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Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office to Hold Town Hall Meeting in Mora
SANTA FE, NM -- The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office will be hosting a town hall meeting on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, 6-7:30pm at the Mora High School Lecture Hall. Claims Office representatives will be on hand to inform claimants of recent Claims Office developments, particularly updates to flood insurance coverage. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), managed by FEMA, provides flood insurance to property owners, renters, and businesses.
In response to the fire damages, subsequent flooding and increased flooding risks caused by the Hermit’s Peak/ Calf Canyon fire, the Claims Office is pleased to announce a partnership with the NFIP that will enable eligible claimants to receive up to five years of flood insurance protection, with premiums paid by the Claims Office.
The town hall will also allow Claims Office leadership to highlight and discuss another recent partnership with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The Claims Office has partnered with the NRCS to offer claimants the opportunity to request a comprehensive NRCS Conservation Restoration Plan, tailored to recovering from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent floods, at no cost. Under this partnership, NRCS plans will include cost estimates for recovery actions eligible for compensation under the Claims Office. The meeting will also include an active question and answer portion following the presentation. Event information can be found below:
What: Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office Town Hall
When: Wednesday, July 19, 2023
Time: 6- 7:30 p.m.
Location: Mora High School Lecture Hall, 10 Ranger Rd., Mora, NM 87701
mayshaunt.gary Mon, 07/17/2023 - 15:20Beware of Fraud and Scams
Disasters bring out criminals looking to prey on survivors who appear to be easy targets for their scams.
Survivors should be aware that fraud and scams can occur anytime. FEMA encourages survivors to be alert and report any suspicious activity or potential fraud by scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals.
Anyone who suspects fraud or scams should call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721, TTY call 711. The toll-free number is open 24 hours a day.
Common tactics used by scam artists include phone calls from people claiming to work for FEMA. The caller may ask for the survivor’s Social Security number, income or banking information.
Survivors should never trust someone claiming to be a disaster assistance employee asking for money. FEMA does not endorse any commercial business, product or service, and local and federal disaster assistance workers do not solicit or accept money.
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including sexual harassment), sexual orientation, age, disability, limited English proficiency, or economic status. If you believe your civil rights are being violated, you can call the Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4720. Follow the FEMA Region 1 account at Twitter twitter.com/FEMARegion1 or the FEMA Facebook page at facebook.com/FEMA.
For updates on the Vermont response and recovery, follow the Vermont Emergency Management Agency twitter.com/vemvt on Twitter and Facebook facebook.com/vermontemergencymanagement.
adrien.urbani Sun, 07/16/2023 - 21:10Vermont Survivors Affected by Recent Flooding Can Apply for Possible FEMA Assistance
On Friday, July 14, 2023, President Joseph Biden declared a Major Disaster for the state of Vermont as a result of severe storms and flooding occurring on July 7, 2023 and continuing.
Vermont homeowners and renters affected by the recent flooding who live in counties that have recently been designated for Individual Assistance could be eligible for help from FEMA.
This declaration makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Chittenden, Lamoille, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties.
Additional counties may be added at a later date as warranted by the results of further damage assessments.
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 you are uninsured or underinsured, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
The fastest and easiest way to apply is to visit disasterassistance.gov or download the FEMA mobile app (also in Spanish), wherever you access your mobile applications.
If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. EDT, seven days a week, with language translation services available.
When you apply for assistance, have the following information 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
As soon as it is safe to do so, start cleaning up. Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.
Disaster assistance may include financial help for temporary lodging and home repairs along with other programs to assist families recovering from the effects of the event.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loans are available for homeowners, renters, businesses of any size and most nonprofits. Similar to FEMA, SBA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance.
Businesses of all sizes, homeowners, renters and private non-profits can apply online at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov For questions and assistance completing an application, call 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. SBA will answer specific questions about how a disaster loan may help each survivor recover from the disaster damage.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4720. Follow the FEMA Region 1 account at Twitter twitter.com/FEMARegion1 or the Facebook page at facebook.com/FEMA.
For updates on the Vermont response and recovery, follow the Vermont Emergency Management Agency twitter.com/vemvt on Twitter and Facebook facebook.com/vermontemergencymanagement.
Federal funding is also available to state, tribal and eligible local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures. Funding is available in Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties for emergency protective measures.
All counties in the State of Vermont are eligible to apply for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
adrien.urbani Sun, 07/16/2023 - 17:26President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Vermont
WASHINGTON-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Vermont to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe flooding beginning on July 7, 2023, and continuing.
The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Chittenden, Lamoille, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
Federal funding is also available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the flooding in Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
William F. Roy has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.
Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or by using the FEMA App in English and Spanish languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
luther.wills-dudich Fri, 07/14/2023 - 17:06Recovery Efforts For Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Completed in Guam
After the devastating effects of Typhoon Mawar, FEMA assigned the crucial mission of recovering drinking water and wastewater infrastructure to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). On July 13, the EPA announced the successful completion of this collaborative effort, which aimed to expedite the recovery process and enhance the resilience of the affected communities in Guam.
The fulfilled mission included conducting operational assessments of drinking water and wastewater facilities that were affected, evaluating the needs of the water sector, and providing necessary technical assistance.
In close coordination with the government of Guam, the EPA assisted in various tasks. These included inspecting over 20 water hauling trucks and 126 water and ice vending machines, sampling and assessing the condition of water storage tanks at 35 hotels, as well as evaluating a dozen large water storage tanks affected by Typhoon Mawar.
Furthermore, the EPA supported the Guam Water Works Authority in assessing moderate damage at the Northern District Wastewater Treatment Plant and determining necessary repairs to ensure its full functionality. Fortunately, all other wastewater treatment plants in Guam experienced little to no damage.
The surface water treatment plants at Ugum and Navy sustained moderate to minor damage. The EPA conducted assessments on critical infrastructure to ensure both systems are fully operational.
The EPA is continuing to prepare collected household hazardous waste, including waste from schools, for appropriate shipment and disposal off the island.
For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, visit our website.
felicia.jordan Fri, 07/14/2023 - 11:11Two Weeks Left To Apply For FEMA Assistance
If you have sustained damage or loss because of Typhoon Mawar, it is important to act quickly as the deadline to apply for federal assistance is approaching. You have only two weeks left to apply for FEMA disaster assistance; the registration deadline is July 27.
FEMA assistance may include grants to help homeowners and renters pay for:
- Temporary housing for those displaced from their disaster-damaged primary homes.
- Essential repairs to owner-occupied primary homes including structural components such as foundation, exterior walls and roof, and interior areas such as ceiling and floors.
- Replacement of personal property including specialized tools for employment, household items, appliances, disability equipment (i.e., wheelchairs, hearing aids, etc.) and vehicle repair or replacement.
- Other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance, including medical, dental, moving and child-care expenses and funeral and transportation expenses.
Typhoon Mawar survivors should register for assistance even if they have insurance. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments, but underinsured applicants may receive help after their claims have been settled.
If you haven’t applied for federal disaster assistance yet, please do so at disasterassistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, by calling 800-621-3362 (The Helpline is available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents) or by stopping by a Disaster Recovery Center.
For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, visit our website.
felicia.jordan Thu, 07/13/2023 - 20:39FEMA Region 2 Launches “Make a Difference” Recruitment Initiative with Local Colleges and Universities
NEW YORK– FEMA Region 2 is proud to announce the launch of the “Make a Difference” recruitment initiative – a partnership with colleges and universities in the New York, New Jersey and Connecticut area.
This collaboration shows FEMA’s commitment to reducing barriers to access by investing in the next generation of emergency managers. By establishing long-term partnerships with higher educational institutions, the “Make A Difference” program will fast-track more than 300 students and alumni toward their first steps of a career at FEMA.
The agency is seeking applicants from a broad range of disciplines who are passionate about public service and making an impact their communities to fill FEMA Region 2 vacancies; this region serves New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Fast-Track Application Process:
Students and alumni can fast-track their application by sending an email to FEMA-makeadifference@fema.dhs.gov, Please include the following three items:
- Resume
- Transcript
- Reference letter from college or university personnel (e.g., career center, professor, program dean)
FEMA encourages all majors to apply. Full-time, part-time and internship opportunities are available across a wide range of functional areas.
“We are pleased to announce this initiative and remain committed to streamlining the hiring process making it easier for students to apply,” said Region 2 Administrator David Warrington. “Partnering with the Higher Ed community is critical to the future of emergency management and we encourage all interested students, regardless of major, to join our diverse team and help us make a difference in the communities we serve.”
The following local colleges and universities are participating in this initiative: Cornell University; Princeton University; New York University; Yale University; City University of New York (CUNY); State University of New York (SUNY); Rutgers University; Stony Brook University; Baruch College and Hunter College.
"Today, we are proud to announce a partnership with FEMA that will provide our students with invaluable opportunities to engage in public service and make a meaningful impact in their communities," said Macaulay Honors College Dean Dara Byrne, PhD. "Our students, who come from communities affected by climate change, are passionate about making a difference, and this partnership will enable them to do so while gaining valuable professional experience. We are excited about the possibilities this collaboration presents and the positive impact it will have on our students and their communities."
“Baruch College is excited to partner with FEMA on this important initiative that will directly bring the talents of our students to help mitigate the impact of the crises of tomorrow,” said Baruch College President S. David Wu, PhD. “Our students are creative problem-solvers who are deeply committed to and passionate about serving their communities and their nation.”
FEMA’s employee benefits include eligibility for public service loan forgiveness, hybrid in-person and telework schedule, commute to work transit allowance, paid annual leave, health, dental and vision insurance and more.
For more information on the "Make a Difference" initiative, including the application process and available opportunities, please visit Fema.gov/region-2 or contact the recruitment team at
Fema-makeadifference@fema.dhs.gov.
Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office Announces Flood Insurance Coverage Update for Eligible Claimants
SANTA FE, N.M. -- The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office announced today a partnership with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) that will enable eligible claimants to receive five years of flood insurance protection, with premiums paid by the Claims Office. The NFIP provides flood insurance to property owners, renters, and businesses.
Since the Claims Office launched in March 2023, staff have prioritized signing up eligible claimants for an initial one-year flood insurance policy.
Flood Insurance is available for eligible claimants impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire in San Miguel and Mora counties. Anyone outside of those counties concerned about flood risks due to the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire burn scar may be eligible for flood insurance on a case-by-case basis.
“We are excited to be able to provide extended coverage to our claimants during the current monsoon season and into the future,” said Claims Office Director Angela Gladwell. “We understand that recovering from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire has been uniquely challenging and we’re committed to ensuring claimants receive the compensation they are entitled to under law.”
“I’m especially pleased to announce this partnership between the National Flood Insurance Program and the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office because at the end of the day, we want everyone who needs flood insurance to have it,” said David Maurstad, Assistant Administrator of the Federal Insurance Directorate and Senior Executive of the National Flood Insurance Program. “We don’t want anyone who has had to go through the heartbreak of a wildfire to be unprepared for the flood that may follow.”
“This effort recognizes not only the increased risk of flood caused by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon fire, but also furthers our goal of reducing disaster suffering and ensuring peace of mind that flood insurance provides,” he said.
Floods are the most common and costly natural hazard in the nation. Whether caused by heavy rain, thunderstorms, or winter storms, the results of flooding can be devastating. One inch of rain can cause up to $25,000 of damage to a home. While some floods develop over time, flash floods -- particularly common after wildfires -- can occur within minutes after the onset of a rainstorm.
Even areas that are not traditionally flood-prone are at risk, due to changes to the landscape caused by fire. Residents need to protect their homes and personal property with flood insurance now —before more weather events occur and it’s too late.
For questions, please contact your Claims Navigator or call the Claims Office Helpline at (505)-995-7133.
mayshaunt.gary Thu, 07/13/2023 - 18:42FEMA Projects that Adapt to the Needs of Communities
San Juan, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has allocated over $3.3 million to the municipalities of Barranquitas and Vega Baja to repair several recreational facilities that will benefit communities and visitors.
These allocations for damage following Hurricane María are aimed at addressing what are known as alternate projects. Alternate projects under Public Assistance take place when a community benefits from a different project, as opposed to restoring the project to its original pre-disaster state.
“The needs of communities can change over time and our agency keeps this in mind when evaluating permanent projects with the municipalities. By working as a team, we strive to ensure that the works represent not only a reconstruction but new and better opportunities for all the residents of our towns,” said Deputy Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator Andrés García Martinó.
The Calle Abajo Pablo Pérez Figueroa Community Center in the municipality of Barranquitas is one of the projects under these funds. What was previously a basketball court will now serve as a multipurpose space for around 200 families to celebrate social and educational activities, while strengthening plans to repopulate the urban area.
Pablo Pérez Figueroa lived in the Melitón Perelez community for about 95 years. The facilities that today bear his name mean a lot to the residents, particularly to Mildred and Nelson Pérez Santiago, children of the Barranquitas honoree. “We were eager for a center where cultural or entertainment activities could be carried out. We also have the goal of establishing a center where students can receive tutoring or study aid,” explained Nelson Pérez Santiago.
The new facilities received over $254,000 in agency funds and include an activity room, restrooms, parking lot, and repairs to the gates.
The mayor of Barranquitas, Elliot Colón Blanco, explained that the community already has another basketball court nearby, which is why they understood the need to replace the court with a community center. “For our municipality and for myself, projects like these have to continue developing in our town, because they are of benefit to several communities.”.
Meanwhile, the municipality of Vega Baja also received obligations for two alternate projects. On the one hand, the basketball court, the baseball park and the butterfly garden for El Trece Recreational Area will be renovated; and new areas such as a hostel, a restaurant, a game room and a swimming pool will be built within the facilities. About $2.3 million will address these works, which will include mitigation measures for the baseball park and recreational park.
El Trece receives about 600 people during the summer season. Once the alternate project is completed, the municipality of Vega Baja estimates that this amount could double, while also encouraging tourist visits to the area.
Likewise, the Puerto Nuevo Recreational Area and the La Casona Kiosks in this same municipality will be consolidated into better quality facilities for citizens and tourists with the help of over $802,000 from FEMA. The space, which could create some 15 jobs, will have 14 kiosks, a concrete path, bike corrals and restrooms, among other arrangements.
For his part, the executive director of the Puerto Rico Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said, “Communities evolve as generations develop. For this reason, alternate projects allow reconstruction works to be adjusted to current needs. At COR3, we will continue to assist subrecipients in these processes in search of maximizing the resources allocated to the development of these works.”
To date, FEMA has awarded more than $30.6 billion for over 10,700 Public Assistance projects aimed at rebuilding a more resilient Puerto Rico. Of these, more than $3.8 billion are earmarked for over 6,400 municipality projects throughout the island.
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.
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Calle Abajo Community Center, Barranquitas, Puerto Rico
BARRANQUITAS, Puerto Rico (October 24, 2022) – The Calle Abajo Pablo Pérez Figueroa Community Center in the municipality of Barranquitas is one of the alternate projects under Public Assistance. What was previously a basketball court will now serve as a multipurpose space for around 200 families to celebrate social and educational activities, while strengthening plans to repopulate the urban area. Photo FEMA/ Alvin J. Báez Hernández
manuel.deleon Thu, 07/13/2023 - 14:55
Federal Assistance to Mawar Survivors Continues to Grow, Tops $100 Million
Now, more than a month after of Typhoon Mawar devastated the island territory, Guam residents continue down their road to recovery with the help of federal funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration and FEMA. To date, nearly $112 million in low interest disaster loans from the SBA and direct disaster assistance through FEMA have flowed into communities to help jumpstart the recovery process.
Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved more than $62.2 million in low-interest disaster loans. The SBA is the number one source of federal disaster recovery funding. Through low-interest disaster loans the SBA provides recovery loans to businesses of all sizes, private non-profit organizations, homeowners, and renters.
For homeowners and renters, the SBA has approved 651 disaster loans totaling nearly $59.2 million dollars. These loans can be used to repair or replace a survivor’s disaster damaged home and personal property. Additionally, 45 businesses and private non-profits have been approved for loans totaling more than $3 million. These funds will help these businesses and organizations recover by replacing real estate, machinery and equipment, and inventory and business assets.
Individuals and Households Program
As of July 11, 2023
When it comes to FEMA assistance, more than 16,000 homeowners and renters have been approved for more than $49.7 million in federal awards through FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. Unlike SBA loans, this money does not have to be paid back. This includes:
- More than $11 million in repair and replacement assistance to help survivors rebuild, or make basic repairs to make their home safe, sanitary and functional and provide funds to owners whose primary residences were destroyed due to Typhoon Mawar.
- Nearly $14.5 million in rental assistance was provided to more than 4,700 applicants. FEMA rental assistance is intented to help survivors pay for somewhere to live while they repair or rebuild their disaster damaged home. FEMA awards eligible applicants an initial Rental Assistance payment based on the Fair Market Rent established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for where their pre-disaster residence is located and the number of bedrooms the household requires.
Other Needs Assistance
Other Needs Assistance provides financial assistance for disaster-related necessary expenses and serious needs that are not covered by insurance or provided by any other source. More than $24.3 million in ONA has been awarded to Guam survivors. This includes: critical needs assistance, transportation assistance, personal property assistance, moving and storage, disaster related medical and dental assistance and money to clean and sanitize a disaster damaged home.
If you haven’t applied for federal disaster assistance yet or need to update a pending application contact FEMA by visiting disasterassistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, or by calling 800-621-3362 (The Helpline is available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents).
For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, visit our website.
felicia.jordan Thu, 07/13/2023 - 01:27FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Baird Springs Fire in Washington
BOTHELL, Wash. - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Baird Springs Fire burning in Grant County, Washington.
The state of Washington’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Tuesday, July 11, 2023, at 1:25 a.m. PT. He determined that the Baird Springs Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the third FMAG declared in 2023 to help fight Washington wildfires.
At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of Trinidad and Crescent Bar. The fire also threatened Grant County Public Utility District and Bonneville Power Administration infrastructure, Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail lines, nearby campgrounds, a large boat launch, golf course, agriculture and tourism businesses, and fishing.
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 $1,225,032 will be available to Washington 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 Twitter 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 Tue, 07/11/2023 - 21:47
Protect Documents to Start Your Recovery if a Disaster Strikes
ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – Once the immediate danger passes after a hurricane or other disaster, having important documents such as insurance policies and property records will be crucial to help you start the recovery process. Taking time now to safeguard critical documents will give you peace of mind, and help you avoid additional stress during the difficult days after a disaster.
If your home is damaged by the winds and rains from a tropical storm or hurricane, you would need documentation to request assistance from insurance providers and from government disaster assistance programs. Store important documents either in a safe deposit box, waterproof and fireproof portable container or another location separate from your home.
Store electronic copies of important documents in a password-protected format on a removable flash or external hard drive in your fireproof and waterproof box or safe or consider using a secure cloud-based service. Be cautious about sharing personal financial information, such as your bank account number, Social Security number, or credit card number.
Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents, such as ID, are up to date. In addition, take the time now to think about the priceless personal items you would want to protect from damage or take with you if you had to suddenly evacuate your home.
Take time today to take an inventory of your household documents, contacts and valuables and put yourself in a position to start your recovery process quickly and efficiently if a disaster impacts your home. Learn more about safeguarding critical documents in English at https://go.dhs.gov/4rA and Spanish at https://go.dhs.gov/4rP .
gina.callaghan Tue, 07/11/2023 - 19:02
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Vermont
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Vermont to supplement state and local response efforts to the emergency conditions in the areas affected by flooding beginning on July 9, and continuing.
The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide assistance authorized under Title V of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act to save lives, protect property, public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. This assistance is for Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham and Windsor counties.
Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, limited to direct federal assistance under the public assistance program, will be provided at 75% federal funding.
William F. Roy has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected areas.
luther.wills-dudich Tue, 07/11/2023 - 15:36FEMA Announces 2023 Youth Preparedness Council
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced the new group of dedicated young people who committed to engaging and advocating for preparedness as part of the 2023-2024 FEMA national Youth Preparedness Council.
“Every year, I look forward to welcoming this talented, diverse and accomplished group of young people to FEMA,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “As the next generation of emergency managers, the input provided by the Youth Preparedness Council is invaluable, and we are confident they will carry the lessons learned here back to their communities to help them before, during and after disasters.”
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.
National Youth Preparedness Council Members:- Jordy Almonte of New York
- Armaan Bhasin of Wisconsin
- Georgia Bukata of Arizona
- Arushi Gupta of California
- Michael Hamad of Texas
- Diego Irizarry Ramos of Puerto Rico
- Bryce Ludikhuize of Wyoming
- Anjali Mukundan of Virginia
- Ysabella Olsen of Missouri
- Iris-Bella Quiroa of Rhode Island
- Kennedy Solaru of Washington, D.C.
- Suniti Srinivasan of Washington
- Julia Surzykiewicz of Illinois
- Isabella Tarsitano of Florida
- Jiaming Zhang of Oregon
The FEMA Youth Preparedness Council was formed in 2012 to bring together youth leaders from across the country engaged in advocating for preparedness.
While on the council, national Youth Preparedness 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.
Learn more about FEMA’s Youth Preparedness Council.
luther.wills-dudich Tue, 07/11/2023 - 15:07Murray County, Oklahoma, Flood Maps Become Final
DENTON, Texas – New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on Jan. 11, 2024, for Murray County, Oklahoma. During the next six months, a FEMA compliance specialist will work with the community to update each floodplain ordinance and adopt these new flood maps.
Residents are encouraged to examine the maps to determine if they are in a low-to-moderate or high-risk flood zone. The current and future Flood Insurance Rate Map can be viewed on FEMA’s Flood Map Changes Viewer at https://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.
By understanding flood risks, individuals can decide which insurance option is best for their situation. Community leaders can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards and development that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flooding event.
Anyone without flood insurance risks uninsured losses to their home, personal property and business. Flood insurance is available either through a private policy or through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for those in communities who participate in the NFIP. Residents with federally backed mortgages must have flood insurance if their structures are in the Special Flood Hazard Area.
Contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA) to review the new flood maps and learn more about your risk of flooding. A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify your community FPA and answer questions about the maps as well. Contact them by phone or online chat.
- To use the live chat service, visit floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
- To contact a FEMA Map Specialist, call 877-FEMA MAP (877-336-2627) or send an email to 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 Tue, 07/11/2023 - 14:06Johnston County, Oklahoma, Flood Maps Become Final
DENTON, Texas – New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on Jan. 11, 2024, for Johnston County, Oklahoma. During the next six months, a FEMA compliance specialist will work with the community to update each floodplain ordinance and adopt these new flood maps.
Residents are encouraged to examine the maps to determine if they are in a low-to-moderate or high-risk flood zone. The current and future Flood Insurance Rate Map can be viewed on FEMA’s Flood Map Changes Viewer at https://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.
By understanding flood risks, individuals can decide which insurance option is best for their situation. Community leaders can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards and development that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flooding event.
Anyone without flood insurance risks uninsured losses to their home, personal property and business. Flood insurance is available either through a private policy or through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for those in communities who participate in the NFIP. Residents with federally backed mortgages must have flood insurance if their structures are in the Special Flood Hazard Area.
Contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA) to review the new flood maps and learn more about your risk of flooding. A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify your community FPA and answer questions about the maps as well. Contact them by phone or online chat.
- To use the live chat service, visit floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
- To contact a FEMA Map Specialist, call 877-FEMA MAP (877-336-2627) or send an email to 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 Tue, 07/11/2023 - 13:55FEMA to Evaluate Readiness of the Commonwealth of Virginia
PHILADELPHIA - The Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will evaluate a Biennial Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercise at the Surry Power Station during the week of July 17, 2023. The exercise will assess the ability of the Commonwealth of Virginia to respond to an emergency at the nuclear facility.
“These drills are held every other year to evaluate government’s ability to protect public health and safety,” said MaryAnn Tierney, Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 3. “We will assess state and local government emergency response capabilities within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone surrounding the Surry Power Station.
The Commonwealth of Virginia and communities located within approximately 10 miles of a nuclear power station have prepared emergency response plans. These plans provide guidelines to the state and local government organizations which ensure effective direction and control in a nuclear emergency. The plans include procedures for warning the public and for taking protective actions, such as sheltering or evacuation, in the event of a nuclear emergency. Protective action plans within this area are designed to avoid or reduce dose from potential exposures such as inhaling radioactive particles.
Within 90 days, FEMA will send its evaluation to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for use in licensing decisions. The final report will be available to the public approximately 120 days after the exercise.
FEMA will present preliminary findings of the exercise during a public meeting at 4:00 p.m. on July 20, 2023. The meeting will be conducted in-person at the Marriott Newport News City Center. Planned speakers include representatives from FEMA and the NRC. The location of the public meeting is provided below:
Marriot Newport News City Center
740 Town Center Drive
Newport News, VA 23606
(757) 873-9299
At the public meeting, FEMA may request that questions or comments be submitted in writing for review and response. Written comments may also be submitted after the meeting by emailing FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov or by mail to:
MaryAnn Tierney
Regional Administrator
FEMA Region 3
615 Chestnut Street, 6th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19106
FEMA created the Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) program in 1980 to (1) ensure the health and safety of citizens living around commercial nuclear power plants would be adequately protected in the event of a nuclear power plant accident and (2) inform and educate the public about radiological emergency preparedness.
REP Program responsibilities cover only offsite activities, such as state and local government emergency planning and preparedness activities that take place beyond the nuclear power plant boundaries, such as public information and warning. Onsite activities, such as fire protection, engineering, and environmental monitoring inspections, continue to be the responsibility of the NRC.
Additional information on FEMA’s REP Program is available online at FEMA.gov/Radiological-Emergency-Preparedness-Program.
Additional information on nuclear safety from the Virginia Department of Emergency Management can be found online at vaemergency.gov/threats/nuclear-safety.
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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 Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3
charles.elison Tue, 07/11/2023 - 12:58FEMA and SiriusXM Expand Relationship to Enhance Delivery of Emergency Alerts
WASHINGTON -- FEMA and SiriusXM today announced an expansion of their relationship that will enhance connectivity of FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert & Warning System (IPAWS), National Public Warning System. As part of the new program, SiriusXM will give FEMA access to secure bandwidth on SiriusXM’s proprietary satellite radio system to provide additional connectivity between FEMA and the National Public Warning System (NPWS) network.
SiriusXM will be providing a satellite-based delivery system to FEMA’s NPWS, which consists of 77 designated radio broadcast stations and other relay facilities that cooperatively participate with FEMA to provide emergency alert and warning information to the public.
“A secure, trusted, capable and reliable technology ecosystem is the foundation of the IPAWS NPWS capability,” said Antwane Johnson, Director of FEMA IPAWS. “IPAWS embraces innovative technologies and platforms, and SiriusXM’s satellite network helps reinforce our capabilities.”
“By supplying this satellite-based backup for FEMA’s backbone communications system, SiriusXM helps to strengthen FEMA’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to weather-related crises and other emergencies,” said Bridget Neville, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Signal Distribution Engineering, SiriusXM. “SiriusXM has worked extensively with FEMA over the years, and we are proud of our efforts that aid in delivering critical emergency messages to the public. We look forward to deepening and expanding upon our relationship with FEMA through this program and additional opportunities to leverage our satellite network in the future.”
SiriusXM has collaborated with FEMA for more than two decades, including providing dedicated satellite radio receivers for FEMA to distribute during emergencies, operating as an NPWS station and carrying other emergency information to disaster-stricken regions. SiriusXM’s satellite network plays an essential public safety role during natural disasters and other emergencies by providing potentially life-saving information to remote areas not easily reached by terrestrial facilities, and in times of emergencies when other communications systems may be unavailable or inoperable. SiriusXM also broadcasts Emergency Alert System (EAS) messages on its free preview channels, which are available on all satellite radios without a subscription required. The preview channels give the public much-needed information during natural disasters, assisting in the aftermath of major disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and forest fires.
For more information please visit Integrated Public Alert & Warning System | FEMA.gov.
luther.wills-dudich Mon, 07/10/2023 - 19:25Additional Help Available to Floridians Recovering from Hurricane Ian
LAKE MARY, Fla. — Help is still available for Hurricane Ian survivors through Disaster Case Management (DCM). This FEMA-funded program, managed by Volunteer Florida, provides case managers that work directly with disaster survivors to identify their recovery unmet needs, develop a goal-oriented recovery plan, and match them with resources to help them achieve their long-term recovery.
The state of Florida has contracted with multiple agencies to work with faith-based and volunteer organizations to support survivors through DCM. Case managers help residents achieve their permanent housing solutions and find other disaster recovery resources.
Residents of Lee County can contact Compass82 at: 239-944-7470 or via email to IanDCM@Compass82.org
Residents of Charlotte, Collier, DeSoto, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Highlands, Monroe, Okeechobee, Palm Beach or Sarasota counties can contact: Disaster Services Corporation – Society of St. Vincent De Paul at: 941-799-6779 or via email to Dr4673ian@svdpdisaster.org
Residents of Hillsborough, Manatee Pasco, Pinellas or Polk counties can contact
Disaster Services Corporation – Society of St. Vincent De Paul at: 941-799-6779 or via email to Dr4673ian@svdpdisaster.org
Residents of Brevard, Flagler, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Putnam, Seminole, St. Johns or Volusia counties can contact Family Endeavors, Inc at: 407-487-2362 or via email to DCM_FL@endeavors.org; or online at Hurricane Ian Disaster Recovery (endeavors.org)
For more information on Florida’s recovery from Hurricanes Ian and Nicole, visit floridadisaster.org/info and fema.gov. Follow FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4) / Twitter and at facebook.com/fema.
bree-constance… Mon, 07/10/2023 - 16:07FEMA Seeking Local Hires to Help Guam Recover
As Guam continues recovering from Typhoon Mawar, FEMA is looking for local hires in Guam with experience in several areas including civil rights, environmental historic preservation, external affairs, human resources, interagency recovery coordination, logistics, operations, planning and public assistance.
FEMA local hire positions are temporary full-time positions, with select benefits and overtime as required by operational needs. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, hold U.S. citizenship, and pass a background investigation. The appointment is up to 120 days and may be extended based on operational needs. To apply online and learn more, please search for FEMA positions in Guam on USAjobs.gov.
To assist people facing power outages or a lack of Internet access to apply, FEMA will host a job fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 14, at the Guam Museum in Hagatna. Interested applicants are encouraged to bring their resumes, and FEMA hiring managers will be present to discuss open positions and answer questions. Sign language interpreters and assistive listening devices will be available at the job fair.
FEMA continues to work with the government of Guam, other federal agencies, nonprofit organizations and local communities to help people in Guam recover from Typhoon Mawar. As of June 7, more than 400 FEMA personnel are deployed in Guam to support response and recovery efforts.
If you haven’t applied for federal disaster assistance yet, please do so at disasterassistance.gov, by using the FEMA mobile app, by calling 800-621-3362 (The Helpline is available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week at no cost for Guam residents) or by stopping by a Disaster Recovery Center.
For information on Guam’s disaster recovery, visitour website.
felicia.jordan Mon, 07/10/2023 - 02:33Pages
