Mercer County, W.Va., Disaster Recovery Center closed Feb. 11 due to forecast inclement weather

Mercer County, W.Va., Disaster Recovery Center closed Feb. 11 due to forecast inclement weather

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– Due to forecast inclement weather, the FEMA Mercer County Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Princeton will be closed on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 2025. 

The DRC is scheduled to reopen on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025. Additional changes based on weather conditions may occur. Please check FEMA’s DRC locator at fema.gov/drc for up-to-date information. 

The center is located at: 

Disaster Recovery Center

Lifeline Princeton Church of God

250 Oakvale Road 

Princeton, WV 24740

 

Hours of operation through Feb. 14, 2025:

Tuesday, Feb. 11:  Closed

Wednesday to Thursday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Friday: 9 a.m. to 12 noon

DRCs are accessible to all, including survivors with mobility issues, impaired vision, and those who are who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.

Please note: The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance was Feb. 7, 2025. The DRC operations were extended through Friday, Feb. 14, 2025, to provide Mercer County residents the opportunity to speak face-to-face with staff about their disaster assistance applications.

Survivors do not have to visit a DRC to check on the status of their FEMA application. You can call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. You can also register online at DisasterAssistance.gov or through the FEMA App on your phone. 

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4851 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 your number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

kelly.magarity Tue, 02/11/2025 - 01:38

Winter Weather Threat This Week: Get Ready Now

CHICAGO – With the threat starting midweek of heavy snowfall and cold temperatures across much of the upper Midwest, FEMA’s Region 5 office in Chicago encourages everyone to prepare now. 

“The forecast this week is an important reminder that winter isn’t over just yet,” said acting FEMA Region 5 Regional Administrator Michael S. Chesney. “Now is the time to check local weather forecasts and warnings, learn the risks for your area and take precautions to stay safe.”

1. Follow the instructions of state and local officials and listen to local radio or TV stations for updated emergency information.
2. Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days without power. Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication, and don’t forget the needs of your pets. Fully charge your phone and other electronic items before the storm in case you lose power.
3. Avoid non-essential travel. If you must go out, make sure your vehicle is in good working condition and fill your gas tank before the storm hits. Check that your car’s emergency supply kit is fully stocked before traveling.
4. Limit your time outside. If you need to go outside, wear layers of warm clothing. Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
5. Heat your home safely. Remember to keep space heaters at least three feet away from items that can burn and plug them directly into the wall. Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home. When using a generator, always keep it outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages.

Find even more valuable tips to help you prepare for severe winter weather by visiting #WinterReady | Ready.gov. 

kimberly.keblish Mon, 02/10/2025 - 20:49

One Month Left to Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance

LOS ANGELES – Homeowners and renters who have incurred damage or losses from the Los Angeles County wildfires that began Jan. 7 have until Monday,March 10,  2025, to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance. The program provides financial and other assistance to eligible individuals and households to help meet their basic needs and supplement their wildfire recovery efforts. 

FEMA may reimburse eligible applicants for temporary housing, home repairs to their primary home, personal property losses, medical and dental expenses related to the disaster, childcare and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.

Residents who have insurance need to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, personal property and vehicles before applying. FEMA assistance is not taxed and will not affect Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits. FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. 

Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov (fastest option).
• On the FEMA App (available at the Apple App Store or Google Play).
• By phone on the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, give FEMA your number for that service. Helpline operators speak many languages: press 2 for Spanish or press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. 7 days a week.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). To locate a DRC near you, visit the DRC Locator.

For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, visit FEMA Accessible: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance. 

After You Apply

If you had damage and applied for FEMA assistance, you can expect a call, text or email from FEMA to schedule a home inspection to assess disaster damage. Please note phone calls from FEMA may come from an unfamiliar number. Inspectors will try to reach you multiple times but eventually will stop calling if you do not respond. You will learn FEMA’s decision on what benefits you may receive in a Determination Letter sent by email or U.S. Mail.

FEMA may refer you to the U.S. Small Business Administration for a SBA low-interest disaster loan to help offset damage and losses caused by the wildfires. Disaster loans are available to renters, homeowners and businesses and are the largest source of federal disaster funding for people impacted by disasters. The deadline to apply with the SBA is also March 10, 2025. Do not wait for your FEMA Determination Letter to apply for a SBA loan. 

To apply visit sba.gov/disaster; call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov for more information or to have a loan application mailed to you. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, dial 711 to access telecommunications relay services. You may also apply with the help of a SBA representative or submit your loan application at a Business Recovery Center. To find one, go to Appointment.sba.gov. Completed paper loan applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155. 

barbara.murien… Mon, 02/10/2025 - 17:44

Tennessee Department of Transportation Awarded $9.6 Million for Debris Removal

The State of Tennessee and FEMA have awarded $9.6 million to the Tennessee Department of Transportation for clearing 457,381 cubic yards of debris left when Tropical Storm Helene swept across Eastern Tennessee in late September.

Funding for debris removal is authorized under FEMA’s Public Assistance program. Debris collection began Oct. 1 across roads and public property in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties. It is expected to be completed by Feb. 28. 

FEMA’s initial estimated share for this project is $7,231,839; the estimated nonfederal share is $2,410,613. 

The expedited operation includes 90,749 cubic yards of vegetative debris; 164,357 cubic yards of construction and demolition debris; and 202,274 cubic yards of sand, soil and mud. These totals were estimated and will be reconciled for actual costs once FEMA and the state receive permit documentation. 

This $9.6 million obligation represents about half of the total costs anticipated by completion of the debris removal operation. 

Because FEMA Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program, FEMA reimburses state applicants 75% of eligible costs for debris removal. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that incurred those costs. The remaining 25% represents nonfederal funds.

The Public Assistance program is FEMA’s largest grant program, providing funding to help communities responding to and recovering from major presidentially declared disasters or emergencies. Tropical Storm Helene swept across Tennessee Sept. 26-30, and the president approved a major disaster declaration on Oct. 2.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 02/10/2025 - 16:45

FEMA Exercises Borrowing Authority for National Flood Insurance Program

Follows more than $10 billion in projected payments related to Hurricanes Helene and Milton

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has exercised its borrowing authority under the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 to borrow $2 billion from U.S. Treasury to pay eligible National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholder claims. 

This borrowing action follows payouts in 2024 from several large-scale and back-to-back flooding events. While the NFIP’s premiums are usually sufficient to pay claims in years without catastrophic floods, heavy rain events in 2024 --including hurricanes Helene and Milton-- caused massive, widespread damage resulting in tens of thousands of flood insurance claims.

Hurricane Helene has received more than 57,400 flood insurance claims totaling more than $4.5 billion as of Feb. 6, 2025. Based on data as of Jan. 31, 2025, the estimated range for total losses paid in to the NFIP is between $6.4 to $7.4 billion. Hurricane Milton received more than 21,100 flood insurance claims totaling more than $740 million as of Feb. 6, 2025. The estimated range for losses paid is between $1.2 to $2.9 billion based on data as of Jan. 31, 2025.

The NFIP is not designed to pay for multiple catastrophic events in a single year without additional financial assistance. The combined losses from 2024 have depleted the NFIP’s funds generated from premiums to pay claims.

FEMA’s borrowing authority is $30.425 billion, of which FEMA has already borrowed $20.525 billion in the aftermath of hurricanes Katrina, Sandy and Harvey between 2005-2017. The debt is now $22.525 billion.

“The widespread, devastating flooding following hurricanes Helene and Milton reemphasizes the financial effects flooding can have not just to survivors but also the National Flood Insurance Program. We are strategically utilizing short-term borrowings in 60-day increments, demonstrating our careful and responsible management of the borrowing authority,” said Elizabeth Asche, Ph.D., Senior Executive of the National Flood Insurance Program. “Despite these challenges, the NFIP remains unwavering in its commitment to fully pay every claim and ensure policyholders receive the compensation they are owed for eligible flood-related losses.”

FEMA has always paid its NFIP claims on all eligible losses. Those who take the step to protect their homes and businesses by purchasing flood insurance get paid every dollar they are owed under their flood insurance policies.

Flooding continues to be the costliest and most frequent natural disaster in the United States and flood insurance is still the best way for individual homeowners, renters and businesses to financially protect against future flood losses. The NFIP provides about $1.3 trillion in coverage to nearly 4.7 million policyholders nationwide.

For more information about the NFIP, visit Floodsmart.gov. 

amy.ashbridge Mon, 02/10/2025 - 16:44

Get Repair, Rebuilding Advice Feb. 10-15 in Hawkins and Washington Counties

FEMA’s mitigation specialists have partnered with The Home Depot and Lowe’s Home Improvement to offer free advice and tips on rebuilding homes stronger and safer as Tennessee residents repair, rebuild and make improvements after Tropical Storm Helene.

FEMA specialists will be available as detailed below: 

Monday, Feb. 10, to Saturday, Feb. 15
Hours: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday to Friday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Saturday

Hawkins County
The Home Depot
2000 Harrell Rd. 
Kingsport, TN 37660

Washington County
Lowe’s Home Improvement
180 Marketplace Blvd.
Johnson City, TN 37604

The mitigation specialists are available to answer questions and offer home-improvement tips and proven methods to help reduce damage from disasters. Most information is aimed at general contractors or those who do the work on their own.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 02/10/2025 - 16:42

FEMA Encourages Survivors to Stay in Touch and Keep Their Recovery on Track

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – More than 1,000 FEMA staff are still on the ground in Florida to help survivors recover from Hurricanes Milton, Helene and Debby. FEMA will continue to process applications, receive, and manage appeals, conduct inspections and assist applicants and local officials with questions and information about recovery programs.  

Survivors who applied for FEMA assistance should continue to stay in touch with the agency to update their application. Missing or outdated material could result in delays. Information that may need to be updated includes:

• Your current housing situation, phone number or mailing address.
• The name of a person designated to speak for you.
• Names of household members and number of people living in the home.
• Changes in your FEMA application.
• Correcting or verifying home and property damage.
• Your payment preference

Floridians who are waiting for an inspection should continue to check their application status. Survivors can check their application status by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov or calling FEMA directly at 800-621-3362. 

It is important to make sure all contact information is current. FEMA may call survivors to schedule an inspection of the damaged home or obtain more information to process the application. These calls may come from unfamiliar area codes or phone numbers. 

Survivors should answer these calls or return any missed phone calls. FEMA will call survivors up to nine times to schedule an inspection. An applicant who misses these calls will need to request an inspection again. 

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

despina.pappas Mon, 02/10/2025 - 15:36

Mercer County, W.Va., Disaster Recovery Center extending operations additional week

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – While the deadline to apply for disaster assistance ended Friday, Feb. 7, 2025, the Mercer County FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Princeton, W.Va., is extending its operations an additional week. The recovery center will remain open through Friday, Feb. 14, 2025, to allow applicants more time to speak face-to-face with staff about their applications.

The Mercer County recovery center location and hours are as follows: 

Princeton Disaster Recovery Center

Lifeline Princeton Church of God

250 Oakvale Road 

Princeton, WV 24740

 

Hours of operation:

Monday to Thursday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Friday: 9 a.m. to 12 noon

 

DRCs are accessible to all, including survivors with mobility issues, impaired vision, and those who are who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.

Another way for applicants to discuss their FEMA assistance is by phone at 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

Staff from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will also be available at the recovery center for homeowners, renters and business owners to answer questions about their physical disaster loans, and for business owners to inquire about their Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs). 

Applicants can also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay service.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4851 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 your number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

erika.osullivan Mon, 02/10/2025 - 13:15

FEMA to Host Housing Resource Fair Feb. 15 in Augusta

FEMA is hosting a Housing Resource Fair from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 15, in Augusta at the following location:

Henry Brigham Community Center

2463 Golden Camp Rd. C, 

Augusta, GA 30906

The Housing Resource Fair will bring together federal, state and local agencies in one place to offer services and resources to families recovering from Hurricane Helene.  

The goal of this collaborative effort is to help connect eligible disaster survivors with affordable housing along with valuable information and resources on their road to recovery.

Survivors will meet with local housing organizations, property owners and landlords, as well as gain information on the HEARTS Georgia Sheltering Program, and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans.

The Housing Resource Fair is an opportunity for survivors to: 

• Explore affordable housing options and rental assistance programs.
• Meet with representatives from local housing organizations, landlords and property managers.
• Gain access to resources for displaced individuals and families.
• Learn about community partners that will provide educational funding resources to attendees. 

For FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Kevin Wallace, the Housing Resource Fair will give survivors that needed one-on-one experience: “We want survivors to know we are here for them and want to see the best outcome, which is moving into safe, sanitary and functioning housing,” he said. “We will walk them through their options to ensure they are aware of the resources that are available to fit their need.”

Anyone who was affected by Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene, whether they have applied for FEMA assistance or not, is welcome to attend.

jakia.randolph Mon, 02/10/2025 - 13:13

One Month Later: Federal Support for Wildfire Survivors Nears $700 Million

LOS ANGELES – On January 7, when wildfires first struck Los Angeles County and adjacent areas, more than 200,000 Californians were evacuated. State and local governments responded quicky to fight the blazes, employing more than 2,000 pieces of firefighting equipment – 80-plus aircraft, 200-plus bulldozers and more – which were soon bolstered by the governor’s activation of 2,500 National Guard troops and a request for a federal disaster declaration. 

Delivery of Federal Resources

On January 8, the Los Angeles County wildfires were declared a major disaster by the president, and a surge of additional federal resources commenced. FEMA and its federal partners responded with thousands of personnel and millions of dollars focused on saving lives and containing the fires. 

By Feb. 2, the fires were 100 percent contained. Weeks before, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) had already begun assisting Californians in their recovery – for now and for the long term. As of Feb. 7, federal assistance to eligible homeowners, renters and businesses, in the form of FEMA grants and low-interest SBA Disaster Loans, has reached $683,276,321.

That number includes:

• $64,069,621 in FEMA housing and other assistance
• $619,206,700 in home and business loan offers from the SBA, the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for homeowners, renters, businesses and certain nonprofits.

So far, 27,211 households have been approved for FEMA funds including:

• $9,990,895 in housing assistance for short-term rental assistance and home-repair costs
• $54,078,726 for other essential disaster-related needs, such as expenses related to medical, dental and lost personal possessions.
• 40,574 home inspections have been completed to assess property damage.
• Two Disaster Recovery Centers remain open at UCLA Research Park and Altadena Recovery Center. In total, the centers have logged 12,641 survivor visits. At the centers, residents may speak in person to representatives from federal and state programs, the American Red Cross and various nongovernmental nonprofits and community groups.

In partnership with the State of California, Los Angeles County, and local officials, FEMA will continue helping California’s individuals and families get back on their feet and jumpstart their recovery.

The deadlines to apply with FEMA and SBA are both March 10, 2025.

• To apply for FEMA assistance, visit disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app, or by call 800-621-3362. You may also visit a DRC for in-person assistance.  To locate a DRC, please click here.
• FEMA’s services and programs are accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.
• To apply for a disaster loan from SBA, visit SBA’s disaster website: sba.gov/disaster, contact SBA by email at disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or call 800-659-2955 for information. You may also visit a Disaster Loan Outreach Center or Business Recovery Center for in-person assistance. For hours and locations, visit appointment.sba.gov.

barbara.murien… Fri, 02/07/2025 - 21:57

FEMA Mitigation Experts Offer Rebuilding Advice in Columbia, Hillsborough, and Sarasota Counties

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – As Floridians rebuild, survivors of Hurricanes Milton, Helene and Debby can get free advice on how to rebuild stronger and safer against storms. FEMA mitigation specialists will be available to answer questions and offer free home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters. This information is geared for do-it-yourself work and general contractors.

Mitigation is an effort to reduce the loss of life and property damage by lessening the impact of a disaster through construction and remodeling best practices. 

An insurance specialist will be present to answer National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) questions. Disaster Survivor Assistance teams will be on hand to provide updates on FEMA applications and answer questions. 

FEMA specialists will be available from Feb. 10 through Feb. 22 from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, Monday - Friday and on Sat. from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. ET, at the following locations: 

Columbia County: The Home Depot, 215 SW Home Depot Dr, Lake City, FL 32025

Hillsborough County: Lowe’s, 1515 E. Brandon Blvd, Brandon, FL 33511 (Feb. 10 through Feb. 15)

Sarasota County: Lowe’s SW, 4020 Central Sarasota Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34238

Stay in Touch with FEMA

It is important to let FEMA know about any changes to your contact information. You may update contact information or check on the status of your application by:

• Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov
• Calling FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Using the FEMA app
• Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. Go to FEMA.gov/DRC or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Example: “DRC 32344”).

For the latest information about Hurricane Milton recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4834. For Hurricane Helene recovery information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. For Hurricane Debby, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

connor.terzino Fri, 02/07/2025 - 20:06

Agriculture Recovery Center to Open Friday in Ashe County

HICKORY, N.C. – A one-day Agriculture Recovery Center will operate in Ashe County Friday at Wilkes Community College-Ashe Campus (Kent Poe Hall) to help farmers recover from Tropical Storm Helene.

Two other centers will operate this week in Avery and Yancey counties. All centers are open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

These walk-through events will provide information on addressing agricultural or rural needs that are not covered by standard programs offered by FEMA or the state and offer opportunities for farmers, ranchers, nursery owners, vineyards, honeybee growers and fish producers to meet with agricultural officials to learn about specific assistance available as they recover.  

The centers have representatives from FEMA, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, North Carolina Department of Commerce and Natural Resources, U.S. Small Business Administration, local Farm Service Agency offices and other government agencies.  Farmers are asked to bring documentation of ownership, photos of damaged or lost tools and equipment, along with estimated replacement costs to expedite an application.  For more information: Help for Self-Employed.

The schedule:

 

Feb. 5

Avery County:
Avery Cooperative Extension Office

661 Vale Rd.

Newland, NC  28657

 

Feb. 6

Yancey County

Yancey County Senior Center

503 Medical Campus Dr.

Burnsville, NC 28714

 

Feb. 7

Ashe County

Wilkes Community College-Ashe Campus (Kent Poe Hall)

363 Campus Dr.

West Jefferson, NC 28694

joseph.arbid Fri, 02/07/2025 - 13:38

In North Carolina, 153,000 Families Receiving FEMA Help

HICKORY, N.C. – In 39 counties, including the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, more than 153,000 households are being helped by FEMA assistance as they recover from Tropical Storm Helene.

Four months after the catastrophic storm, individuals and families have received rental assistance, money for basic repairs to their homes, sheltering in hotels, temporary housing in FEMA-provided mobile homes and travel trailers, funds for replacement of essential personal property, money for serious needs, and other assistance.

Here are some ways that FEMA is working with the state of North Carolina and local communities to provide support:

• 2,596 households are currently staying in FEMA-paid hotels; 10,648 have checked out.
• 3,284 households have received rental assistance.
• 150 households are currently living in FEMA-provided temporary housing units.
• 18,000 households have received money to make basic repairs to a damaged primary home.
• 5,000 households have received funds to repair private roads and bridges.
• 106,000 FEMA inspections have been issued to assess damage to primary residences.
• 138,000 homes have been visited by FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance crews.
• 66,000 people have visited a Disaster Recovery Center.
• 1,800 households have been provided three years of flood insurance, paid for by FEMA.

FEMA is only one part of federal disaster recovery support for North Carolina. The National Flood Insurance Program has paid $123 million in claims resulting from Helene. The U.S. Small Business Administration has made $108.6 million in low-interest disaster loans to North Carolinians. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is working with the state and communities on debris removal. To date, 4 million cubic yards of debris has been removed from public rights of way, 2.8 million by state contractors and 1.2 million by federal contractors, and waterway debris removal is in full execution by the Corps of Engineers.

joseph.arbid Fri, 02/07/2025 - 13:30

Disaster Causing You Stress? Free Crisis Counseling Available

Disasters can take an emotional toll on your well-being. To ensure that survivors of Tropical Storm Helene have essential support in challenging times, the State of Tennessee and FEMA are offering free and confidential crisis counseling and mental health support.

Survivors who live or work in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi and Washington counties can get help regardless of their eligibility for FEMA disaster assistance. 

FEMA’s crisis counseling program offers mental health services and training activities to help disaster survivors manage stress, process trauma, cope with their experiences and losses, and connect with additional resources. The program does not provide full mental health or psychiatric services.

Counselors are available to visit you at home, at a shelter, your temporary home or places of worship at no cost. Crisis counseling services and educational programs are also provided one-on-one and in group settings.

For free and confidential crisis support in any language, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 800-985-5990. 

For more information, you may also visit Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Help.

FEMA encourages all survivors to take advantage of these resources as they navigate their recovery from the storm.

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 02/06/2025 - 18:54

Washington County Awarded $6.8 Million to Replace Corby Bridge

The State of Tennessee and FEMA have approved $6.8 million to replace Washington County’s Corby Bridge, which spans the Nolichucky River and was destroyed when Tropical Storm Helene swept across Eastern Tennessee in late September.

The 411-foot-long, two-lane concrete bridge was built in 1958 near Limestone. Washed away by Helene’s floodwaters, Corby Bridge will be restored with funding from FEMA’s Public Assistance program. Work to be completed includes architectural and engineering design services that use modern best construction practices and applicable codes and standards.

FEMA’s share for this project is $5,135,506; the nonfederal share is $1,711,835.

The cost estimate was generated using FEMA's Rapid Assessment with Public Infrastructure Data, which uses geospatial and aerial imagery as well as available Federal Highway Administration and State Department of Transportation data. The scope of work will be updated when the surveys and assessments are completed and a method of repair is selected. 

Because Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program, FEMA reimburses state applicants 75% of eligible costs for repairs to existing structures. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that incurred those costs. The remaining 25% represents nonfederal funds.

The Public Assistance program is FEMA’s largest grant program, providing funding to help communities responding to and recovering from major presidentially declared disasters or emergencies. Tropical Storm Helene swept across Tennessee Sept. 26-30, and the president approved a major disaster declaration on Oct. 2.

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 02/06/2025 - 16:46

Carter County Awarded $10.77 Million for Bridges Destroyed by Helene

The State of Tennessee and FEMA have approved $10.77 million for emergency measures and the restoration of two Carter County bridges that cross the Elk River in Elizabethton. Both were destroyed when Tropical Storm Helene swept across Eastern Tennessee in late September. 

The two-lane bridges, both built in 1957, are each 230-foot-long and located about a mile apart along the winding Elk River. Known as the Poga Bridge, they were washed away by Helene’s floodwaters and will be restored with funding from FEMA’s Public Assistance program. The bridge replacement projects will follow best construction practices and meet applicable codes and standards.

FEMA’s estimated share for each bridge replacement project is $3,504,046; the nonfederal share for each project is estimated at $1,168,015. Both Poga Bridges were also approved for an additional $1.07 million from FEMA for emergency protective measures taken during the response to Helene. The nonfederal share for that Category B Public Assistance funding was estimated at $358,427. 

Cost estimates were generated using FEMA's Rapid Assessment with Public Infrastructure Data, which uses geospatial and aerial imagery as well as available Federal Highway Administration and State Department of Transportation data. 

Because Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program, FEMA reimburses state applicants 75% of the eligible costs of repairs to existing structures. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that incurred those costs. The remaining 25% represents nonfederal funds.

The Public Assistance program is FEMA’s largest grant program, providing funding to help communities responding to and recovering from major presidentially declared disasters or emergencies. Tropical Storm Helene swept across Tennessee Sept. 26-30, and the president approved a major disaster declaration on Oct. 2.

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 02/06/2025 - 03:50

Greene County Awarded $6.2 Million to Replace Poplar Springs Bridge

The State of Tennessee and FEMA have approved $6.2 million to replace Greene County’s Poplar Bridge, which spans the Nolichucky River and was destroyed and submerged in the river when Tropical Storm Helene swept across Eastern Tennessee in late September.

The nearly 10,000 square foot bridge, also known as Easterly Bridge, will be demolished and restored with funding from FEMA’s Public Assistance program. Work to be completed includes architectural and engineering design services that use best construction practices and applicable codes and standards.

FEMA’s share for this project is $4,656,288; the nonfederal share is $1,552,096.

The cost estimate was generated using FEMA's Rapid Assessment with Public Infrastructure Data, which uses geospatial and aerial imagery as well as available Federal Highway Administration and State Department of Transportation data. The scope of work will be updated when the method of repair, surveys and assessments are completed. Property insurance coverage for road, road rights-of-way, embankment erosion, bridges or culvert damage represented on this project are not insured or insurable.

Because Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program, FEMA reimburses state applicants 75% of the eligible costs of repairs to existing structures. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that incurred those costs. The remaining 25% represents nonfederal funds.

The Public Assistance program is FEMA’s largest grant program, providing funding to help communities responding to and recovering from major presidentially declared disasters or emergencies. Tropical Storm Helene swept across Tennessee Sept. 26-30, and the president approved a major disaster declaration on Oct. 2.

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 02/06/2025 - 03:46

State, FEMA Approve $9.77 Million to Replace Chestoa Pike Road Bridge

The State of Tennessee and FEMA have approved $9.77 million to replace Unicoi County’s Chestoa Pike Road Bridge which straddles the Nolichucky River and was destroyed when floodwaters from Tropical Storm Helene swept across Eastern Tennessee in late September.

Funding from FEMA’s Public Assistance program covers eligible costs to replace 13,451 square feet of the two-lane concrete bridge built in 1991, using best construction practices, modern means and methods, and Codes and Standards set by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.

FEMA’s share for this project is $7,334,310; the nonfederal share is $2,444,770.

The federal funding approved for the Chestoa Pike Road Bridge, which has four spans, is based on estimates derived from FEMA’s Rapid Assessment of Public Infrastructure Data. That process uses geospatial and aerial imagery as well as assessor information to develop an estimated cost for public infrastructure that was destroyed or damaged in a disaster. 

Because Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program, FEMA reimburses state applicants 75% of the eligible costs of repairs to existing structures. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that incurred those costs. The remaining 25% represents nonfederal funds. 

The Public Assistance program is FEMA’s largest grant program, providing funding to help communities responding to and recovering from major presidentially declared disasters or emergencies. Tropical Storm Helene swept across Tennessee Sept. 26-30, and the president approved a major disaster declaration on Oct. 2.

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 02/06/2025 - 03:41

Reminder: Rental Requirement Begins March 1st for Direct Housing Participants

LAHAINA, Maui – Wildfire survivors currently in FEMA’s Direct Housing Program will be required to begin paying rent on March 1, 2025. The rental requirement will be in effect for the remainder of FEMA’s housing assistance program, which has been extended through Feb. 10, 2026.  

Participants in the program have received their 90-day, 60-day and 30-day notification letters regarding upcoming rent collection.

The rental rate is based on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s 2025 Fair Market Rent on Maui along with the household’s ability to pay. 

HUD Portal: FY 2025 Final Fair Market Rents Documentation System — Select Geography

Households are encouraged to remain in touch with their recertification advisor who will work with them to determine a feasible rental rate. Occupants can appeal FEMA’s decision on their ability to pay rent. Although occupants have 60 days to appeal for rent reduction from the date they received the hand delivered 30-day notice of the rental requirement, it is highly encouraged to submit their appeal and supporting documents as soon as possible.

FEMA strongly suggests that households submit their appeal as soon as possible in order to process the request prior to the March 1 start date. A delay in submitting appeal paperwork may prolong the rental decision process. In this case, households awaiting a final decision on their rental rate would be required to pay the full amount in rent until a decision is made. Once the decision has been made FEMA would refund the difference. 

FEMA remains committed to the continued recovery on Maui and will support wildfire survivors as they work towards their permanent housing solution.

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org, fema.gov/disaster/4724 and Hawaii Wildfires - YouTube. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema. 

shannon.carley Wed, 02/05/2025 - 20:43

Returning Home after the LA County Wildfires

LOS ANGELES – As more Eaton Canyon and Pacific Palisades neighborhoods impacted by Los Angeles County wildfires open to residents, city and county officials caution that these areas are still dangerous, due to considerable risks remaining from waste, unstable burned buildings, and utility crews using heavy equipment.

Everyone is eager to go home, clean up the burn site and start rebuilding. You may be worried about what you will find when you get back -- but don’t rush in. If you find your home has damage, be careful. Improper handling and disposal of ash and materials may impact your health, as well as your neighbors. Recovery calls for caution. 

Areas Damaged by Wildfires are Reopening, but Risk Remains 

Almost all areas are now open, but some limited access may persist due to downed power lines, landslides, debris, unstable roads, or other utility work. Los Angeles County officials will communicate when re-entry conditions are permissible through public media. To check on your area, visit the county’s disaster website at Eaton Fire – LA County Recovers / Palisades Fire – LA County Recovers.

The more a neighborhood is damaged by wildfire, the more complex and lengthier it will be to make the area safe. Below are some factors that help determine when a disaster area can be considered safe:

• Fire debris and ash in roadways. Crews have been working to clear roadways to ensure survivors can safely travel back to their homes or businesses. Debris removal has begun in Phase 1 of two phases. For more information on the process, visit Debris Removal – LA County Recovers
• Household materials removal. Exposure to certain common household materials impacted by fire may be a risk to human health, animals, and the environment. During Phase 1, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been surveying, removing, and disposing of household materials that may require special handling from properties affected by the wildfires. Items being removed include materials such as paints, solvents, oils, vehicle, and household batteries, and pesticides. For more information visit: 2025 California Wildfires | US EPA.
• In Phase 2, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was tasked to support FEMA and the Consolidated Debris Removal Program. Corps of Engineers contractors will remove fire-damaged debris from private property. Residents must opt-in to the Debris Removal Program and obtain a Right-of-Entry (ROE) form for the Corps of Engineers to access charred properties. 
• Property owners are not required to use these services. Residents who do not “opt-in” to the Debris Removal Program are responsible for all associated debris removal costs. In addition, for the safety of the community, property owners who choose to do their own cleanup must still follow local, state, and federal requirements.

Use Caution When Returning Home

• Bring personal protective equipment for working in and around your home: gloves, eye protection, face masks or respirators, and boots with a steel toe and insole.
• Look for damaged power lines, foundation cracks and other exterior damage. Your home may be too dangerous to enter before an inspector checks it out.
• Don’t turn on your electrical breaker if it looks damaged. Keep the main electrical power and water systems off until you or a professional can ensure they are safe.
• Check your gas meter and gas lines for damage. If you smell natural gas or propane, hear a hissing noise, or notice visible damage, leave immediately and contact the fire department.
• If your home and electrical system appear undamaged, but the power is off, turn off all your appliances before you turn the power back on at the main breaker.
• Take it one step at a time. Focus on the most important clean-up tasks first. Don’t try to move large or unstable material by yourself. Ask for help and help others.

Rebuild with the Future in Mind

You can rebuild or repair your home in ways that reduce your risk from wildfires. Email FEMA Mitigation to request a free individualized plan: FEMA-R9-MIT@fema.dhs.gov. When choosing a contractor, please note: 

• Contractors should be licensed and bonded and have disability and workers’ compensation insurance. If they don’t, you may be liable for accidents on your property.
• Make sure contractors obtain the necessary permits to do the job. Consult your local government and/or LA County to verify that they do.

barbara.murien… Wed, 02/05/2025 - 17:44