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

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

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

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

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

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

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

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

For more information about the flood maps:

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

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

alexa.brown Fri, 07/12/2024 - 15:52

New Mexicans in Rio Arriba and San Juan Counties Can Now Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance

Homeowners and renters in two additional New Mexico counties – Rio Arriba and San Juan – are now eligible to receive FEMA Individual Assistance (IA) grants to help them recover from the South Fork and Salt Fires and floods, which began June 17. Rio Arriba and San Juan counties join Lincoln and Otero counties, as well as the Mescalero Apache Reservation which were previously approved in June.

FEMA’s Individuals and Household Program assistance is intended to help jumpstart your recovery. Here are some examples of basic needs:

• Other Needs Assistance may be provided to homeowners and renters for eligible uninsured property or items your insurance doesn’t cover, such as:

  • Serious Needs Assistance for lifesaving and life-sustaining items, including water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation.
  • Displacement Assistance for immediate housing needs to help New Mexicans who cannot return home right after the wildfires and flooding.

  Both Serious Needs Assistance (SNA) and Displacement Assistance require an inspection to confirm eligibility before funds are provided to applicants.

  • Medical and dental expenses; funeral and burial costs; replacement of household furniture and appliances; specialized tools you must have for your job; a personal computing device, educational materials and moving, storage and other necessary expenses related to the wildfires and flooding.
  • Personally owned, disaster-damaged cars and trucks in need of replacement or repairs.
  • The purchase or rental expense of generators used at a primary residence to power medically required equipment necessary for an existing medical condition.

Housing Assistance Available

Rental Assistance 
FEMA may be able to provide rent for a temporary place to live while you are displaced. Rental assistance is intended to cover monthly rent, security deposit and cost of essential utilities such as electricity and water.

Home Repair Assistance may be provided to homeowners to repair the structural parts of your home. This includes windows, doors, floors, walls, ceilings, cabinets, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system (HVAC), utilities (electrical, plumbing and gas systems) and entrance ways. FEMA may also reimburse for the actual cost to repair or replace your furnace, private well and septic system that was damaged or destroyed by the disaster.

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 App for mobile devices at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 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 operated by the state of New Mexico and FEMA. For location and hours, visit fema.gov/drc

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

kwei.nwaogu Fri, 07/12/2024 - 13:30

Relief Available Through Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office Following Recent Flooding

SANTA FE, N.M. – Those impacted by recent flooding in San Miguel County may be eligible for relief through the FEMA Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office (“Claims Office”). 

Large-scale wildfires can alter ground conditions and increase the risk of flooding; individuals impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire (“fire”) and living within the burn scar are at greatest risk. Flood damage directly related to the 2022 fire is compensable if an individual does not have flood insurance or is not fully compensated through their flood insurance. The Claims Office legally cannot duplicate benefits and therefore can only compensate for damages and other expenses that are not already covered through insurance. 

“Because the recent flooding is a cascading impact from the 2022 fire, anyone affected by the flooding should know that there are resources available,” said Jay Mitchell, Director of Operations for the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office. “First, if you have flood insurance, you will need to work with your insurance provider to access the benefits of your policy. If you do not have flood insurance, are partially covered, or your flood insurance has not yet taken effect, you should work with the Claims Office to either begin a Claims Office claim or pursue additional compensation through an existing Claims Office claim to receive compensation for damages from the floods.”

Those experiencing cascading impacts who opted into flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), paid for by the Claims Office, should begin their insurance claim through the NFIP by visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov/how-do-i-start-my-flood-claim or calling the NFIP at 800-638-6620. If the policy is not yet in effect due to the thirty-day waiting period, individuals may contact their Claims Office Navigator to receive compensation through the Claims Office.

Anyone who has experienced flood damages not fully covered by insurance should work with the Claims Office to begin a claim or update an existing Claims Office claim for compensation. If a claimant has already closed a Claims Office claim, they can contact their Navigator to re-open the claim for new damages directly related to the fire and subsequent flooding. 

Community members who have not previously worked with the Claims Office are reminded that the deadline to submit a Notice of Loss to begin a Claims Office claim for recent flood damages and/or other damages directly linked to the 2022 fire is November 14, 2024, as outlined by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act passed by Congress.

Community members are also encouraged to contact their Navigator to discuss additional compensation options for risk reduction and mitigation activities.

“The Claims Office is committed to ensuring community members receive the help they need to protect themselves against current and future cascading events related to the 2022 fire,” said Mitchell. “Individuals are encouraged to take advantage of risk reduction funding through the Claims Office to receive compensation for flood barrier installation, utility elevation, home floodproofing, and other projects to mitigate against future cascading events.”

Anyone impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding is encouraged to start a Claims Office claim if they have not already. Questions and concerns can be addressed by calling your claim Navigator or the Claims Office Helpline at 505-995-7133. Per the Hermit's Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act, the deadline to submit a Notice of Loss is November 14, 2024. The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire Assistance Act provides that compensation through the Claims Office is not taxable income and will not impact eligibility for other federal benefits including social security or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office is committed to meeting the needs of people impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding by providing full compensation available under the law as expeditiously as possible. At the time of publication, the FEMA Claims Office has paid $926.7 million to claimants. 

For information and updates regarding the Claims Office, please visit the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office website at fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak. You can also follow our Facebook page and turn notifications on to stay up to date about the claims process, upcoming deadlines and other program announcements at facebook.com/HermitsPeakCalfCanyonClaimsOffice.  

amy.ashbridge Thu, 07/11/2024 - 21:00

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Larch Creek Fire in Oregon

BOTHELL, Wash. -  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Larch Creek Fire burning in Wasco County, Oregon. 

The state of Oregon’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Deputy Administrator Vincent J. Maykovich on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at 10:09 p.m. PT. He determined that the Larch Creek Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the second FMAG declared in 2024 to help fight Oregon wildfires. 

At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of Pine Hollow, Shady Grove and Tygh Valley. The fire also threatened County Highway 216 and State Highway 197, cellular towers, gas utilities, electric utilities and White River Falls recreational park. 

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 Oregon 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.

mary.j.edmon Thu, 07/11/2024 - 20:12

FEMA To Visit Woodbury County to Assist Flooding Survivors

FEMA Individual Assistance is now available for those impacted by the flooding and severe storms in Woodbury County. FEMA teams will begin visiting neighborhoods to help survivors apply for assistance.

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams work in coordination with state and county emergency management.

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

The teams help survivors apply with FEMA and address immediate and emerging needs. They also provide application status updates and referrals to community resources.

FEMA staff can easily be identified by their federal photo identification and FEMA clothing. Residents are encouraged to ask for official photo ID before providing personal information.

How to Apply with FEMA

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Download and use the FEMA app
• FEMA works with every household on a case-by-case basis.
• 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 

Types of FEMA Assistance Available

FEMA is offering a wide variety of help to people affected by the recent tornadoes. Every homeowner and renter who suffered damage is encouraged to apply.

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

Money provided by FEMA does not have to be repaid and may include:

• Serious Needs: Money for lifesaving and life-sustaining items, including water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation.
• Displacement: Money to help with housing needs if you cannot return to your home because of the disaster. The money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or other options while you look for a rental unit.
• Home Repair or Replacement: Money to help you repair or replace your home damaged by the disaster. The money can also help with pre-existing damage to parts of your home where the disaster caused further damage.
• Rental Assistance: Money you can use to rent housing if you are displaced from your home because of the disaster.
• Personal Property: Money to help you repair or replace appliances, room furnishings, and a personal or family computer damaged by the disaster. This can also include money for books, uniforms, tools, medical equipment and other items required for school or work, including self-employment.
• Child Care: Money to help you pay for increased or child care expenses caused by the disaster.
• Transportation: Money to help you repair or replace a vehicle damaged by the disaster when you don’t have another vehicle you can use.
• Moving and Storage Expenses: Money to help you move and store personal property from your home to prevent additional damage.

thomas.wise Thu, 07/11/2024 - 20:02

FEMA Announces 2024-2025 National Youth Preparedness Council

WASHINGTON – FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced the new group of dedicated young people who are committed to advocating for disaster preparedness as part of the 2024-2025 FEMA national Youth Preparedness Council.

"Today, we welcomed an inspirational new group of young people to the national Youth Preparedness Council,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Each year, council members share fresh perspectives and ideas about topics important to all of us, including climate change. I am confident their hard work and passion will enable our nation to be stronger for future generations.”

The council consists of student leaders in grades 8-11 who devote their time and effort to learn about emergency management and serve as preparedness ambassadors in their community. Members are chosen based on their dedication to public service, community involvement and potential to increase levels of community resilience throughout the country. 

These 15 youth leaders will spend a year on the national council supporting FEMA’s commitment to promote and sustain a prepared nation. The council provides FEMA with an avenue to engage young people and gain direct insights on ways to consider their perspectives, feedback and opinions. 

This year's National Youth Preparedness Council Members are Advik Nadikota of Missouri, Ashton Dolce of Arizona, Emily Feichthaler of Florida, Jason Kitchens of Missouri, Kailyn Rominger of Montana, Katherine (Katie) Liu of Texas, Madison Malo of Wisconsin, Marissa (Apollo) Rodriguez of Connecticut, Megana Madhurakavi of New Jersey, Nandika Devarajan of Washington, Sophia Calvillo of California, Sophia Johnston of Michigan, Sughan Sringanesh of New York, Thomas Ye of Virginia and Viswa Karthic of Washington.

FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Council was formed in 2012 to bring together youth leaders from across the country who are engaged in advocating for preparedness.

While on the council, national council members meet with FEMA staff to provide input on strategies, initiatives, and projects. During their term, members gain professional skills and forge new relationships as they work on teams to develop preparedness-related projects. 

To learn more about FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Council, visit fema.gov/ypc. 

amy.ashbridge Thu, 07/11/2024 - 19:43

FEMA May Be Trying to Reach You

FRANKFORT, Ky. — FEMA is providing enhanced customer service in Kentucky to help all survivors of the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides receive much-needed assistance.

If you have applied for FEMA assistance, you may receive a call, text or email from the Emergent Survival Services (ESS) team. These calls may come from unfamiliar area codes and phone numbers or show no caller ID. You should take the opportunity to let FEMA know about your current needs and how FEMA can better serve you. It is important to answer phone calls from FEMA, even if the caller ID is unknown. When taking calls about your FEMA application, keep in mind that only FEMA knows your nine-digital application number. 

FEMA ensures that all survivors, particularly those with additional needs, receive the assistance they are entitled to rebuild and recover. As of July 8, the team has already contacted 387 applicants to assist with completing applications. These outreach efforts contributed significantly to the total $1.3 million approved for survivors of the April 2 disaster. 

Homeowners and renters in Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup, Henry, Jefferson, Jessamine, Mason, Oldham, Union and Whitley counties can apply for FEMA assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 7 a.m. – midnight local time daily or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

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 Thu, 07/11/2024 - 19:21

Disaster Recovery Center Remains Open in Nicholas County, WV

July 11, 2024

DR-4783-WV-MA-034

FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597

FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Disaster Recovery Center Remains Open in Nicholas County, WV 

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– A state-federal Disaster Recovery Center will remain open at the Nicholas County Office of Emergency Services in Summersville. 

The center is located at:

Nicholas County

Nicholas County Office of Emergency Services

449 Water St. 

Summersville, WV

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed Sunday

West Virginia residents who were impacted by the April 2-6 and 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 2-6 storm is July 22, 2024.
• 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/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 Thu, 07/11/2024 - 19:11

Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Orleans County, New York

Orleans County, N.Y. - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Orleans County, New York. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period. 

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments. 

The 90-day appeal period will begin July 14, 2024. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

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

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

Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. 

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov. 

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

1. Orleans County Flood Mapping Milestones

• March 9, 2023 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• July 17, 2023 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• August 17, 2023 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
• October 12, 2023 — Open House Meeting with public to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map.
• July 14, 2024 — Appeal Period starts.
• Fall 2025* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 2 Office of External Affairs at (212) 680-3699 or at FEMA-R2-ExternalAffairs@fema.dhs.gov. 

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

kate.macedo Thu, 07/11/2024 - 18:22

ICYMI - Honoring NATO, FEMA Hosts Event on Strengthening Communities to Build More Resilient Nations

WASHINGTON – On the sidelines of the 2024 North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit, FEMA hosted The Resilience Dialogue: Strengthening our Communities to Meet the Future. This event, which occurred on July 9, highlighted FEMA’s role in supporting the U.S. Mission to NATO and the importance of national civil preparedness and resilience efforts aligned with the Alliance’s collective resilience and security.

Rooted in Article 3 of the North Atlantic Treaty is the responsibility of Allies to build national resilience, enhancing their individual ability to prepare for, resist, respond to and quickly recover from shocks and disruptions. The NATO Resilience Committee is charged with, among other things, ensuring resilience is factored, where appropriate, into NATO defense planning, operations and activities. FEMA directly supports this effort by serving as the U.S. Representative on the Committee, as well as its Civil Protection Working Group.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell opened the event stating, “For 75 years, NATO has been a foundation of international partnership. A place where likeminded nations can come together to take on the biggest challenges facing our world. And I want to take a moment to specifically acknowledge the work NATO has done to underscore the importance of societal resilience.” Administrator Criswell continued, “2024 is FEMA’s Year of Resilience. We’re spending this year uplifting our resilience work, communicating about our programs and working to stop the cycle of response, recovery—rinse and repeat. As a global community, we have a responsibility to build lasting societal resilience by facing these big, disruptive problems together.”

FEMA’s domestic efforts to enhance civil preparedness and resilience were highlighted during this event, in support of the collective resilience and defense of the Alliance. Panelists also discussed resources, guidance and tools FEMA offers to assist stakeholders in developing a better understanding of disaster shocks and stressors, while factoring resilience considerations into their planning in the face of short-term and long-term risks.

amy.ashbridge Thu, 07/11/2024 - 16:04

Disaster Recovery Center is Opening in Ohio County, WV

July 11, 2024

DR-4787-WV-MA-001

FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597

FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Disaster Recovery Center is Opening in Ohio County, WV 

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– A state-federal Disaster Recovery Center will open at the U.S. Army Reserve Center in Wheeling tomorrow, July 12, 2024, at 8 a.m.

The center is located at:

Ohio County

U.S. Army Reserve Center

25 Armory Drive 

Wheeling, WV 26003

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed Sunday

West Virginia residents who were impacted by the April 2-6 and 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 2-6 storm is July 22, 2024.
• 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.

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

issa.mansaray Thu, 07/11/2024 - 15:49

FEMA Achieves 11,000 Projects Obligated for Puerto Rico

The projects represent over $33.9 billion destined exclusively for Hurricane María and will mostly address the restoration of permanent infrastructure.

Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO ― The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) set a significant milestone in Puerto Rico’s recovery, with the obligation of over 11,000 projects to address damage from Hurricane María.

“The agency continues to obligate projects, each of them of great significance and value in the reconstruction of our island. Each project obligated represents a crucial step toward completing reconstruction and ensuring the island’s resilience to future disasters,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

One of the most recent obligations for Hurricane María was over $1.7 million to the municipality of Cayey for the restoration of the Pedro Montañez Stadium. The stadium is home to the Double-A Superior Baseball League team Toritos of Cayey. It also hosts multiple recreational events for the community and serves as an operations center during an emergency. 

The facilities have funds for paint and for the replacement of roofs, gutters and the electrical and structural infrastructure. The sound system, monitor and electronic scoreboard will also be replaced. This project includes nearly $201,000 for mitigation measures such as strengthening the fence and sliding doors and protecting them from water infiltration.

Meanwhile, the María Cecilia Franceschi Museum of Art and History in the municipality of Yauco has over $212,000 for the restoration of this important historic structure built in 1915. The museum bears the name of a renowned Yauco educator and artisan who founded the museum with the purpose of fostering “love for the homeland, arts, archeology and heritage of our culture,” according to Luis Martínez Pueyo, director of the municipality’s Recovery Office.

Most of the exhibitions are of local or regional artists, as they seek to attract them to exhibit their works of art. The museum administration also organizes book presentations and other cultural events. The museum’s director emphasized that facilities such as these “play a determining role in the creation of spaces for reflection and the production of knowledge about heritage and culture”, as well as being an affordable option for residents and visitors, since most of the exhibitions are free of charge.

Work at the museum will include replacing roofs and windows and repairing the wooden floor. Mitigation funds seek to prevent water infiltration, improve drainage and reinforce the roofs.

The 11,000 milestone also recently included the municipality of Las Piedras, with an allocation of over $65,000 to repair the Veterans Building. The facility serves as a meeting room for the American Legion and the municipality also plans to use the building as a shelter in the event of future disasters.

Repairs to the Veterans Building include the replacement of concrete roofs and walls, the replacement of wind and impact resistant doors and windows, and the installation of solar panel systems and LED lighting. Mitigation funds will be used to reinforce the fence and replace poles and light fixtures that are more resistant to wind and impact.

For his part, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “these obligations are crucial for municipalities, government agencies and nonprofit organizations, with the technical support of our team at COR3, to start developing reconstruction projects in compliance with the scope of work, as well as with the applicable regulations and laws. Since 2021, we have implemented various initiatives to empower subrecipients with the tools and knowledge necessary to execute the permanent and hazard mitigation works that have obligated funds from FEMA. Thanks to these efforts and teamwork with FEMA and governmental, municipal and nonprofit entities, the rebuilding of Puerto Rico had a strong beginning and continues to move forward.”

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.

PEDRO MONTAÑEZ STADIUM, CAYER, PR

CAYEY, Puerto Rico (July 9, 2024) — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) set a significant milestone in Puerto Rico’s recovery, with the obligation of over 11,000 projects to address damage from Hurricane María. One of the most recent obligations for Hurricane María was over $1.7 million to the municipality of Cayey for the restoration of the Pedro Montañez Stadium. The stadium is home to the Double-A Superior Baseball League team Toritos of Cayey. It also hosts multiple recreational events for the community and serves as an operations center during an emergency. Photo FEMA/Eduardo Martínez

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 07/11/2024 - 14:59

Flood Insurance a Valuable Resource for Texans

AUSTIN -- Your house has never flooded. You have a homeowner's insurance policy. You're thinking: "I'm covered."

Maybe not. 

Many Texas residents may believe they don't need to buy flood insurance. They don't live in a high-risk flood zone. But flooding can happen anywhere, often to the surprise of residents who thought they were covered for disaster. When flooding happens, the damage is not covered by most homeowners' insurance policies. One inch of floodwater can cause more than $25,000 of damage in a home. 

Before a community is eligible for federal disaster assistance, it must be designated a federal disaster area. This happens in less than 50 percent of flooding incidents. The main form of federal assistance after a federally declared disaster is a loan that must be repaid with interest.

Property owners can protect themselves from financial losses by having a flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Flood insurance coverage is available regardless of federal disaster declarations. Insurance for contents is also available to homeowners and renters. There is a 30-day waiting period before new policies go into effect, an important consideration during hurricane season. 

Statewide, 653,309 policyholders in Texas hold $197 billion in coverage but many people have no flood coverage. Residents can purchase a flood insurance policy if their community participates in the NFIP, no matter their flood risk. Even in areas that are not flood-prone, insurance is a good idea. People outside of high-risk areas file more than 25 percent of NFIP claims.

Coverage is available for residential and commercial buildings and contents: 

• 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. 

How to buy: 

Contact your insurance company or agent. If you need help finding a provider, go to FloodSmart.gov/flood-insurance-provider or call the NFIP at 877-336-2627. In addition to the NFIP, flood insurance is also available from some private insurance providers. For an agent referral, call 800-427-4661 or visit FloodSmart.gov. 

For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4781. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

larissa.hale Thu, 07/11/2024 - 14:32

Free Legal Help Available

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– A free legal help hotline is now available to eligible individuals affected by the May 10 severe storms and tornadoes in Leon County.

The hotline is available to connect survivors who are unable to afford an attorney to free legal services. Survivors may call the toll-free legal services hotline anytime and leave a message for a callback at (866) 550-2929.

Callers may get help with legal issues such as:

• Securing FEMA and other government benefits available to disaster survivors.
• Home repair contracts and property insurance claims.
• Replacement of wills and other important legal documents lost or destroyed in the disaster.
• Consumer protection issues such as price-gouging and avoiding contractor scams in the rebuilding process.
• Counseling on landlord or tenant problems, or threats of foreclosure.
• Disability-related access to federal, state and local disaster programs.

The Disaster Legal Services (DLS) program works with state and local partners to provide free legal help for low-income disaster survivors. The service is a partnership between the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, FEMA and The Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division. DLS attorneys are not FEMA employees.

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, 07/11/2024 - 14:05

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of New Hampshire to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm and flooding from April 3-5, 2024.

Federal funding is available to the state, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis in Belknap, Carroll, Rockingham and Sullivan counties for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities, including direct federal assistance.

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

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

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 07/10/2024 - 22:19

One Year Later, Vermont Continues to Make Progress Recovering from Severe Storms, Flooding, Landslides, and Mudslides

From July 7-21, 2023, heavy rain across Vermont drove rivers to near record levels causing historic and catastrophic flooding. In Montpelier, the Winooski River crested at 21 feet, reaching a height not seen since the 1920s and leading to the rescue of over 100 people from flooded cars and homes. 

On July 14, 2023, President Joseph Biden declared a Major Disaster for the state of Vermont making federal funding available to affected individuals in Chittenden, Lamoille, Rutland, Washington, Windham, and Windsor counties. Federal funding was also made available to state and eligible local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations in Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham, and Windsor counties.

One year later, families, businesses, and communities continue to rebuild with the help of federal assistance from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. So far, $25,987,190.49 has been approved for Individual Assistance and $50,580,607.19 has been obligated for Public Assistance. The state has also prioritized mitigation efforts, a program with $1,141,512.00 designated to support rebuilding stronger in Vermont.

During a press conference held yesterday, Governor Phil Scott thanked FEMA and Federal Coordinating Officer William Roy for being with the state every step of the way through the response and recovery. 

“We’ve made great progress in helping Vermont recover from this disaster and I want to thank Governor Scott and the Vermont Emergency Management Agency for being excellent partners throughout the process,” said Roy. “I also want to thank the FEMA employees who deployed to Vermont; your selfless services embodies our agency’s mission of helping people before, during, and after disasters.” 

adrien.urbani Wed, 07/10/2024 - 22:04

Hinds County Disaster Recovery Center to Close July 13

MADISON, Miss. – The Disaster Recovery Center in Hinds County operated by the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and FEMA will close permanently at 2 p.m. July 13. 

The center is located at:

Hinds County
Hinds County Public Works Department parking lot (look for the FEMA and MEMA signage)
10000 I-20 Frontage Road
Bolton, MS 39041

Even though centers are 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 
• Visiting the remaining open Disaster Recovery Center in Humphreys County

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

The following center will be open until further notice:

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

Centers are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Centers are closed on Sunday. 

Specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the centers to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, check the status of their application, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.

It is not necessary to visit a center to apply for assistance. Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA mobile app or calling the FEMA Helpline at 
800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

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 Wed, 07/10/2024 - 21:17

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Texas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Beryl from July 5-9, 2024. 

Federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis in Anderson, Angelina, Aransas, Austin, Bowie, Brazoria, Brazos, Burleson, Calhoun, Cameron, Camp, Cass, Chambers, Cherokee, Colorado, Dewitt, Fayette, Fort Bend, Freestone, Galveston, Goliad, Gregg, Grimes, Hardin, Harris, Harrison, Hidalgo, Houston, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Kenedy, Kleberg, Lavaca, Lee, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Marion, Matagorda, Milam, Montgomery, Morris, Nacogdoches, Newton, Nueces, Orange,  Panola, Polk, Refugio, Robertson, Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, San Patricio, Shelby, Trinity, Tyler, Upshur, Victoria, Walker, Waller, Washington, Webb, Wharton and Willacy counties for debris removal and emergency work, including direct federal assistance. 

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

Benjamin Abbott 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.  

amy.ashbridge Wed, 07/10/2024 - 20:06

FEMA Assistance Won’t Affect Other Benefits

FEMA assistance is not taxable. Applying for disaster assistance will not affect other federal benefits you may receive. 

Accepting FEMA funds will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits or other federal or state benefit programs.

Disaster funds help survivors pay for temporary housing, essential home repairs, essential personal property replacement, and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance or other sources.

If you live in Baxter, Benton, Boone, Fulton, Greene, Madison, Marion and Randolph counties and you had loss or damage from the severe storms and tornadoes that occurred May 24-27, FEMA may be able to help.

Ways to Apply to FEMA 

There are several ways to apply:

• Visit a Disaster Recover Center. To find a center close to you, go online to: DRC Locator.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. The Helpline is available daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. CT.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov
• Download the FEMA mobile app

To view accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. The deadline to apply is Aug. 28, 2024.

For the latest information 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 Wed, 07/10/2024 - 17:54

Additional Texas Counties Eligible for FEMA Assistance

AUSTIN – Homeowners and renters in Anderson, Nacogdoches, Panola, Rusk and Sabine counties are now eligible for FEMA assistance after the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding that occurred April 26 – June 5.

Eligible applicants may qualify for serious needs assistance, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other eligible expenses related to storm damage. Previously, Texans in Austin, Bell, Calhoun, Collin, Cooke, Coryell, Dallas, Denton, Eastland, Ellis, Falls, Guadalupe, Hardin, Harris, Henderson, Hockley, Jasper, Jones, Kaufman, Lamar, Leon, Liberty, Montague, Montgomery, Navarro, Newton, Polk, San Jacinto, Smith, Terrell, Trinity, Tyler, Van Zandt, Walker and Waller counties were approved for assistance. 

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 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. 
• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, go online to fema.gov/drc.

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

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4781. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at X.com at x.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/. 

larissa.hale Wed, 07/10/2024 - 15:49