Disaster Recovery Center in St. Albans is Relocating to Dunbar, WV

July 3, 2024

DR-4783-WV-MA-031

FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597

FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Disaster Recovery Center in St. Albans is Relocating to Dunbar, WV

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– A state-federal Disaster Recovery Center at the Hansford Senior Community Center in St. Albans, WV, is closing today, July 3, 2024, at 4 p.m.

The center is located at:

Kanawha County

   Hansford Senior Community Center

   500 Washington St.

   St. Albans, WV 25177

Hours of operation:

Closing July 3, 2024, at 4 p.m.

Another DRC will be opening at the Recreation Center located at 2601 Fairlawn Ave Dunbar, WV 25064, on July 5, 2024. It will remain open until July 13, 2024, at 6 p.m.

The center is located at:

Kanawha County

Recreation Center

2601 Fairlawn Ave

Dunbar, WV 25064

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

July 5 through July 13, 2024

The Disaster Recovery Centers will be opening on a rotating basis at three locations, including Tyler Mountain, St. Albans, and Dunbar for the next few weeks. 

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.

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).

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. 

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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 Wed, 07/03/2024 - 14:52

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Thompson Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on July 2 at 7:13 p.m. PDT / 10:13 p.m. EDT to assist the state of California to combat the Thompson Fire burning in Butte County.

On July 2, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 3,680 homes in and around Oroville, CA, population 21,000. 100% of the threatened homes are primary residences.

The fire started on July 2, 2024, had burned more than 2,135 acres of State and private land and was 0% contained. There are five 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.

brandi.richard… Wed, 07/03/2024 - 14:24

Two weeks Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance

FRAMINGHAM, MA – The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance for Massachusetts residents affected by the severe storms and flooding that took place Sept. 11-13, 2023 is July 15. 

Homeowners and renters in Bristol and Worcester counties with uninsured losses from the storms and flooding may be eligible for financial assistance for temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured disaster-related expenses. Nearly $ 6 million has been approved to date for 938 households.

Those affected by the disaster can apply for FEMA assistance by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA App or calling 1-800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or another relay service, give FEMA your number for that service when you call. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 12. a.m. seven days a week. 

Those who would like to speak with someone in person can visit a Disaster Recovery Center at the following locations:

• Bristol Community College, 11 Field Road in Attleboro, Will cease operations on July 3 at 3 p.m. 
• Leominster City Hall at 25 West Street. Will remain open until further notice.
• DRC Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday

Centers are accessible to people with disabilities or who may not speak English well or need American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation services. The facilities are equipped with assistive technology equipment, including Video Remote Interpreting, large print or braille material and amplified listening systems. 

If you need a reasonable accommodation, sign language interpreter, or translation or interpreter assistance, please let a FEMA specialist at the center know. If a disaster survivor cannot travel to the DRC, FEMA will arrange a home visit.

For the latest information visit 4780 | FEMA.gov. Follow FEMA on Twitter (X) at twitter.com/femaregion1 and at facebook.com/fema.

For updates on Massachusetts response and recovery operations, follow the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency on Twitter (X) MEMA (@MassEMA) / X and Facebook Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) | Facebook or visit Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency | Mass.gov.

barbara.murien… Wed, 07/03/2024 - 13:51

FEMA Is Hiring in Texas

AUSTIN -- Come work for FEMA and help your community recover from the Texas storms and flooding April 26-June 5. 

FEMA is seeking people with experience in environmental protection, engineering, communications, geospatial information systems, hazardous materials, planning and other occupations. These positions may last up to 120 days or longer, depending on the operational needs of the disaster.

FEMA Local Hire employees are eligible for the following benefits:

• Health insurance for individual or family coverage. Employer contribution is 75% of premium. Local Hire employees are eligible for enrollment in health insurance coverage as of the official hire date/employment date with FEMA.
• Flexible spending accounts
• Federal long-term care insurance
• Ability to earn 4 hours of paid sick leave per pay period.
• Holiday pay
• Worker’s compensation

Applicants must be U.S. citizens, 18 years of age or older, and must possess a high school diploma or GED. Individuals will be required to pass a background investigation that includes fingerprinting and credit check, be able to provide their own transportation to and from work and live within 50 miles of the employing office. Employees are also required to participate in mandatory direct deposit/electronic funds transfer for salary payment.

How to apply: USAJobs.gov has a detailed description of open positions at Local Hires-TX.

As the disaster operational needs shift, new positions will be posted on USAJobs. Candidates can be notified when FEMA Local Hire positions post. For instructions on how to save a job search, please visit: USAJOBS Help Center | How to save a search. 

For more information, 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 Wed, 07/03/2024 - 13:35

West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers Will Close July 4th for Federal Holiday

Media Advisory

West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers Will Close July 4th for Federal Holiday

CHARLESTON, W.Va – The Disaster Recovery Centers in West Virginia will be closed July 4, 2024, for the federal holiday.  The centers will reopen on July 5, 2024, at 8 a.m., to help West Virginia residents affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and floods that occurred April 2-6, 2024. 

Kanawha County

Recreation Center

2601 Fairlawn Ave

Dunbar, WV 25064

Hours of operation: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

*Closed July 4, 2024. Reopening July 5, 2024, at 8 a.m.*

Nicholas County

Nicholas County OES

449 Water Street, 

Summersville, WV

Hours of operation: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

*Closed July 4, 2024. Reopening July 5, 2024, at 8 a.m.*

 Wayne County

Wayne County Office of Emergency Services

1 Hendricks Street, 

Wayne, WV 25570

Hours of operation: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

*Closed July 4, 2024. Reopening July 5, 2024, at 8 a.m.*

Survivors can continue to call FEMA for assistance at 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. 

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

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 Tue, 07/02/2024 - 21:04

Disaster Recovery Center in Fayette County, WV Closing

July 2, 2024

DR-4783-WV-MA-029

FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597

FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Disaster Recovery Center in Fayette County, WV Closing

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– A state-federal Disaster Recovery Center at the Memorial Building in Fayetteville is closing permanently tomorrow, July 3, 2024, at 6 p.m.

The center is located at:

Fayette County

Memorial Building

200 West Maple Ave, 

Fayetteville, WV 25840

Hours of operation:

Closing July 3, 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. 

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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 Tue, 07/02/2024 - 20:57

Celebrate Safely: Four Safety Tips for the Fourth of July Holiday

BOTHELL, Wash. – With extreme heat events on the rise across the country this summer, FEMA reminds everyone to prioritize safety while making holiday and summer plans. You should exercise caution for any outdoor events and celebrations involving fireworks, grilling, or campfires, because these popular summer activities can also pose a fire hazard.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, fireworks cause an estimated 31,302 reported fires in the United States each year. Furthermore, with extreme heat serving as the leading weather-related cause of death, any outdoor summer gathering can become deadly. 

During wildfire season, it is important that residents proactively plan and prepare for the holiday and summer weather. FEMA encourages you to follow a few tips to stay safe: 

• Leave the work to the professionals and enjoy the show! Attend a public display of fireworks in your community to reduce the risk of injury. If you decide to use consumer fireworks, follow local regulations. Thousands of individuals are injured by fireworks each year on the Fourth of July – and children and teens are more likely to be among this group. Educate young ones on fireworks safety ahead of the holiday and ensure there is always adequate adult supervision during festivities.
• Location, location, location. Map out and plan your outdoor adventures and gatherings by prioritizing safety. Build campfires at least 25 feet away from tents, shrubs, or anything that can burn. Place your barbecue grill away from any overhanging branches, eaves, siding, or deck railings. Follow grilling fire safety guidelines and maintain a 3 feet safety zone around the grill to keep children and pets safe.
• Know the signs of heat-related illnesses. Monitor the weather and take extra precautions during extreme heat-related events. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. Become familiar with the signs of heat-related illnesses and practice caution when temperatures rise above 90 degrees Fahrenheit. 
• Stay hydrated and seek shade. Drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Seek shade to take breaks and cool down while having fun in the sun.

Visit ready.gov for additional tips on how to beat the heat and practice fire safety. FEMA wishes you a happy and safe Fourth of July and summer.

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Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

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

mary.j.edmon Tue, 07/02/2024 - 19:54

30 Days Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahomans affected by the April 25-May 9 storms and tornadoes have until July 31 to apply for FEMA assistance.

This July 31 deadline is for residents of Carter, Craig, Hughes, Johnston, Kay, Lincoln, Love, McClain, Murray, Nowata, Okfuskee, Okmulgee, Osage, Ottawa, Pontotoc, Pottawatomie, Washington and Washita counties.

If you were affected by the storms, you should apply as soon as possible. FEMA may be able to help with transitional sheltering, rent, home repairs and other disaster-related needs – and the faster you apply, the sooner you can get aid.

There are four ways to apply:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
• Download the FEMA App.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, visit fema.gov/drc.

To watch a video about how to apply, featuring American Sign Language, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance (youtube.com).

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, 07/02/2024 - 19:42

Three Weeks Remain to Apply for FEMA Assistance After April 2 Storms in Kentucky

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 three 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.
• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Use the FEMA mobile app.

Visit a Disaster Recovery Center 

The following disaster recovery centers are open in Kentucky. 

• 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. 
• Union County: Senior Citizens Building, 225 North Richards Lane, Morganfield, KY 42437. (This DRC will be permanently closing at 7 p.m. CT, July 2.)

The Disaster Recovery Centers are open 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday through Friday; 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday; and closed Sunday. For Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup, Henry and Jessamine counties, the hours are in Eastern Time; and for Union County, in Central Time.

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, child care 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 Tue, 07/02/2024 - 18:58

Transitional Sheltering Assistance Available for New Mexico Residents

FEMA has activated Transitional Sheltering Assistance (TSA) for eligible households with a disaster-damaged home in Lincoln County, Otero County and the Mescalero Apache Reservation.

Residents in these impacted areas who have applied for disaster assistance may be eligible to stay temporarily in a hotel or motel paid for by FEMA. Applicants do not need to request this assistance but must apply to FEMA to determine their eligibility. FEMA will notify them of their eligibility through an automated phone call, text message, and/or email, depending upon the method of communication they selected at the time of application for disaster assistance.

Applicants may be eligible if they cannot return to their disaster-damaged home and their housing needs cannot be met by insurance, shelters or rental assistance provided by FEMA or another agency.

Under the TSA program, FEMA pays the cost of room, taxes and non-refundable pet fees directly to participating hotels and motels. Pet fees will only be paid up to the approved limit of assistance for individual rooms. Residents are responsible for all other costs, including laundry, restaurant/room service, parking, telephone, or movie rental. 

TSA is available for eligible residents at participating properties in the State of New Mexico and El Paso County in the State of Texas. FEMA will conduct regular reviews of registrants’ eligibility for continued TSA. When their eligibility ends, residents will be given seven days’ notice by FEMA prior to their checkout date. Registrants who meet the conditions of continued eligibility may remain in TSA through the next eligibility period.

Applicants must find a hotel by visiting femaemergencyhotels.com/ and entering their FEMA registration number. 

TSA participants may also be eligible for other FEMA financial help, including Displacement Assistance, Rental Assistance, Home Repair Assistance and other aspects of the Individual Assistance program.

Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance

To be eligible for any FEMA Individual Assistance program, you must apply to FEMA. There are four ways to apply:

• Go online to disasterassistance.gov/. 
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products. 
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center near you. For location and hours, go online to fema.gov/drc.

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

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 07/02/2024 - 15:16

Public Service Announcements and Other Video Resources Available in West Virginia

July 2, 2024

DR-4783-WV-MA-028

FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597

FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Public Service Announcements and Other Video Resources Available in West Virginia

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– FEMA has developed three Public Service Announcements (PSAs) to share information with survivors of the April 2-6 severe weather that impacted individuals in Boone, Cabell, Fayette, Kanawha, Lincoln, Marshall, Nicholas, Ohio, Putnam, Wayne and Wetzel counties. 

The PSAs and associated b-roll are video resources that are broadcast ready and available for use until July 22, 2024. 

The PSAs can be accessed at:

• https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ID_YS60DQVesftZebVtDdFWTUdGaMFC8?usp=drive_link

Additional resources and information can be found at:

• 4783 | FEMA.gov

Individuals 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 can apply for assistance from FEMA. The Individual Assistance registration deadline is July 22, 2024. 

PSA messages include:

• Residents who sustained storm-related property damage should register with FEMA. To do so, survivors can:
  • Visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
  • Download the FEMA App. 
  • Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
  • In-person assistance will be available soon for survivors at Disaster Recovery Centers and in neighborhoods visited by Disaster Survivor Assistance teams.
• Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.
• West Virginia residents can also visit a disaster recovery center for help with their applications. Visiting a DRC to apply for assistance takes about 15 minutes. Specialists at the DRCs can also help with uploading documents, answering questions about letters or messages you may have received from FEMA, and providing you with status updates.
• After a disaster, scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals often attempt to take advantage of disaster survivors. Survivors may be contacted by scam artists posing as disaster workers who are seeking money for services. Federal, state, and local disaster workers do not solicit or accept money and they will always have an official laminated photo id badge.
• Scams can take different forms including phone calls, texts, mail or email, websites, or in person.  Report any suspicious activity by calling the FEMA disaster fraud hotline at (866)-720-5721.

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 Tue, 07/02/2024 - 14:57

Disaster Recovery Center in Union County to Close, 5 Disaster Recovery Centers Remain Open

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Among the six Disaster Recovery Centers in Kentucky, the one in Union County will permanently close at 7 p.m., July 2.  All other Disaster Recovery Centers will remain open to help survivors of the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides.

Currently all Disaster Recovery Centers are open 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Monday through Friday; 9 a.m.– 6 p.m., Saturday. 

Disaster Recovery Centers in Kentucky:

• 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. 
• Union County: Senior Citizens Building, 225 North Richards Lane, Morganfield, KY 42437. (Permanently closing at 7 p.m., July 2.)

For Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup and Henry counties, the hours are in Eastern Time; and for Union County, in Central Time.

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. The application deadline is July 22, 2024. 

FEMA representatives can help with applications for federal assistance and provide information about other disaster recovery resources. 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. In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration will be available to assist survivors.

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 7 a.m.–midnight daily 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 Tue, 07/02/2024 - 12:38

President Biden Announces $1 Billion in Project Selections to Make Communities More Resilient to Climate Change and Natural Hazards Through His Investing in America Agenda

Funding Boosted from President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda Will Support 656 Resilience Projects Nationwide

WASHINGTON -- President Joseph R. Biden, Jr., Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell today announced the 656 project selections for $1 billion in climate resilience funding as part of his Investing in America agenda. The selections through the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program will help state, Tribal, local and territorial governments address current and future risks from natural disasters including extreme heat, wildfires, drought, hurricanes, earthquakes and increased flooding. 

“Every American community faces risks from extreme weather, and the DHS workforce and our partners across the Administration will always be there for communities in their time of need,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “Investing in preparedness and resilience today can help keep our country safe tomorrow. Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program grants are a lifeline for communities across the country, funding projects big and small -- from major flood mitigation projects to shaded bus shelters. The impact of these projects will ultimately be measured in lives saved and disasters averted.”

“We’ve already seen an unprecedented level of extreme weather events this season, and with more expected on the way, we’re encouraged to see increased interest in communities applying for FEMA’s BRIC program,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Thanks to extra funding from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, FEMA is now better situated to help communities, especially those that are disadvantaged and disproportionately impacted by climate change, invest in resilience. FEMA will remain focused on getting these critical infrastructure dollars to the communities that need it the most.”

This effort highlights the importance of FEMA’s continued commitment to putting “people first” and helping communities, families, and businesses build climate resilience. It also aligns with the 2024 FEMA Year of Resilience theme to build capacity to withstand tomorrow’s hazards.

To strengthen America’s climate resilience, President Biden secured more than $50 billion for climate resilience and adaptation through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act and established a National Climate Resilience Framework, which is advancing locally tailored, community-driven climate resilience strategies. President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law contributed approximately $398 million to today’s announcement. Overall, the President’s Investing in America agenda provides FEMA nearly $7 billion to help communities proactively reduce their vulnerability to climate-fueled events and natural hazards. 

Of the approximately $674 million in 56 national competition selections, more than half of the selections use nature-based solutions and other natural ways to combat climate change, restore and protect wetlands and to harness nature to enhance climate resilience. FEMA announced this funding opportunity in October 2023 alongside an $800 million Flood Mitigation Assistance opportunity. Selections for Flood Mitigation Assistance will be made later this year.

This year’s selections cover a variety of natural hazards, including extreme heat, flooding and earthquakes. The top three funded project types are:

• Flood control for $395 million across 28 projects, designed to eliminate or reduce flood damage; 
• Utility and infrastructure protection for $237 million across 30 projects, like elevating pumping stations, enhancing power poles, strengthening water towers and floodproofing utility plants;
• Building code-related projects for $55 million across 129 projects for enforcement and adoption of more modern, hazard-resistant building codes. This is the greatest number of projects FEMA has ever selected for building code-related activities in a grant cycle. These funds were reserved as a non-competitive set-aside for states, Tribes and territories, resulting in a 180% increase in requests for adoption and enforcement funding.

Below is a sample of selections from across the nation of projects that cover these hazards. The full list of selections can be found at FEMA.gov:

• The Eastwick Near-Term Flood Barrier Project, led by the Philadelphia Office of Sustainability, will boost resilience by mitigating flood risks in Eastwick. Eastwick, a previous recipient of non-financial BRIC technical assistance, is vulnerable to a number of flooding sources.
• Shaded bus shelters in Washington, D.C. will mitigate the effects of extreme heat. The project will install 20 shaded bus stops in urban heat islands to ensure bus users can access this essential community service during extreme heat days. By targeting public transit, the project will safeguard residents as they commute to work, run errands, fulfill other daily obligations and help to protect historically low-income communities from the effects of extreme heat.
• The East Elmhurst Cloudburst project in New York City will use innovative control measures to manage extreme stormwater events and reduce local flooding. These include porous concrete parking and bike lanes, as well as green infrastructure and on-site storage.
• The Magalia Dam retrofit project in Paradise, California, will build seismic resilience. The project will reinforce the dam to better withstand earthquakes so the dam can continue providing its critical benefits. 
• The Slaughterhouse Creek Flood Mitigation project in Montana will include channel improvements and culvert replacements. The project will have an improved channel designed to contain flooding.
• West Virginia is a first-time BRIC national competition applicant. The Rand Flooding Storm Sewer Improvements project will upgrade community infrastructure to address critical drainage issues. 
• The Southern Crisfield Flood Mitigation. Crisfield, Maryland -- a previous selection for Direct Technical Assistance -- aims to boost resilience by improving flood protection through a 5-mile-long tidal flood protection barrier and a new internal drainage system. This project will improve flood protection, stormwater management and wetland health. 
• Decatur, Georgia, make major roadways safer from floods and improve access for emergency vehicles. The current culverts can lead to roads becoming impassable or washed-out during storms. This grant will upgrade culverts on major roadways to stay open during severe weather.
•  A blend of nature-based solutions and infrastructure improvements will boost flood resilience along the Big Ditch stream corridor in the city of Goldsboro, North Carolina. The project will upgrade road culverts and expand a restored floodplain. This will make homes safer from flooding as well as improve water quality and provide new wildlife habitat and more equitable access to recreational resources.

Assistance for States, Territories and Tribal Nations 

Beyond the national competition, FEMA selected an additional 600 projects totaling $208 million. In addition to a maximum $2 million for every state and territory, these funds also include approximately $55 million for building code activities and $67 million for Tribal Nations. Another $116 million for states, Tribes, territories and the District of Columbia to administer these grants brings to the total to $1 billion. For a complete list of selections, visit FEMA.gov.

FEMA is also announcing 93 Tribes, local communities and territories across all 10 FEMA regions that will receive non-financial direct technical assistance to help build community-wide resilience through the BRIC program. This more than doubles the number of recipients from last year. Through the Direct Technical Assistance program, FEMA will provide guidance to disadvantaged communities facing climate risks to ensure no community is left behind in the opportunity to build climate resilience. For a full list of communities, visit FEMA.gov.

Trends in Equity, Extreme Heat, Nature-Based Solutions and Other Top Funded Projects

These selections further underscore the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to equity and environmental justice. These awards will assist the most disadvantaged communities in building resilience to climate change and extreme weather events like hurricanes, flooding, tornadoes and extreme heat. 

Extreme Heat: Among the 656 projects, 12 selections will mitigate the effects of extreme heat for a total of nearly $13 million. In addition to the shaded bus stops in Washington, D.C, other examples include providing resilient power systems to places like saferooms and senior living and medical facilities that provide climate control. Given the growing risks posed by extreme heat impacts, FEMA encourages more States, Tribes and territories to apply for extreme heat projects during future grant cycles. 

Justice 40: Of the available funding, $587 million is benefitting Justice40 communities that are overburdened by pollution and marginalized by underinvestment. The Biden-Harris Administration's Justice40 Initiative aims to deliver 40% of funding to these communities.  Since 2020, FEMA has seen an upward trend of exceeding its Justice40 goals. This year, disadvantaged communities accounted for 67% of the total selections and 70% of the national competition. 

Community Disaster Resilience Zones: Additionally, $127 million will benefit Community Disaster Resilience Zones. The Community Disaster Resilience Zones Act -- signed into law by President Biden in 2022 -- allows FEMA to identify U.S. Census tracts that are most at risk from the effects of natural hazards and climate change.

Nature-Based Solutions: For this grant cycle, 57% of selected projects incorporate nature-based solutions -- practices that weave natural features or processes into the built environment to promote resilience -- across nine FEMA regions. About 84% of those nature-based solution projects will be in Economically Disadvantaged Rural Communities, Community Disaster Resilience Zones or disadvantaged communities.

erika.suzuki Tue, 07/02/2024 - 12:07

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Ruidoso; DRCs Will Be Open on July 4

A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open in Ruidoso on Tuesday, July 2, to help New Mexicans affected by last month’s South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding. 

Residents and business owners in Lincoln County, Otero County, and the Mescalero Apache Reservation can visit the center to apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents, learn about available resources and get their questions answered in person. Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration as well as, state, local, nonprofit and other community organizations will be available to meet with visitors. 

New Mexicans can also gather information on resources such as SNAP, Medicaid, unemployment, insurance claim assistance, Disaster Case Management, vital records, mental health support and child care assistance. No appointment is needed. 

The DRC is located at: 
Horton Complex
237 Service Road
Ruidoso, NM 88345

Another DRC is currently open at:
Roswell Civic & Convention Center
912 N. Main St
Roswell, NM 88201

Hours at both centers are:
Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

All DRCs will be open on July 4, Independence Day, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

All DRCs are accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. Language services are also available at the center. You do not have to visit the center to apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance

To be eligible for any FEMA Individual Assistance program, you must apply to FEMA. To apply without visiting a DRC:

• Go online to disasterassistance.gov/ 
• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

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

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 07/02/2024 - 02:48

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Boulder View Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on June 28 at 12:04 p.m. PDT / 3:04 p.m. EDT to assist the state of Arizona to combat the Boulder View Fire burning in Maricopa County.

On June 28, the state of Arizona submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 150 homes in and around Rio Verde, AZ, population 2,422.

The fire started on June 27, 2024, and has burned more than 2,000 acres of Federal land and 500 acres of State and private land.

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.com/femaregion9.
 

brandi.richard… Mon, 07/01/2024 - 20:56

Disaster Assistance Tops $4 Million for West Virginia Survivors

News Release

Disaster Assistance Tops $4 Million for West Virginia Survivors

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – More than $4 million has been approved for homeowners and renters in West Virginia after the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides, and mudslides of April 2-6, 2024.   

That total includes more than $2,421,490 in housing assistance to help homeowners and renters with expenses such as temporary housing and essential home repairs. Additionally, more than $1,620,378 has been approved for other needs assistance, which covers expenses such as transportation, childcare and medical and dental costs. More than 1,956 households and businesses have registered with FEMA to date. 

This is the first federally declared disaster in West Virginia since FEMA made changes to its Individual Assistance program. The changes to the program help make the registration process easier for survivors and provide additional grant dollars to those who have serious recovery needs. 
This has meant an additional $578,250 for Serious Needs Assistance and $741,510 for Displacement Assistance that has been provided to West Virginians for this disaster.

Federal disaster assistance is available to residents of 11 counties: Boone, Cabell, Fayette, Kanawha, Lincoln, Marshall, Nicholas, Ohio, Putnam, Wayne and Wetzel. Survivors can apply for assistance is by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov or visiting a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). 
The DRCs have assisted 306 visitors to date. Most DRCs are open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. For a current list of open DRC locations, please visit DRC Locator online. If your access to internet is limited, one resource may be your local public library which offers public access to the internet. 

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.

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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, 07/01/2024 - 20:20

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Dallas County

AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Dallas County July 2 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by the severe storms and flooding April 26-June 5.

Center location:

Dallas College Eastfield Campus
3737 Motley Dr., Rooms G101 and G102
Mesquite, TX 75150

To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.

Residents 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 can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.

Texans do not have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply, 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. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

Deadline to apply is Aug. 15.

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/.

To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

larissa.hale Mon, 07/01/2024 - 19:32

Complete Requests for Public Assistance Before the Deadline

BOISE, Idaho – The deadline is approaching for Idaho state, eligible local governments and certain nonprofits to submit Requests for Public Assistance (RPA) to the Idaho Office of Emergency Management for costs due to a severe storm, flooding, landslides, and mudslides that occurred April 14-15, 2024.

The Public Assistance (PA) Program delivers FEMA grant assistance to local, tribal and state governments and their agencies; houses of worship, and certain private nonprofit applicants following a disaster declaration. Request for Public Assistance deadlines are set for thirty (30) days after the county in which the request originates was designated for disaster public assistance.

The upcoming RPA deadline is July 10, 2024 for Idaho, Lewis and Shoshone Counties. 

The designated counties were a part of the June 10 Major Disaster Declaration which provides FEMA Public Assistance, a reimbursement program for public infrastructure damage and response costs in the affected counties. This declaration does not provide FEMA Individual Assistance for individuals, homes and businesses impacted by the disaster.

Communities, nonprofits and houses of worship interested in applying for a PA grant should contact their local emergency manager or the Idaho Office of Emergency Management for information and to submit a Request for Public Assistance application. Applicants may also submit their forms directly online at the FEMA Grants Portal, an online database accessible to each applicant throughout the PA grant process. Once approved by the state and FEMA, the RPA starts the grant process for eligible FEMA Public Assistance applicants.

More information on the PA process may also be found at the Idaho Office of Emergency Management. 

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Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

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

mary.j.edmon Mon, 07/01/2024 - 19:31

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Minnesota to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms and flooding beginning June 16, 2024, and continuing. 

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms and flooding in Blue Earth, Carver, Cass, Cook, Cottonwood, Faribault, Fillmore, Freeborn, Goodhue, Jackson, Lake, Le Sueur, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, Rice, Rock, St. Louis, Steele, Wabasha, Waseca and Watonwan counties.

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

John F. Boyle 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.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 07/01/2024 - 19:14

Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers Making Several Stops in Leon County

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– FEMA is operating Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers in Leon County to provide one-on-one help to people affected by severe storms and tornadoes. The center schedule is:

• Woodville Library Branch/Community Center: 8000 Old Woodville Rd, Tallahassee, FL 32305

   

  • Monday, July 1 to Friday, July 5, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. This center is closed on July 4.  

     

• Apalachee Regional Park Operations Room: 7550 Apalachee Parkway, Tallahassee, FL 32311

   

  • Sunday, July 7 to Sunday, July 14, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

     

• Fort Braden Community Center: 16387 Blountstown Highway, Tallahassee, FL 32310

   

  • Monday, July 15 to Friday, July 19, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Currently open fixed site:

• Leon County: LeRoy Collins Leon County Library, 200 West Park Avenue, Tallahassee, FL 32301

   

  • Hours of operation: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday through Sunday. This center is closed on July 4. 

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Residents are welcome to visit any open DRC. 

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.

In addition to visiting a center, people can apply by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA Mobile App or calling 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET every day. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. The deadline to apply with FEMA is Aug. 19, 2024.

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs. 

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. 

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 Mon, 07/01/2024 - 17:23