Bay County Residents to Attend Flood Map Information Open House

CHICAGO – Representatives from FEMA will host a Flood Map Information Open House for communities in Bay County, Michigan, on April 17, 2023, from 5 – 7 p.m. ET. The open house will give residents a chance to review preliminary versions of the recently completed Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report and its accompanying preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs).

The FIS and the FIRMs provide base flood (also known as the 1%-annual-chance event) information, designate areas that are subject to significant flood hazards within the county and offer information that public officials may use to guide development in the floodplain.

Experts at the open house will help residents understand flood risk and flood insurance, floodplain development regulations and the mapping process. The open house will not include a formal presentation; instead, residents can meet with experts one-on-one to view their own addresses on the new maps. They can also learn about their specific risk and ways to help prevent flood loss.

Once effective, the maps will be used as the basis for flood insurance ratings as well as local flood protection regulations adopted under the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA encourages public officials to use the maps to assist planning processes and prepare communities to quickly respond to and recover from future events.  

WHAT:      Bay County – Flood Map Information Open House

WHEN:    April 17, 2023, 5 - 7 p.m. ET

WHERE:  Bay City Hall, Room 317

301 Washington Avenue

Bay City, MI 46708

Property owners, realtors, lenders, and insurance agents are urged to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about flood risk and hazard mitigation within their community. Digital files of the Preliminary FIRM and FIS report can be downloaded from www.fema.gov/preliminaryfloodhazarddata.

If you need a reasonable accommodation (sign language interpreters, Braille, CART, etc.), please send an email to FEMA-Region5-FloodInsuranceOutreach@fema.dhs.gov at least 48 hours before the event. Last minute requests will be accepted but may not be possible to fulfill.

For more information, contact the FEMA News Desk at FEMA-R5-News-Desk@fema.dhs.gov.

 

# # #

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

nicole.wilson Mon, 04/03/2023 - 14:44

FEMA Mitigation Funds Help Homeowners Rebuild Stronger

LAKE MARY, Fla. – More than 50,000 Florida homeowners have received funds from FEMA to rebuild their homes stronger after Hurricane Ian.

As part of its commitment to increase resilience, FEMA has provided $37.3 million to date for mitigation assistance to homeowners.

Homeowners who are approved for home repair assistance through the agency’s Individuals and Households Program may receive additional funds for several mitigation measures. Funding for mitigation measures is awarded for owner-occupied primary residences with specific damaged items and causes of damage.

 Because disasters can happen unexpectedly, taking steps to strengthen, repair and rebuild is vital for community and personal resilience. The following mitigation measures may be covered for eligible applicants:

• Roof repair to withstand higher wind speed and help prevent water infiltration.
• Elevating a water heater or furnace to avoid future flood damage.
• Elevating or moving an electrical panel to avoid future flood damage.

These measures will allow homeowners to reduce disaster damage in the future and the likelihood future federal assistance will be needed.

For the latest information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricane Ian, visit floridadisaster.org/info and fema.gov/disaster/4673. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Mon, 04/03/2023 - 14:24

Disaster Recovery Centers Open to Assist Tornado Survivors

PEARL, Miss. – The state of Mississippi and FEMA have opened four Disaster Recovery Centers to help survivors of the March storms and tornadoes with their recovery.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the state and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), are at the centers to help with FEMA applications, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.

Center locations:

 

Carroll County J.Z. George High School 900 George St. Carrollton, MS 38947

Humphreys County Humphreys County Library 105 Hayden St. Belzoni, MS 39038

Monroe County Justice Court Building 1619 Highway 25 Amory, MS 38821

Sharkey County Heritage Manor 431 West Race St. Rolling Fork, MS 39159

 

Center hours are 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Monday - Saturday; 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. Sunday.

To find a nearby center, visit fema.gov/drc

Tornado survivors in Carroll, Humphreys, Monroe, Montgomery, Panola and Sharkey counties can visit any center for help.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply to FEMA. Homeowners and renters in the six counties can call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or use the FEMA App to apply.

For the latest information on recovery from Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and 4697 | FEMA.gov. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

neily.chapman Mon, 04/03/2023 - 13:17

Arkansas Survivors Affected by the Recent Severe Storms and Tornadoes Can Apply for Possible FEMA Assistance

LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas homeowners and renters in three counties who sustained damage from the severe storms and tornadoes that occurred on March 31 could be eligible for help from FEMA. The designated counties for FEMA Individual Assistance are Cross, Lonoke, and Pulaski.

The fastest and easiest way to apply for assistance is by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov.

If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT seven days a week. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.

When you apply for assistance, have this information readily available:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
• Your Social Security number, if available
• A general list of damage and losses
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to cleanup and repair.

Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs along with other programs to assist families recovering from effects of the event.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loans are available to businesses of all sizes, nonprofits, homeowners and renters. Like FEMA, SBA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance.

• For small businesses, those engaged in agriculture and most nonprofits: Up to $2 million is available for working capital needs even if there was no property damage, with a $2 million maximum loan for any combination of property damage and working capital needs.
• For homeowners: Up to $200,000 is available to repair or replace their primary residence. For homeowners and renters: Up to $40,000 is available to replace personal property, including vehicles.

Businesses and residents can apply online at sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance. For questions and assistance completing an application, call 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerAssistance@sba.gov.

If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may then be eligible for federal assistance.

For the latest information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4698. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

mashana.davis Sun, 04/02/2023 - 21:24

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Arkansas to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and tornadoes on March 31, 2023.

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

Federal funding is also available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for debris removal and emergency protective measures (Categories A and B), including direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program in Cross, Lonoke and Pulaski counties.

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

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

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or 1-800-462-7585 TTY.

luther.wills-dudich Sun, 04/02/2023 - 16:20

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Federal Cost Share for Mississippi

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the state of Mississippi to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes from March 24-25, 2023.

The President authorized an increase to 100% federal cost-share for debris removal and emergency protective measures for a continuous 30-day period of the state’s choosing, within the first 120 days of the incident period.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 03/31/2023 - 21:21

Use FEMA Money for Intended Purpose

PEARL, Miss. – FEMA reminds Mississippi residents who receive federal disaster assistance for the March tornadoes to use the money for its intended purpose and to keep receipts for three years.

Disaster assistance is intended to help survivors pay for basic expenses caused by the disaster. A letter explaining what the payment is to be used for arrives within a day or two of the check or direct deposit payment.

If applicants spend the payment on anything other than the purpose for which it is intended, they may be denied future disaster assistance. In some cases, FEMA may ask that the money be returned.

Those receiving assistance are urged to keep receipts for their disaster spending for three years to document the money was used to meet disaster-related expenses. If you receive an insurance settlement to cover the same expenses, you must reimburse FEMA. Audits are conducted to confirm funds were spent properly.

Survivors in Carroll, Humphreys, Montgomery, Monroe, Panola and Sharkey counties can apply at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA mobile app. The helpline is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time in multiple languages. 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 an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

For the latest information on recovery from Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and 4697 | FEMA.gov. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

neily.chapman Fri, 03/31/2023 - 19:05

Montgomery and Panola Counties Eligible for Disaster Assistance

PEARL, Miss.– Montgomery and Panola counties are now eligible for FEMA assistance after the March 24-25 storms.

Individuals and households in Montgomery and Panola counties can apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, which may include temporary housing assistance, basic home repairs and certain other uninsured disaster-related needs.

These counties join Carroll, Humphreys, Monroe and Sharkey counties, which were previously approved for Individual Assistance.

Survivors can apply for disaster assistance at disasterassistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling 800-621-3362 from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time. 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 an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

For the latest information on recovery from Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and 4697 | FEMA.gov. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

 

neily.chapman Fri, 03/31/2023 - 13:31

Understanding Your FEMA Letter

PEARL, Miss. – Mississippi survivors of the March storms and tornadoes who applied for assistance from FEMA will receive a letter from FEMA in the mail or via email.

The letter will explain your application status and how to respond. It is important to read the letter carefully because it will include the amount of any assistance FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds.

Applicants may need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process an application for financial assistance. Examples of missing documentation may include:

• Proof of insurance coverage
• Settlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider
• Proof of identity
• Proof of occupancy
• Proof of ownership
• Proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence at the time of the disaster

If you have questions about your letter, call the Disaster Assistance Helpline at 800-621-3362. Specialists are available from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Appealing FEMA’s Decision

If you disagree with FEMA’s decision, or the amount of assistance provided, you can submit an appeal letter and documents supporting your claim, such as a contractor’s estimate for home repairs.

FEMA cannot duplicate assistance provided by another source, such as insurance settlements. However, those who are underinsured may receive further assistance for unmet needs after insurance claims have been settled. While FEMA may be able to help with basic needs, it does not provide assistance to cover insurance deductibles.

Appeals must be in writing. In a signed and dated letter, explain the reason(s) for the appeal. It should also include:

• Applicant’s full name
• Disaster number (DR-4697-MS)
• Address of the pre-disaster primary residence
• Applicant’s current phone number and address
• The FEMA application number on all documents

If someone other than an applicant or co-applicant writes the appeal letter, that person must sign it and provide FEMA with a signed statement authorizing the individual to act on behalf of the applicant.

Appeals must be postmarked within 60 days of the date noted on the determination letter. Appeal letters and supporting documents may be uploaded to your personal FEMA online account. To set up an account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov and follow the directions.

Other ways to submit documents include:

By mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055

By fax: 800-827-8112 Attention: FEMA

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to, youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

For the latest information on recovery from Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and 4697 | FEMA.gov.fema.gov/. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.  

neily.chapman Thu, 03/30/2023 - 19:13

FEMA Urges Preparedness Ahead of Severe Weather

WASHINGTON – FEMA is urging a wide area of the country to stay alert for weather risks from today into the weekend. The National Weather Service is predicting intense and widespread severe thunderstorms, including tornadoes in some areas.

Remain alert, keep your cell phone charged and take the basic precautions needed now to potentially save lives and protect property when severe weather strikes.

Severe weather, that could include long-track tornadoes, may occur from Friday afternoon into the overnight hours for a large portion of the Middle Mississippi Valley and the Mid-South. This dangerous weather risk will continue eastward into the Lower Ohio and Tennessee Valley.

Anyone living in these areas should take precautions now ahead of the storms:

• Have several ways to receive alerts. Download the updated free FEMA App (available in English and Spanish) to receive real-time emergency alerts from the National Weather Service to find a nearby shelter.
• Pay attention to local alerts and warnings and follow any guidance by local officials.
• Check on neighbors. As you prepare your family and loved ones for a disaster, check on neighbors and folks in your community to see if they are doing the same or help them get started.
• Older adults may need extra assistance to prepare for the storm. Visit Ready.gov/seniors for more information. For people with disabilities and their families, it is important to consider individual circumstances and needs to effectively prepare for emergencies and disasters. Visit Individuals with Disabilities to learn more.
• Prepare your property for dangerous weather now by cleaning out any large or loose materials near your property. Remove dead trees, hanging branches and loose objects in your yard or patio that could become a dangerous projectile during severe winds.
• It's not too late to create a plan with your family. Visit Ready.gov/plan and use the new "Make a Plan" fillable form to walk through all the steps to begin your plan and then easily save an electronic copy, or share with other family members. Many shelters do not take household pets, so remember to create a plan and have supplies available for your pets.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 03/30/2023 - 17:52

FEMA Releases Updates to National Risk Index

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has released major updates to the National Risk Index, a free and easy tool to help better inform communities of their risks from natural hazards and learn about ways to reduce them.

The FEMA National Risk Index update includes new data and information that improves the user experience and their risk knowledge about events like floods, hurricanes and earthquakes. The new version will also be used to prioritize support to communities most in need of assistance for resilience-related projects, such as creating hazard mitigation plans or advancing resilience-building actions.

“The Department of Homeland Security is on the front lines addressing climate-related emergencies in our communities every day,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “Innovative tools like the National Risk Index will support some of the most at-risk communities across our country and help us to strategically leverage relevant resources to maximize resilience.”   

“Identifying the nation’s most vulnerable areas will help ensure communities are more resilient to the risks they face today and the potential threats of tomorrow, which is especially important considering the reality of climate change and associated extreme weather events,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “The update to the National Risk Index will be invaluable to targeting support to communities most in need of resilience and help them reduce impacts caused by increasingly frequent and more severe natural hazards.”

The Risk Index is an online dataset and mapping tool created by FEMA. It helps illustrate the communities most at risk from 18 natural hazards by identifying the counties and census tracts with high natural hazard losses, high social vulnerability and low community resilience.

Officially launched in August 2021, FEMA’s Risk Index has been a key tool in helping communities support mitigation planning, data-driven decision making and other actions to create resilient communities. It has since been updated to leverage the best available information, data and methods to continually improve the data quality and to provide different ways to use this information to take action.

Updated data are available at the county and census tract levels for each state, territory and federally recognized tribe. National Risk Index updates include:

• Update to census tract geographies to reflect 2020 U.S. Census modifications, enhancements to land cover land use data and updated building and population equivalence values;
• Migration of social vulnerability component to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Social Vulnerability Index;
• Generation of Expected Annual Loss data for U.S. territories, including Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa and the Northern Mariana Islands;
• Modification to how Social Vulnerability and Community Resilience values are applied to Expected Annual Loss;
• Hazard specific methodology updates for coastal flooding, drought, earthquake, hurricane, landslide, tornado and tsunami;
• A clear and measurable percentile-based approach for scores; and
• Inclusion of precalculated Expected Annual Loss Rates within schema and data downloads​.

FEMA intends to continue to update the National Risk Index to ensure that it uses the best available information, data and methods.

FEMA hosted two webinars earlier this month before the release to preview the updates. The audience included emergency managers, planners, GIS developers, community stakeholders, state, local and federal agencies and commercial organizations.

More updates will come following the Community Disaster Resilience Zones Act of 2022, which requires FEMA to continually update and maintain its risk assessment tools to identify census tracts most in need of resilience.

Identifying these communities -- also called disaster resilience zones -- will enable FEMA to better coordinate across the federal government and the private sector to integrate investments to make them safer from natural hazards.

For ideas on how to use the Risk Index for your community, visit the National Risk Index Best Practices web page. For more information on the updates and to learn your risk, visit the National Risk Index.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 03/30/2023 - 17:36

Commonwealth Approved for More than $7.6 Million in Federal Funding for 2021 Tornadoes

FRANKFORT, Ky.— FEMA has approved more than $7.6 million in federal funding to reimburse the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management (KYEM) for emergency protective measures, as a result of the Dec. 10-11, 2021, tornadoes.

FEMA has approved $7,650,831 for emergency protective measures including rental equipment (travel trailers) and contract resources.  KYEM provided non-congregate sheltering statewide, along with supplies and commodities such as food, water, tents, heaters and other supplies.  In addition, they provided direct temporary housing and hotel rooms to disaster survivors.

This project was funded at a 90% cost share. This means FEMA reimburses applicants at 90% of eligible costs with the remaining 10% covered by the commonwealth.

FEMA obligates funding for these projects directly to the Commonwealth. It is the Commonwealth’s responsibility to ensure that the eligible sub-recipients receive these awards. Following the Commonwealth's review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, they will provide funds to the sub-recipients on a reimbursable basis.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types

of private nonprofit organizations including eligible houses of worship, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 03/30/2023 - 14:23

FEMA Seeks College Students for Internship in Puerto Rico

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico –The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Caribbean Area Office (CAO) in Puerto Rico is seeking college students interested in participating in its Professional Training Program.  The deadline to apply is Friday, March 31, 2023.

Students interested in participating of this work experience with the federal government must be bilingual and enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate university program. In addition, they must have U.S. citizenship and pass a qualification and interview process, as well as a background investigation.

Candidates will be selected based on their dedication to public service, their efforts to make a difference in their communities, and their potential for national leadership in emergency preparedness.

By joining this program, college students will have an opportunity to learn about the roles of emergency management officials as they help their communities become safer and better prepared for various types of hazards. The program has a minimum requirement of 15 hours per week.

The program will last one semester, where students will collaborate with FEMA personnel in Puerto Rico to develop projects that promote preparedness at the local and national levels, as well as the implementation of the individual assistance program. They will also share with leaders from other federal and Puerto Rico government agencies, as well as non-profit organizations.  This is an unpaid internship program, but participants will be provided with the necessary equipment to complete their program-related tasks.

Those interested in participating should send their resume and cover letter to fema-prcao-prepares@fema.dhs.gov  on or by midnight, March 31, 2023. Selected students will be announced in June after the vetting process is completed. For more information, send an email to fema-prcao-prepares@fema.dhs.gov.

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yuisa.rios Wed, 03/29/2023 - 21:13

Biden-Harris Administration, FEMA Approve over $10.2 Million for Phase 1 of Solar Microgrids in Puerto Rico

The total cost of the project on the islands of Vieques and Culebra is estimated at $97 million once phase 1 and 2 are complete, and will provide more reliable electricity to over 9,000 residents

WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA approved the first phase of the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority’s (PREPA) project to design a new solar-powered microgrid system for the island municipalities of Vieques and Culebra, located east of the main island. The total cost of the project is nearly $97 million across two phases and will be fully funded by FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP).

“Over the past two years we have worked to rebuild Puerto Rico's electrical grid using available federal funds strategically. With this $10.2 million obligation for phase 1 of the Vieques and Culebra microgrid projects, we ensure the resiliency that our residents in these islands need, especially in times of emergency,” said Governor of Puerto Rico, Pedro R. Pierluisi. “I thank the Biden Administration, FEMA and Administrator Criswell for all the support they have given us so that we have a more resilient and reliable electrical system.”

The microgrid, which will be able to function independently from the main grid, includes a 12.5-megawatt solar-based system for Vieques and another 3-megawatt system for Culebra. The grids aim to increase power generation capabilities and leverage renewable energy through solar panels, making the project more sustainable.

“Today’s phase 1 announcement of the Vieques and Culebra microgrid projects is an exciting step in our collective effort to get resilient energy systems deployed throughout Puerto Rico,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Visiting both islands in January, we understand the importance of ensuring Vieques and Culebra residents are part of the planning process, and I’m proud of the collaborative work DOE’s Sandia National lab has done with FEMA and the Government of Puerto Rico to help get this project off the ground to deliver cleaner, reliable power to homes across the island.”

“The Department of Homeland Security has worked with our interagency partners to create a more sustainable future for Puerto Rico,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “This project is an example of how the Biden-Harris Administration has made unprecedented investments to help communities in Puerto Rico adapt and become more resilient. We will continue to support efforts and provide necessary resources to improve power sector resiliency and increase access to more affordable energy and cleaner air.” 

These solar backup systems will improve the quality of life for residents by minimizing the impact of future power outages. Once the microgrids are installed, medical facilities, schools and other critical service providers will be able to function in case the main grid fails.

“We continue to witness more intense and increasingly severe storms. These new microgrids will help Puerto Rico become even more resilient, ensuring the lights stay on in hospitals, schools and other critical facilities if the main grid fails,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Projects that invest in the island’s grid resilience are a priority for FEMA, the Government of Puerto Rico and the Department of Energy and will help us to better protect our most vulnerable populations against the impacts of natural disasters.”

The first phase of this project, which accounts for over $10.2 million of the total project cost, will consist of architectural and engineering design services, a geotechnical study and an electrical load assessment, among other preconstruction activities.

“We will continue to work closely with the Government of Puerto Rico, PREPA and the municipalities to make sure these microgrids benefit the people of Vieques and Culebra for generations to come. FEMA remains committed to Puerto Rico’s recovery as we help build back better and mitigate damage from future natural hazards,” said the Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico, José G. Baquero.

FEMA’s HMGP program provides funding to state, local, tribal and territorial governments so they can develop hazard mitigation plans and rebuild in a way that reduces, or mitigates, future disaster losses in their communities. Funds for projects under this program are obligated in phases as preliminary steps are completed that may lead to the approval of additional funding obligations.

“The development of this innovative resilience project contributes to the energy transformation established by the public policy of the Government of Puerto Rico. This project in Culebra and Vieques is in addition to 20 other developments that are in the initial stages of implementation around the island to provide energy resilience and promote the use of renewable energy,” said the Executive Director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Eng. Manuel A. Laboy Rivera.

Puerto Rico has access to roughly $4 billion in HMGP funding, the maximum allocated by Congress. To date, FEMA has allocated nearly $3 billion under this program in addition to over $29 billion under its Public Assistance program to help the island rebuild after Hurricane María.

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

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 03/29/2023 - 19:49

FEMA Teams Meeting with Survivors in Mississippi

PEARL, Miss. – FEMA is meeting survivors where they are to help jumpstart their recovery from the March 24-25 severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes. FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are going door-to-door in neighborhoods throughout Carroll, Humphreys, Monroe and Sharkey counties to help residents who want to apply for FEMA.

Using mobile technology, DSA personnel can help survivors complete their disaster assistance applications, update an existing FEMA application, and answer questions about federal assistance.

DSA teams wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service.

It is not necessary to wait for a visit from DSA to apply for assistance. Survivors can go online to disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app  or call 800-621-3362, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. You can also watch an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA by clicking this hyperlink: youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

For more information on Mississippi’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4697. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

 

neily.chapman Wed, 03/29/2023 - 19:04

Survivors Should Notify FEMA of Insurance Settlements

PRATTVILLE, Ala. – Survivors of the Jan. 12 severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes who have already applied for FEMA disaster assistance are encouraged to let FEMA know about any insurance settlements or denials you receive. FEMA’s Individual Assistance program may cover damage that your insurance does not.

By law, FEMA cannot provide funding to individuals or households for losses covered by insurance or any other source. However, if you filed an insurance claim and have disaster-related needs that still need to be addressed, FEMA may consider you for its Other Needs Assistance program or refer you to an agency that can help.

To be considered for disaster assistance, you must have applied to FEMA before the deadline, which was March 16. If you’re insured, FEMA will confirm that you filed a claim with your insurance company.

Remember when you file a claim with your insurance agent or company, find out what your policy covers and be sure to keep papers and receipts for any work you have done to repair your home.

Here are some other reminders:  

• If your insurance settlement is delayed longer than 30 days, let FEMA know by writing a letter and including proof that you filed a claim. Any assistance FEMA provides would be considered an advance and would have to be repaid once you get the insurance settlement.
• If you received the maximum settlement from your insurance company and still have unmet disaster-related needs, write to FEMA and explain what your need is. Again, include documentation from the insurance company.
• If you spent the “additional living expense” provided by the insurance company and still need help with finding temporary housing, write to FEMA and explain your need. Attach documentation from the insurance company to prove you used the funds provided. Also include your permanent housing plan.

Here’s how to stay in touch with FEMA:

• Log into your account at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time seven days a week and 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.
• Fax FEMA at 800-827-8112 or send a letter to this address:

FEMA National Processing Service Center

P.O. Box 10055

Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

For information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4684. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Wed, 03/29/2023 - 16:03

Severe Weather Threat on Friday: Are You Ready?

CHICAGO – Warming temperatures on Friday bring a heightened risk of severe storms, heavy rains, high winds, flooding and even the potential for tornadoes throughout the Mississippi Valley, extending across the state of Illinois.   

“Monitor local forecasts and prepare for the possibility of dangerous weather,” said FEMA Region 5 Regional Administrator Tom Sivak. “Acting now before the weather turns will help ensure you and your loved ones stay safe.”

• Follow the direction of local and state officials and make sure to sign up for your community’s warning system. The Emergency Alert System (EAS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio also provide emergency alerts. If your community has sirens, become familiar with the warning tone.
• Identify nearby, sturdy buildings close to where you live, work, study and play. Pay attention to weather reports and warnings and be ready to take shelter immediately, if necessary.
• Secure your property. Remove any dead trees or overhanging branches near structures, loose roofing materials and objects in yards, patios, roofs or balconies that could blow away.
• Make sure all mobile devices are fully charged in advance of the storm. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs in case the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank. Have flashlights for every household member. 
• Have a communications plan in place. Ensure everyone in your household knows where to go, what to do and how to reconnect after a disaster.
• Watch for fallen power lines and trees. Report them immediately.
• After the storm and once you are safe, check on neighbors and friends to make sure they’re okay.

Find even more valuable tips to help you prepare for severe weather at www.ready.gov/severe-weather and download the free FEMA app. 

 

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

nicole.wilson Wed, 03/29/2023 - 14:59

Be Aware of Fraud After a Disaster

ATLANTA – Disaster survivors should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft after a disaster. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors.

If a FEMA Inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge to create a FEMA application. If so, please inform the inspector that you did not apply for FEMA assistance so they can submit a request to stop further processing of the application.

If you did not apply for assistance but receive a letter from FEMA, please call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The helpline will submit a request to stop any further processing of that application. If you do want to apply for FEMA assistance after stopping an application made in your name without your knowledge, the Helpline will assist you in creating a new application.

Scams

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams, housing inspectors and other officials will be working in areas impacted by the March tornadoes in Mississippi. They carry official identification badges with photo IDs. FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration representatives never charge applicants for disaster assistance, inspections or help in filling out applications.

Don’t believe anyone who promises a disaster grant in return for payment.

Be wary of unexpected phone calls or visits to your home from people claiming to be FEMA housing inspectors or people claiming they work for FEMA. FEMA representatives will have your FEMA application number.

Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors are never authorized to collect your personal financial information.

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to law enforcement authorities.

If you suspect fraudulent activity involving FEMA, you can report it to the FEMA Fraud Branch at  StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov, fax: (202) 212-4926 or write to: FEMA Fraud and Internal Investigation Division, 400 C Street SW Mail Stop 3005, Washington, DC 20472-3005.

If you suspect identity theft, please visit IdentityTheft.gov.

Charitable giving

A list of charities that are approved by the Better Business Bureau’s “Wise Giving Alliance” can be found at www.give.org.

For the latest information on recovery from Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and 4697 | FEMA.gov.fema.gov/. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

neily.chapman Wed, 03/29/2023 - 12:32

FEMA Approves Three Disaster Clean-up Projects for Eastern Kentucky Schools Totaling more than $7 Million

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA has approved more than $7 million in total Public Assistance funding to reimburse the Perry and Letcher County school systems for three disaster clean-up projects that resulted from the July 2022 floods.

During the incident period, severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the public. As a result, Letcher County Public School District and the Perry County Board of Education became inundated with flood waters throughout their districts.

Letcher County

The first project provides $2,653,732 in federal funding to Letcher County Public School District. Between Aug. 3 and Aug. 26, 2022, the school district hired contract workers to perform post-disaster cleanup and restoration at five locations throughout the district: Fleming Neon Middle School, Letcher County Board of Education/Alternative School, Martha Jane Potter Elementary, West Whitesburg Elementary, and Whitesburg Middle School. This project was funded at a 100% federal cost share, meaning FEMA reimburses 100% of eligible costs.

The second project provides $2,846,535 in federal funding to Letcher County Public School District. Between Aug. 27 and Sept. 27, 2022, the school district hired contract workers to perform post-disaster cleanup and restoration at five locations throughout the district: Fleming Neon Middle School, Letcher County Board of Education/Alternative School, Martha Jane Potter Elementary, West Whitesburg Elementary, and Whitesburg Middle School. The federal share of 75% will be contributed by FEMA and the remaining non-federal share of 25% will be contributed by other sources.

Perry County

The third project provides $1,504,401 in federal funding to Perry County Board of Education for remediation efforts at Buckhorn School. The Board of Education utilized contract workers to provide flood remediation services to remove water and moisture, damaged contents and building materials, as well as mud and silt that had been deposited throughout the building. All surfaces were sanitized and treated with antimicrobial solution as a means of preventing mold growth and protecting the building from further damage. The federal share of 75% will be contributed by FEMA and the remaining non-federal share of 25% will be contributed by other sources. 

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to Commonwealth and local governments, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters.

The federal cost share is paid directly to the Commonwealth to disburse to the school systems that incurred costs. FEMA obligates funding for these projects directly to the Commonwealth. Following the Commonwealth's review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, they provide funds to the sub-recipients on a reimbursable basis.

For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the storms and flooding, visit fema/disaster/4663. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4)/Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 03/28/2023 - 19:41

West Kentucky Rural Electrical Cooperative Approved for More Than $3.6 Million to Repair Electric Grid

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA has approved more than $3.6 million in total funding to the Commonwealth to reimburse the West Kentucky Rural Electrical Cooperative (RECC) as a result of the Dec. 10-11, 2021, tornadoes.

FEMA approved $3,668,739 for power grid repairs conducted throughout the Co-operative’s service area between Dec. 10, 2021, and June 30, 2022. During this time, RECC provided crews, equipment and vehicles to assist with the repairs, and removed/replaced wood poles, transformers, conductor wire, insulators, guy wires, crossarms and associated hardware to restore the power distribution system back to its pre-disaster design, function, and capacity.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations including some houses of worship, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters. This is a cost-sharing program, with a portion of eligible costs covered by the applicant. Because of the magnitude of storm damage, President Biden in January 2022 authorized a cost share adjustment to 90% federal funding for this project. A hazard mitigation proposal was included with this project to reduce the likelihood of similar damage from a future event. This proposal will increase the wind resistance and overall resilience of the power distribution system, the applicant reinforced specific poles with extra guy wires and anchors.

The federal share is paid directly to the Commonwealth to reimburse RECC for their incurred costs. FEMA obligates funding for these projects directly to the Commonwealth. It is the Commonwealth’s responsibility to ensure that the eligible sub-recipients receive these awards. Following the Commonwealth's review process and upon receipt of appropriate documentation, they will provide funds to the RECC on a reimbursable basis.

For more information on Kentucky’s recovery from the tornadoes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4)/Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 03/28/2023 - 19:31