Keep in Touch with FEMA

MADISON, Miss. –Mississippi survivors who applied for FEMA assistance following the April 8-11, 2024, severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding should stay in touch with the agency to update their application details with any new information. Missing or outdated material could delay an application. 

Information that may need to be updated could include:

• Your current housing situation, phone number or mailing address
• Adding or removing the name of a person designated to speak for you
• Adding or changing names of household members and number of people living in the home
• Correcting or verifying home and property damage
• Updating your payment preference

Survivors can update their information by: 

• Calling the Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Going online to DisasterAssistance.gov

Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA mobile app or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

For the latest information on recovery from the April tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4790. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4@femaregion4.

helen.lucas Wed, 07/24/2024 - 17:04

West Virginia recovering 60 days after floods and tornadoes

July 24, 2024
DR-4783-WV NR-017
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

News release

West Virginia recovering 60 days after floods and tornadoes

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginia has taken significant steps toward recovery following the April 2-6, 2024, severe storms, floods and tornadoes.

In the 60 days following the May 22, 2024, presidential disaster declaration, the response to help West Virginia’s disaster survivors has been swift and substantial.

To date, survivors have received more than $5.6 million in federal disaster assistance for a variety of recovery purposes. 

• More than $3.7 million in grants has been approved to make essential repairs for homes to be safe, secure and functional and for a place to stay for homeowners and renters whose residences were uninhabitable. 
• More than $1.9 million in grants has gone to homeowners and renters to repair and replace certain household items and for disaster-related burial, medical and dental expenses. 
• More than $890 thousand of the $5.6 million in grants approved was the result of follow-up communications from FEMA staff.
• With the average grant totaling more than $5,400, West Virginians are well above the national average for disaster grant awards.
• Homeowners, renters and businesses have received more than $1.5 million in low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to repair, rebuild and replace damaged property and contents. Disaster loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other sources.
• NFIP policyholders have received more than $280,000 in claims to repair and rebuild flood-damaged property. 

But dollar amounts don’t tell the whole story.

Recovery takes the whole disaster recovery community. Affected communities and disaster survivors are repairing and rebuilding better, stronger and safer. This effort is possible with the help of neighbors, friends, family members, voluntary groups, faith- and community-based organizations and local, county, state and federal governments.

The following highlights recovery progress made in the 60 days since the disaster was declared and how disaster survivors and affected communities are overcoming challenges:

• Survivors in 11 counties – Boone, Cabell, Fayette, Kanawha, Lincoln, Marshall, Nicholas, Ohio, Putnam, Wayne and Wetzel – were immediately eligible to apply for help under FEMA’s Individual Assistance (IA) program. 
• Local, county and state government infrastructure and certain private nonprofit organizations in seven counties – Brooke, Hancock, Marshall, Ohio, Preston, Tyler and Wetzel– were eligible to receive funding through FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) program to repair and rebuild certain eligible disaster-damaged facilities. Fifty-three projects are in development for state and local entities covering a range of public works from sewers and utilities to road repair and debris removal. 
• The PA program benefits everyone in the affected communities because essential services like roads, utilities, schools and hospitals are often restored stronger than they were before the disaster. FEMA relieves burdens of local and county governments and the state by paying 75 percent of the eligible costs. 
• More than 2,100 West Virginia households have contacted FEMA for IA help. 

Disaster recovery officials interacted with survivors in a variety of ways to help them recover: 

• More than 990 survivors visited 13 Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs). The first centers opened within days of the presidential disaster declaration. 
• As of July 23, more than 1,400 FEMA housing inspections have been completed. 
• Teams of FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance specialists visited 22,000 residences in all 11 disaster counties to encourage residents to register for help, provide recovery information and listen to their concerns. 

Whole community partners continue to collaborate to find solutions to enable West Virginia’s recovery and will be here as long as it takes.

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

###

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

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

issa.mansaray Wed, 07/24/2024 - 16:57

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Chickasaw Nation to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms from March 14-15, 2024.

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the Tribal Nation on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms.

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

Maona N. Ngwira has been named 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 Tribal Nation and warranted by the results of further assessments.

amy.ashbridge Wed, 07/24/2024 - 15:56

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides from May 21- 27, 2024.  

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Christian, Clay, Greenup, Hopkins, Knox, Logan, Muhlenberg, Simpson, Todd, Trigg, Warren and Whitley counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.  

Federal funding is also available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities damaged by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides in Adair, Allen, Ballard, Barren, Breckinridge, Butler, Caldwell, Calloway, Carlisle, Christian, Clay, Clinton, Crittenden, Cumberland, Edmonson, Estill, Fulton, Garrard, Graves, Grayson, Green, Hart, Hickman, Hopkins, Jackson, Knox, Larue, Laurel, Lee, Leslie, Livingston, Logan, Lyon, Marshall, McCracken, McCreary, McLean, Meade, Menifee, Metcalfe, Monroe, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Owsley, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Russell, Simpson, Todd, Trigg, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Whitley and Woodford counties.  

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

E. Craig Levy Sr. 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 requested by the state and 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, 07/24/2024 - 14:54

Understanding Your FEMA Eligibility Letter

AUSTIN -- If you applied for FEMA assistance, you will receive a letter in the mail or via email. The letter will explain your application status and how to respond. It is important to read the letter carefully because it will include the amount of any assistance FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of disaster assistance funds.

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

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

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

How to Appeal

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

You can submit your appeal and supporting documentation:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov, where you can create an account and upload documents.
• In-person at a Disaster Recovery Center.
• By mail

FEMA Individuals & Households Program

National Processing Service Center

P. O. Box 10055 Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

By fax

(800) 827-8112
Attention: FEMA - Individuals & Households Program

For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Wed, 07/24/2024 - 14:34

One Week Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance

OKLAHOMA CITY –  Oklahomans affected by the April 25-May 9 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding have just one week left to apply for FEMA assistance. The deadline to apply is July 31.

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 rent, home repairs and other disaster-related needs.

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, visit FEMA Accessible: Registering for Individual Assistance (youtube.com).

For the latest information about Oklahoma’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4776. Follow FEMA Region 6 on X at x.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 Wed, 07/24/2024 - 09:46

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Missouri to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding from May 19–27, 2024.   

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Barry, Butler, Carter, Howell, New Madrid, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Texas counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.   

Federal funding is also available to state 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 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding in Barry, Bollinger, Butler, Carter, Howell, Madison, McDonald, New Madrid, Oregon, Reynolds, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Texas counties.  

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

David R. Gervino 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, 07/24/2024 - 02:14

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight West White Swan Fire in Washington

BOTHELL, Wash. -  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the West White Swan Fire burning within Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation tribal land and in Yakima County, Washington. 

The state of Washington’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at 12:10 a.m. PT. He determined that the West White Swan Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the second FMAG declared in 2024 to help fight Washington wildfires. 

At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of White Swan. The fire also threatened White Swan Health Clinic, White Swan High School, rodeo grounds, a Community Center, churches, private businesses, and government buildings.

FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies. This authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire. 

In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $1,313,482 will be available to Washington through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.  

###

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.

natalie.shaver Tue, 07/23/2024 - 19:23

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Durkee Fire in Oregon

BOTHELL, Wash. -  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Durkee Fire burning in Baker and Malheur counties, Oregon.

The state of Oregon’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Monday, July 22, 2024 at 6:06 p.m. PT. He determined that the Durkee Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the seventh FMAG declared in 2024 to help fight Oregon wildfires. 

At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of Durkee, Huntington and Rye Valley. The fire also threatened Highway I-84, public communication lines and cell towers, as well as public power infrastructure in the area. 

FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies. This authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire. 

In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $985,111 will be available to Oregon through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.  

###

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.

 

 

 

natalie.shaver Tue, 07/23/2024 - 19:18

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Brazoria County July 24

AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Brazoria County July 24 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by Hurricane Beryl. 

Center location

West Columbia Civic Center

514 E. Brazos Ave.

West Columbia, TX, 77486

The center operates from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day. Any center can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26-June 5 storms and flooding. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.

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

Residents in Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jasper, Jackson, Jefferson, Liberty, Orange, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Polk, San Jacinto, Wharton and Walker counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

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.
• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.

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

For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at  x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Tue, 07/23/2024 - 18:45

Disaster Recovery Center Relocates in Harris County July 24

AUSTIN – A Disaster Recovery Center at Leon Z. Grayson Senior Education Center in Harris County will close at 6 p.m. July 23 and reopen in a new location July 24.

New location:

Felix L. Baldree Building

13828 Corpus Christi St.

Houston, TX 77523

The center operates from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day. Any center can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26-June 5 storms and flooding. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.

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

Residents in Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jasper, Jackson, Jefferson, Liberty, Orange, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Polk, San Jacinto, Wharton and Walker counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

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.
• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.

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

For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at  x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Tue, 07/23/2024 - 15:36

Free Demonstrations on Salvaging Disaster-Damaged Family Treasures Coming to a Disaster Recovery Center Near You

DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa’s recent severe storms and flooding have likely wreaked havoc on more than your house. Some of your priceless photos, books and other family treasures or heirlooms may have been damaged too. 

It might be tempting to throw these mementos away. But hold on. You may be able to save them with advice from FEMA preservation professionals at various state/federal Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) starting July 24.   

The specialists will be on hand to demonstrate such tasks as cleaning photographs, preserving books, documents, electronic media and textiles. The demonstrations are free and follow this schedule:  

 

DateLocation  Address  Time  July 24Greenfield DRC 

Nodaway Valley Elementary School,

324 NW 2nd St. 

Greenfield, IA 50849

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 25Agricultural Recovery Center

Cedar County Fairgrounds, the Matthews Building, 1195 210 St.

Tipton, IA 52772

12 noon to 7 p.m.July 27Estherville DRC 

St. Patrick's Church (Gym) 903 Central Ave. 

Estherville, IA 51334 

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

 

 

   

 

DateLocation Address Time 

July 28

July 29

Spencer DRC 

Clay County Regional Events Center- Tower Gate Pavilion 

800 W 18th St, 

Spencer, IA 51301

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

July 30

July 31

Rock Rapids DRC 

Forster Community Center 

404 1st Ave. 

Rock Rapids, IA   51246

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Aug. 1 

Aug 2 

Rock Valley DRC 

City Park Shelter House 

1013 13th Ave. 

Rock Valley, IA 

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Survivors are asked not to bring damaged items to the DRCs to avoid a chance of causing more damage in transit. Instead, it is recommended that you digitally photograph the item(s) about which you would like to ask the specialists for advice. 

The demonstrations are sponsored by the Heritage Emergency National Task Force (HENTF), a coalition of more than 60 national organizations and federal agencies co-sponsored by FEMA and the Smithsonian Institution.  HENTF works to protect cultural resources throughout the U.S. and its territories from the effects of disasters and emergencies. 

If you can’t make any of these events, here is an online FEMA resource for more information: www.fema.gov/disaster/recover/save-family-treasures.

If you want to try preserving items on your own, here are some basic procedures to get you started:

• If your prized possessions have been in contact with sewage or any chemicals, you will need professional help. 
  • Call IMALERT Hotline (Iowa Museums, Archives and Libraries Emergency Response Team) at 319-384-3673. They accept calls from members of the public and can provide advice and suggest a conservator who can help you. 
  • Other sources of help include the Ford Conservation Center in Omaha, 402-595-1180, and the Midwest Art Conservation Center in Minneapolis at 612-870-3120.
• Gentle air-drying indoors is best for all your treasured belongings. Hair dryers, irons, ovens and prolonged exposure to sunlight will do irreversible damage. Increase indoor airflow with fans, open windows, air conditioners and dehumidifiers. 
• Use great caution in handling your heirlooms, which can be especially fragile when wet. Separate damp materials; remove the contents from drawers; take photographs out of damp albums; remove paintings and prints from frames, place paper towels between the pages of wet books.
• Gently loosen dirt and debris on fragile objects with soft brushes and cloths. Avoid rubbing, which can grind in the dirt. 
• Clean photographs by rinsing them carefully in clean water. Air-dry photos on a plastic mesh screen or paper towel, or by hanging them by the corner with plastic clothespins. Don’t let the image touch any other surfaces as it dries.
• You may not be able to save everything, so focus on what’s most important to you, whether for historic, monetary or sentimental reasons.

For more information, visit the Heritage Emergency National Task Force pages: 

FEMA:www.fema.gov Type HENTF in Search box.   

Smithsonian: https://culturalrescue.si.edu/who-we-are-hentf or email HENTF@si.edu.

Disaster Recovery Centers are physically accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. They are equipped with assistive and adaptive technology such as amplified phones, caption phones, video phones, wheelchair ramps and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources.

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.

tiana.suber Tue, 07/23/2024 - 15:32

Marshallese Interpreters Available at Benton County Disaster Recovery Center

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Arkansans whose native language is Marshallese now have interpreters available at the Benton County Disaster Recovery Center in Bentonville.

Residents in Baxter, Benton, Boone, Fulton, Greene, Madison, Marion and Randolph counties affected by the strong storms and tornadoes of May 24-27 may seek FEMA assistance at any disaster recovery center. No appointment is needed to visit a center.

The Benton County center where the Marshallese interpreter will be available is located at:

Northwest Arkansas Community College

Becky Paneitz Student Center, SC 108, 1211 SE Eagle Way, Bentonville, AR 72712

Parking available at 1202 Water Tower Road in the adjacent multi-level parking garage on levels 2 and 3.

The Baxter County center is located at:

Food Bank of North Central Arkansas 1042 Highland Circle, Mountain Home, AR 72653

The centers operate Monday-Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and close Sundays.

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/4788. Follow the FEMA Region 6 X account at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6.

alexa.brown Tue, 07/23/2024 - 12:57

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Matagorda County July 23

AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Matagorda County today, July 23, to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by Hurricane Beryl. 

Center location

USO Building

2105 Ave M, 

Bay City, TX 77414 

The center operates from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day. Any center can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26-June 5 storms and flooding. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.

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

Residents in Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jasper, Jackson, Jefferson, Liberty, Orange, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Polk, San Jacinto, Wharton and Walker counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.

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.
• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center.

For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at  x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Tue, 07/23/2024 - 12:53

Follow These Tips to Hire a Contractor for Home Repair

July 23, 2024
DR-4787-WV FS-004
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Follow These Tips to Hire a Contractor for Home Repair

Your home is a serious investment. When repairing it, consider taking the following steps to protect your investment and ensure your home repairs are done by a verified contractor.

Plan Your Project

• Detail what you want done and who will be needed to complete it. No two projects are the same and may require a specially licensed contractor.

Get 2 to 3 Estimates

• When comparing estimates from different contractors, compare more than the bottom-line cost. Look at the cost and quality of materials for each one. Be sure the estimate includes the total price, the materials to be used, a timetable for payments and the expected timeline for completion of the work.

Verify the Contractor’s License and Insurance

• Get proof that the contractor you may be working with is licensed or registered. Contact your state's regulatory agency, the West Virginia Contractor Licensing Board within the Department of Labor, to check the status of their license. Only work with contractors who are currently licensed or registered.
• Verify insurance. Legitimate contractors will show proof of insurance, licensing, and bonding. If they don't, you could be liable for accidents on your property.

Check at Least 3 References

• Ask your contractor for three written references. When speaking with the references ask if they were satisfied with the contractor's work and if the contractor kept to the schedule and contract terms
• Take a picture of your contractor, their business card, vehicle, and license plate.

Require a Written Contract

• The contract should include a detailed description of the work to be done, the material to be used, and the equipment to be installed. Be sure it contains a schedule of payments and a timeline for when the work will be completed. Get any agreement in writing. Read the contract carefully, and if you don't understand every word, take it to an expert. Never sign a contract with blank spaces to be filled in.
• Be sure you understand the contract before you sign it. Any changes that occur during the construction project should be noted in writing. Agree in advance how disputes will be handled.

Don’t Make a Down Payment

• The down payment you pay for work to begin should be minimal. Beware of a contractor who is asking for a large payment so that they can purchase the materials to begin your project.

Monitor the Job in Progress

• Check in regularly on the progress of the work. All permits should be displayed by the contractor while the work is being done.

Don’t Make the Final Payment Until the Job is Complete

• Before making the final payment make sure that you are satisfied with the completed work. Verify that all liens have been released.

Keep all Paperwork Related to your Job

• Be sure to keep a record of all documents that pertain to your project. This includes the contract, any written changes, all bills and invoices, receipts of payments, and all correspondence with your contractor. You should also include photos of the job in progress.

During construction, if you feel that something is not right, and you cannot work it out with the contractor check with the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-223-0814, or the Office of the West Virginia Attorney General's Consumer Protection hotline at 800-368-8808. You can also file complaints online with the WV Office of the Attorney General at Consumer Protection (wv.gov) or to the Better Business Bureau at File a Complaint | Consumer Complaints | Better Business Bureau® (bbb.org).

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 Tue, 07/23/2024 - 12:17

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Hawarden Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on July 21 at 6:29 p.m. PDT / 9:29 p.m. EDT to assist the state of California in combating the Hawarden Fire burning in Riverside County.

On July 21, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 1,500 homes in and around the city of Riverside, with a population of 314,000. All the threatened homes are primary residences; none are secondary residences.

The fire started on July 21, 2024, and had burned more than 485 acres of local and private land. There are twelve large fires currently 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 major incidents.

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.

###

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at x/femaregion9

brandi.richard… Tue, 07/23/2024 - 00:26

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Boneyard and Battle Mountain Complex Fires in Oregon

BOTHELL, Wash. -  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Boneyard Fire burning in Grant County, Oregon, and the Battle Mountain Complex Fire, which includes the Monkey Creek, Snake, and North Fork Owens Fires burning in Grant, Morrow and Umatilla counties, Oregon. 

The state of Oregon’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Boneyard Fire was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Saturday, July 20, 2024, at 11:07 p.m. PT. The Region 10 Administrator approved the state’s request for an FMAG for the Battle Mountain Complex Fire on Sunday, July 21, 2024, at 5:15 p.m. PT. He determined that the Boneyard and Battle Mountain Complex Fires threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute major disasters. These are the fifth and sixth FMAGs declared in 2024 to help fight Oregon wildfires. 

At the time of the state’s request, the wildfires threatened homes in and around the communities of Mountain, Kimberly, Dale, Ritter and Ukiah. The Boneyard Fire also threatened Highway 402, cell towers, communications sites, private cooperative utilities, watersheds, irrigation infrastructure, cultural resources and recreational sites. The Battle Mountain Complex Fire threatened Highway 395, cell towers, communications towers, private cooperative utilities, irrigation infrastructure, watersheds and cultural resources.

FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies. This authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire. 

In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under these FMAGs, another $1,970,222 will be available to Oregon through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.  

###

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.

 

 

 

natalie.shaver Mon, 07/22/2024 - 21:35

USFA Reauthorization Further Advances 50 Years of Fire Service to Nation

WASHINGTON -- Early this month, President Biden signed a bill reauthorizing the United States Fire Administration (USFA) through September 30, 2028. For 50 years, USFA has been working for a fire safe America.

The USFA works with federal, state, local, tribal and territorial partners and nongovernmental stakeholders to improve public safety. This includes collecting and analyzing data, administering national fire and emergency medical service programs, increasing public awareness about fire safety, reducing community risks and delivering specialized training through the National Fire Academy. The USFA, the fire prevention and control arm of FEMA, was established in 1974 when Congress passed the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act. Since its inception, the USFA has helped to reduce the occurrence of fire and the number of fire deaths and make our nation’s communities and residents safer. 

“Across the country – and around the world – our communities are experiencing the devastating effects of fire on our most vulnerable populations,” stated Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, U.S. Fire Administrator. “We are also seeing intensified wildfires that are no longer limited to the west coast or the forests. It is the mission of the USFA to ensure that firefighters are prepared to prevent or respond to fire whenever and wherever it occurs and that individuals understand the fire threat and take actions to make themselves savable.” 

While residential fires are of major concern, so are extreme weather-driven wildfires in suburban communities and fires in wildland urban interface locations. They are becoming more frequent and more destructive in more places. The fire that devastated the Hawaiian island of Maui last summer was the deadliest our country has faced in over 100 years. 

This May, the USFA held its first-ever World Fire Congress in Washington D.C. The inaugural event brought together fire service leaders representing 56 countries, the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction and the Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations. This meeting was critical to sharing best practices and wildfire strategies strengthening all participants ability to respond. 

In October 2024, the USFA will host its annual signature event – the U.S. Fire Administrator’s Summit on Fire Prevention and Control – assembling the leaders of national fire service organizations to discuss fire problems across the country along with the challenges facing America’s fire service while collaborating on solutions. This is the U.S. Fire Administrator’s exclusive event that provides access to national fire service leaders and members of the federal government along with a virtual audience of over 4,000 additional fire service professionals. Sharing challenges and best practices better informs fire services to help reduce the devastation caused by fires.

These collaborations strengthen our partnerships and demonstrate our continuing commitment to address the universal issues affecting all firefighters and heighten our readiness as we head into peak wildfire season.

Support to our Nation’s Fire Fighters

With a focus in 2024 on the Year of Resilience, FEMA is increasing efforts to enhance response capabilities at all levels. In January, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced the opening of the latest application period for the Fiscal Year 2023 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, which awards $324 million to enhance the safety of the public and firefighters nationwide against fire-related deaths and hazards. Since fiscal year 2001, the AFG has awarded approximately $8.4 billion in grants to provide critically needed resources to help keep firefighters and the public safe from fires and fire-related hazards. The Fire Prevention and Safety Grants are part of the AFG and support projects that enhance the safety of the public and firefighters from fire and related hazards.

The Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant program was created to provide funding directly to fire departments and volunteer firefighter interest organizations to help them increase or maintain the number of trained, "front line" firefighters available in their communities.

As we look to the future, USFA’s reauthorization, and the reauthorization of the AFG and SAFER grants, give us the opportunity to continue our steadfast and ever-growing commitment to keeping America fire safe. 

amy.ashbridge Mon, 07/22/2024 - 20:55

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in O’Brien County

DES MOINES, Iowa — FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in O’Brien County on Wednesday, July 24 to provide one-on-one help to people affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding this spring.

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

O’Brien County

Sheldon City Hall (Community Services Center)

416 9th St.,

Sheldon, IA 51201

Opens on Wednesday, July 24: 1-6 p.m. then daily from 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.

FEMA funding is available to homeowners and renters in Adair, Adams, Buena Vista, Cedar, Cherokee, Clarke, Clay, Dickinson, Emmet, Harrison, Humboldt, Jasper, Lyon, Mills, Montgomery, O’Brien, Palo Alto, Plymouth, Polk, Pottawattamie, Ringgold, Shelby, Sioux, Story, Union and Woodbury counties. 

To save time, please apply with FEMA online or by phone before visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. They are open daily 8 a.m.– 6 p.m.

 

Cherokee County 

Cherokee County Emergency Management

(Formerly the Cherokee County Work Services Bldg.)

322 Lake St., Suite B

Cherokee, IA 51012

Clay County

Clay County Regional Events Center

Tower Gate Pavilion

800 W. 18th St.

Spencer, IA 51301

Emmet County

St. Patrick's Church - Gym

903 Central Ave.

Estherville, IA 51334

Lyon County

Forster Community Center

404 First Ave.

Rock Rapids, IA 51246

.

Sioux County

City Park Shelter House

1013 13th Ave.

Rock Valley, IA 51247

 

How to Apply with FEMA

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Download and use the FEMA app.
• Multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish).
• Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448.

tiana.suber Mon, 07/22/2024 - 20:38

Disaster Recovery Center, Mobile Unit to Open in Angus, Aztec

A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) and a Mobile Disaster Recovery Center (MDRC) operated by the state of New Mexico and FEMA will both open at 9 a.m., Tuesday, July 23, to help New Mexicans affected by last month’s South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding. 

A fixed-site DRC will open at Angus Church of the Nazarene in Angus in Lincoln County, while a mobile DRC will be available at the Aztec Fire Station in San Juan County. Both centers are open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday, closed Sundays.

Currently, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are on the ground in San Juan County and are providing registration assistance to residents prior to the opening of the mobile DRC. 

Residents and business owners in Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba and San Juan counties and the Mescalero Apache Reservation can visit either 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 (SBA) as well as, state, local, nonprofit and other community organizations will be available to meet with visitors.                                         

The new DRC will be located at:  

• Lincoln County:
  Angus Church of the Nazarene
  103 Bonita Park Road
  Angus, NM 

The new MDRC (through July 27 only)
will be located at:

• San Juan County
  San Juan County Fire and Rescue
  Aztec Fire Station
  209 S. Oliver
  Aztec, NM 

Other DRCs are open at:

• Lincoln County
  Horton Complex
  237 Service Road
  Ruidoso, NM 

• Mescalero Apache Reservation 
  Mescalero Apache School
  249 White Mountain Dr.

  Hours at all centers are:
  Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  Closed Sunday

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 childcare assistance. No appointment is needed. 

All Disaster Recovery Centers 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. 

For more information and assistance, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. MT. 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.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 07/22/2024 - 18:50