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FRANKFORT, Ky. — FEMA is providing enhanced customer service in Kentucky to help all survivors of the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides receive much-needed assistance.
If you have applied for FEMA assistance, you may receive a call, text or email from the Emergent Survival Services (ESS) team. These calls may come from unfamiliar area codes and phone numbers or show no caller ID. You should take the opportunity to let FEMA know about your current needs and how FEMA can better serve you. It is important to answer phone calls from FEMA, even if the caller ID is unknown. When taking calls about your FEMA application, keep in mind that only FEMA knows your nine-digital application number.
FEMA ensures that all survivors, particularly those with additional needs, receive the assistance they are entitled to rebuild and recover. As of July 8, the team has already contacted 387 applicants to assist with completing applications. These outreach efforts contributed significantly to the total $1.3 million approved for survivors of the April 2 disaster.
Homeowners and renters in Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup, Henry, Jefferson, Jessamine, Mason, Oldham, Union and Whitley counties can apply for FEMA assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 7 a.m. – midnight local time daily or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4782. Follow FEMA on X, formerly called Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.
sandra.habib Thu, 07/11/2024 - 19:21Disaster Recovery Center Remains Open in Nicholas County, WV
July 11, 2024
DR-4783-WV-MA-034
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
Media Advisory
Disaster Recovery Center Remains Open in Nicholas County, WV
CHARLESTON, W.Va.– A state-federal Disaster Recovery Center will remain open at the Nicholas County Office of Emergency Services in Summersville.
The center is located at:
Nicholas CountyNicholas County Office of Emergency Services
449 Water St.
Summersville, WV
Hours of operation:
Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Closed Sunday
West Virginia residents who were impacted by the April 2-6 and 11-12 severe storms can visit a disaster recovery center to get help registering for FEMA disaster assistance. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).
- The FEMA registration deadline for the April 2-6 storm is July 22, 2024.
- The FEMA registration deadline for the April 11-12 storm is Sept. 3, 2024.
If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps. Staff at the center can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.
Survivors do not have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to register with FEMA. If it is not possible to visit a center, call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4783, and www.facebook.com/FEMA.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.
Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).
issa.mansaray Thu, 07/11/2024 - 19:11Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Orleans County, New York
Orleans County, N.Y. - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Orleans County, New York. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.
The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.
The 90-day appeal period will begin July 14, 2024. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.
- An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
- Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
- If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information, such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary, they can submit a written comment.
The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.
Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.
For more information about the flood maps:
- Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
- Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.
- Orleans County Flood Mapping Milestones
- March 9, 2023 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
- July 17, 2023 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
- August 17, 2023 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
- October 12, 2023 — Open House Meeting with public to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map.
- July 14, 2024 — Appeal Period starts.
- Fall 2025* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 2 Office of External Affairs at (212) 680-3699 or at FEMA-R2-ExternalAffairs@fema.dhs.gov.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
kate.macedo Thu, 07/11/2024 - 18:22ICYMI - Honoring NATO, FEMA Hosts Event on Strengthening Communities to Build More Resilient Nations
WASHINGTON – On the sidelines of the 2024 North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit, FEMA hosted The Resilience Dialogue: Strengthening our Communities to Meet the Future. This event, which occurred on July 9, highlighted FEMA’s role in supporting the U.S. Mission to NATO and the importance of national civil preparedness and resilience efforts aligned with the Alliance’s collective resilience and security.
Rooted in Article 3 of the North Atlantic Treaty is the responsibility of Allies to build national resilience, enhancing their individual ability to prepare for, resist, respond to and quickly recover from shocks and disruptions. The NATO Resilience Committee is charged with, among other things, ensuring resilience is factored, where appropriate, into NATO defense planning, operations and activities. FEMA directly supports this effort by serving as the U.S. Representative on the Committee, as well as its Civil Protection Working Group.
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell opened the event stating, “For 75 years, NATO has been a foundation of international partnership. A place where likeminded nations can come together to take on the biggest challenges facing our world. And I want to take a moment to specifically acknowledge the work NATO has done to underscore the importance of societal resilience.” Administrator Criswell continued, “2024 is FEMA’s Year of Resilience. We’re spending this year uplifting our resilience work, communicating about our programs and working to stop the cycle of response, recovery—rinse and repeat. As a global community, we have a responsibility to build lasting societal resilience by facing these big, disruptive problems together.”
FEMA’s domestic efforts to enhance civil preparedness and resilience were highlighted during this event, in support of the collective resilience and defense of the Alliance. Panelists also discussed resources, guidance and tools FEMA offers to assist stakeholders in developing a better understanding of disaster shocks and stressors, while factoring resilience considerations into their planning in the face of short-term and long-term risks.
amy.ashbridge Thu, 07/11/2024 - 16:04Disaster Recovery Center is Opening in Ohio County, WV
July 11, 2024
DR-4787-WV-MA-001
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
Media Advisory
Disaster Recovery Center is Opening in Ohio County, WV
CHARLESTON, W.Va.– A state-federal Disaster Recovery Center will open at the U.S. Army Reserve Center in Wheeling tomorrow, July 12, 2024, at 8 a.m.
The center is located at:
Ohio CountyU.S. Army Reserve Center
25 Armory Drive
Wheeling, WV 26003
Hours of operation:
Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Closed Sunday
West Virginia residents who were impacted by the April 2-6 and 11-12 severe storms can visit a disaster recovery center to get help registering for FEMA disaster assistance. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).
- The FEMA registration deadline for the April 2-6 storm is July 22, 2024.
- The FEMA registration deadline for the April 11-12 storm is Sept. 3, 2024.
If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps. Staff at the center can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.
Survivors do not have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to register with FEMA. If it is not possible to visit a center, call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4787, and www.facebook.com/FEMA.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).
issa.mansaray Thu, 07/11/2024 - 15:49FEMA Achieves 11,000 Projects Obligated for Puerto Rico
The projects represent over $33.9 billion destined exclusively for Hurricane María and will mostly address the restoration of permanent infrastructure.
Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO ― The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) set a significant milestone in Puerto Rico’s recovery, with the obligation of over 11,000 projects to address damage from Hurricane María.
“The agency continues to obligate projects, each of them of great significance and value in the reconstruction of our island. Each project obligated represents a crucial step toward completing reconstruction and ensuring the island’s resilience to future disasters,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.
One of the most recent obligations for Hurricane María was over $1.7 million to the municipality of Cayey for the restoration of the Pedro Montañez Stadium. The stadium is home to the Double-A Superior Baseball League team Toritos of Cayey. It also hosts multiple recreational events for the community and serves as an operations center during an emergency.
The facilities have funds for paint and for the replacement of roofs, gutters and the electrical and structural infrastructure. The sound system, monitor and electronic scoreboard will also be replaced. This project includes nearly $201,000 for mitigation measures such as strengthening the fence and sliding doors and protecting them from water infiltration.
Meanwhile, the María Cecilia Franceschi Museum of Art and History in the municipality of Yauco has over $212,000 for the restoration of this important historic structure built in 1915. The museum bears the name of a renowned Yauco educator and artisan who founded the museum with the purpose of fostering “love for the homeland, arts, archeology and heritage of our culture,” according to Luis Martínez Pueyo, director of the municipality’s Recovery Office.
Most of the exhibitions are of local or regional artists, as they seek to attract them to exhibit their works of art. The museum administration also organizes book presentations and other cultural events. The museum’s director emphasized that facilities such as these “play a determining role in the creation of spaces for reflection and the production of knowledge about heritage and culture”, as well as being an affordable option for residents and visitors, since most of the exhibitions are free of charge.
Work at the museum will include replacing roofs and windows and repairing the wooden floor. Mitigation funds seek to prevent water infiltration, improve drainage and reinforce the roofs.
The 11,000 milestone also recently included the municipality of Las Piedras, with an allocation of over $65,000 to repair the Veterans Building. The facility serves as a meeting room for the American Legion and the municipality also plans to use the building as a shelter in the event of future disasters.
Repairs to the Veterans Building include the replacement of concrete roofs and walls, the replacement of wind and impact resistant doors and windows, and the installation of solar panel systems and LED lighting. Mitigation funds will be used to reinforce the fence and replace poles and light fixtures that are more resistant to wind and impact.
For his part, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “these obligations are crucial for municipalities, government agencies and nonprofit organizations, with the technical support of our team at COR3, to start developing reconstruction projects in compliance with the scope of work, as well as with the applicable regulations and laws. Since 2021, we have implemented various initiatives to empower subrecipients with the tools and knowledge necessary to execute the permanent and hazard mitigation works that have obligated funds from FEMA. Thanks to these efforts and teamwork with FEMA and governmental, municipal and nonprofit entities, the rebuilding of Puerto Rico had a strong beginning and continues to move forward.”
For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.
PEDRO MONTAÑEZ STADIUM, CAYER, PR
CAYEY, Puerto Rico (July 9, 2024) — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) set a significant milestone in Puerto Rico’s recovery, with the obligation of over 11,000 projects to address damage from Hurricane María. One of the most recent obligations for Hurricane María was over $1.7 million to the municipality of Cayey for the restoration of the Pedro Montañez Stadium. The stadium is home to the Double-A Superior Baseball League team Toritos of Cayey. It also hosts multiple recreational events for the community and serves as an operations center during an emergency. Photo FEMA/Eduardo Martínez
frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 07/11/2024 - 14:59Flood Insurance a Valuable Resource for Texans
AUSTIN -- Your house has never flooded. You have a homeowner's insurance policy. You're thinking: "I'm covered."
Maybe not.
Many Texas residents may believe they don't need to buy flood insurance. They don't live in a high-risk flood zone. But flooding can happen anywhere, often to the surprise of residents who thought they were covered for disaster. When flooding happens, the damage is not covered by most homeowners' insurance policies. One inch of floodwater can cause more than $25,000 of damage in a home.
Before a community is eligible for federal disaster assistance, it must be designated a federal disaster area. This happens in less than 50 percent of flooding incidents. The main form of federal assistance after a federally declared disaster is a loan that must be repaid with interest.
Property owners can protect themselves from financial losses by having a flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Flood insurance coverage is available regardless of federal disaster declarations. Insurance for contents is also available to homeowners and renters. There is a 30-day waiting period before new policies go into effect, an important consideration during hurricane season.
Statewide, 653,309 policyholders in Texas hold $197 billion in coverage but many people have no flood coverage. Residents can purchase a flood insurance policy if their community participates in the NFIP, no matter their flood risk. Even in areas that are not flood-prone, insurance is a good idea. People outside of high-risk areas file more than 25 percent of NFIP claims.
Coverage is available for residential and commercial buildings and contents:
- Up to $250,000 in building coverage and up to $100,000 in contents coverage for single-to-four family residential structures.
- Up to $500,000 in building coverage and up to $100,000 in contents coverage for five-or-more family residential structures.
- Up to $500,000 in building coverage and up to $500,000 in contents coverage for businesses.
How to buy:
Contact your insurance company or agent. If you need help finding a provider, go to FloodSmart.gov/flood-insurance-provider or call the NFIP at 877-336-2627. In addition to the NFIP, flood insurance is also available from some private insurance providers. For an agent referral, call 800-427-4661 or visit FloodSmart.gov.
For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4781. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
larissa.hale Thu, 07/11/2024 - 14:32Free Legal Help Available
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– A free legal help hotline is now available to eligible individuals affected by the May 10 severe storms and tornadoes in Leon County.
The hotline is available to connect survivors who are unable to afford an attorney to free legal services. Survivors may call the toll-free legal services hotline anytime and leave a message for a callback at (866) 550-2929.
Callers may get help with legal issues such as:
- Securing FEMA and other government benefits available to disaster survivors.
- Home repair contracts and property insurance claims.
- Replacement of wills and other important legal documents lost or destroyed in the disaster.
- Consumer protection issues such as price-gouging and avoiding contractor scams in the rebuilding process.
- Counseling on landlord or tenant problems, or threats of foreclosure.
- Disability-related access to federal, state and local disaster programs.
The Disaster Legal Services (DLS) program works with state and local partners to provide free legal help for low-income disaster survivors. The service is a partnership between the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, FEMA and The Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division. DLS attorneys are not FEMA employees.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4794. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
david.heckard Thu, 07/11/2024 - 14:05President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for New Hampshire
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of New Hampshire to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe winter storm and flooding from April 3-5, 2024.
Federal funding is available to the state, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis in Belknap, Carroll, Rockingham and Sullivan counties for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities, including direct federal assistance.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
William F. Roy has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.
luther.wills-dudich Wed, 07/10/2024 - 22:19One Year Later, Vermont Continues to Make Progress Recovering from Severe Storms, Flooding, Landslides, and Mudslides
From July 7-21, 2023, heavy rain across Vermont drove rivers to near record levels causing historic and catastrophic flooding. In Montpelier, the Winooski River crested at 21 feet, reaching a height not seen since the 1920s and leading to the rescue of over 100 people from flooded cars and homes.
On July 14, 2023, President Joseph Biden declared a Major Disaster for the state of Vermont making federal funding available to affected individuals in Chittenden, Lamoille, Rutland, Washington, Windham, and Windsor counties. Federal funding was also made available to state and eligible local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations in Addison, Bennington, Caledonia, Chittenden, Essex, Franklin, Grand Isle, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, Rutland, Washington, Windham, and Windsor counties.
One year later, families, businesses, and communities continue to rebuild with the help of federal assistance from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. So far, $25,987,190.49 has been approved for Individual Assistance and $50,580,607.19 has been obligated for Public Assistance. The state has also prioritized mitigation efforts, a program with $1,141,512.00 designated to support rebuilding stronger in Vermont.
During a press conference held yesterday, Governor Phil Scott thanked FEMA and Federal Coordinating Officer William Roy for being with the state every step of the way through the response and recovery.
“We’ve made great progress in helping Vermont recover from this disaster and I want to thank Governor Scott and the Vermont Emergency Management Agency for being excellent partners throughout the process,” said Roy. “I also want to thank the FEMA employees who deployed to Vermont; your selfless services embodies our agency’s mission of helping people before, during, and after disasters.”
adrien.urbani Wed, 07/10/2024 - 22:04Hinds County Disaster Recovery Center to Close July 13
MADISON, Miss. – The Disaster Recovery Center in Hinds County operated by the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and FEMA will close permanently at 2 p.m. July 13.
The center is located at:
Hinds County
Hinds County Public Works Department parking lot (look for the FEMA and MEMA signage)
10000 I-20 Frontage Road
Bolton, MS 39041
Even though centers are closing, FEMA is still on the ground in Mississippi to help homeowners and renters recover from the April 8-11, 2024, storms.
FEMA will continue to receive and process appeals, assist applicants with questions and help survivors apply for assistance. Survivors can contact FEMA by:
- Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Going online to DisasterAssistance.gov
- Downloading the FEMA mobile app
- Visiting the remaining open Disaster Recovery Center in Humphreys County
Survivors have until August 9, 2024, to apply for assistance.
The following center will be open until further notice:
Humphreys County
Humphreys County Multipurpose Building (look for the FEMA and MEMA signage across the street from Willard Jack Trucking)
417 Silver City Road
Belzoni, MS 39038
Centers are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday. Centers are closed on Sunday.
Specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the centers to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, check the status of their application, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.
It is not necessary to visit a center to apply for assistance. Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA mobile app or calling the FEMA Helpline at
800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
For the latest information on recovery from the April tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4790. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4.
Gaynell.Tinsey Wed, 07/10/2024 - 21:17President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Texas
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Texas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Beryl from July 5-9, 2024.
Federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis in Anderson, Angelina, Aransas, Austin, Bowie, Brazoria, Brazos, Burleson, Calhoun, Cameron, Camp, Cass, Chambers, Cherokee, Colorado, Dewitt, Fayette, Fort Bend, Freestone, Galveston, Goliad, Gregg, Grimes, Hardin, Harris, Harrison, Hidalgo, Houston, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Kenedy, Kleberg, Lavaca, Lee, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Marion, Matagorda, Milam, Montgomery, Morris, Nacogdoches, Newton, Nueces, Orange, Panola, Polk, Refugio, Robertson, Rusk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, San Patricio, Shelby, Trinity, Tyler, Upshur, Victoria, Walker, Waller, Washington, Webb, Wharton and Willacy counties for debris removal and emergency work, including direct federal assistance.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Benjamin Abbott has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.
amy.ashbridge Wed, 07/10/2024 - 20:06FEMA Assistance Won’t Affect Other Benefits
FEMA assistance is not taxable. Applying for disaster assistance will not affect other federal benefits you may receive.
Accepting FEMA funds will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits or other federal or state benefit programs.
Disaster funds help survivors pay for temporary housing, essential home repairs, essential personal property replacement, and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance or other sources.
If you live in Baxter, Benton, Boone, Fulton, Greene, Madison, Marion and Randolph counties and you had loss or damage from the severe storms and tornadoes that occurred May 24-27, FEMA may be able to help.
Ways to Apply to FEMA
There are several ways to apply:
- Visit a Disaster Recover Center. To find a center close to you, go online to: DRC Locator.
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. The Helpline is available daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. CT.
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov
- Download the FEMA mobile app
To view accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. The deadline to apply is Aug. 28, 2024.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4788. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
alexa.brown Wed, 07/10/2024 - 17:54Additional Texas Counties Eligible for FEMA Assistance
AUSTIN – Homeowners and renters in Anderson, Nacogdoches, Panola, Rusk and Sabine counties are now eligible for FEMA assistance after the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding that occurred April 26 – June 5.
Eligible applicants may qualify for serious needs assistance, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other eligible expenses related to storm damage. Previously, Texans in Austin, Bell, Calhoun, Collin, Cooke, Coryell, Dallas, Denton, Eastland, Ellis, Falls, Guadalupe, Hardin, Harris, Henderson, Hockley, Jasper, Jones, Kaufman, Lamar, Leon, Liberty, Montague, Montgomery, Navarro, Newton, Polk, San Jacinto, Smith, Terrell, Trinity, Tyler, Van Zandt, Walker and Waller counties were approved for assistance.
To apply with FEMA, homeowners and renters can:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices
- Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages.
- Visit any Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, go online to fema.gov/drc.
To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4781. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at X.com at x.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
larissa.hale Wed, 07/10/2024 - 15:49Disaster Recovery Center in Nicholas County, WV Closing
July 10, 2024
DR-4783-WV-MA-033
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
Media Advisory
Disaster Recovery Center in Nicholas County, WV Closing
CHARLESTON, W.Va.– A state-federal Disaster Recovery Center at the Nicholas County Office of Emergency Services in Summersville is closing permanently tomorrow, July 11, 2024, at 6 p.m.
The center is located at:
Fayette CountyNicholas County Office of Emergency Services
449 Water St.
Summersville, WV
Hours of operation:
Closing July 10, 2024, at 6 p.m.
Residents of all counties can continue to visit other DRCs in West Virginia. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).
If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps. DRC staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.
Survivors do not have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to register with FEMA. If it is not possible to visit a DRC, call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4783, and www.facebook.com/FEMA.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.
Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).
issa.mansaray Wed, 07/10/2024 - 15:49FEMA Speaks Your Language
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Don't let language be a barrier to applying for FEMA assistance. Regardless of language or accessibility needs, FEMA is here in Kentucky to help eligible survivors of April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides. Non-English speakers can receive assistance in their language when applying for FEMA disaster aid. Additionally, assistive communication tools are available for those who require them.
Language Is Not a Barrier to FEMA AssistanceInterpreters for many languages are available to those who call the FEMA Helpline. Multilingual phone operators are available to help non-English speaking survivors register for disaster aid and answer questions. After dialing the FEMA Helpline, 800-621-3362, callers should choose Option 2 for Spanish and Option 3 for other languages.
The Disaster Recovery Centers have a sign with the phrase “I Speak” in over 40 languages, which staff members can use to connect you with an interpreter that speaks your language.
FEMA Information Is Accessible for AllSurvivors can visit any DRC to connect with American Sign Language interpreters by requesting one ahead of time, or in real time using Video Relay Services or Video Remote Interpreters. Assistive listening devices, amplified phones and caption phones for survivors who are deaf or hard of hearing are also available at the DRCs.
Magnifying devices and printed information in Braille and large print are available for people who are blind or have low vision.
Apply for FEMA Assistance ASAPThe deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is July 22. There are several ways to apply:
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center close to you, go online to: DRC Locator, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Ex: DRC 40019).
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. The Helpline is available daily from 7 a.m. to midnight ET.
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish).
- Download the FEMA mobile app.
For accessible information about how to register for FEMA disaster assistance, please check the YouTube link.
For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4782. Follow FEMA on X, formerly called Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.
sandra.habib Wed, 07/10/2024 - 15:32Biden-Harris Administration Finalizes Rule to Increase Resilience Against Flooding Nationwide
WASHINGTON -- Today, the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today published a Final Rule to implement the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS). The standard is a flexible framework to increase resilience against flooding and help protect communities.
In recent years, communities have seen repeated flooding that threatens both lives and property. Previous approaches, based on historical data, have become outdated. By using the best available science, FFRMS strengthens FEMA’s standards to incorporate both current and future flood risk, making taxpayer-funded projects far more resilient to flooding, protecting federal investments and reducing the risk of damage and loss from floods. Additionally, FEMA will pay for the applicable federal cost share to implement the FFRMS which is often 75% or more.
“The human and economic cost of flooding is devastating and will only grow in the years ahead as the impacts of climate change grow more intense and reach more communities,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “Taking forward-looking, effective steps to increase resilience before disaster strikes will save lives, property, critical infrastructure and taxpayer money. The Federal Flood Risk Management Standard ensures that FEMA-funded projects meet that mandate. We cannot be passive as climate change threatens the safety and security of the American people and our homeland.”
“Climate change has exacerbated flood risk across the country, especially when it comes to sea-level rise. The Biden-Harris Administration is taking action to address these heightened risks by getting this new standard over the finish line,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “FFRMS will allow us to enhance resilience in flood-prone communities by taking future flood risk into consideration when we rebuild structures post-disaster. This is a huge win that will also allow us to end the repeat loss cycles that stem from flooding and increase the safety of families and save taxpayer dollars.”
“As climate change increases the frequency and severity extreme weather events, President Biden is taking bold action – mobilizing historic investments to protect communities before the storm strikes, upgrade critical infrastructure to reduce vulnerability and risk and boost our collective capacity to recover quickly after disasters,” said National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi. “By using common-sense solutions like elevating or floodproofing critical infrastructure, today’s rule will help local communities harness the best in science and engineering to better prepare for flood risks from rising sea levels and damaging storms. This important step will help protect taxpayer-funded projects, including fire and police stations and hospitals, from flood risks and is an integral part of the Biden-Harris administration’s broader efforts to enhance climate resilience across the country.”
This rule allows FEMA to consider the best available science in making projects and communities more resilient to increased flood conditions. The standard applies to FEMA-funded actions involving new construction, substantial improvement, or repairs to substantial damage.
FFRMS also applies to Hazard Mitigation Assistance projects involving structure elevation, dry floodproofing and mitigation reconstruction. This advances the National Climate Resilience Framework’s goal of building a climate-resilient nation. This higher standard considers both current and future flood risks associated with climate change and other threats.
Finalization of the rule supplements additional actions President Biden announced last week to protect workers and communities from extreme weather. After receiving an operational briefing on extreme weather from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, President Biden announced $1 billion for 656 projects across the country to help communities protect against disasters and natural hazards, including extreme heat, storms and flooding.
This action is the latest in an all-of-government approach to minimize flood risks and implement the FFRMS. These efforts have included the issuance of a Federal Flood Standard Support Tool (Beta), a FFRMS Standard Floodplain Determination Job Aid, a State of the Science Report on Climate-Informed Science Approach for flood hazards, and implementation of the FFRMS by the Departments of Agriculture, Defense, Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, and General Services Administration.
Expansion of the FloodplainAs climate change and other threats have increased flood risk across much of the United States, the FFRMS allows FEMA to consider the best available and actionable climate science in making projects and communities more resilient to increases in flood conditions due to sea level rise and other environmental changes.
Prior to the FFRMS, FEMA required non-critical projects to be protected to the 1% annual chance (100-year) flood to minimize flood risk. Critical projects, like the construction of fire and police stations, hospitals and facilities that store hazardous materials, had to be protected to the 0.2% annual chance (500-year) flood. This standard reflected only current flood risk.
The FFRMS will increase the flood elevation -- how high -- and floodplain -- how wide -- to reflect future, as well as current, flood risk for actions subject to the standard.
Implementing the FFRMS is an important step toward mitigating future flood risk that will benefit communities by allowing them to avoid or recover from future disasters more efficiently and effectively. Communities can protect against future flood risk by building outside of the floodplain, elevating, floodproofing, or using nature-based solutions.
Minimal Estimated Implementation Costs of Less than 2% for FEMA and ApplicantsThis standard requires incorporating flood resilience measures into project designs that could marginally increase the project cost. However, this minimal cost increase is expected to result in far greater savings over time due to avoided flood damage.
FEMA pays for the costs to implement the FFRMS at the applicable cost share for the project, often 75% or more. FEMA has found that incorporating 2-feet of elevation into a new building design on average adds only 1.91% to the total project cost.
As an example, on a $1 million dollar project with a federal cost share of 75%, the estimated increased project cost to the applicant is $4,775. These improvements can help reduce the chances of repetitive property losses to flooding, lowering costs for taxpayers and communities.
Full Implementation of the Federal Flood Risk Management StandardSince August 2021, FEMA has partially implemented the FFRMS. Partial implementation relied on existing regulations to reduce flood risk, increasing minimum flood elevation requirements for structures in areas already subject to flood risk minimization requirements, but not horizontally expanding those areas.
The key distinctions between partial and full implementation are the expansion of the floodplain to reflect both current and future flood risk and the requirement to consider natural features and nature-based solutions. Using natural features and nature-based solutions can help preserve the benefits of floodplains across the nation, such as the ability to store and move floodwaters and create rich soils.
The Final Rule amends Title 44, Part 9 of the Code of Federal Regulations and will be effective on Sept. 9, 2024. For disasters declared on or after this date and notices of funding opportunity published on or after this date, the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard will apply to FEMA-funded actions involving new construction, substantial improvement or repairs to substantial damage.
amy.ashbridge Wed, 07/10/2024 - 15:21FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Shake Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on July 9 at 7:05 p.m. PDT / 10:05 p.m. EDT to assist the state of Arizona to combat the Shake Fire burning in Pinal County.
On July 9, the state of Arizona submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 300 homes in and around Kearny, AZ, population 2,000. 100% of the threatened homes are primary residences and 0% are secondary residences.
The fire started on July 9, 2024, and had burned more than 150 acres of State and private land. The fire was 0% contained. There are three large fires burning uncontrolled within the State.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to become a greater incident.
Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.
For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at x/femaregion9.
FEMA Seeks Vendors for Maintenance of Group Site and Modular Homes
FEMA is actively seeking vendors for Group Site Maintenance and Maintenance/Repairs on FEMA-owned modular housing units being used as temporary housing for individuals and families displaced by the Maui wildfires.
FEMA will host an informational session from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, July 23, at The Westin Maui Resort and Spa, Haleakala Ballroom, 2365 Kāʻanapali Parkway in Lahaina. Vendors attending Industry Day will learn of requirements for the maintenance on the group site and modular homes, which FEMA calls Alternative Transportable Temporary Housing Units. They will be installed at locations on Maui designated for FEMA group housing.
Pre-registration is required for the Industry Day event. All registration requests must be completed by noon Monday, July 22. To register, go to: https://fema.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJItcOGvrTIpHKARTDvxui7JiwoZn_THNC4
For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org, fema.gov/disaster/4724 and Hawaii Wildfires - YouTube. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema. You may also get disaster assistance information and download applications at sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires.
shannon.carley Wed, 07/10/2024 - 01:27FEMA and HUD Partnership Enhances State Planning for Housing Recovery, Builds Resilience
WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA in partnership with the U.S. Department of Urban Housing and Development (HUD), published the Pre-Disaster Housing Planning Initiative Report to promote collaborative approaches to disaster housing recovery challenges and to bolster state planning for housing recovery before disasters occur.
This joint effort helps build local capacity and ensures states, Tribal Nations and territories adopt a proactive approach to housing recovery. A first-of-its-kind partnership between FEMA, HUD and states, the initiative was created to address these issues during blue sky days to help ensure individuals, families and communities can recover effectively from disasters. This type of planning also helps states move from short-term sheltering programs to more sustainable housing solutions.
“One of the most heartbreaking consequences of disasters is when an individual’s home is damaged or destroyed, leaving individuals concerned about where their family is going to live,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Securing post-disaster housing is a major challenge for communities as they begin recovery. FEMA and HUD are partnering together to help communities identify and understand housing gaps before disasters strike to be better positioned to face these challenges head on and help survivors jumpstart their recovery.”
Key findings in the report include the importance of identifying and addressing housing recovery challenges in a non-disaster environment, the benefit of information sharing among states and the value in tailoring federal support and resources to the unique needs and challenges of each state. Due to the success of this partnership, both agencies are working toward initiating a second cohort with new state partners.
“I’ve traveled throughout the country to witness the aftermath of natural disasters and the devastating impact on communities, including my hometown,” said HUD Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman. “This partnership with FEMA is important to ensure that when another disaster strikes, recovery can occur quickly and people receive the help they need.”
Disasters tend to exacerbate existing housing challenges like limited housing stock, rising rents and increased costs to vulnerable populations. Planning around existing housing shortfalls before disasters can help communities recover more quickly during emergencies and ensure more resilient outcomes.
In addition to the report, a Pre-Disaster Housing Planning Checklist and Guide, as well as a Federal Housing and Sheltering Resource Timeline and Compendium were developed during the initiative and are available for states, Tribal Nations and territories to begin maturing their pre-disaster housing strategies.
erika.suzuki Tue, 07/09/2024 - 19:34Pages
