FEMA Urges Residents to Take Precautions from Heat and Use Generators Safely as Texans Begin Cleanup from Hurricane Beryl

WASHINGTON -- Residents of Texas recovering from Hurricane Beryl should take precautions as they assess their damage and begin to clean up. With millions of people still without power, residents should be aware of the dangers of extreme heat. As the storm continues to move northeast across the Midwest, those in Beryl’s path should remain vigilant and listen to their local officials.

If you are in Texas and your home does not have power or air conditioning, cooling options are being set up across the state. Visit www.211texas.org and search under “Extreme Heat Cooling Centers” to find community cooling options near you.

Beryl remains a strong storm with the potential for flooding -- it is important to not underestimate the storm as it heads northeast. Residents in the states along its path should have a plan, check on family members and be aware of potential risks, including flash floods, river flooding and tornadoes.

FEMA, our federal partners and non-profit organizations are on the ground, ready to help the state of Texas and other states in Beryl’s path with emergency needs that may arise.

Millions of Texans remain without power, which may add additional stress to an already difficult situation. Residents should follow these tips to stay safe during a power outage and extreme heat temperatures:

Residents Should Take Heat Safety Precautions 

• Understand the risk of extreme heat. Extreme heat is present across many parts of the U.S. right now, including Texas. With power outages continuing after the storm and high temperatures forecasted, residents should take steps to stay safe:  
  • Check on family members and neighbors.
  • Drink fluids regularly to avoid getting dehydrated and overheated. 
  • Watch for heat illness.
  • Avoid high-energy activities or work outdoors during mid-day heat, if possible.
  • Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
  • Never leave people or pets in a closed car.

Residents Should Know How to Use Generators Safely 

• Use generators safely. Generators can be helpful when the power goes out. It is important to know how to use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards. Generators and fuel should always be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows, doors and attached garages. 

Residents Should Continue to Take Other Precautions 

• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. A refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours and a full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours.
• Disconnect appliances and electronics. Turn off or disconnect appliances, equipment or electronics. Power may return with momentary surges or spikes that can cause damage. 
• Stay off the roads. Emergency workers may be assisting people in flooded areas or cleaning up debris. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.  
• Stay away from floodwaters. The water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage. It may also include dangerous wildlife. If your basement flooded, never attempt to turn off power or operate circuit breakers while standing in water. Wear gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself.  
• Avoid downed power or utility lines. Consider all downed lines live with deadly voltage. Stay away and report them immediately to your power or utility company. 

Residents in Texas who sustained damage caused by the tropical weather are encouraged to report damage through the Individual State of Texas Assessment Tool (iSTAT).

Visit Ready.gov and Listo.gov for additional tips on staying safe before, during and after a storm.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 07/09/2024 - 17:25

How To Appeal FEMA’s Decision

FRANKFORT, Ky. – If you receive a letter from FEMA saying you are ineligible for assistance, you can appeal the decision and provide more information. It is possibly something as simple as missing documentation or information.

Please read the FEMA letter carefully and entirely. If you are found eligible for assistance, the letter will explain the amount of assistance FEMA approved and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds. If you are found ineligible, the letter will explain the reasons. 

If you disagree with any decisions from FEMA, you may appeal. 

The Appeal Process

It is important to include documentation to support your reason for appeal. Provide any documents FEMA has requested, such as documents from your insurance company and documents that prove occupancy or ownership. 

Be sure to write your FEMA application number and the disaster number (DR-4782-KY) on each page of your appeal to FEMA and on any documents that are submitted. FEMA receives numerous documents with every appeal; writing your application number on each page submitted helps to organize your case.

Mail your appeal within 60 days from the date on your FEMA decision letter to: 

• FEMA - Individuals & Households Program National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

You can also upload your appeal documentation to your account on DisasterAssistance.gov, or fax to 
800-827-8112.

If you are unable to send an appeal yourself, ask someone to do it for you. It could be someone in your household, a friend or an attorney. You will need to provide FEMA with a statement signed by you that the person is authorized to appeal on your behalf.

For additional information about FEMA’s appeal process or about authorizing a third party to act on your behalf call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to midnight ET. Assistance is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. You can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center; to find the nearest center, go to: fema.gov/drc. The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Monday, July 22, 2024.

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 Tue, 07/09/2024 - 17:18

FEMA Can Help With Vehicle Loss

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans who lost their underinsured vehicles because of the April and May storms and tornadoes may be able to repair or replace them with FEMA’s help. Unlike most other forms of disaster assistance, you don’t need to live in the declared counties to be eligible.

FEMA provides Transportation Assistance funds for vehicles with serious safety or operational issues. Vehicles with only cosmetic damage are not eligible. Transportation Assistance is meant to help applicants with one vehicle for the household, unless you provide written justification showing why more than one vehicle is necessary for daily use.

Repairs for a minimum of $50 and a maximum of $3,000 may be authorized with receipts. Up to $16,000 is available with documentation if the vehicle is destroyed. To be eligible, the vehicle must:

• Be owned or leased (but not a rental) by the applicant or co-applicant
• Have been registered with the state at the time of the disaster
• Meet minimum state requirements for liability insurance
• Be verified as having sustained damage in one of the declared counties during the disaster
• Be an approved vehicle type, such as a car, truck, SUV or van

You may be asked to provide documentation of the vehicle’s verifiable damage. If your vehicles was destroyed, include one of the following:

• Proof from insurance company that the vehicle was a total loss
• Document that verifies the vehicle’s title, such as a Salvage Title, Certificate of Destruction or Junk Title
• Statement on official paper from the Public Works Department confirming your vehicle was destroyed and removed from the public right-of-way
• Statement from a local official

In order to apply for Transportation Assistance or other types of disaster assistance, those affected by the storms in Blaine, Caddo, Carter, Craig, Custer, Delaware, Hughes, Jackson, Johnston, Kay, Lincoln, Love, Mayes, McClain, Murray, Muskogee, Nowata, Okfuskee, Okmulgee, Osage, Ottawa, Pontotoc, Pottawatomie, Rogers, Washington and Washita counties can apply for FEMA assistance. The application process is simple, and there are four options:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at (800) 621-3362. There are multilingual operators ready to help.
• Use the FEMA App.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center – for locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.

For the latest information about Oklahoma’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4776. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.

martyce.allenjr Tue, 07/09/2024 - 16:20

Understanding Your FEMA Letter

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– If you applied for assistance from FEMA after the May 10 severe storms and tornadoes you will receive an eligibility letter from FEMA in the mail or by email.

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

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

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

If you have questions about your letter, or disagree with the initial decision, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 to find out what information FEMA needs.

How to Appeal

The letter from FEMA will provide information on the types of documents or information that FEMA needs. It will also include an optional appeal form that you can use. Your appeal must be submitted within 60 days of the date of your decision letter.

You can submit your appeal and supporting documentation:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov, where you can create an account and upload documents
• In-person at a Disaster Recovery Center
• By mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville MD 20782-7055
• By fax: 800-827-8112 Attention: FEMA 

Stay in Touch with FEMA

If you applied for FEMA assistance, ensure that FEMA has your current contact information. FEMA may need to contact you for additional information. If your contact information has changed, you should update your FEMA application immediately. You can do so online at your DisasterAssistance.gov account or call 800-621-3362.

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.

sandra.habib Tue, 07/09/2024 - 16:18

FEMA Can Help With Vehicle Loss

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans who lost their underinsured vehicles because of the April and May storms and tornadoes may be able to repair or replace them with FEMA’s help. Unlike most other forms of disaster assistance, you don’t need to live in the declared counties to be eligible.

FEMA provides Transportation Assistance funds for vehicles with serious safety or operational issues. Vehicles with only cosmetic damage are not eligible. Transportation Assistance is meant to help applicants with one vehicle for the household, unless you provide written justification showing why more than one vehicle is necessary for daily use.

Repairs for a minimum of $50 and a maximum of $3,000 may be authorized with receipts. Up to $16,000 is available with documentation if the vehicle is destroyed. To be eligible, the vehicle must:

• Be owned or leased (but not a rental) by the applicant or co-applicant
• Have been registered with the state at the time of the disaster
• Meet minimum state requirements for liability insurance
• Be verified as having sustained damage in one of the declared counties during the disaster
• Be an approved vehicle type, such as a car, truck, SUV or van

You may be asked to provide documentation of the vehicle’s verifiable damage. If your vehicles was destroyed, include one of the following:

• Proof from insurance company that the vehicle was a total loss
• Document that verifies the vehicle’s title, such as a Salvage Title, Certificate of Destruction or Junk Title
• Statement on official paper from the Public Works Department confirming your vehicle was destroyed and removed from the public right-of-way
• Statement from a local official

In order to apply for Transportation Assistance or other types of disaster assistance, those affected by the storms in Blaine, Caddo, Carter, Craig, Custer, Delaware, Hughes, Jackson, Johnston, Kay, Lincoln, Love, Mayes, McClain, Murray, Muskogee, Nowata, Okfuskee, Okmulgee, Osage, Ottawa, Pontotoc, Pottawatomie, Rogers, Washington and Washita counties can apply for FEMA assistance. The application process is simple, and there are four options:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at (800) 621-3362. There are multilingual operators ready to help.
• Use the FEMA App.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center – for locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.

For the latest information about Oklahoma’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4776. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.

martyce.allenjr Tue, 07/09/2024 - 16:10

FEMA Staff Heading to Your Neighborhood

News Release

FEMA Staff Heading to Your Neighborhood

CHARLESTON, W.Va. -- FEMA teams will be out this week to provide assistance to those affected by the April 11-12, 2024, storms. FEMA staff will be answering questions about applications for Individual Assistance as well as helping those who have not yet registered.

Residents of Hancock, Kanawha, Marshall, Ohio, Roane, Wetzel, and Wood counties are eligible to apply for assistance from FEMA to help with costs from damage and losses caused by the April 11-12, 2024, storms. Residents are urged to apply by Tuesday, Sept. 3, 2024.

The Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams help survivors in different ways, including conducting outreach in the impacted counties, helping survivors register for FEMA assistance in their communities, and checking the status of applications and making minor corrections to applications.

If you have already applied for assistance, FEMA has inspectors on the ground to follow up on applications and review reported damages.

Residents can also visit Disaster Recovery Centers to get help with disaster assistance applications, upload documents and get questions answered about federal disaster assistance. Visit the FEMA DRC Locator (fema.gov/drc) page for more details on open centers in West Virginia.

While FEMA staff will be making neighborhood visits, residents of the affected counties should also be aware of potential fraud and scams by people claiming to represent FEMA:

• FEMA representatives never charge a fee or ask for payment.
• You may receive phone calls or unexpected visits to your home from people claiming they work for FEMA. The person might ask for your Social Security number and income or banking information. FEMA representatives will have a laminated identification badge and, if you have already applied, your FEMA registration number.
• Protect the privacy of your nine-digit FEMA case/registration number. Legitimate FEMA representatives will only ask for the last four digits as part of the verification process; the inspector will complete the process by providing the applicant with the first four digits of the registration ID.

1. 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.

###

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 Tue, 07/09/2024 - 15:53

Greenup County Disaster Recovery Center Hours Change

FRANKFORT, Ky. — When looking for in-person help with FEMA applications, survivors of the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, should check the most up-to-date schedule to ensure a Disaster Recovery Center is open. The center in Greenup County is no longer open on Saturdays.

All five center locations will be operational Monday to Friday, 10 a.m.–7 p.m. ET.

• Boyd County: Boyd County Emergency Management Office, 12327 Anthony Drive, Ashland, KY 41102. 
• Carter County: Members Choice Credit Union, 438 Interstate Drive, Grayson, KY 41143.
• Fayette County: Emergency Operations Center, 115 Cisco Road, Lexington, KY 40504. 
• Greenup County: Greenup County Courthouse, 301 Main St., Greenup, KY 41114.
• Henry County: 4H Community Center, 1106 Castle Highway, Eminence, KY 40019.

Survivors in Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup, Henry, Jefferson, Jessamine, Mason, Oldham, Union and Whitley counties can apply for FEMA assistance at any of the Disaster Recovery Centers. FEMA representatives can help with applications for federal assistance and provide information about other disaster recovery resources. In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will be available to assist survivors.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in designated counties can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app to apply. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

For accessible information about how to register for FEMA disaster assistance, please watch this video 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 Tue, 07/09/2024 - 12:53

Disaster Recovery Centers Opening in Emmet and Lyon Counties

FEMA is opening Disaster Recovery Centers in Emmet and Lyon counties to provide one-on-one help to people affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding this spring.

Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain assistance programs and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications.

 

EMMET COUNTY

St. Patrick's Church – Gym

903 Central Ave.

Estherville,IA 51334

Open 1-6 p.m. July 9

Mondays – Sundays 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

LYON COUNTY

Forster Community Center

404 First Ave.

Rock Rapids, IA 51246

Open 1-6 p.m. July 10

Mondays – Sundays 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

FEMA funding is available to homeowners and renters in Buena Vista, Cherokee, Clay, Emmet, Lyon, O’Brien, Plymouth and Sioux counties who suffered damage from the flooding and storms on June 16 and continuing.

To save time, apply online or by phone before visiting a Disaster Recovery Center by:

• Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov
• Calling FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Using the FEMA app

Anyone using a relay service, such as a video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI

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. Press 2 for Spanish.

thomas.wise Mon, 07/08/2024 - 22:24

2 Weeks Remain for Kentuckians to Apply for FEMA Assistance After April 2 Storms

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Homeowners and renters in Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup, Henry, Jefferson, Jessamine, Mason, Oldham, Union and Whitley counties who have loss and damage caused by the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides have two weeks left to apply for federal disaster assistance. The deadline to apply is July 22. 

How to Apply for FEMA Individual Assistance

• Visit a FEMA Disaster Recovery Center. To find your nearest Disaster Recovery Center, visit fema.gov/drc.
• Call FEMA at 800-621-3362. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Use the FEMA mobile app.

In-Person Assistance Is Available at Disaster Recovery Centers 

• Boyd County: Boyd County Emergency Management Office, 12327 Anthony Drive, Ashland, KY 41102. 
• Carter County: Members Choice Credit Union, 438 Interstate Drive, Grayson, KY 41143.
• Fayette County: Emergency Operations Center, 115 Cisco Road, Lexington, KY 40504 
• Greenup County Courthouse, 301 Main St., Greenup, KY 41114.
• Henry County: 4H Community Center, 1106 Castle Highway, Eminence, KY 40019. 

The hours of operation at all DRCs are: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. ET, Monday to Friday. 

If eligible, FEMA disaster assistance may include financial assistance for temporary housing while survivors are unable to live in the primary home, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs; funds to homeowners to help repair or replace disaster caused damage or loss to their primary residence, including privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads, or bridges; and funds for disaster-caused expenses and serious needs, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicle, funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, childcare and other pre-approved miscellaneous items.

Applicants who wish to apply for disaster assistance should have the following information ready for their registration: Social Security number; pre-disaster address of the primary residence; name of all occupants of the pre-disaster household, types of insurance coverage; current telephone number and mailing address; bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of financial assistance, if eligible.

Survivors should keep their contact information updated with FEMA as the agency may need to call to schedule a home inspection or get additional information.

Disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and cannot compensate for all losses caused by a disaster. The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.

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 Mon, 07/08/2024 - 20:19

FEMA Assistance for Arkansans Tops $5 Million

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – In a little more than one month, more than 5,250 Arkansans have applied for assistance from FEMA following the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from May 24-27, 2024, and have been approved for more than $5 million to assist in their recovery.

To ensure all survivors in Baxter, Benton, Boone, Fulton, Greene, Madison, Marion and Randolph counties have time to apply for federal assistance, FEMA, at the request of the state, has extended the application deadline to Aug. 28.

FEMA assistance for individuals affected by the severe storms can help with rental assistance, temporary housing, home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance you can: visit a Disaster Recovery Center (to find an open center visit fema.gov/drc), call toll-free 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA App. The phone line is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. CT, and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Again, the deadline for applications is Aug. 28. 

If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call FEMA’s Civil Rights Resource Line: 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish). The line is open M-F 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4788. Follow the FEMA Region 6 X account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/. 

alexa.brown Mon, 07/08/2024 - 19:44

FEMA Urges Public to Stay on Alert, Stands Ready to Support Tropical Storm Beryl

WASHINGTON -- As the first major hurricane of the season sets the tone for heightened storm activity in the coming months, FEMA pre-positioned personnel on the ground in Texas to support state-led response efforts while Tropical Storm Beryl continues its path along the Texas coast and further inland.  

Prior to the hurricane’s landfall, FEMA staged commodities and critical supplies, including 500,000 meals and 800,000 liters of water, that are ready to distribute at the state’s request. FEMA also has 60 generators on-site to provide power to critical infrastructure, if needed. To ensure communication capabilities on the ground, FEMA has two Mobile Emergency Response Support vehicles prepared to support.  

People in the storm’s path are still encouraged to remain vigilant and listen to their local officials, as the storm continues to move inland. 

Federal and State Response Efforts 

FEMA has over 60 staff embedded with the state who stand ready to support response operations as needed. 

The U.S. Coast Guard is on standby with boats and aircraft to assist search and rescue activities as well as reconstitute ports as it becomes safe to do so. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has an Emergency Power Planning and Response Team on the ground to assist with any temporary emergency power needs to critical public facilities. 

The State of Texas currently has more than 2,000 responders and 850 assets rostered and deployed in support of the state’s response to anticipated impacts from the storm. The state continues to take action to provide all available resources to help support local communities in need. For more information, visit: Hurricane Beryl (texas.gov).   

Non-profit Partner Support  

The Salvation Army has mobilized an Emergency Disaster Services team focused on providing feeding, emotional and spiritual care and has 35,000 meals ready for storm survivors. In addition, the American Red Cross has deployed hundreds of trained disaster workers and truckloads of relief supplies, along with numerous emergency response vehicles, to impacted areas. Team Rubicon’s domestic teams have more than 16,000 local volunteers standing by. 

Stay Safe After Tropical Storm Beryl 

Residents and visitors affected by the storm should be aware of continued risks and should not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. 

Residents should continue to closely monitor the path of the storm and follow instructions from local officials.

• Stay off the roads. Emergency workers may be assisting people in flooded areas or cleaning up debris. People can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.  
• Don’t drive through flood waters. Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When driving, look out for flooding in low lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause people to lose control of their vehicle. 
• Do not walk or wade in flood waters. The water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage. It may also include dangerous wildlife. For flooded basements, people should never attempt to turn off power or operate circuit breakers while standing in water. Wear gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris alone.  
• Avoid downed power or utility lines. Consider all downed lines live with deadly voltage. Stay away and report them immediately to the power or utility company. 

As power outages continue to affect the area, FEMA urges residents and business owners to follow these tips to stay safe: 

• Use generators safely. Generators can be helpful when the power goes out. It is important to know how to use them safely to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning and other hazards. Only use them outdoors and away from windows. 
• Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. A refrigerator will keep food cold for about four hours and a full freezer will keep the temperature for about 48 hours. 
• Disconnect appliances and electronics. Turn off or disconnect appliances, equipment or electronics. Power may return with momentary surges or spikes that can cause damage.

For additional information on staying safe during and after disasters, visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov in Spanish language.

erika.suzuki Mon, 07/08/2024 - 19:36

Read Your FEMA Eligibility Letter Carefully

Residents of Lincoln and Otero counties and the Mescalero Apache Reservation who applied for federal disaster assistance from FEMA following the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding will receive a determination letter from FEMA by mail or email.  

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

If you disagree with the initial decision or the amount of assistance approved, you can appeal FEMA’s decision. You may only need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue processing the application. Examples of missing documentation may include: 

Proof of insurance coverage 

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

If you have questions about the letter, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to find out what information FEMA needs.  

FEMA assistance is not the same as insurance. FEMA assistance only provides funds for temporary lodging, basic home repairs or other disaster-related expenses. 

Appealing FEMA’s Decision 

The letter from FEMA will provide information on the types of documents or information that FEMA needs. It will also include an optional appeal form that you can use. Your appeal must be submitted within 60 days of the date of your decision letter.

You can submit your appeal and supporting documentation:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov, where you can create an account and upload documents.
• In-person at a Disaster Recovery Center. Search by state and select New Mexico. 
• By mail:
  FEMA Individuals & Households Program
  National Processing Service Center
  P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055
• By fax:
  (800) 827-8112
  Attention: FEMA - Individuals & Households Program

For an accessible video on the FEMA eligibility letter go to, FEMA Accessible: Understanding Your Letter - YouTube.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 07/08/2024 - 18:21

One Week Left to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance

Nebraskans have one week left to apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance. The deadline is July 15, 2024, at 11:59 p.m.

Nebraskans in Douglas and Washington counties affected by severe storms and tornadoes that occurred April 25-27 are eligible to apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance.

How to Apply with FEMA

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Download and use the FEMA app
• Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI

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. Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish).

thomas.wise Mon, 07/08/2024 - 16:42

Two Weeks Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance for April 2-6 Severe Storms in West Virginia

July 8, 2024

DR-4783-WV NR010

FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597

FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

News Release

Two Weeks Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance for April 2-6 Severe Storms in West Virginia

Charleston, W.Va. – Residents in Boone, Cabell, Fayette, Kanawha, Lincoln, Marshall, Nicholas, Ohio, Putnam, Wayne and Wetzel counties have two weeks left to apply for FEMA Assistance for damages sustained during the April 2-6, 2023, severe storms. The deadline to apply is July 22, 2024.

FEMA assistance for individuals and families affected by the flooding can cover home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.

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

July 22, 2024, is also the final deadline to apply for a U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loan. Applicants can apply online at sba.gov/disaster, call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay service.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4783, and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

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

issa.mansaray Mon, 07/08/2024 - 15:10

FEMA 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 for communities around the North Anna Power Station. The exercise will occur during the week of July 15, 2024, to 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 within the Commonwealth of Virginia.”

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 10:00 a.m. on July 19, 2024.  The meeting will be conducted at the Courtyard Marriott Fredericksburg Historic District, 620 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401. Planned speakers include representatives from FEMA and the NRC. 

 

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 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, that is, state and local government emergency planning and preparedness activities that take place beyond the nuclear power plant boundaries. Onsite activities 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. 

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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

amanda.hancher Mon, 07/08/2024 - 14:55

Disaster Recovery Centers in Kentucky Announce New Schedule

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Before visiting a Disaster Recovery Center in Kentucky, survivors should check the most up-to-date schedule to ensure the center is open. Starting Saturday, July 6, the center in Greenup County will remain open from Monday to Saturday, and the other four centers will be open from Monday to Friday. 

Disaster Recovery Center in Greenup County, Open Monday-Saturday:

• Greenup County: Greenup County Courthouse, 301 Main St., Greenup, KY 41114.

Disaster Recovery Centers in Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Henry Counties, Open Monday-Friday:

• Boyd County: Boyd County Emergency Management Office, 12327 Anthony Drive, Ashland, KY 41102. 
• Carter County: Members Choice Credit Union, 438 Interstate Drive, Grayson, KY 41143.
• Fayette County: Emergency Operations Center, 115 Cisco Road, Lexington, KY 40504. 
• Henry County: 4H Community Center, 1106 Castle Highway, Eminence, KY 40019. 

The hours of operation at all DRCs will remain the same: Monday to Friday: 10 a.m.–7 p.m. ET. The Greenup County DRC will also be open on Saturdays 9 a.m.–6 p.m. ET.

Survivors in Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup, Henry, Jefferson, Jessamine, Mason, Oldham, Union and Whitley counties can apply for FEMA assistance at any of the Disaster Recovery Centers. FEMA representatives can help with applications for federal assistance and provide information about other disaster recovery resources. In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will be available to assist survivors.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses.

It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in designated counties can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app to apply. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. 

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 Mon, 07/08/2024 - 13:27

FEMA Approves Funds for Tourism Lodgings in Puerto Rico

Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO ― The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allocated over $4.3 million for repairs to recreational and tourism projects, including the Punta Maracayo Camping area in Hatillo and the Villas de Añasco resort.

“These accommodations, as an alternative to traditional inns, serve a tourism focused on developing a connection with nature. Our agency is aware of how important it is to support projects that contribute to diverse offerings for Puerto Rico’s social and economic development, while encouraging to value our coasts and natural resources,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

The Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) has over $4 million from FEMA for Villas de Añasco. The light poles and part of the infrastructure for electricity and water services will be replaced. There will also be repairs to the administrative offices, the concession stand, the lifeguard area, the convention center, the cabins, the swimming pools and the camping site.

Additionally, hurricane resistant roofs and panels will be installed to strengthen the structures against weather events. Mitigation measures for this project include storm shutters for doors and windows, structure reinforcement with hurricane resistant fasteners and the replacement of acoustic ceiling waterproof tiles in the convention center to prevent mold from water infiltration. 

Meanwhile, the Punta Maracayo Camping area, open to the public seven days a week for around 30 years, has two FEMA projects under the municipality of Hatillo. The attraction includes a water park with waterfalls and pools, huts near the Sardinera beach and an open area with water and power service so that trailers can park. 

Punta Maracayo is a municipality enterprise that is supported by its own income. In fact, it is one of the main attractions of Hatillo, according to the municipality’s Planning manager, Dermaly Toledo. Summer season is usually the peak period and everything is usually booked. Punta Maracayo has 16 villas and its main attractions include a restaurant and the recreational area.

FEMA allocated over $332,000 for work such as replacing roofs, air conditioners and kitchen cabinets, as well as painting certain areas of the facilities. Hazard mitigation measures include fasteners to strengthen roofs and other measures to protect structures from damage due to strong winds. 

The agency also allocated over $20,000 to replace the contents of the Punta Maracayo hotel facilities: tables, beds, kitchen appliances and televisions, among other equipment.

The executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that "these resorts have a special meaning for Puerto Ricans who traditionally used to enjoy family vacations in these accommodations. Now, thanks to FEMA's contribution, they will be rebuilt by implementing mitigation measures to make the infrastructure resilient and prevent further damage in the event of other natural disasters, so that future generations can continue to enjoy these recreational spaces.”

To date, FEMA has allocated over $33.9 billion for over 11,000 projects that will address Puerto Rico’s recovery following Hurricane María. 

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.

Punta Maracayo Camping area, Hatillo, Puerto Rico

HATILLO, Puerto Rico – The Punta Maracayo Camping area, open to the public seven days a week for around 30 years, has two FEMA projects under the municipality of Hatillo. The attraction includes a water park with waterfalls and pools, huts near the Sardinera beach and an open area with water and power service so that trailers can park. Photo from the Municipality of Hatillo

 

 

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 07/08/2024 - 12:19

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Utah’s Silver King Fire

DENVER – Sunday evening, FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Silver King Fire burning in Piute County Utah, near Marysvale.

FEMA Region 8 Administrator Nancy Dragani approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request this evening and determining that the fire threatened such destruction that it would constitute a major disaster.

At the time of the request, the Silver King Fire was threatening nearly 300 homes in Marysvale. The fire started July 5 and has burned more than 5,400 acres to date with zero containment.

The 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. It is a reimbursable program. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.

Fire Management Assistance Grants 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. 

When there is an FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire 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.

For more information on FMAGs, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.

Brian.Hvinden Mon, 07/08/2024 - 01:22

FEMA Inspecting Homes After New Mexico Wildfires and Flooding

After New Mexico residents apply for FEMA assistance, a home inspection may be necessary to help determine whether the home is safe, sanitary, and livable.

The inspectors will call or text applicants to arrange to meet at the home. They will leave messages and/or texts on the phone number listed on the FEMA application. These communications may come from an unfamiliar phone number, and it is important that applicants respond so their application can be processed.

To speed up the inspection process, applicants should:

• Ensure their home or mailbox number is clearly visible from the road.
• Keep their appointment or notify the inspector if a postponement is necessary.
• Authorize another adult to act as their agent and be present on their behalf during the inspection if they have evacuated and cannot return for the inspection.
• Be reachable, and update FEMA if you contact information has changed. 
• Tell the inspector about other property losses or disaster-related needs such as transportation, medical or dental care or tools needed for a trade and educational materials so inspectors can relay the information to FEMA.

Inspectors try a minimum of three times to contact the applicant, calling at different times on different days.

The inspectors do not make any decisions regarding eligibility for assistance. Information gathered during the inspection is only one of several criteria used by FEMA to determine if applicants are eligible for federal assistance. 

The housing inspector will consider:

• The structural soundness of the home, both inside and outside.
• Whether the electrical, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer/septic systems are all in working order.
• Whether the home is safe to live in and can be entered and exited safely.

All FEMA representatives have official identification. Housing inspectors will make an appointment with the applicant before coming. They will already have the applicant’s FEMA application number. They carry photo identification and will show it to the applicant. For security reasons, federal identification may not be photographed. Inspectors will never ask for, or accept, money. Their service is free. 

Residents should not be concerned if an inspector is seen in their neighborhood but does not visit every home. They are following schedules and can only visit houses on that day’s list.

A typical home inspection takes about 45 minutes to complete. After the inspection, applicants should allow seven to 10 days for processing. If they have questions about the status of their application, they can call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. 

kwei.nwaogu Sat, 07/06/2024 - 17:39

Stay in Touch, West Virginia – Update Information with FEMA to Avoid Delays

News Release

Stay in Touch, West Virginia – Update Information with FEMA to Avoid Delays

CHARLESTON, W.VA. – West Virginians affected by the April 2-6 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides in Boone, Cabell, Fayette, Kanawha, Lincoln, Marshall, Nicholas, Ohio, Putnam, Wayne and Wetzel counties should stay in touch with FEMA to ensure their disaster assistance process stays on track. 

If you applied for assistance and have yet to hear back from FEMA, you should call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to ask about the status of your application. Your application could be missing information, and that may prevent your application from being completed. 

You should also update any changed contact information as soon as possible, because FEMA may need to reach you to update your application or to get additional information. 

You may update contact information the following ways:

• Going online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Downloading the FEMA app
• Calling 800-621-3362 
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center

Those who use a relay service such as a videophone should alert FEMA as to the specific number assigned to that service. Multilingual operators are also available (press 2 for Spanish).

Residents who have not applied for federal assistance can still submit an application. The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting disasterassistance.gov/. You can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to speak with FEMA specialists face to face. To find the nearest DRC to you, visit DRC Locator (egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator)

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4783, and www.facebook.com/FEMA. 

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

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

issa.mansaray Sat, 07/06/2024 - 15:43