for the people of Vieques are organized here,” he added.

Moreover, repairs to the Culebra Government Center are already underway, with an allocation of nearly $830,000. This three-story building houses 13 offices — including the Department of the Family, the Municipal Legislature, the Office of Land Management and an interactive court — and serves some 500 to 700 people each month.

Repairs will consist of reinstalling the structure’s retaining wall, cleaning the contaminated air conditioning duct system and replacing the air conditioner’s condenser and compressor. There will also repair the asphalt pavement and concrete sidewalk, roof resurfacing and will replace light fixtures, walls and fire- and water-resistant gypsum ceilings. 

According to José A. Rodríguez Feria, of Culebra's Federal Programs Office, these repairs will result in improved quality and accessibility of services with more comfortable facilities for visitors. “It also helps administrative operations run more efficiently. In this way, infrastructure projects are expedited, aside from the fact that the structure complies with all regulations and safety requirements to have an optimal, adequate and accessible work environment,” he added.

Likewise, repairs to the Multi-Use Center at the Flamenco neighborhood are in progress. The structure houses a library, a community foodbank and a shelter, among others. The Center received an allocation of nearly $810,000 for the replacement of detached concrete roof slabs, light fixtures, windows, air conditioners and the application of a waterproof membrane for the roof, among other works.

Also located there is the nonprofit organization El Junte Comunitario Culebrense, which channels aid to the community. “Its mission is to positively impact the lives of children, youths, adults and seniors, offering them opportunities in the fields of environmental impact, education focused on technology, art, culture and sports with the vision of creating programs and activities aimed at educational, social and economic support, empowering Culebra families to develop a greater well-being and better quality of life,” said Rodríguez Feria, who added that repairing this structure already has a positive impact on the entire community.

The four projects have funds assigned for hazard mitigation, which will prepare the facilities to face future disasters. For Vieques, this allocation consists of nearly $197,000; while for the projects of Culebra, the allocation is of nearly $13,300.

For his part, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency, Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “the reconstruction of the island municipalities is led by multiple government agencies, which together with the work performed by the municipalities of Vieques and Culebra, rehabilitate and give resilience to the infrastructure affected by previous disasters. An example of this is the advanced process of the construction of the Susana Centeno Health Center in Vieques and the Culebra Government Center, among other works that have benefited from the advance of funds through the Working Capital Advance pilot program. The COR3 team is committed to continuing to work as a team with the municipalities and state agencies, as well as federal agencies, for the benefit of the people of Culebra and Vieques.”

To date, FEMA has obligated over $33.9 billion for over 11,000 recovery projects in Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane María. Of these funds, nearly $70 million have been allocated for permanent work projects in Vieques and Culebra, totaling over $62 million and over $7 million, respectively.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery,  visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter  @COR3pr.

VIEQUES, Puerto Rico (April 24, 2024) – FEMA allocated over $4.1 million to repair the Antonio Rivera Rodríguez Airport in Vieques. Built in 1995 and managed by the Puerto Rico Ports Authority, this airport serves about 40,000 people each year and offers flights to the San Juan, Isla Grande and Ceiba airports. This vital project for the municipality is in the design phase. With the federal allocation, the floors, elevator system, generator, fire prevention system and structural beams and columns will be replaced. Photo FEMA / Eliezer Hernández

CULEBRA, Puerto Rico (June 25, 2024)- Repairs to the Culebra Government Center are already underway, with an allocation by FEMA of nearly $830,000. This three-story building houses 13 offices — including the Department of the Family, the Municipal Legislature, the Office of Land Management and an interactive court — and serves some 500 to 700 people each month. Photo FEMA/Eduardo Martínez 

 

manuel.deleon Wed, 07/17/2024 - 14:06

Disaster Recovery Centers in Boyd, Henry Closing; 3 Centers Remain Open

FRANKFORT, Ky. — Survivors of the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, seeking in-person help with FEMA applications should check the most up-to-date schedule to ensure a Disaster Recovery Center is open. The deadline to apply is July 22.

The Disaster Recovery Centers in Boyd and Henry counties will permanently close at 6 p.m. July 19.

• Boyd County: Boyd County Emergency Management Office, 12327 Anthony Drive, Ashland, KY 41102. 
• Henry County: 4H Community Center, 1106 Castle Highway, Eminence, KY 40019.

The Disaster Recovery Centers in Carter, Fayette and Greenup counties are operating 10 a.m.–7 p.m. ET, Monday to Friday until further notice:

• Carter County: Members Choice Credit Union, 438 Interstate Drive, Grayson, KY 41143.
• Fayette County: Emergency Operations Center, 115 Cisco Road, Lexington, KY 40504. 
• Greenup County: Greenup County Courthouse, 301 Main St., Greenup, KY 41114.

Survivors in Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup, Henry, Jefferson, Jessamine, Mason, Oldham, Union and Whitley counties can apply for FEMA assistance at any of the Disaster Recovery Centers. FEMA representatives can help with applications for federal assistance and provide information about other disaster recovery resources. In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will be available to assist survivors.

How to Apply for Federal Assistance

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 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. 

For accessible information about how to register for FEMA disaster assistance, please watch this video YouTube link.

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. More information can also be obtained by calling the SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955. Business Recovery Center is operating in Jefferson County. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4782. Follow FEMA on X, formerly called Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Tue, 07/16/2024 - 18:32

Flood Resiliency in Eastwick: New FEMA Funding & Other Progress Through federal grants, collaboration across agencies, and persistent community action, progress is being made toward resiliency efforts in the flood-prone Eastwick neighborhood of Philadelphia. 
 

PHILADELPHIA— FEMA Senior Officials Victoria Salinas and MaryAnn Tierney and Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon visited Philadelphia’s Eastwick neighborhod on Monday. There they announced more than $2 million in funding for the construction of barriers as an interim solution to reduce flooding and welcomed Delaware County into FEMA’s 3-year technical assistance program. 

"As part of its ‘Year of Resilience,’ FEMA is lifting up community resilience stories from across the nation to inspire action. The Biden-Harris Administration has taken many steps to reduce the hurdles underserved and historically disadvantaged communities face to invest in their own resilience. I am very excited that, for the first time in Region 3, FEMA will be able to use our grant programs to fund an interim flood mitigation solution for Eastwick while longer-term solutions are in development. In talking with residents of Philadelphia’s Eastwick neighborhood and Delaware County, today I saw firsthand how recent FEMA changes are already making a difference,” said FEMA official Victoria Salinas.

They joined representatives from Philadelphia and Delaware County as well as state and federal leadership for the quarterly meeting of the Eastwick and Delaware County Flood Resilience Leadership Group. First convened in March 2023, the Leadership Group brings consistent attention and transparency to flood related initiatives in this area. 

“For too many years, the residents of Eastwick have endured catastrophic flooding due to the failures of government — at every level,” said Rep. Scanlon. “But I am proud to say that, in recent years, we have been able to convene federal, state and local governments to work on solutions to reverse decades of environmental injustice, fragmented regional development policies, and increasing extreme weather events that have contributed to the flooding. From my first day in office, I’ve made a point of advocating for Eastwick whenever I get the chance — including recently securing $1.38 million in the FY2024 federal budget to help fund an interim flood barrier along Darby Creek. Today’s quarterly leadership meeting reminds us of the importance of continuing collaboration in and around Eastwick."

While much work remains for the group, there are significant signs of progress: 

• Philadelphia’s Office of Sustainability is kicking off the development of the Eastwick Flood Resilience Strategy funded through FEMA’s flood mitigation assistance grant. 
• Delaware County was selected to join FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) direct technical assistance program. 
• Philadelphia was selected for two federal grants to fund the construction of a near-term flood barrier in Eastwick. This is the first funding for construction of a flood mitigation project in Eastwick and one of the first FEMA-funded BRIC projects to receive an enhanced federal cost share of 90%, rather than the standard 75%, since the primary benefitting area has been designated a Community Disaster Resilience Zone, a program covered under the Biden-Harris Administration’s Justice40 initiative. 
• The city is about to install many more stream gages to detect flooding along Cobbs Creek and send Eastwick residents customized alert messages. 

Achieving flood resilience along the lower Darby & Cobbs creeks will require a combination of measures to ensure residents are protected under current and future climate conditions. 

Philadelphia’s Office of Sustainability is launching the start of the Eastwick Flood Resilience Strategy, funded through a $450,000 grant from FEMA’s Flood Mitigation Assistance program. This is a community-driven effort to bring all potential flood resilience measures to the table so residents can decide what combination of measures moves forward in the long term. More permanent proposals include the Cobbs Creek levee, housing solutions such as relocations and voluntary buyouts, and nature-based projects.

Meanwhile, funding was recently announced for the Eastwick Near-Term Flood Barrier, a $2.2 million plan to install an interim flood barrier, called a HESCO barrier, along Cobbs Creek. Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon championed this project and secured a federal appropriation for its construction. The project was also selected for funding this year under FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Grant Program. HESCO barriers are soil-filled boxes made of fabric mesh and a wire frame that are connected to create a flood barrier. They would follow a similar path as the proposed Cobbs Creek levee and help lessen flooding for about 600 residences in Eastwick from the impact of smaller storms that cause river flooding from Cobbs and Darby creeks. The development of this project was supported by FEMA and the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency through the BRIC Direct Technical Assistance program.

"This large, multi-faceted project is one that shows all levels of government working together across jurisdictions for the benefit of the communities we serve," said PEMA Director Randy Padfield. "We know that projects like these pay off in reduced recovery costs down the line, but more importantly, they provide peace of mind to people who live and work in these communities."

Other interim measures include the launching of a place-based flood messaging system by the Philadelphia Office of Emergency Management (OEM). This enhanced system will expand OEM’s real-time visibility into localized flooding through the installation of new flood monitoring technology. The plan includes installing stream gauges in strategic locations that will support early warning messaging and enhance response efforts. It will also give more specific flood alerts to Eastwick residents. The new messaging system will send Eastwick residents alerts, through the City’s free ReadyPhiladelphia mass notification system, informing them of potential flooding, current flooding, and assistance as needed. The information will be based on feedback from the community, information from the gauges and cameras, and will contain information to help residents prepare for and respond to flooding. This system is part of a larger OEM project to make alerts and warning more accessible which includes expanding messaging to eleven languages, including American Sign Language.

The City of Philadelphia's Chief Deputy Mayor, Sinceré Harris, said on these measures, “For decades, the residents of Eastwick have endured tragic and unpredictable flooding. The Parker Administration stands committed to work with our local, State, and federal partners to deliver tangible, protective measures for the residents of Eastwick – they have waited long enough. We thank FEMA and Congresswoman Scanlon for their continued support and look forward to solidifying a community-based plan for long-term flood resiliency.”
 

Because flooding does not stop at the county line, comprehensive flood relief means looking on both sides of the creeks. This year, FEMA has expanded the BRIC Direct Technical Assistance (DTA) program, which Philadelphia utilized to develop the flood barrier project, and is now welcoming Delaware County as one of 93 communities joining the BRIC DTA program across the country. This will smooth the way for further collaboration across community boundaries. This program provides three years of tailored, non-financial support—including mitigation planning and grants support—to communities to build climate resilience and design solutions. This kind of holistic approach to resilience building demonstrates the value of community-led resilience strategies backed by united partners including federal, state, and local agencies.
 

“Delaware County extends its thanks to FEMA for awarding a Direct Technical Assistance Grant through the Building Resilient infrastructure and Communities program to the County,” said Council Member Elaine Paul Schaefer. “This will allow the County to work with our municipalities to better understand the flooding issues around the county and region, particularly those near the proposed Eastwick levee. It will also allow us to work with FEMA to assess needs and develop action plans to address those needs and help to build flood resiliency in the County.”

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov. Eastwick residents are invited to get involved by reaching out to eastwick@phila.gov. Delaware County residents can reach out to Planning_Department@co.delaware.pa.us. 

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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.

1. Follow us on “X” at x.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

 

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1. Supplemental Photos and Funding Information

Media outlets are welcome to use photos from the Eastwick visit, quarterly leadership meeting, and media roundtable available here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1QITR3-bCcjT_t9XBxW80daKTq5p8j81o (Credit: Nicholas Monteleone/FEMA).

Grant Funding SourceGrant and Project NamesTotal fundingSummary and Funding Status FEMAFY23 Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA); Eastwick Flood Resilience Strategy

Total: $500,000          Fed Share: $450,000

Local Match: $50,000 

 

Build on existing efforts to develop a comprehensive flood resilience strategy through a dedicated community-driven planning process. 

 

Status: funding made available to city in July 2024.

FEMAFY24 Building Resilient Infrastructure & Communities (BRIC); Eastwick Near-Term Flood Barriers (HESCO)

Total: $2.2M 

Fed Share: $2M 

Local Match: $224k

Provide near-term protection from riverine flooding while longer-term strategy is developed.

 

Status: project selected in national competition in July 2024.

Federal Appropriations through Congresswoman ScanlonFY24 Pre-disaster Mitigation (FEMA); Eastwick Near-Term Flood Barriers (HESCO)

Total: $2.2M 

Fed Share: $1.38M

Local Match: $853k

Provide near-term protection from riverine flooding while longer-term strategy is developed.

 

Status: funding appropriated in March 2024.

Summary table of funding detailed in news release:

 

amanda.hancher Tue, 07/16/2024 - 17:29

Humphreys County Disaster Recovery Center to Close July 20

MADISON, Miss. – The Disaster Recovery Center in Humphreys County operated by the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and FEMA will close permanently at 2 p.m. July 20. 

The center is located at:

Humphreys County
Humphreys County Multipurpose Building (look for the FEMA and MEMA signage across the street from Willard Jack Trucking)
417 Silver City Road
Belzoni, MS 39038

The center is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. 

Even though the last recovery center is closing, FEMA is still on the ground in Mississippi to help homeowners and renters recover from the April 8-11, 2024, storms.

FEMA will continue to receive and process appeals, assist applicants with questions and help survivors apply for assistance. Survivors can contact FEMA by:

• 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. 
• Going online to DisasterAssistance.gov
• Downloading the FEMA mobile app 

Survivors have until August 9, 2024, to apply for assistance. 

For the latest information on recovery from the April tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4790. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4.

Gaynell.Tinsey Tue, 07/16/2024 - 16:03

Displaced from Your Home Due to Fires, Floods? FEMA May Help with Rent

Renters and homeowners who live in Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba and San Juan counties or on the Mescalero Apache Reservation and whose primary residence is uninhabitable or inaccessible, due to the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding, may be eligible for federal rental assistance for temporary housing. Grants are being made available to eligible New Mexicans through FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. 

FEMA pays rent, including a security deposit, at a place other than your damaged home. Your rental can be a house, apartment, hotel, or recreational vehicle that can keep you near your job, home, school, and place of worship. The assistance includes essential utilities such as electricity and water, but not cable TV or Internet.  

The approved rental amount will be based on fair market rates for your area as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). As a homeowner or renter, you may qualify for assistance, but you must first apply to FEMA for federal disaster assistance, 

If you receive housing assistance through your insurance company, by federal law, FEMA cannot duplicate housing benefits. However, if you exhaust housing assistance funds from your insurance company, FEMA may then be able to provide you with temporary rental assistance.  

A FEMA inspector must determine that your house or apartment is uninhabitable due to damage caused by the fires and flood which began June 17. If your home is uninhabitable or inaccessible due to a power outage you may be eligible for one month of rental assistance.  

• FEMA assistance is a grant and New Mexicans do not have to repay it.  
• Residents needing more than two months of temporary rental assistance must apply to FEMA for extended assistance and must demonstrate to FEMA their continued financial need.  
• If FEMA cannot meet your housing needs, you may be referred to charitable or volunteer groups in your community for assistance.  

How to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance

The first step for individuals and households to receive assistance is to apply to FEMA for federal 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 Appfor 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. 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 accessible video on how to apply for assistance, visit youtube.com/watch= WZGpWI2RCNw.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Aug. 19, 2024.

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 07/16/2024 - 15:50

FEMA Seeking Local Hires to Help Arkansas Recover

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Join the FEMA team and help your community recover from the May 24-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding. FEMA is looking for residents in or near Springdale with experience in customer service, logistics, environmental protection, engineering or emergency management. 

FEMA looks for people with the skills, the compassion and the desire to help friends and family with their recovery process, while providing FEMA with insights into the local community’s unique needs. These are full-time, 120-day positions that may be extended based on operational needs. 

You can find more information on the specific open positions and how to apply at USAjobs.Gov. Search for keyword “Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)” and the location of Springdale, AR.

Keep checking back. Listings change as positions are announced and filled.

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

alexa.brown Tue, 07/16/2024 - 15:23

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

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Kansas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from April 25-30, 2024.

Public assistance federal funding is available to the 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, tornadoes and flooding in Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, Chautauqua, Cherokee, Elk, Greenwood, Linn, Morris, Neosho, Pottawatomie and Wilson counties.

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

Andrew P. Meyer has been named 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.

erika.suzuki Mon, 07/15/2024 - 19:19

Kentuckians Have 1 Week Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance After April 2 Storms

FRANKFORT, Ky. — The July 22 deadline to apply for FEMA Assistance after the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides is quickly approaching. Homeowners and renters in Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup, Henry, Jefferson, Jessamine, Mason, Oldham, Union and Whitley counties who have loss and damage caused by this disaster have one week left to apply for federal disaster assistance.

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 the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 daily, 7 a.m. – midnight ET. 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 online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Use the FEMA mobile app.

In-Person Assistance Is Available at Disaster Recovery Centers 

• Boyd County: Boyd County Emergency Management Office, 12327 Anthony Drive, Ashland, KY 41102. 
• Carter County: Members Choice Credit Union, 438 Interstate Drive, Grayson, KY 41143.
• Fayette County: Emergency Operations Center, 115 Cisco Road, Lexington, KY 40504 
• Greenup County Courthouse, 301 Main St., Greenup, KY 41114.
• Henry County: 4H Community Center, 1106 Castle Highway, Eminence, KY 40019. 

The hours of operation at all DRCs are: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. ET, Monday to Friday. 

FEMA Individual Assistance

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 a vehicle, funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, childcare 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 cannot compensate for all losses caused by a disaster. The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.

For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4782. Follow FEMA on X, formerly called Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Mon, 07/15/2024 - 17:26