Revised Preliminary Flood Maps for Tulsa County, Oklahoma, Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas –Revised Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in portions of the City of Tulsa and Tulsa County, Oklahoma.

Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community residents can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the appeal and comment periods for the maps.

For this Physical Map Revision, the FIRMs for Tulsa County serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Community leaders and residents can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards, development and flood insurance that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flood event.

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas.

Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting the local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify community FPAs. Specialists are available by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

• The Flood Map Changes Viewer at http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv 
• FEMA Map Service Center at http://msc.fema.gov/portal

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting floodsmart.gov.

alexa.brown Fri, 09/27/2024 - 14:52

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Soon Closing in South Dakota – Help Will Still be Available

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in South Dakota are soon closing permanently. The Mitchell location will end operations on Saturday, Sept. 28 at 4 p.m. The Canton and North Sioux City locations will end operations on Friday, Oct. 4 at 6 p.m. 

Hours of operation up until the permanent closures are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. The Centers are closed on Sundays.

Davison County (Permanently closing Sept. 28, 4 p.m.)

Davison County Fairgrounds

3200 West Havens Ave

Mitchell, SD 57301

Lincoln County (Permanently closing Oct. 4, 6 p.m.)

Canton Depot

600 W. 5th St.

Canton, SD 57013

Union County (Permanently closing Oct. 4, 6 p.m.)

305 S Derby Lane

North Sioux City, SD 57049

After the Disaster Recovery Centers close, personalized assistance with FEMA-related questions will still be available to residents over the phone and virtually.

Many of the services that have been available at the Disaster Recovery Center are available through  DisasterAssistance.gov, the FEMA mobile app or by calling the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-FEMA (3362) anytime from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week until further notice. Shorter wait times are more likely in the mornings or evenings. Multilingual operators are available. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.

Individuals can do the following online or by calling the helpline:

• Apply for federal disaster assistance
• Provide a change of address, telephone and bank account numbers, and insurance information to avoid disaster assistance processing delays
• Receive information about FEMA home inspections
• Ask questions about a letter from FEMA
• Learn how to appeal a FEMA decision

# # #

FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. 
Follow us on X (formerly Twitter) at @femaregion8

tiana.suber Fri, 09/27/2024 - 12:54

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Ascension Parish

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA and the State of Louisiana will open a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Donaldsonville on Friday, Sept. 27, to provide one-on-one help to Louisiana residents affected by Hurricane Francine.

Center location:

Ascension Parish

Lemann Memorial Center

1100 Clay St.

Donaldsonville, LA 70346

Additional DRCs are open at the following locations: 

St. Mary Parish

Morgan City Municipal Auditorium
728 Myrtle St.
Morgan City, LA 70380

Terrebonne Parish

Terrebonne Parish Library

151 Library Drive

Houma, LA 70360

Lafourche Parish

Lafourche Parish Emergency Operations Center

4876 Hwy. 1

Raceland, LA 70394

The centers will operate from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

Residents in Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes can visit any DRC to meet with representatives of FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, along with other community partners. No appointment is needed to visit the center. 

The centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).

You do not have to visit a center to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The quickest way to apply is by going online at disasterassistance.gov/.

Additional options when applying include:

• Download the FEMA App for mobile devices. 
• Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 11 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.
• To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow FEMA Region 6 social media at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6.

alexa.brown Thu, 09/26/2024 - 22:19

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for North Carolina

WASHINGTON – FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of North Carolina to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Hurricane Helene beginning Sept. 24 and continuing.  

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe.  

Federal funding is available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures including direct federal assistance for Buncombe, Burke, Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Federal funding is also available for emergency protective measures limited to direct federal assistance and reimbursement for mass care including evacuation and shelter support for Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Caldwell, Catawba, Cleveland, Gaston, Iredell, Lincoln, Watauga and Wilkes counties. 

Finally, federal funding is also available for emergency protective measures limited to direct federal assistance for Alamance, Anson, Beaufort, Bertie, Bladen, Brunswick, Cabarrus, Camden, Carteret, Caswell, Chatham, Chowan, Columbus, Craven, Cumberland, Currituck, Dare, Davidson, Davie, Duplin, Durham, Edgecombe, Forsyth, Franklin, Gates, Granville, Greene, Guilford, Halifax, Harnett, Hertford, Hoke, Hyde, Johnston, Jones, Lee, Lenoir, Martin, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Moore, Nash, New Hanover, Northampton, Onslow, Orange, Pamlico, Pasquotank, Pender, Perquimans, Person, Pitt, Randolph, Richmond, Robeson, Rockingham, Rowan, Sampson, Scotland, Stanly, Stokes, Surry, Tyrrell, Union, Vance, Wake, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Wilson and Yadkin counties. 

E. Craig Levy, Sr. has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area.

amy.ashbridge Thu, 09/26/2024 - 21:55

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Georgia

WASHINGTON – FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Georgia to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from Hurricane Helene beginning Sept. 24 and continuing.  

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe.  

Federal funding is available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures including direct federal assistance for Atkinson, Baker, Banks, Ben Hill, Berrien, Brooks, Calhoun, Cherokee, Clay, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt, Cook, Crisp, Dawson, Decatur, Dooly, Dougherty, Early, Echols, Fannin, Forsyth, Franklin, Gilmer, Grady, Habersham, Hall, Irwin, Jackson, Lanier, Lee, Lowndes, Lumpkin, Macon, Miller, Mitchell, Pickens, Pulaski, Quitman, Rabun, Randolph, Schley, Seminole, Stephens, Stewart, Sumter, Terrell, Thomas, Tift, Towns, Turner, Union, Webster, White, Wilcox and Worth counties.

Federal funding is also available for emergency protective measures limited to direct federal assistance and reimbursement for mass care including evacuation and shelter support for Appling, Bacon, Baldwin, Barrow, Bartow, Bibb, Bleckley, Brantley, Burke, Butts, Camden, Carroll, Catoosa, Charlton, Chattahoochee, Chattooga, Clarke, Clayton, Cobb, Columbia, Coweta, Crawford, Dade, DeKalb, Dodge, Douglas, Elbert, Emanuel, Fayette, Floyd, Fulton, Glascock, Glynn, Gordon, Greene, Gwinnett, Hancock, Haralson, Harris, Hart, Heard, Henry, Houston, Jasper, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Lamar, Laurens, Lincoln, Madison, Marion, McDuffie, Meriwether, Monroe, Montgomery, Morgan, Murray, Muscogee, Newton, Oconee, Oglethorpe, Paulding, Peach, Pierce, Pike, Polk, Putnam, Richmond, Rockdale, Screven, Spalding, Talbot, Taliaferro, Taylor, Telfair, Toombs, Treutlen, Troup, Twiggs, Upson, Walker, Walton, Ware, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Wheeler, Whitfield, Wilkes and Wilkinson counties. 

Finally, federal funding is also available for emergency protective measures limited to direct federal assistance for Bryan, Bulloch, Candler, Chatham, Effingham, Evans, Liberty, Long, McIntosh and Tattnall counties. 

Kevin A. Wallace, Sr. has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area.

amy.ashbridge Thu, 09/26/2024 - 21:32

FEMA is Hiring in South Dakota

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – FEMA has an immediate need for temporary local hires to assist with disaster response and recovery efforts in Sioux Falls, SD. Local Hire employees are typically local residents who aid in recovery and help their fellow residents in the recovery process.

FEMA is currently seeking people with experience in media relations, digital communications, and writing & editing. 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 Sioux Falls office. Employees are also required to participate in mandatory direct deposit/electronic funds transfer for salary payment.

Current job openings include:

• EA Digital Communications Specialist (closes 10/01/24)
  • https://www.usajobs.gov/job/809354800
• EA Creative Specialist (closes 10/02/24)
  • https://www.usajobs.gov/job/809375600
• EA Media Relations Specialist (closes 10/02/24)
  • https://www.usajobs.gov/job/809367500

The jobs will close when FEMA has received 100 applications which may be sooner than the closing dates listed.

As the disaster operational needs shift, new positions will be posted on USAJOBS. Applicants 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

# # #

FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. 
Follow us on X (formerly Twitter) at @femaregion8

tiana.suber Thu, 09/26/2024 - 20:24

UPDATE: Weather closing FEMA W.Va. Disaster Recovery Centers

Sept. 26, 2024
DR-4787-WV MA-011
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Weather closing FEMA W.Va. Disaster Recovery Centers 

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The state-federal Disaster Recovery Centers in Boone and Roane counties will be closed Friday, Sept. 27, because of forecast inclement weather.

The centers are located at:

Boone County Disaster Recovery Center

Madison City Hall

255 Washington Ave.

Madison, WV 25130

Hours of operation:

Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed Sundays

Closed Friday, Sept. 27, 2024

Roane County Mobile Disaster Recovery Center

Old National Guard Armory Parking Lot

206 E Main St.

Spencer, WV 25276

Hours of operation:

Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed Sundays

Closed Friday, Sept. 27, 2024

Pending any effects from the weather, the centers are scheduled to reopen at 8 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 28.

Survivors do not have to visit a disaster center to register with FEMA. They can 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. They can also go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA app on their smartphone.

The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Nov. 2, 2024.

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.

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

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

issa.mansaray Thu, 09/26/2024 - 19:41

Biden-Harris Administration Prepared for Multi-State Event as Hurricane Helene Approaches, FEMA Encourages People in Storm’s Path to Listen to Local Officials

At the Direction of President Biden, FEMA Administrator to Travel to Florida to Survey Impacts

WASHINGTON -- Hurricane Helene is a massive, dangerous storm and FEMA is prepared for anticipated multi-state impacts. In advance of Hurricane Helene’s landfall in Florida, the Biden-Harris Administration approved pre-landfall emergency declarations for Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. These declarations enable FEMA to provide federal resources to the states for emergency protective measures like reimbursement for evacuations and sheltering and aid initial response and recovery efforts.

FEMA urges people in the path of Hurricane Helene to take immediate action to protect themselves as the storm approaches. Hurricane Helene is expected to continue strengthening and bring life-threating storm surge and hurricane conditions to Florida starting today. There is also the risk for dangerous flash and flooding in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina.

"The Biden-Harris Administration is ready for this event. We are prepared and postured for response," said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. "People in Hurricane Helene's path need to take this seriously. Listen to your state and local elected officials. If they tell you to evacuate, evacuate. If they tell you to shelter in place, stay where you are. These decisions can save lives."

FEMA, the entire federal family and partner organizations are actively coordinating response efforts across Florida, Georgia and North Carolina. There are over 1,100 personnel actively supporting from across the federal government, which include Urban Search and Rescue Teams, Coast Guard, the Department of Defense and power restoration teams from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. An additional 700 FEMA team members already deployed across the region from previous events. To help people who may need to evacuate, the American Red Cross is actively standing up shelters in the areas likely to feel the impacts from Helene.

Safety Tips During the Storm

Residents in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina can find a list of state, tribal and local resources such as evacuation, shelter and important storm updates on FEMA.gov.

• Pay attention to local officials. Weather conditions can change quickly. Make sure to heed their warnings and evacuate immediately if told to do so.
• NOW is the time to finish preparations. Today is the day to prepare for this storm. Take action immediately to protect yourself, your family, your pets and your home. Finish gathering any supplies like food, water, medication, flashlights and food for your pets now. If possible, include cash in your emergency kit, as ATMs may not work after the storm.
• If you did not evacuate, stay safe at home. Gather your supplies including flashlights, battery operated radio and food and water and keep them on a high shelf or upper level. Find a safe location to ride out the storm, such as a designated storm shelter or interior room for high winds.
• Be in the know about your evacuation route. Several counties in Florida issued mandatory and voluntary evacuation orders. Visit Evacuation Orders | Florida Disaster to see the full list. Florida residents can call 800-729-3413 for shelter locations. People in Florida, Alabama and Georgia should be prepared to evacuate quickly if they are in the path of this storm and are told to do so.
• Have several ways to receive alerts. People in areas along Florida’s Panhandle, west coast and into Alabama and Georgia should follow the forecast carefully and instructions of state and local officials by monitoring local radio or television stations for updated emergency information. Sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA), which require no sign up. You can also download the free FEMA App available in English and Spanish languages to receive real-time weather alerts and find local emergency shelters in your area.
• Your neighbors are your lifeline. Check on your neighbors, especially older adults or those who may need additional assistance, to make sure they have what they need to ride out the storm. Have a plan to remain in contact during and after the storm.
• Power outage and generator safety. If you lose power, use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for emergency lighting. If using a generator, remember to always use them outdoors and keep it at least 20 feet from doors and windows. Additionally, make sure to keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding. De-clutter drains and gutters, bring in outside furniture and put up hurricane shutters if you have them.
• Stay out of floodwater. Walking, swimming or driving through flood waters is extremely dangerous. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines or contain hazards such as wild or stray animals, human and livestock waste and chemicals that can lead to illness.
• Turn Around. Don’t Drown™. Driving through a flooded area can be extremely hazardous. Almost half of all flash flood deaths happen in vehicles. When in your car, look out for flooding in low lying areas at bridges and at highway dips. As little as 6 inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle or fall if you are walking through it. Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pick-ups.
• Keep important documents safe. Save copies of birth certificates, passports, medical records and insurance papers in a safe, dry place. Keep important documents in a waterproof container and create password-protected digital copies. Take photos or videos of your belongings and property on your phone or upload them to the internet. Move valuables like photo albums, heirlooms and other treasured items to higher levels.

mashana.davis Thu, 09/26/2024 - 18:09

Understand your FEMA Letter

HARRISBURG, Pa. – If you applied for FEMA assistance, you will receive a letter explaining FEMA's decision within 10 days after the inspector's visit. 

Read your letter carefully and completely. The letter will explain: 

• whether you are approved for assistance
• how much assistance you will receive
• how the assistance must be used
• how to appeal FEMA’s decision if you do not agree with it

The letter will be sent to you by email or mail based on what you selected when you completed your application.

The FEMA letter will provide additional information on what you will need to provide if you choose to appeal FEMA’s initial decision. These can include documents. 

For example, if you are appealing for additional assistance to help repair your home, you will want to provide FEMA with any receipts, bills, insurance information or repair estimates received for the repairs. 

When submitting any documentation or information to FEMA, you must include your name, the last four digits of your Social Security number or your FEMA application number, and the disaster number (DR-4815-PA) on every page.

If you have any questions about a letter from FEMA, we encourage you to visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. FEMA staff are standing by to answer your questions. 

For more information on Pennsylvania’s disaster recovery, visit the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency Facebook page, fema.gov/disaster/4815 and facebook.com/FEMA. 

                                                                                          ###                                                                 

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Follow us on X at x.com/FEMAregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.

 

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

erika.osullivan Thu, 09/26/2024 - 17:21

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance

Middletown, CT – Homeowners and renters in Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties who were affected by the severe storm, flooding, landslides, and mudslides on August 18-19, 2024 may apply for FEMA disaster assistance. 

Three ways to apply: 

1. Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. 
2. Download the FEMA App for mobile devices. 
3. Call toll-free 1-800-621-3362. The line is open 7 a.m. to midnight (12 a.m.) ET every day. Help 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.

 

Applicants will need to provide the following information: 

• Your contact information.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security number. 
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit. 
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

 

If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. 

FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

Disaster assistance may include financial help with immediate needs, temporary lodging and home repairs, as well as other disaster-related expenses. 

For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance go to,  https://youtu.be/HhtlyTX49RE.

Billy.domrose Thu, 09/26/2024 - 17:07

Weather closing Roane County FEMA Disaster Recovery Center

Sept. 26, 2024
DR-4787-WV MA-011
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Weather closing Roane County FEMA Disaster Recovery Center

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The state-federal Disaster Recovery Center in Roane County will be closed Friday, Sept. 27, because of forecast inclement weather.

The center is located at:

Roane County Mobile Disaster Recovery Center

Old National Guard Armory Parking Lot

206 E Main St.

Spencer, WV 25276

Hours of operation:

Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed Sundays

Closed Friday, Sept. 27, 2024

Pending any effects from the weather, the center is scheduled to reopen at 8 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 28.

Residents of all affected counties can continue to visit the disaster center in Boone County. The center is located at: 

Boone County Disaster Recovery Center

Madison City Hall

255 Washington Ave.

Madison, WV 25130

Hours of operation:

Monday-Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed Sundays

To locate center nearest you, check the FEMA app or visit fema.gov/drc. The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Nov. 2, 2024.

Survivors do not have to visit a disaster center to register with FEMA. They can 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. They can also go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA app on their smartphone.

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.

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

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

issa.mansaray Thu, 09/26/2024 - 17:01

Louisiana Survivors Can Apply for an SBA Loan

Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Louisiana businesses and residents in Ascension, Assumption, Lafourche, Jefferson, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Mary and Terrebonne parishes as a result of Hurricane Francine.

FEMA partners with other agencies to help meet the needs of disaster survivors. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans not only to businesses and nonprofits, but also to homeowners and renters in a declared major disaster area. 

You may have been referred to SBA after applying for FEMA disaster assistance. If you still have unmet needs, loans may help with home repair or replacement, personal property, vehicles, mitigation, business losses, and working capital for small business and most private nonprofits.

Homeowners may be eligible for a disaster loan up to $500,000 for primary residence structural repairs or rebuilding. SBA may also be able to help homeowners and renters with up to $100,000 to replace important personal property, including automobiles damaged or destroyed in the disaster. SBA staff are available at FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers. To find the location closest to you, visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).

Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. SBA can also lend additional funds to help with the cost of improvements to protect, prevent or minimize disaster damage from occurring in the future.

For small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture and most private nonprofit organizations of any size, SBA offers Economic Injury Disaster Loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster. Economic injury assistance is available to businesses regardless of any property damage.

To assist survivors and business owners, SBA has also established four Business Recovery Centers. 

Ascension Parish

Ascension Credit Union

 2256 LA-70 

Donaldsonville, LA 70346

Open Wednesday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Ascension Credit Union Small Business Center 

2430 S. Burnside Avenue 

Gonzales, LA 70737 

Open Monday and Tuesday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

St. Mary Parish 

St. Mary Parish Chamber of Commerce 

727 Myrtle Street 

Morgan City, LA 70380 

Open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Terrebonne Parish

Terrebonne Parish Library (North Branch) 

4130 W Park Avenue Gray, LA 70359 

Open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m.to 5 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors. These loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other resources. Survivors should not wait for an insurance settlement before submitting an SBA loan application. They may discover they were underinsured for the deductible, labor and materials required to repair or replace their home.

Even if your application is approved, you are not obligated to accept an SBA loan. 

You may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster. Applicants may also 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 services. There is no cost to apply for an SBA disaster loan. 

Interest rates can be as low as 4 percent for businesses, 3.25 percent for private nonprofit organizations and 2.813 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4817. Follow the FEMA Region 6 X account at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Thu, 09/26/2024 - 14:23

FEMA Announces Nearly $1.9 Million to Help Communities in Region 3 Build Resilience to Flooding Disasters Through Investing in America Agenda

This funding announcement marks the 30th anniversary of the Flood Mitigation Assistance program, dedicated to addressing the nation’s costliest annual disaster

PHILADELPHIA— Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent and more severe due to climate change, leading to increased response and recovery missions across the nation. This week, FEMA announced nearly $1.9 million in new project selections to eliminate or reduce flood damage in Maryland, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

The funding comes through the Flood Mitigation Assistance program to help communities across the nation enhance resilience to extreme weather events. This is the 30th anniversary of the Flood Mitigation Assistance program, created in 1994. Over the past 30 years, approximately $2 billion has been obligated by FEMA to address the nation’s costliest annual disaster. 

Through this program, FEMA provides funding to states, local communities, Tribal Nations and territories to reduce or eliminate the risk of repetitive flood damage to buildings insured under the National Flood Insurance Program. 

There are three categories of funding which include:

• Capability and Capacity Building Activities, such as project scoping to develop project plans and designs.
• Localized Flood Risk Reduction Projects, which help build resilience to flooding at the community level, including floodplain management, wetland, marsh, riverine and coastal restoration and protection.
• Individual Flood Mitigation Projects, which protect individual homes and buildings from flooding, including by buying out or elevating properties above flood levels.

This home in Hampton, Virginia was elevated through Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) funding. (Credit: Nicholas Monteleone/ FEMA)

The announcement also aligns with FEMA’s 2024 Year of Resilience campaign, as well as the goals of the National Climate Resilience Framework, and will help build capacity to withstand tomorrow’s hazards. 

“The projects selected in Region 3 are an example of the many different ways that FMA funding can be used to make communities more resilient to flooding,” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “While we look forward at the impact these future projects will have, it is also important to take a moment and celebrate the 30th anniversary of the FMA program and the difference it has made for communities not just here in Region 3, but across the country.”

Region 3 Flood Mitigation Assistance FY23 Selections:

State

Number of Selections

Total Funding for Selections (rounded)

Maryland

2

$851, 195

Pennsylvania

4

$832,605

West Virginia

1

$202,125

West Virginia: Division of Emergency Management Strategic Flood Plan

$202,125

This project will develop a framework for long-term Flood Mitigation Assistance projects through the development of the state’s strategic flood mitigation plan. The plan aims to identify and profile flood hazards, analyze vulnerabilities, and implement capability assessment to address at-risk communities. It will focus on repetitive loss structures and aligns strategic mitigation actions with future grant funding opportunities. A key goal of the plan is to link grant funding to flood hazards identified in the State Hazard Mitigation Plan. The plan creation process includes setting goals, assessing existing mitigation actions, analyzing data, identifying new actions, and prioritizing grant submissions. 

Projects in Maryland and Pennsylvania will include elevating and reconstructing homes to make them more resilient to flooding and creating engineering plans for future projects to protect communities from flooding. Additionally, FEMA is funding the voluntary acquisition of properties that have been flooded repeatedly.

In total, FEMA selected 197 projects in National Flood Insurance Program-participating communities in 25 states. In addition to flood control activities, the selections will reduce risk to individual properties through actions like elevations, acquisitions and mitigation reconstruction of buildings insured by NFIP. 

The selections complement a July announcement of $1 billion nationwide through FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program and the current $300 million funding opportunity through Flood Mitigation Assistance’s Swift Current—another important part of the President’s Investing in America Agenda—to make the nation more resilient to natural hazards. Both programs provide climate resilience funding to help address increased demand for federal funds to address the climate crisis. 

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.

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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 twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

 

 

erika.osullivan Thu, 09/26/2024 - 14:05

Free Legal Help Available for South Dakotans Affected by Summer Storms

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – A Disaster Legal Services hotline is now available to provide legal assistance to South Dakotans impacted by this summer’s severe storms and flooding. The hotline connects residents in Davison, Lincoln, Turner, and Union counties with free legal services for those who cannot afford an attorney.

Residents can reach the hotline at 605-444-3719 during business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Callers can also
leave a message outside of business hours, and a representative will return your call.

The hotline may provide help with legal issues such as:

▪ Home repair contracts and property insurance claims
▪ Redoing wills and other important legal documents destroyed in the disaster
▪ Price gouging, scams, or identity theft
▪ Landlord and tenant problems, or threats of foreclosure
▪ Disability related access to federal state and local disaster programs
▪ FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration financial benefits

The hotline cannot help in all cases. For example, they cannot take cases where a settlement could include legal fees or an award, but they may refer those cases to other legal help. The service is a partnership between the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, FEMA, and East River Legal Services.

tiana.suber Thu, 09/26/2024 - 13:39

Barre Disaster Recovery Center to Close September 28

Williston, Vt. – In coordination with state and local partners, we will be permanently closing the Disaster Recovery Center in Barre at 6 p.m. on Saturday, September 28, 2024. 

The center is currently open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturdays at:

Barre Municipal Auditorium

20 Auditorium Hill

Barre, Vermont 05641

 

The adjustment of hours for these temporary centers is coordinated with state and local partners generally based on the volume of visitors and needs of the community. 

Vermonters can visit Disaster Recovery Centers to get in-person help regarding disaster assistance. Specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration are available to help upload documents, answer questions and guide you through the appeals process.

Four other Disaster Recovery Centers will remain open Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. until further notice. These centers are located at:

 

• Brighton Town Hall Gym - 49 Mill Street, Island Pond, VT 05846
• Lyndon Public Safety Facility - 316 Main Street, Lyndonville, VT 05851
• Waterbury Armory - 294 Armory Drive, Waterbury, VT 05676
• Hinesburg Town Hall - 10632 Route 116, Hinesburg, VT 05461

There are three other ways to apply that don’t require visiting a center:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. 
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
• Download the FEMA’s Mobile App.

For information about other Disaster Recovery Center that are currently open, please 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 visit 4810 | FEMA.gov. Follow FEMA on X at https://x.com/femaregion1 and at facebook.com/fema.

Billy.domrose Thu, 09/26/2024 - 12:07

FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Scott County Closing Sept. 28, Clay and Sioux Counties Reducing Hours

DES MOINES, Iowa — The Scott County Disaster Recovery Center, located at 3506 N. Harrison St. Davenport, Iowa, will close permanently on Sept. 28 at 6 p.m. The Disaster Recovery Centers in Clay and Sioux Counties will be open from 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday beginning Sept 30.

They are located at:

Clay County

Spencer City Hall

City Council Chambers

101 W. Fifth St.

Spencer, IA 51301

Sioux County

City Park Shelter House

1013 13th Ave.

Rock Valley, IA 51247

 

 

Residents can also register for disaster assistance by:

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

If you had flood related damage or storm-caused expenses or are self-employed and live in Buena Vista, Cherokee, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Humboldt, Lyon, Monona, O'Brien, Osceola, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Pottawattamie, Scott, Sioux and Woodbury counties, FEMA assistance can provide grants to help cover temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster related needs. U.S. Small Business Administration provides loans to help cover home repairs and other disaster-related needs along with business impacts.

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. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

martyce.allenjr Thu, 09/26/2024 - 10:18

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

WASHINGTON– FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Kansas to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from June 26 – July 7, 2024. 

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, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding in Chase, Clark, Comanche, Doniphan, Finney, Geary, Gray, Greeley, Hamilton, Kearny, Meade, Scott, Thomas and Wabaunsee Counties

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

Andrew P. Meyer has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments. 

erika.suzuki Thu, 09/26/2024 - 00:38

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Nebraska to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from June 20 – July 8, 2024. 

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, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding in Boyd, Clay, Dakota, Dawson, Douglas, Fillmore, Holt, Howard, Lincoln, McPherson, Nance, Nemaha, Saunders, Scotts Bluff, Thomas and Washington Counties. 

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

Andrew P. Meyer has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments. 

erika.suzuki Thu, 09/26/2024 - 00:33

FEMA Teams Visiting Local Neighborhoods to Assist Disaster Survivors

CHICAGO – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are assisting communities affected by the July 13 – 16, 2024, storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding. Teams are out in impacted areas of Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will and Winnebago counties to help residents navigate the federal disaster assistance process.

DSA personnel visit communities designated as federal disaster areas to help homeowners and renters apply with FEMA and quickly identify and address immediate and emerging needs. They also can provide application status updates and referrals to additional community resources.

DSA teams will never ask for or accept money and will always be wearing a FEMA identification badge with a photograph. A FEMA shirt, vest or jacket is not proof of identity. While helping someone apply, they will ask for personal information, including social security number, annual income and bank information. Residents are encouraged to ask for identification before providing any personal information. They can also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to verify a FEMA visit is legitimate.

Homeowners and renters in Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. Clair, Washington, Will and Winnebago counties with uninsured or underinsured disaster-related loss from the July 13 – 16, 2024, storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding don’t have to wait for a DSA team to apply for assistance. To apply, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA mobile app or call 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4819.  

kimberly.keblish Thu, 09/26/2024 - 00:09

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires from June 22 – July 8, 2024.  

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.  

Federal funding is also available to the Tribal Nation on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by wildfires Yakama Nation.  

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

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

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

  amy.ashbridge Wed, 09/25/2024 - 21:57