President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for U.S. Virgin Islands

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the U.S. Virgin Islands to supplement the territory’s response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from elevated levels of lead and copper in the water supply beginning on Oct. 25, 2023, and continuing.

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title V of the Stafford Act, to save lives, protect property and public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe on the island of St. Croix.

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide, at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures (Category B), including direct federal assistance, under the public assistance program will be provided for water, other necessary related items such as filters and testing and technical assistance necessary to identify and address immediate threats to public health and safety for 90 days from the start of the incident period. 

Ms. Lai Sun Yee has been appointed to coordinate Federal recovery operations in the affected areas. 

erika.suzuki Sun, 11/19/2023 - 17:25

FEMA Continues to Hire for the Illinois Disaster Recovery Team

CHICAGO – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has an immediate need to employ residents to work as temporary local hires to assist with disaster response and recovery efforts. Local hire employees are local residents who aid in the recovery of their community. FEMA encourages you to apply for this exciting opportunity!

Currently we are hiring for the following local hire position. The job announcement will expire on Nov. 23, 2023, so apply soon! To learn more about the types of positions and their roles in FEMA, please visit FEMA Cadres.

Morton Grove

• Interagency Recovery Coordination Community Planning Capacity Building Manager USAJOBS - Job Announcement

Most temporary local hires are employed through a streamlined hiring process. A local hire’s term of employment is up to 120 days, though it may be extended in 120-day increments. Visit the link above for additional information, including job responsibilities and compensation.

FEMA is an equal opportunity employer. Salaries are comparable to local pay rates.

Conditions of Employment:

You must be a U.S. citizen to be considered for this position.
You must successfully pass a background investigation.
Selective Service registration is required for males born after Dec. 31, 1959.
Review job announcements for additional conditions of employment.

To see other FEMA career postings, visit fema.gov/careers.

For additional information about the disaster recovery operation in Illinois, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4728.

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay).

darrell.habisch Fri, 11/17/2023 - 20:07

Tulong Pederal Lumampas ng $375 Milyon for Cook County

CHICAGO – Ang tulong pederal sa mga residente ng Cook County na naapektuhan ng matinding bagyo at pagbaha noong Hunyo 29 – Hulyo 2 ay lumapas na ng $375 milyon. Itong halaga ay kinabibilangan ng mga gawad ng FEMA na higit sa $280 milyon na Pang-Indibidwal at Pansamabahayan na mga gawad para sa tulong sa pag-upa, pondo sa pagkukumpuni at pagpapalit, at iba pang mga gawad na tumutulong sa pagpalit ng personal na pag-aaari at magbigay ng bayad sa pag-imbak at pangangalaga ng bata. Bilang karagdagan sa mga gawad ng FEMA mayroong higit sa $96.6 milyon sa mababang-interes na pautang sa sakuna ng Small Business Administration (SBA o Administrasyon ng Maliliit na Negosyo) para sa mga may-ari ng bahay at negosyo.

Heto ang buod ng tulong sa sakuna ng FEMA mula noong Nobyembre 15:

• Higit sa $280 milyon ang inapruba para sa pinansyal at direktang serbisyo sa mga kwalipikadong nakaligtas na nagkaroon ng walang-seguro o may kakulangan sa seguro na pangangailangan at gastos na idinulot ng sakuna. Mula sa halagang iyon, $241 milyon ang para sa tulong sa pabahay. Kinabibilangan ito ng:
  • Mga pondo para sa pansamantalang tirahan, tulad ng tulong sa pag-upa o gastos sa hotel para sa mga nakaligtas na hindi kayang tumira sa kanilgn mga bahay dahil sa labis na pagkasira na idinulot ng pagbaha sa tag-init; 
  • Mga pondo para sa pagpapaayos ng isang bahay na tinirhan ng may-ari na gawin itong ligtas, tiyak, at matitirahan; 
  • Mga pondo para tumulong sa paglipat at pag-imbak ng mga gamit pangbahay o kinakailangang personal na ari-arian;
  • Tulong pinansyal para tumulong sa mga may-ari ng bahay sa paglilinis at kalinisan ng mga bahay na mayroong kaunting pinsala;
• Ang mga natitirang pondo ay ibinayad bilang: 
• Panggastos sa medikal at dental na nauugnay sa sakuna.
  • Tulong sa pangangalaga ng bata, limitado sa walong linggo. 

Mula noong Nobyembre 14, iginawad ng U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA o Administrasyon ng Maliliit na Negosyo) ang $88.3 milyon sa mababang-interes na pautang sa sakuna sa mga may-ari ng bahay na may mga bahay na nagtamo ng malawak at magastos na pinsala na kaysa sa masasaklaw ng isang gawad ng FEMA. Iginawad din ng SBA ang higit sa $8.2 millyon sa mga pautang sa sakuna upang tulungan ang mga negosyo na makabangon muli.

Habang natapos na ang panahon ng aplikasyon, ang mga nakaligtas na nag-apply para sa tulong ng FEMA ay dapat manatiling nakikipag-ugnayan sa FEMA. Kung mayroong pagbabago sa iyong numero ng telepono, kasalukuyang address sa koreo, impormasyon sa bangko o seguro, dapat mong ibigay-alam ito sa FEMA o maaari mong makaligtaan ang mga mahalagang tawag sa telepono o liham. Magkaroon ng kamalayan na ang mga tawag sa telepono mula sa FEMA ay maaaring magmukha na magmula sa mga hindi kilalang numero. Siguraduhin mo na nasa FEMA ang iyong kasalukuyang impormasyon sa pakikipag-ugnayan at sagutin mo ang telepono dahil maaaring tumawag ang FEMA para makakuha ng karagdagang impormasyon para sa iyong aplikasyon.

1. Maaari mo ring i-update ang iyong impormasyon sa pakikipag-ugnayan sa parehong paraan na maaari mong makuha ang sagot sa iyong mga katanungan:

• Pumunta sa online sa DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Gamitin ang app ng FEMA para sa mga smart na kasangkapan.
• Tumawag sa 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Ang mga libreng-toll na numero ay bukas mula 6 n.u. hanggang hatinggabi ng lokal na oras, araw-araw. Ang mga gumagamit ng serbisyo ng relay tulad ng teleponong may bidyo, InnoCaption o CapTel ay dapat magbigay sa FEMA ng kanilang tiyak na numero ng telepono na natalaga sa serbisyong iyon.

Kapag tinawagan ka, nasa espesyalista ng FEMA ang iyong numero ng pagrerehistro sa FEMA, numero ng telepono at address ng nasirang pag-aari. Maaari nilang hingin sa iyo ang unang apat na numero ng iyong numero sa pagpaparehistro sa FEMA. Hindi sila hihingi ng pera; libre ang pag-apply para sa tulong ng FEMA. Dahil maraming nakasalalay sa pagkakaroon ng wastong impormasyon, mahalaga na maaari kang matawagan ng FEMA. Magkaroon ng kamalayan na ang mga tawag sa telepono mula sa FEMA ay maaaring magmula sa mga hindi kilalang numero. Mangyaring siguraduhin na nasa FEMA ang iyong kasalukuyang impormasyon sa pakikipag-ugnayan. 

Kung nanghihinala ka tungkol sa isang tumatawag, tawagan mo ang Linya ng Tulong ng FEMA sa 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) upang tiyakin na sinusubukan kang maabot ng FEMA. Kung gumagamit ka ng serbisyo ng relay tulad ng serbisyo ng relay sa bidyo, serbisyo ng naka-caption na telepono o iba pa, ibigay mo sa FEMA ang iyong numero para sa serbisyong iyon. 

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Ang tulong sa pagkabawi mula sa sakuna ay magagamit nang walang pagsasaalang-alang sa lahi, kulay, relihiyon, nasyonalidad, kasarian, edad, kapansanan, kasanayan sa Ingles, o pang-ekonomiyang katayuan. Ang makatwirang akomodasyon, kabilang ang pagsasalin ng wika at tagapagsalin ng American Sign Language (wikang pasenyas ng Amerika) gamit ang Serbisyong Relay ng Bidyo ay magagamit upang masigurado ang epektibong komunikasyon sa mga aplikanteng may limitasyon sa kasanayan sa Ingles, kapansanan, daanan at functional na pangangailangan. Kung ikaw o ang isang kakilala mo ay may diskriminasyon, tumawag sa FEMA nang libreng-toll sa 800-621-3362 (kabilang ang 711 o Relay ng Bidyo).

darrell.habisch Fri, 11/17/2023 - 15:06

المساعدة الفيدرالية تجتاز 375 مليون دولار لمقاطعة كوك

شيكاغو – تجاوزت المساعدات الفيدرالية المقدمة لسكان مقاطعة كوك المتضررين من العواصف والفيضانات الشديدة التي حدثت في الفترة من 29 يونيو/حزيران إلى 2 يوليو/تموز 375 مليون دولار. يتضمن هذا المبلغ منح الوكالة الفيدرالية لإدارة الطوارئ (FEMA) التي تزيد قيمتها عن 280 مليون دولار في شكل منح فردية وأسرية للمساعدة في الإيجار وتمويل التصليح والاستبدال ومنح الاحتياجات الأخرى التي تساعد في استبدال الممتلكات الشخصية وتوفير مدفوعات التخزين ورعاية الأطفال. بالإضافة إلى FEMA، هناك أكثر من 96.6 مليون دولار في شكل قروض منخفضة الفائدة لإدارة الأعمال الصغيرة (SBA) في حالات الكوارث لأصحاب المنازل والشركات.

فيما يلي لمحة سريعة عن المساعدة المقدمة من FEMA اعتبارا من 15 نوفمبر/تشرين الثاني:

• تمت الموافقة على أكثر من 280 مليون دولار للخدمات المالية والمباشرة للناجين المؤهلين الذين كانت لديهم احتياجات ونفقات ضرورية غير مؤمن عليها أو غير مؤمن عليها بشكل كاف بسبب الكارثة. ومن هذا المبلغ، تم تخصيص 241 مليون دولار للمساعدة في مجال الإسكان. هذا يتضمن:

  • أموال للإسكان المؤقت، مثل المساعدة في الإيجار أو تكاليف الفندق للناجين الذين لا يستطيعون العيش في منازلهم بسبب الأضرار الجسيمة التي سببتها فيضانات الصيف،

  • أموال لإصلاح منزل يشغله مالكه مما يجعل المنزل آمنا ومأمونا وصالحا للسكن،

  • أموال للمساعدة في نقل وتخزين السلع المنزلية أو الممتلكات الشخصية اللازمة،

  • المساعدة المالية لمساعدة أصحاب المنازل في تنظيف وتعقيم المنازل التي لحقت بها أضرار طفيفة،

• تم صرف باقي الأموال على النحو التالي:

  • تكاليف طبية أو تكاليف طب أسنان منسوبة إلى الكارثة.

  • مساعدة في رعاية الأطفال، وتقتصر على ثمانية أسابيع.

اعتبارا من 14 نوفمبر/تشرين الثاني، منحت SBA 88.3 مليون دولار في شكل قروض منخفضة الفائدة للكوارث لأصحاب منازل تعرضت منازلهم لأضرار واسعة النطاق ومكلفة أكثر مما يمكن تغطيته بمنحة من FEMA. منحت SBA أيضا أكثر من 8.2 مليون دولار من قروض الكوارث لمساعدة الشركات على الوقوف على أقدامها مرة أخرى.

مع أن فترة التقديم قد انتهت، يجب على الناجين الذين تقدموا بطلب للحصول على مساعدة من FEMA أن يداوموا على اتصال بـ FEMA. إذا كانت هناك تغييرات في رقم هاتفك أو عنوانك البريدي الحالي أو معلوماتك المصرفية أو التأمينية، فيجب عليك إخبار FEMA وإلا فقد تفوتك مكالمات هاتفية أو مراسلات مهمة. انتبه إلى أن مكالمات هاتفية من FEMA قد تبدو وكأنها تأتي من أرقام مجهولة. تأكد من أن FEMA لديها معلومات الاتصال الحالية الخاصة بك وقم بالرد على الهاتف، حيث قد تتصل FEMA للحصول على مزيد من المعلومات لتطبيقك.

يمكنك أيضا تحديث معلومات الاتصال الخاصة بك بنفس الطرق التي يمكنك من خلالها الإجابة على أسئلتك:

• انتقل عبر الإنترنت إلى DisasterAssistance.gov.

• استخدم تطبيق FEMA للأجهزة الذكية.

• اتصل بالرقم 3362-621-800 (7585-462-800 للمعوقين سمعا). الأرقام المجانية مفتوحة من الساعة 6 صباحا حتى منتصف الليل بالتوقيت المحلي طوال أيام الأسبوع. يجب على أولئك الذين يستخدمون خدمة ترحيل مثل هاتف الفيديو أو إنوكابشن، InnoCaption أو كابتل، CapTel تزويد FEMA برقم هاتفهم المحدد المخصص لتلك الخدمة.

عند الاتصال بك، سيحصل متخصصو FEMA على رقم تسجيل FEMA الخاص بك ورقم هاتفك وعنوان الممتلكات المتضررة. قد يطلبون منك الأرقام الأربعة الأولى من رقم تسجيل FEMA الخاص بك. لن يطلبوا مال. لا توجد رسوم للتقدم بطلب للحصول على مساعدة من FEMA. مع الاعتماد الكبير على الحصول على معلومات صحيحة، فمن المهم أن تتمكن FEMA من الاتصال بك. انتبه إلى أن المكالمات الهاتفية من FEMA قد تبدو وكأنها تأتي من أرقام مجهولة. الرجاء التأكد من أن FEMA لديها معلومات الاتصال الحالية الخاصة بك.

إذا كنت تشك في أحد المتصلين، فاتصل بخط مساعدة FEMA على الرقم800-621-3362  (للمعوقين سمعا 800-462-7585) للتحقق من أن FEMA هي من تحاول الوصول إليك. إذا كنت تستخدم خدمة ترحيل مثل خدمة ترحيل فيديو أو خدمة هاتف مزودة بتعليق أو غيرها، فامنح FEMA رقمك الخاص بهذه الخدمة.

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تتوفر المساعدة في حالات الكوارث بغض النظر عن العرق أو اللون أو الدين أو الجنسية أو الجنس أو العمر أو الإعاقة أو إتقان اللغة الإنجليزية أو الوضع الاقتصادي. ستتوفر التسهيلات المعقولة، بما في ذلك الترجمة والمترجمين الفوريين للغة الإشارة الأمريكية عبر خدمة ترحيل الفيديو لضمان التواصل الفعال مع المتقدمين ذوي الكفاءة المحدودة في اللغة الإنجليزية والإعاقات واحتياجات الوصول والوظيفية. إذا تعرضت أنت أو أي شخص تعرفه للتمييز، فاتصل بالوكالة الفيدرالية لإدارة الطوارئ (FEMA) على الرقم المجاني 800-621-3362   (ما في ذلك 711 أو خدمة الفيديو).

darrell.habisch جمعة, 11/17/2023 - 14:41

Disaster Recovery Centers Closing for Thanksgiving Holiday

LAKE MARY, Fla. – All Disaster Recovery Centers will be closed starting Wednesday, Nov. 22 through 
Sunday, Nov. 26 in recognition of the Thanksgiving holiday. Help will remain available by calling 800-621-3362. 

Normal hours of operation will resume on Monday, Nov. 27. 

Currently open sites:

• Dixie County: Dixie County Public Library, 16328 SE US-19, Cross City, 32628, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday 
• Lafayette County: Mayo Community Center, 150 NW Community Cir., Mayo, 32066, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Fri, closed Saturday and Sunday
• Madison County: Suite 693G, 705 E Base St., Madison, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon-Sat, closed Sunday

 

No appointment is necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. Residents are welcome to visit any open DRC and do not have to reside in that county.

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

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

It is not necessary to visit a center. Survivors can apply by calling 800-621-3362, going online at disasterassistance.gov, or using the FEMA mobile app. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET. 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.

Deadline to apply is November 29, 2023.

                                            

virginia.case2 Fri, 11/17/2023 - 14:04

FEMA Awards Mayfield Electric & Water More than $1.9 Million for Tornado Related Expenses

Frankfort, Ky. – FEMA has approved $ 1,917,941 to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to help the Mayfield Electric & Water Systems (Mayfield EWS) defray the costs of emergency protective measures taken following Dec. 2021 tornadoes.

During the incident period, severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, and E4 tornadoes caused widespread and prolonged electric power outages in the city of Mayfield, Graves County, Kentucky. This created an immediate threat to the health and safety of the public. As a result, Mayfield EWS sustained damages to water, sewer, and electrical lines throughout multiple locations. In response, the applicant will utilize contract labor to restore the electrical and water system back to its pre-disaster design, function, and capacity within the existing footprint. 

Mayfield EWS will use these funds to remove and replace 65,548 linear feet (LF) of service conductors and related hardware, 27,436 LF of primary conductor and related hardware, 398 electric meters and related hardware, 226 pole-mounted light fixtures, 329 additional hardware components, 67 crossarms, 222 poles of various sizes, and 223 each of transformers of various sizes.

Funding for this Public Assistance project is authorized under Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, reimbursing eligible applicants for the cost of debris removal; life-saving emergency protective measures; and the repair, replacement or restoration of disaster-damaged facilities like buildings, roads and utilities.

FEMA’s Public Assistance grant program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Kentucky Division of Emergency Management (KYEM) works with FEMA during all phases of the PA program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop project worksheets and scopes of work. Following approvals by FEMA and KYEM, FEMA obligates funding for the project.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private non-profit organizations including some houses of worship, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

The federal share for Public Assistance projects for this disaster is 90 percent of the eligible cost. The commonwealth determines how the non-federal share of the cost of a project (up to 10 percent) is split with the sub-recipients like local and county governments.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 11/16/2023 - 20:38

La asistencia federal supera los $375 millones para el condado Cook

CHICAGO - La asistencia federal de FEMA para los residentes del condado Cook afectados por las inundaciones y tormentas ocurridas del 29 de junio al 2 de julio ha superado los $375 millones. Esta cantidad incluye subvenciones de FEMA por más de $280 millones como parte del programa de Individuos y Familias para asistencia de alquiler, financiamiento de reparaciones y reemplazos, y subvenciones para otras necesidades que ayudan a reemplazar bienes personales y facilitan pagos de almacenamiento y cuido de niños. Además de las subvenciones de FEMA, hay más de $96.5 millones en préstamos por desastre a bajo interés de la Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios (SBA, por sus siglas en inglés) para propietarios de viviendas y empresas.

He aquí un vistazo de la asistencia por desastre de FEMA hasta el 15 de noviembre:

• Se aprobaron más de $280 millones para servicios financieros y directos a los sobrevivientes elegibles que tenían necesidades y gastos necesarios no asegurados o insuficientemente asegurados provocados por el desastre. De esa cantidad, $241 millones se destinaron para asistencia de vivienda. Esto incluye:
  • Fondos para vivienda provisional, como ayudas de alquiler o gastos de hotel para los sobrevivientes que no puedan vivir en sus casas debido a los excesivos daños causados por las inundaciones del verano; 
  • Fondos para la reparación de una vivienda ocupada por el propietario que hará que la vivienda esté segura, protegida y habitable;
  • Fondos para prestar asistencia en el traslado y almacenamiento de bienes del hogar o bienes personales que se necesiten;
  • Asistencia financiera para asistir a los propietarios en la limpieza y desinfección de viviendas mínimamente dañadas;
• Los fondos restantes se desembolsaron como:
  • Gastos médicos o dentales atribuibles al desastre.
  • Asistencia para el cuido de niños, limitada a ocho semanas. 

Hasta el 14 de noviembre, SBA ha adjudicado $88.3 millones en préstamos a bajo interés a propietarios cuyas viviendas habían sufrido daños más graves y costosos de los que podían cubrirse con una subvención de FEMA. SBA también concedió más de $8.2 millones en préstamos por desastre para asistir a las empresas a volver a ponerse en pie.

Aunque el periodo de solicitud ha finalizado, los sobrevivientes que hayan solicitado la ayuda de FEMA deben seguir en contacto con FEMA. Si hay cambios en su número de teléfono, dirección postal actual, información bancaria o de seguros, por favor, hágaselo saber a FEMA para que podamos actualizar su expediente. Tenga en cuenta que las llamadas telefónicas de FEMA pueden parecer venir de números no identificados. Asegúrese de que FEMA tiene su información de contacto actualizada y conteste al teléfono, ya que FEMA puede estar llamando para obtener más información para su solicitud.

1. Puede actualizar su información de contacto de la misma manera que puede obtener respuesta a sus preguntas:

• Visite DisasterAssistance.gov/es.
• Utilice la aplicación móvil de FEMA en su teléfono móvil.
• Llame al 800-621-3362 (TTY al 800-462-7585). La línea telefónica gratuita opera de 6 a.m. hasta la medianoche, hora local, los siete días de la semana. Quienes utilicen un servicio de retransmisión como un videoteléfono, InnoCaption o CapTel deberán facilitar a FEMA su número de teléfono específico asignado a ese servicio.

Cuando lo llamen, los especialistas de FEMA tendrán su número de registro de FEMA, número de teléfono y dirección de la propiedad dañada. Es posible que le pidan los cuatro primeros dígitos de su número de registro de FEMA. No le pedirán dinero; no hay que pagar nada por solicitar la asistencia de FEMA. Dado que depende en gran medida de que la información sea correcta, es importante que FEMA pueda comunicarse con usted. Tenga en cuenta que las llamadas telefónicas de FEMA pueden parecer venir de números no identificados. Asegúrese de que FEMA tiene su información de contacto actualizada. 

Si sospecha de alguien que llama, llame a la Línea de Ayuda de FEMA al 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) para verificar que FEMA está intentando ponerse en contacto con usted. Si utiliza un servicio de retransmisión, como el servicio de retransmisión por vídeo (VRS, por sus siglas en inglés), el servicio telefónico subtitulado u otros, deberá facilitar a FEMA el número de dicho servicio. 

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La asistencia de recuperación por desastre está disponible sin tener en cuenta la raza, el color, la religión, la nacionalidad, el sexo, la edad, la discapacidad, el dominio del inglés o la situación económica. Se dispondrá de acomodo razonable, incluyendo traducción e intérpretes de Lenguaje de Señas Americano a través del Servicio de Retransmisión de Vídeo, para garantizar una comunicación eficaz con los solicitantes con dominio limitado del inglés, discapacidades y necesidades funcionales y de acceso. Si usted o alguien que conoce ha sido víctima de discriminación, llame al número gratuito de FEMA al 800-621-3362 (incluido el 711 o el Servicio de Retransmisión de vídeo). 

darrell.habisch Jue, 16/11/2023 - 20:27

Federal Assistance Tops $375 Million for Cook County

CHICAGO – Federal assistance to Cook County residents affected by the June 29 – July 2 severe storms and flooding has topped $375 million. This amount includes FEMA grants of more than $280 million in Individual and Households grants for rental assistance, repair and replacement funding, and other needs grants that help replace personal property and provide storage and childcare payments. In addition to FEMA grants there are more than $96.5 million in Small Business Administration low-interest disaster loans for homeowners and businesses.

Here is a snapshot of the FEMA disaster assistance as of November 15:

• More than $280 million was approved for financial and direct services to eligible survivors who had uninsured or under-insured necessary needs and expenses triggered by the disaster. Of that amount, $241 million was for housing assistance. This includes:
  • Funds for temporary housing, such as rental assistance or hotel costs for survivors who cannot live in their homes because of too much damage caused by the summer flooding; 
  • Funds for repair of an owner-occupied home that will make the home safe, secure and habitable;
  • Funds to assist with moving and storage of household goods or needed personal property;
  • Financial assistance to assist homeowners in cleaning and sanitizing minimally damaged homes;
• The remaining funds were disbursed as: 
• Medical or dental costs attributable to the disaster.
  • Assistance for childcare, limited to eight weeks. 

As of Nov.14, the U.S. Small Business Administration had awarded $88.3 million in low interest disaster loans to homeowners whose homes suffered more extensive and costly damage than could be covered by a FEMA grant. SBA also awarded more than $8.2 million in disaster loans to help businesses get back on their feet.

While the application period has ended, survivors who have applied for FEMA assistance, should still keep in touch with FEMA. If there are changes in your telephone number, current mailing address, banking, or insurance information, you should let FEMA know or you may miss important telephone calls or correspondence. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may appear to come from unidentified numbers. Make sure that FEMA has your current contact information and answer the phone as FEMA may be calling to obtain more information for your application.

1. You can also update your contact information in the same ways you can get your questions answered:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Use the FEMA app for smart devices.
• Call 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). The toll-free numbers are open from 6 a.m. to midnight local time, seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with their specific phone number assigned to that service.

When calling you, FEMA specialists will have your FEMA registration number, telephone number and address of the damaged property. They may ask you for the first four digits of your FEMA registration number. They will not ask for money; there is no charge to apply for FEMA assistance. With so much riding on having the correct information, it is important that FEMA be able to contact you. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may appear to come from unidentified numbers. Please make sure that FEMA has your current contact information. 

If you are suspicious about a caller, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) to verify that FEMA is trying to reach you. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). 

darrell.habisch Thu, 11/16/2023 - 20:20

Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Fluvanna County, VA

PHILADELPHIA-- FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Fluvanna County, Virginia. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period. 

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments. 

The 90-day appeal period will begin on Nov. 16, 2023. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim. Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress. If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.

Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator - Douglas Miles dmiles@fluvannacounty.org. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer FEMA Region 3 Mitigation Mapping and Data.

An Open House will be held on Tuesday, December 5th from 4:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. at the Fluvanna County Administration Building in the Morris Conference Room, 132 Main Street Palmyra, VA 22963. This meeting will provide an opportunity for community members to review the Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps and discuss floodplain management and flood insurance questions with local, state, and federal officials. Please call Fluvanna County at (434)-591-1910 and ask to speak with Valencia Porter-Henderson or e-mail us at planning@fluvannacounty.org with any meeting questions.

The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov. 

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

Fluvanna County, Virginia Flood Mapping Milestones

• May 13, 2022 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• Nov. 30, 2022 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• Feb. 13, 2023 – First Community Coordination and Outreach meeting.
• Nov. 4, 2023 – Second Community Coordination and Outreach meeting.
• Nov. 16, 2023 –Appeal Period starts.
• January 2025* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)

If you have any questions, please contact the 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, 11/16/2023 - 17:59

ICYMI -- FEMA Administrator Unveils New Tribal Strategy Progress Report at National Congress of American Indians Convention

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell, speaking to more than 2,000 tribal leaders and emergency managers at the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) 80th Annual Convention, unveiled FEMA’s first of its kind 2023 Tribal Strategy Progress Report and announced the opening of registration for the ninth annual Tribal Nations Training Week, to be held in March 2024.

“We are creating tailored strategies to ensure Tribal Nations have the tools they need to help tribal citizens before, during and after disasters,” said Criswell.

Leveraging FEMA’s National Tribal Strategy, which re-defined how FEMA can better meet the needs of Tribal Nations, the Progress Reportprovides a synopsis of how FEMA has been helping build Tribal Nation capabilities and capacity. These efforts include increasing in-person engagement with Tribal leaders in Indian Country and at FEMA headquarters in a manner that acknowledges tribal sovereignty and educating and improving the FEMA workforce that serves Indian Country.  

In her remarks to NCAI, Administrator Criswell affirmed FEMA’s commitment to equity and meeting the climate resilience and preparedness needs of all communities.  One important aspect of this work is FEMA’s update of the Tribal Disaster Declarations Guidance. Upon its creation, the Guidance provided Tribal Nations with the long overdue tribal pathway to request their own Presidential Disaster Declarations. It expedites federal funding and helps Tribal Nations recover from disasters more effectively and efficiently. 

During 2023, FEMA has held nine government-to-government tribal consultations and tribal listening sessions across Indian Country specifically focusing on this critical tribal resource. These sessions, both in-person and virtual, provided FEMA with feedback to rework the Guidance so that it better meets the needs of Tribal Nations. FEMA is also working to update the Tribal Mitigation Planning Policy Guide.

Administrator Criswell also announced the opening of registration for FEMA’s ninth annual Tribal Nations Training Week. The training will be held March 9-16, 2024, at FEMA’s Center for Domestic Preparedness in Anniston, Alabama.  For nearly a decade, FEMA has provided no-cost, in-person training for tribal leaders, tribal emergency managers, communications, information technology, grants, health care staff and even Indian Health Services staff. In 2023, 215 students from 77 Tribal Nations attended, and FEMA seeks to increase participation for 2024.

The 2023 Tribal Strategy Progress Report and accompanying Fiscal Year 2023 FEMA Tribal Engagement Map are available on the FEMA Tribal Affairs web page.

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 11/16/2023 - 16:47

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Two Years Later: FEMA Makes Advancements for Climate Resiliency Across Region 3

PHILADELPHIA –In the two years since President Biden signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), FEMA has taken significant steps to build a more resilient nation. In FEMA Region 3, several communities have benefited from the increase in funding this law provides. 

With funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and as part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, FEMA has infused extra money into existing grant programs and announced initiatives to find creative ways to reduce disaster impacts and minimize future disaster costs. The historic legislation provides nearly $7 billion over five years for these actions across states, local communities, tribes, territories and the District of Columbia.

“President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has empowered FEMA to take bold actions to enhance resiliency against growing climate threats,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “In the past two years, this infusion of money has allowed the agency to invest in creative programs to ensure communities across the country can build the resilience they need to be prepared to withstand the increasing threats of hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, extreme heat, storms, flooding and other events driven by climate change. As we continue this forward momentum, we encourage more communities to seize these opportunities and apply for this transformational funding.”

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Impact in FEMA Region 3:

Through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, FEMA Region 3 is in the process of funding over 50 mitigation projects throughout Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, DC, and Delaware. These grants will fund hazard mitigation plans, studies to support future mitigation, and the construction of mitigation projects. More than $27 million from the BIL is being provided in federal grant dollars to support this work. 

A few highlights include:

• Home Elevations in the City of Norfolk (Virginia): Through FEMA’s Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant program, the City of Norfolk will receive nearly $775,000 to elevate seven homes throughout the city. By elevating their homes, property owners will have better protection from future flooding and lower flood insurance rates. 

 

• DC Water & Sewer Pump Station Improvements (District of Columbia): DC Water and Sewer Authority will receive $816,000 through FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program to complete critical upgrades to their Deane Avenue Stormwater Pump Station, which regularly experiences outages due to flooding. The project will consist of installing a new generator and floodproofing mechanisms that will protect the pump station and keep it operational during future storms.

 

• Public Drinking Water and Wastewater Database Development (Delaware): The Delaware Department of Safety & Homeland Security will receive nearly $435,000 through the BRIC program to fund the data collection project that will look at the drinking and wastewater systems throughout the state and how to protect them from future hazards such as contamination, flooding and public health epidemics. 

 

• City of Philadelphia’s 21st Street Sewer Capacity Improvements (Pennsylvania): The City of Philadelphia will receive $5.4 million to increase the 21st Street sewer conveyance capacity. The 21st Street sewer plays a critical role in conveying wastewater and stormwater from schools, parks, residences, community facilities, and streets. Increasing the capacity of the sewer to convey wastewater and stormwater runoff will reduce the risk of flooding that damages properties and impacts human life and safety. 
  
   
• Maryland Hazard Mitigation Plan Update (Maryland): The state of Maryland will receive $70,000 to help cover the costs of updating their State Hazard Mitigation Plan. A Hazard Mitigation Plan outlines risks and vulnerabilities faced by Marylanders and offers ideas and recommendations for protecting and improving resilience in the state. These plans are updated every five years and make the state eligible for FEMA disaster grant funding.

“The projects above are great examples of how our states and the District of Columbia have benefited from the increased FEMA funding available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “We’re always excited to see how our state and local partners are finding new ways to become more resilient and protect themselves from future hazards. With application periods currently open for several of our grant programs, we encourage local municipalities to work with their State Hazard Mitigation Officers to apply.”

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding for Other FEMA Programs

In addition to the BRIC and Flood Mitigation Assistance programs, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has provided funding for a number of FEMA programs that are taking decisive action to tackle the climate crisis and strengthen resilience nationwide, including in underserved and disadvantaged communities.

The agency will make available $1 billion over four years in State and Local Cybersecurity Grants to support strong cybersecurity practices for states, local communities, tribes and territories. In August, FEMA announced about $375 millionfor the next funding cycle.

$733 million over five years is available for the Rehabilitation of High Hazard Potential Dams program and the National Dam Safety State Assistance Grant Program to help state, territorial and local governments take action to address high hazard potential dams that pose dangers to life and property if they fail. On Nov. 2, FEMA announced a total $211 million for the two programs comprised entirely of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds.

$500 million over five years is available for the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund program . This program provides capitalization grants to states, eligible federally recognized tribes, territories and the District of Columbia to establish revolving loan funds. These low-interest loans allow jurisdictions to reduce vulnerability to natural disasters and foster greater community resilience. FEMA made the first selections for this new program this summer. The agency anticipates releasing the next funding opportunity later this year.

For more information about FEMA programs funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, please visit here.

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, 11/16/2023 - 16:22

FEMA Obligates More than $8 Million to East Harlem Flood Project

NEW YORK—An East Harlem public housing development is the recipient of a FEMA grant to make it more resilient to flooding threats.

Clinton Houses will receive more than $8.3 million for a stormwater resiliency project funded through FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program’s FY21 funding cycle. The project aims to reduce the effects of extreme rainfall events in the low-income housing community.

The Clinton Houses and its surrounding streets—a critical shelter and transportation lifeline for East Harlem—have been subject to persistent stormwater flooding. Extreme rainfall events are becoming more frequent, more disruptive and more dangerous to the community.

The project will control flooding through nature-based detention and retention basins capable of managing nearly 1.8 million gallons of rainfall runoff. The project will also address extreme heat through multi-functional open spaces. 

“In New York City, we are seeing an increase in extreme rainfall events which are severely impacting our communities,” said FEMA Region 2 Administrator David Warrington. “Thanks to FEMA’s BRIC program, we can implement innovative solutions to help mitigate impacts, especially in disadvantaged and underserved communities. Clinton Houses, a low-income public housing development in East Harlem, is just one example of how we are leveraging nature-based solutions to reduce risk and benefit the community in many other ways.” 

“This project reaffirms our commitment to sustainability – building resilience before disasters is a critical step toward making our communities safer for future generations,” RA Warrington added.

For more information on other BRIC funding selections, visit FEMA.gov.

The Biden-Harris Administration's Justice40 Initiative aims to deliver 40% of overall benefits to projects like Clinton Houses through various FEMA programs. Project obligations like Clinton Houses—located in a disadvantaged community with the highest concentration of public housing developments in Manhattan—help the administration meet this goal. 

Disadvantaged communities like East Harlem have been marginalized and overburdened by pollution and underinvestment. Increased funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help FEMA direct money toward more communities like this so they can better withstand the growing climate threat facing communities like East Harlem.

The law provides nearly $7 billion to help communities proactively reduce their vulnerability to flood, hurricanes, drought, wildfires, extreme heat and other climate-fueled hazards. The current BRIC funding announcement of $1 billion benefits from $400 million in BIL funds.

To learn more about the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, visit FEMA.gov. 

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

gina.callaghan Thu, 11/16/2023 - 16:12

FEMA Launches First-Ever #WinterReady Campaign, Urges the Nation to Get Prepared for Extreme Cold and Winter Weather

WASHINGTON -- In time for holiday travel and winter weather, FEMA’s Ready Campaign launched the first-ever #WinterReady campaign encouraging people to identify and reduce the risks they face during the winter season. FEMA’s #WinterReady Campaign provides easy, low-cost tips to keep you safe including ways to keep homes warm, travel safely, prepare for inclement weather and simple steps to mitigate the risks of home fires which are most prevalent during this time.

“Harsh winters are not only a concern for states in the far north -- blizzards, extreme cold and the damage to our critical infrastructure that these conditions can cause today threaten every community, everywhere across our nation,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “An ounce of prevention today is worth a pound of cure tomorrow.  The #WinterReady Campaign, thanks to the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will make resources available to help our entire country stand more resilient, more secure, and more prepared in the face of the cold months ahead. I strongly urge every community to take advantage of these resources -- including and especially those who have not faced these weather-related challenges before.” 

Winter weather brings risks that can be avoided with appropriate preparation. According to the CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics, more temperature-related deaths are attributable to cold exposure than heat, and Americans in rural communities are most likely to be impacted.  One of the most important risks to mitigate are fires caused by home portable heaters, which remain the second leading cause of home fires in the United States, according to the U.S. Fire Administration.

“In the last few years, we have seen Texas freeze and the 2022 blizzard that left hundreds of thousands of Massachusetts residents without power,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell.  “No matter where you are in the nation, it is important to know how to handle cold temperatures, power outages, and home heating technology in ways that keep you and your family safe. I want everyone to be #WinterReady and then encourage your friends, family and neighbors to make a plan, too. The steps we take now to prepare and educate people ahead of the winter season can end up saving lives.”

“At USFA, we want everyone to be #WinterReady and fire safe,” said USFA Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell. “Every year, the number of fires and fire related injuries increase during the winter season. These increases are largely due to heating insecurity, inattentive cooking and holiday decoration fires. Cold temperatures lead to the use of fireplaces or space heaters. These heat sources can keep us warm and can also be dangerous if not used safely.  Please keep blankets and anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from heat sources.”

Communities across the nation experience severe winter weather in different ways, face unique risks, and have varying levels of infrastructure or experience to handle extreme weather events. Increases in anomalous winter weather in the South and more frequent winter storms, including lake-effect snowstorms in the Northeast, are increasing vulnerabilities for these communities. The #WinterReady tools and resources can help keep them safe. 

With investment support from the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, FEMA offers hazard mitigation grants through the Building Resilience Infrastructure and Communities and Flood Mitigation Assistance programs.  During the winter months, webinars will be offered to those who are interested in applying for these grant opportunities, which support building community resilience for extreme temperatures and even flooding from snow melt, making communities more resilient to climate change driven extreme weather events.

With the holiday season upon us, USFA has one last #WinterReady reminder. “Holidays bring celebrating and cooking for family and friends, which can lead to being distracted to food on the stove. Stay Alert!,” said Administrator Moore-Merrell. “Decorations are beautiful, but please check the cords of your holiday lights for cracks or frays and never leave a burning candle unattended.  If using a live tree, keep it watered. A dry tree burns faster in event of fire.  We wish you a fire safe, #WinterReady season!”

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 11/16/2023 - 15:51

FEMA’s Ready Campaign Celebrates Its 20th Year, Launches New Ad Campaign with the Ad Council to Urge Older Adults to “Take Control” When It Comes to Emergency Preparedness

WASHINGTON -- Over the last few years, FEMA has designed campaigns to meet the needs of specific communities, and this year’s Ready campaign focuses on older adults, specifically those with limited financial resources, living with disabilities and those living in rural areas. As part of the FEMA Ready campaign’s goal of empowering all people to take steps to become disaster resilient, FEMA and the Ad Council launched new PSAs today, developed specifically for older adults. In the campaign’s 20th year, the new “Take Control” PSAs empower older adults and their caregivers to take three simple steps to prepare for an emergency: 1) assess needs, 2) make a plan and 3) engage support networks. This is the first time FEMA has created a campaign to reach older adults with tailored messaging and information specifically for them. FEMA also released an older adults guide available on Ready.gov/OlderAdults to aid people viewing the ad creative and to ensure that the content is accessible to them.

“While older adults may be more vulnerable to disaster consequences -- especially if they are living alone, are low-income, have a disability or live in rural areas -- they can also be force-multipliers for preparedness,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “I encourage everyone, especially older adults, to engage your support networks on emergency planning, because your friends, family and neighbors depend as much on you as you do on them. I also urge FEMA’s partners, including those who work with and support the older adults in our communities, to work together to bolster preparedness for this particularly vulnerable group.” 

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2020 about 1 in 6 people in the United States were age 65 or older. To meet the specific needs of this growing segment of population, FEMA met with organizations focused on caring for older adults, and the Ad Council held focus groups with older adults to develop new resources on Ready.gov/OlderAdults and Listo.gov/AdultsMayores. These new resources include a Disaster Preparedness Guide for Older Adults, providing easy-to-read, user-friendly worksheets that walk individuals and caregivers through a self-assessment to identify specific needs and checklists that create a personalized plan.   

FEMA’s Ready Campaign PSAs were developed pro bono by Lopez Negrete Communications in coordination with the Ad Council. Building on Ready’s National Preparedness Month work in September, this year’s PSAs emphasize how all communities can prepare for disasters and amplifies best practices to engage loved ones on emergency preparedness using the three easy steps.

This year’s older adult PSA follows in the path of the last two years of community-focused efforts, which engaged the Black and African-American and Latino communities specifically, and the nation at-large in individual and national preparedness. Since its launch in 2003, the Ready campaign generated over 100 million unique visitors to Ready.gov, where individuals, families and communities can learn how to best prepare for disasters. 

“We are very proud to once again have an opportunity to put our strategic thinking and creative resources to work on this campaign targeting older, diverse adults for FEMA through the Ad Council,” stated Lopez Negrete Communications’ President/CEO, Alex López Negrete. “The research conducted uncovered some powerful yet complex insights that required unique creative activation. Sometimes, those who have been through a lot in life consider themselves invulnerable and put themselves at unnecessary risk when disaster strikes -- when all it takes to avoid putting themselves in danger are three easy steps. We are optimistic that this work will cut through the clutter and make a difference in encouraging our older adults to prepare properly.” 

“Unfortunately, with disasters, we know it’s not a matter of if, but when they’ll strike. And this can be especially devastating for vulnerable populations,” said Ad Council’s Chief Campaign Development Officer, Michelle Hillman. “We’re particularly proud of this new creative developed specifically to empower older adults to be proactive and take control in three steps to stay safe and prepare for those moments.” 

This round of creative work is the latest in FEMA and the Ad Council’s 20-year partnership of educating communities about disasters and emergency preparedness. For more information and to get started on your emergency plan, visit ready.gov/plan or listo.gov/plan.   

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 11/15/2023 - 19:41

Revised Preliminary Flood Maps for El Paso County, Texas, 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 cities of El Paso, San Elizario and Socorro; the towns of Anthony and Clint; the Village of Vinton; Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo of Texas; and unincorporated areas of El Paso County, Texas.

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

This is El Paso County’s first complete set of digital FIRMs. These maps serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development and flood insurance.

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 by visiting the 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 Wed, 11/15/2023 - 16:47

President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Two Years Later: FEMA Makes Advancements for Climate Resiliency

WASHINGTON -- In the two years since President Biden signed the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, FEMA has taken significant steps to build a more resilient nation.

With funds from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and as part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, FEMA has infused extra money into existing grant programs and announced initiatives to find creative ways to reduce disaster impacts and minimize future disaster costs. The historic legislation provides nearly $7 billion over five years for these actions across states, local communities, tribes, territories and the District of Columbia.

“President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has empowered FEMA to take bold actions to enhance resiliency against growing climate threats,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “In the past two years, this infusion of money has allowed the agency to invest in creative programs to ensure communities across the country can build the resilience they need to be prepared to withstand the increasing threats of hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, extreme heat, storms, flooding and other events driven by climate change. As we continue this forward momentum, we encourage more communities to seize these opportunities and apply for this transformational funding.”

Historic Levels of Funding for Two Annual Resilience Grant Programs

The Biden-Harris Administration has approved historic funding levels for FEMA’s annual resilience grant programs. Combined funding for the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities and Flood Mitigation Assistance programs increased from $660 million when President Biden first took office to nearly $2 billion in the most recent funding cycle that FEMA announced in October. 

Additionally, Flood Mitigation Assistance’s Swift Current program was the first FEMA initiative funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This program gets funding to the ground faster following disasters to support recovery for homes and buildings that have been repetitively flooded and substantially damaged.  

In 2022, Swift Current allocated a total of $60 million to Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey and Pennsylvania -- all states affected by Hurricane Ida -- to equitably expedite mitigation grants to disaster survivors with repetitively flooded homes. On Nov. 14, FEMA announced another round of funding totaling $300 million for the 2023 funding cycle and expanded eligibility criteria so more places could benefit.

Summary of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding for Other FEMA Programs

In addition to the BRIC and Flood Mitigation Assistance programs, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has provided funding for a number of FEMA programs that are taking decisive action to tackle the climate crisis and strengthen resilience nationwide, including in underserved and disadvantaged communities.

The agency will make available $1 billion over four years in State and Local Cybersecurity Grants to support strong cybersecurity practices for states, local communities, tribes and territories. In August, FEMA announced about $375 million for the next funding cycle.

$733 million over five years is available for the Rehabilitation of High Hazard Potential Dams program and the National Dam Safety State Assistance Grant Program to help state, territorial and local governments take action to address high hazard potential dams that pose dangers to life and property if they fail. On Nov. 2, FEMA announced a total $211 million for the two programs comprised entirely of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds.

$500 million over five years is available for the Safeguarding Tomorrow Revolving Loan Fund program . This program provides capitalization grants to states, eligible federally recognized tribes, territories and the District of Columbia to establish revolving loan funds. These low-interest loans allow jurisdictions to reduce vulnerability to natural disasters and foster greater community resilience. FEMA made the first selections for this new program this summer. The agency anticipates releasing the next funding opportunity later this year.   

Read more information about FEMA programs funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 11/15/2023 - 15:38

Reconstruction Begins for Vieques Health Facility

FEMA awarded nearly $43.5 million to rebuild the facilities as a result of Hurricane María

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell participated today in the groundbreaking ceremony of what will be the new health facilities for the municipality of Vieques. 

Vieques residents will soon begin to witness the reconstruction of the Susana Centeno Diagnostic and Treatment Center (CDT, in Spanish), for which the agency allocated nearly $43.5 million to address damage caused by Hurricane María. This is the project with the largest amount of funds that the agency has awarded at a municipal level as part of Puerto Rico’s recovery.

FEMA also allocated nearly $4.2 million to the Puerto Rico Department of Health (PRDH) for the temporary medical facilities currently operating in Vieques until the permanent facilities are completed. This temporary center provides services from the PRDH. The funds allowed for the temporary relocation of the CDT, medical trailers for clinical exams, obstetrics-gynecology and dentistry services, an Odulair dialysis trailer and an emergency power generator for the facilities.

“We understand how important this healthcare facility is to every single resident of Vieques and we have worked closely with the Government of Puerto Rico to make sure residents have the facility they need and deserve. Today, we see the results of our partnership as we take this important step in the island’s recovery. We remain committed to the people of Vieques and look forward to inaugurating the facility when it is complete,” Administrator Criswell said.

For pastor and community leader Urayoán Silva Rivera, the health center is the most important resource that the Vieques community needs since it creates a greater sense of safety by not having to travel to the main island in the event of an emergency. He explained that, by 4 p.m., his family reduces activities that may involve some type of risk or danger, “when in the park, on the bike, in the places we go to, because we know that there is no hospital at night.”

Silva Rivera also said that, once the infrastructure of the health center is in place, the third sector will be able to support with the coordination of medical personnel transfers to the municipality and with the provision of health clinics.

The new health center will employ 54 people, including 16 health professionals. The facilities will include pediatric and adult emergency rooms, as well as dialysis, laboratory and infusion services.

The new structure will comply with current design codes and regulations for medical facilities and will be built to meet the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building certification.

Six years after Hurricane María, Puerto Rico has over $31.3 billion in FEMA allocations for nearly 10,900 projects that will help move recovery forward. Of these, 21 projects are aimed at the recovery of the municipality of Vieques, for a total of over $62.2 million.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

Vieques Health Facility Groundbreaking Ceremony, Vieques, Puerto Rico

VIEQUES, Puerto Rico (November 15, 2023) – Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell, along with the governor of Puerto Rico Pedro Pierluisi, participated today in the groundbreaking ceremony of what will be the new health center for the municipality of Vieques. Photo FEMA/Eliezer Hernández

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 11/15/2023 - 15:32

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Vermont Disaster Declaration

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available to the State of Vermont by authorizing an increase in the level of federal funding for debris removal undertaken in Vermont as a result of severe storms, flooding, landslides and mudslides from July 7-21, 2023.

The President authorized the federal cost-share to be increased from 75% to 100% for a 30-day period of the state’s choosing within the first 120 days from the start of the incident period. The major disaster declaration made federal funding available for public assistance, individual assistance, the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and other needs assistance for total eligible costs.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 11/14/2023 - 22:20

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Arkansas to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes from June 25-26, 2023.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to 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 and tornadoes in the counties of Arkansas, Faulkner, Lonoke and Poinsett.

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

Roland W. Jackson has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas.  

Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments. 

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 11/14/2023 - 21:47

FEMA Awards Over $2.2 Million to Boston College for COVID Testing Staff Costs

The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $2.2 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse Boston College for the cost of testing students, staff and faculty during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,222,370 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the private Jesuit research university in Chestnut Hill for the cost of hiring extra staff and paying existing staff to operate the school’s inhouse testing program between July 2020 and June 2021.

Boston College set up its own testing program that included both collection sites at its three campuses as well as a testing laboratory that was able to process over 5,000 tests per day and deliver results within 24 hours.

To staff the laboratory, the college hired a lab technologist, lab technician, lab supervisor & assistant director, lab manager, senior lab technologist, and bio automation specialist & lab manager, who were part of a team of 54 employees who worked at total of 64,098 regular hours and 453 overtime hours.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist Boston College with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Reimbursing state, county, and municipal governments – as well as eligible non-profits and tribal entities – for the costs incurred during the COVID-19 pandemic is an important part of our nation’s ongoing recovery.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $2.5 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Tue, 11/14/2023 - 20:31