Meet with FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams in Sulphur and Marietta

OKLAHOMA CITY – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are available in Sulphur and Marietta to assist Oklahomans with their recovery from the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding that began April 25, 2024.

These teams can help impacted residents apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents needed in the application process and answer questions about specific cases and the types of assistance available. This is a combined effort by the state and FEMA to continue to reach those in need.

Teams are available 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily at:

Murray County Extension Office

3490 Highway 7 West

Sulphur, OK 73086

Teams are available 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. daily at:

Love County Library

500 US-77

Marietta, OK 73448

Residents impacted by the storms in Carter, Hughes, Love and Murray counties do not have to meet with FEMA in person to apply for assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Survivors can also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. Calls are accepted every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time. Help is available in most languages – if you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Residents should be prepared to provide the following information when applying with FEMA:

• Social Security number
• Address of the damaged property
• Description of the damage
• Information about insurance coverage
• A current contact telephone number
• An address where you can receive mail
• Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds

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

alexa.brown Thu, 05/09/2024 - 13:54

FEMA hosts 2024 Caribbean Readiness Initiative in Puerto Rico

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Leading Puerto Rico and FEMA officials met in Puerto Rico from April 29 to May 10 to participate of the 2024 Caribbean Readiness Initiative and strengthen preparedness capabilities to ensure that the Island’s emergency response structure is ready to support any type of emergency incident, as the upcoming Hurricane Season approaches.

“At the beginning of hurricane seasons, we are always asked if the government is prepared. This type of initiative is part of that government preparedness, both at the municipal, state, and federal level, to be able to manage any emergency that may occur, during hurricane season or at any time. That is why the emphasis is that the community must be prepared. The government will respond, but it is important that everyone is prepared at the individual, family, and community level. We continue to work hand in hand with FEMA to continue helping our island,” said Nino Correa Filomeno, Commissioner of the Puerto Rico Emergency Management Bureau (PREMB).

The Caribbean Area Readiness Initiative is an annual series of workshops, trainings, meetings, and sessions that FEMA coordinates with emergency managers from federal, state, municipal agencies, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector to discuss critical topics and build up the knowledge and capabilities needed to improve Puerto Rico readiness and response postures before the start of the Hurricane Season. 

“During these two weeks, Puerto Rico and key federal personnel were immersed on discussions about the requirements to restore critical infrastructure such as power, water, and other essential services. We also talked about, debris management, resources available, and how Puerto Rico will determine if federal resources are necessary to support the response and recovery of the Island. We are working with Puerto Rico officials to strengthen their readiness, individuals at home and work should also start preparing for emergencies,” said Orlando Olivera, Coordinator of the FEMA Caribbean Area Office in Puerto Rico. “The current weather situation is a reminder that everyone needs to be prepared for all type of emergencies, even when the start of the Hurricane Season is a few weeks away.”

The 2024 Readiness Initiative includes supporting the PREMB with seminars throughout the island to ensure that municipal officials are up to date on FEMA programs and policies. During these seminars, FEMA subject matters experts (SMEs) in Individual Assistance, Public Assistance, Hazard Mitigation and FEMA grants share information and guidance with emergency managers and first responders from the 78 municipalities of the island, regarding Debris Management Plans, Response and Recovery Processes, Grant management, Training and more.

These collaboration and readiness efforts do not end this week. In the upcoming weeks and months, FEMA will support PREMB with their Readiness Summit and later host the 2024 Governor’s Executive Tabletop Exercise, with all secretaries and heads of agencies, to discuss emergency management priorities, and other key topics to bolster readiness and response postures across the whole community.

FEMA encourages anyone who lives in areas that may be affected during an emergency to take time now to prepare at home, school, work, and the places where they spend more time before the upcoming Hurricane Season starts. Visit www.Ready.gov/hurricanes to learn what you can do to get ready, and download the FEMA App, which provides preparedness tips and weather alerts for up to five different locations.

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FEMA's mission is to help people before, during and after disasters.

Follow us on Facebook Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico and FEMA, and on Twitter @femaregion2 and @FEMA

yuisa.rios Thu, 05/09/2024 - 13:18

A Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Lincoln

The state of Rhode Island and FEMA have opened a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Lincoln in Providence County to help Rhode Island residents affected by the severe storms and flooding that took place from December 17-19, 2023, and January 9-13, 2024. At the center, survivors will be able to apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents and get answers to questions in person. The location of the DRC is:

Community College of Rhode Island, Lincoln Campus
Conference Room 1304
1762 Louisquisset Pike
Lincoln, RI 02865
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–6:30 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.

Other DRCs currently open to assist survivors:

Coventry Town Hall Annex, 1675 Flat River Rd, Coventry, RI 02816
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.- 6:30 pm, Saturday, 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.

Warwick Fire Department, Station 10, 225 Potowomut Road, Warwick, Rhode Island 02886
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.– 6:30 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.

Cumberland Public Library (tents outside), 1464 Diamond Hill Road, Cumberland, RI 02864
Hours: Monday through Friday, 10 a.m.- 6:30 p.m., Saturday.10 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Inclement weather could change the hours. 

Knightsville Manor (Community Room), 85 Briggs Street, Cranston, Rhode Island 02920
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.- 6:30 p.m., Saturday, 8 a.m.- 4:30 p.m.

The deadline to apply for assistance is May 20.

DRCs provide disaster survivors with information from state agencies, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, update applications and learn about other resources available. 

All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please let a FEMA specialist at the center know. 

Residents don’t need to visit a DRC to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply without visiting a center, register with FEMA in one of the following ways: Call 1-800-621-3362. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Online at DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish). Or download the FEMA Mobile App. (also in Spanish), available at Google Play or the Apple App Store.

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

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 05/09/2024 - 11:49

Hawaiʻi Residents Fighting Wildfires Before They Happen

MOLOKAʻI, Hawaiʻi – Seven years ago, Erin Peyton made her home on this small island known for its Hawaiian culture, its broad sandy beaches, and high cliffs.

Despite Molokaʻi’s natural beauty and rural charm, Peyton understood that the dry grasses and wild foliage surrounding her townhome complex could also fuel destructive wildfires.

“We needed to take action,” said Peyton, who noted that the condominiums had been built in the middle of an abandoned, unmaintained, 160-acre golf course. The condos were not close to a fire station, and response time was at least 30 minutes.

The actions she took illustrate how one individual, working with neighbors, can make a difference. Peyton set an example that many communities are following in the aftermath of the August wildfires that leveled Lahaina.

When thieves stole the hoses from Peyton’s Paniolo Hale complex, she decided to act. As a former resident of fire-prone California, she was aware that simply replacing a garden hose was no solution. 

In 2019, she convinced her homeowners’ association to bring in the Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization to do an assessment of the Paniolo Hale’s wildfire vulnerability. The nonprofit organization can then suggest options such as creating wildfire fuel breaks and cutting back hazardous foliage. It provides some funding for these projects through the U.S. Forest Service and other sources.

Although the organization’s assessment cost the Paniolo Hale homeowners nothing, Peyton’s neighbors were skeptical at first. They feared that they would have to remove all their trees and landscaping.

But Peyton helped convince them that some measures wouldn’t require drastic action like pulling up all their landscaping. She received training in ways to reduce wildfire risks and she became such an advocate that Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization named her one of its neighborhood ambassadors. 

“She did all this on her own as a volunteer,” noted Andrea “Nani” Barretto, co-Executive Director of the Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization.

Paniolo Hale became one of 18 communities in Hawaiʻi certified for the national Firewise USA program, which helps communities reduce and mitigate their fire risk.

Since the Maui wildfires last year – a grim reminder of the devastation wildfires can inflict – another 22 Hawaiian communities have applied to the Hawaiʻi Wildfire Management Organization to join the Firewise program, Barretto said. 

The Paniolo Hale complex worked on a variety of measures aimed at reducing dangerous vegetation that could fuel a fire.

For instance, in the Paniola Hale complex, vegetation has been cut back 50 feet from structures, the grass has been cut back and the trees have been mulched in place. One of the community’s first priorities was to create access roads so fire trucks could get to the townhomes and, once there, work in defensible space. This is an area free of leaves, debris or other flammable materials and is up to 200 feet from a structure.

Protecting those roads is an ongoing process. The goal is to reduce the chance that a vehicle might accidentally spark a blaze in heavy roadside vegetation or that a neglected road winds up overgrown with foliage. 

“This is about a four- or five-year project of dumping the mulch on these access roads to really prevent growth,” Peyton said. “So, we will be watching them and maintaining them for a few years.”

Fuel breaks are strips of land that are cut back or purposely converted from one vegetation type to another to help slow the spread of flames, providing an area where fires are easier to control.

While extreme conditions may still cause extreme damage, fuel breaks can also aid in firefighting efforts in more moderate circumstances.

The community also helped remove large amounts of green waste from former ranch lands that had become dumping grounds for vegetation from landscaping and gardening work, household, and construction waste.

“Over the years, we've gotten rid of green waste on the west end that creates a lot of fuel loads, piles from 30 to 100 feet on both lived in and abandoned structures,” Peyton said. “It’s worth the effort. You must be prepared.”

Gerald C. Johnson, who heads a FEMA Hazard Mitigation task force that advises the public about ways to reduce fire hazards, said it takes a community-wide effort to reduce fire risk.

“Not only does this maintenance help to keep a fire from potentially raging out of control,” Johnson said, “but it also buys time for human intervention to become a factor in eliminating the danger.”

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org, fema.gov/disaster/4724 and Hawaii Wildfires - YouTube. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema. You may also get disaster assistance information and download applications at sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires. 

nicole.timonshipman Thu, 05/09/2024 - 00:08

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Sulphur

OKLAHOMA CITY – A Disaster Recovery Center will open May 9 in Murray County to help Oklahomans affected by the April severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding continue their recovery.

Residents and businesses in Carter, Hughes, Love, Murray and Okmulgee counties can visit the center in Sulphur to apply for FEMA assistance, learn about available resources and get their questions answered in person. Recovery specialists from FEMA, the state of Oklahoma and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be available to meet with visitors– no appointment is needed.

The center will be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily at:

Murray County Extension Office

3490 Highway 7 West

Sulphur, OK 73086

(The Extension Office is the smaller building at this address.)

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

To apply for FEMA assistance without visiting a center, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Calls are accepted from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA your number for that service when you call.

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

alexa.brown Wed, 05/08/2024 - 21:25

ICYMI – FEMA Signs MOU to Strengthen Cooperation with The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency

WASHINGTON -- Yesterday, FEMA signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with The Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency. This MOU formalizes our countries’ mutual commitment to advancing global resilience and sharing emergency management strategies. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell joined the Director General of the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency Charlotte Petri Gornitzka and Sweden’s Minister of Civil Defence Carl-Oskar Bohlin at the Swedish embassy.

“2024 is FEMA’s Year of Resilience, an opportunity to highlight the important work we do to help communities mitigate risk, so they can respond faster and recover more effectively,” said Administrator Criswell. “The emergency management field is becoming more complex and our disaster tempo continues to increase and we know that we cannot solve these problems alone. With this partnership, Sweden and the U.S. can share best practices on how we incentivize individuals and communities to mitigate their risks.”

The MOU recognizes that the United States and Sweden face growing national security threats and natural disaster risks. The memorandum builds upon our existing cooperation and Sweden’s recent ascension to NATO, to foster greater collaboration on plans and priorities. It also helps us encourage readiness, civil protection and disaster risk reduction within our respective territories.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and Director General of the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency Charlotte Petri Gornitzka sign a Memorandum of Understanding at The Swedish embassy in Washington, D.C. 

amy.ashbridge Wed, 05/08/2024 - 21:20

Biden-Harris Administration Announces Michigan and Washington as Recipients for FEMA’s Swift Current Program to Help Communities Withstand Impacts of Climate Change

Selections Complement 16 States and One Tribal Nation Selected to Receive Flood Mitigation Funding

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that both Michigan and Washington are each eligible for up to $20 million in funding to reduce flood risks. The funding is available through the fiscal year 2023 Swift Current funding opportunity, made possible by President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. 

“Thanks to President Biden’s Investing in America agenda we were able to extend additional funding to help flood-prone communities as they continue to grapple with the climate crisis,” said Administrator Criswell. “Michigan and Washington now join the 16 states and Tribal Nation we announced in April that will receive faster access to these valuable flooding mitigation grants. FEMA is looking forward to working with these states to ensure they take advantage of this new funding opportunity as they build resilience to future flood threats.” 

This announcement complements the April 17 announcement of 16 states and one Tribal Nation being eligible for up to $295 million for the same funding opportunity.

Swift Current is designed to get funding on the ground as soon as possible after a flood-related disaster to help communities implement upgrades to reduce their flood risk. This funding will support National Flood Insurance Program policyholders who have experienced repetitive and substantial flood-damage. Each of the states and Tribe selected declared a flood-related major disaster since June 2023. 

The opportunity aligns with FEMA’s Year of Resilience and helps communities build local capacity to withstand tomorrow’s hazards from climate change. 

This announcement advances the President’s Justice40 Initiative, which set a goal to deliver 40% of the overall benefits of certain federal investments to disadvantaged communities that have been marginalized by underinvestment and overburdened by pollution. Swift Current provides more equitable access to mitigation grants by increasing the federal cost share for eligible applicants above the standard 75% cost share and offering tailored pre-application support to disadvantaged communities that often face challenges meeting their non-federal match.  

Examples of projects eligible for this funding opportunity include property acquisition, demolition, elevation and relocation. To be eligible, buildings must be insured through the National Flood Insurance Program. 

The following have been selected for funding:

• Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians $5 million
• California $20 million
• Colorado $10 million
• Florida $40 million
• Georgia $20 million
• Illinois $20 million
• Iowa $10 million
• Maine $10 million
• Michigan $20 million
• Minnesota $10 million
• Missouri $20 million
• Montana $20 million
• New Hampshire $10 million
• New Jersey $20 million
• New York $20 million
• Rhode Island $10 million
• Vermont $40 million
• Washington $20 million
• West Virginia $10 million

For more information about the selections visit FEMA.gov. FEMA will distribute funding on a rolling basis as eligible applicants submit applications until the total available funding amount of $300 million is exhausted.

The applicant must meet the Swift Current activation criteria, including having a major disaster declaration for a flood-related disaster event beginning June 1, 2023, through May 31, 2024. A flood-related disaster event includes coastal storms, hurricanes, remnants of hurricanes and floods. Additional criteria may be found on FEMA.gov.

The application period for this opportunity opened Nov. 15, 2023. All eligible applicants must submit their fiscal year 2023 Swift Current grant applications to FEMA via MT eGrants. Upon Swift Current activation, FEMA will provide the application deadline to the applicant.

The application deadlines are for the applicants only. Local governments should consult with their state, tribal or territorial agency to confirm deadlines to submit subapplications for their consideration. 

FEMA will work with states, tribes and territories to explore their participation during this cycle of funding. Potential applicants who have questions may contact their FEMA regional office while interested subapplicants should contact their state or territory hazard mitigation officer. 

amy.ashbridge Wed, 05/08/2024 - 17:03

FEMA Assistance Available for Okmulgee County Survivors

OKLAHOMA CITY – Okmulgee County has been added to the major disaster declaration for Oklahomans who sustained damage from severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding that began April 25.

Residents of the county may be eligible for disaster assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. Eligible applicants may qualify for rental assistance, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other eligible expenses related to storm damage. Survivors living in Carter, Hughes, Love or Murray counties may also be eligible for disaster assistance. Additional counties may be added later.

Rental Assistance for Temporary Housing
If you currently reside in Carter, Hughes, Love, Murray or Okmulgee counties and suffered damage to your primary residence, FEMA may be able to provide rent for a temporary place to live while you are displaced. Rental assistance is intended to cover monthly rent, security deposit and cost of essential utilities such as electricity and water.

Lodging Expense Reimbursement
FEMA may provide lodging expenses reimbursement for you if:

• You incurred out-of-pocket temporary lodging expenses and
• You had damage to your home because of the severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding.

Major Repairs and Out-of-Pocket Expenses
FEMA’s Individuals and Household Program assistance is intended to help jumpstart your recovery. Here are some examples of basic needs:

• Home Repair Assistance may be provided to homeowners to repair the structural parts of your home. This includes windows, doors, floors, walls, ceilings, cabinets, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system (HVAC), utilities (electrical, plumbing and gas systems) and entrance ways. FEMA may also reimburse for the actual cost to repair or replace your furnace, private well and septic system that was damaged or destroyed by the disaster.
• Other Needs Assistance may be provided to homeowners and renters for eligible uninsured property or items your insurance doesn’t cover, such as:
  • Serious Needs Assistance for lifesaving and life-sustaining items, including water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation.
  • Displacement Assistance for immediate housing needs to help survivors who cannot return home right after the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding.
  • Medical and dental expenses; funeral and burial costs; replacement of household furniture and appliances; specialized tools you must have for your job; a personal computing device, educational materials and moving, storage and other necessary expenses related to the severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding.
  • Personally owned, disaster-damaged cars and trucks in need of replacement or repairs.
  • The purchase or rental expense of generators used at a primary residence to power medically required equipment necessary for an existing medical condition.

Apply to FEMA
You can apply to FEMA in several ways including online at DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA App for mobile devices, or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Calls are accepted every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. 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/4776. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/. 

alexa.brown Wed, 05/08/2024 - 17:02

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Oklahoma County, Oklahoma

DENTON, Texas – Revised Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review in Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

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 stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.

The 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around May 8, 2024.

Appeals and comments may be submitted through Aug. 6, 2024, for:

• The cities of Edmond and Oklahoma City; the town of Arcadia; and the unincorporated areas of Oklahoma County

Residents may submit an appeal if they consider 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.

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

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

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

For more information about the flood maps:

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

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

Follow us on twitter.com/FEMARegion6 and linkedin.com/showcase/fema-region-6/ and like us at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

alexa.brown Wed, 05/08/2024 - 16:57

FEMA Offers a Variety of Help for Nebraska Tornado Survivors

LINCOLN, Neb. – FEMA is offering a wide variety of help to people affected by the April tornadoes. Every homeowner and renter who suffered damage is encouraged to apply.

FEMA can provide money to eligible applicants for help with serious needs, paying for a temporary place to live, home repairs and other needs not covered by insurance.

Money provided by FEMA does not have to be repaid and may include:

• Serious Needs: Money for lifesaving and life-sustaining items, including water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, breastfeeding supplies, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation.
• Displacement: Money to help with housing needs if you cannot return to your home because of the disaster. The money can be used to stay in a hotel, with family and friends or other options while you look for a rental unit.
• Home Repair or Replacement: Money to help you repair or replace your home damaged by the disaster. The money can also help with pre-existing damage to parts of your home where the disaster caused further damage.
• Rental Assistance: Money you can use to rent housing if you are displaced from your home because of the disaster.
• Personal Property: Money to help you repair or replace appliances, room furnishings, and a personal or family computer damaged by the disaster. This can also include money for books, uniforms, tools, additional computers and other items required for school or work, including self-employment.
• Child Care: Money to help you pay for increased or child care expenses caused by the disaster.
• Transportation: Money to help you repair or replace a vehicle damaged by the disaster when you don’t have another vehicle you can use.
• Moving and Storage Expenses: Money to help you move and store personal property from your home to prevent additional damage.

Apply with FEMA Whether You Have Insurance or Not

• Everyone with disaster damage should apply whether they have insurance or not.
• If you have homeowners, renters, or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. Please stay in close contact with your insurance agency.
• FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
• Only damage and needs related to the storms of April 25-27 are eligible.

How to Apply with FEMA

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
• Download and use the FEMA app
• FEMA works with every household on a case-by-case basis.
• 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. 

erika.suzuki Wed, 05/08/2024 - 16:22

Today is Last Day to Apply for Disaster Assistance

LANSING, Mich. – Today is the last day survivors of the Aug. 24-26, 2023, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties have to apply for federal assistance. 

The registration period for federal disaster assistance ends at 11:59 p.m., today, May 8, 2024.

If you had storm-related expenses and live or own a business in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties, you should apply as soon as possible. FEMA assistance can provide grants and SBA may offer loans for temporary housing, home repairs and other disaster-related needs.

To apply, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757.

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FEMA does not treat people differently because of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. FEMA provides free aids and services to people to help them communicate with us and understand FEMA programs: 

• Information available in Braille, large print, or audio. 
• Information available in accessible electronic formats on FEMA’s website. 
• Qualified sign language interpreters. 
• Qualified multilingual interpreters. 
• Information written in other languages. 

If you need assistance to access a FEMA program or service or a program or service funded by FEMA or want to report a concern or complaint of discrimination, please contact FEMA at (833) 285-7448 [Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish, 3 for the Language Line] or email FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov.

larissa.hale Wed, 05/08/2024 - 14:01

Ohio Tornado Survivors: Beware of Disaster Fraud

COLUMBUS - Fraudulent activity typically increases after disasters. Con artists may try to get money from you or ask for your personal information to try and steal your identity.

Survivors of the March 14 tornadoes in Auglaize, Crawford, Darke, Delaware, Hancock, Licking, Logan, Mercer, Miami, Richland and Union counties should be aware that fraud and scams can occur anytime. If your home or personal property was damaged in the recent storms, be careful when giving out your personal information.

Remember, FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), and other federal and state disaster workers will never ask for money and never require payment in any form.

Fraudulent Applications

If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have been used without your knowledge to create a FEMA application. If this happens, inform the inspector that you did not apply for FEMA assistance, so they can submit a request to stop further processing of the application.

If you did not apply for assistance but receive a letter from FEMA, call 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. The Helpline will submit a request to stop any further processing of that application.

Other Disaster-Related Scams

FEMA teams, housing inspectors and other officials will be working in areas affected by the March 14 tornadoes. Always ask to see I.D. FEMA personnel always have an official identification badge.

Be careful of unexpected phone calls or visits to your home from people claiming to be FEMA housing inspectors or people claiming they work for FEMA. FEMA inspectors will already have your FEMA application number, but they may ask you to verify personally identifiable information by phone. If you’re unsure whether a FEMA call or visit is legitimate, contact the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to verify.

Don’t give your banking information to a person claiming to be a FEMA housing inspector. FEMA inspectors do not collect or ask to confirm your personal financial information.

Take Action

If you believe you are the victim of a scam, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department. 

If you have knowledge of fraud or scams involving FEMA’s disaster relief operations, you can report this to FEMA:

• Email: StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov
• Phone: 866-223-0814
• Mail: 400 C Street SW, Suite &SW-1009, Mail Stop 3005, Washington, DC 20472-3005.

To report and get help recovering from identity theft, visit IdentityTheft.gov.

For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Ohio, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4777.

 

kimberly.keblish Tue, 05/07/2024 - 23:57

Get a Head Start on Preparedness Before Hurricane Season Starts

U.S. Virgin Islands –- Now is the time for you and your household to get ready for Atlantic hurricane season. National Hurricane Preparedness Week is a perfect opportunity to assess your risk from storms, update your family's emergency communications plan, replenish your emergency supplies, and review your personal and financial documents.

Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, but the best time to prepare is before hurricane season begins. If you wait until a storm is approaching, the odds are that you will be under stress, forget things, or not able to get supplies as they are no longer available. Get your disaster supplies while the shelves at stores are still stocked and get an insurance checkup before winds and rains start to swirl in the Atlantic.

FEMA and our partners in the U.S. Virgin Islands will conduct a series of response exercises in the coming months to make sure FEMA is ready to support a response to a storm, at the territory’s request. The best way to help the U.S. Virgin Islands respond to and recover from a disaster is to act today to prepare yourself and your household before a disaster. Each of us can take steps to make sure we are prepared for any disaster.

“FEMA continues to work with our partners in the U.S. Virgin Islands to strengthen our collective ability to respond and recover from a disaster,” said Aaron VanDoren, Acting Coordinator for FEMA’s Virgin Islands Caribbean Area Office. “We conduct regular workshops and exercises to ensure we are ready for the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season that starts June 1. We are asking Virgin Islanders to review and update their preparedness plans before the start of hurricane season to make sure they are also ready. It only takes one hurricane or even a tropical storm to cause a disaster,” said VanDoren.

“VITEMA is committed to preparing the territory to respond to all disasters, both natural and man-made, with the focus on saving lives and preserving property. Everyone who lives within our territory knows how devastating hurricanes can be, so we always want to remind our community that individual and home preparation is key,” said Daryl Jaschen, Director of the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA). 

“Together with our FEMA partners, VITEMA, lead territory agencies, the National Guard and volunteers participate year-round in preparation activities, drills, and assessments so that during the months of June to November we are as prepared as we can be to respond in the event of a hurricane headed our way,” said Jaschen. “While we’re familiar with hurricane preparedness during the peak season of August through October, VITEMA strongly urges the community to Be Prepared, Stay Informed, and Be Vigilant throughout the entire season as weather patterns are unpredictable. There are online resources on Ready.gov and ours as well at vitema.vi.gov.”

As you prepare, tailor your plans and supplies to your specific daily living needs and responsibilities. Discuss how people in your network can assist each other with communication, care of children, business, pets or specific needs such as operating medical equipment.

• Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plan. 
• Identify any additional help needed in an emergency if you or anybody in your home is a baby, senior or has a disability, access, or functional requirement. 
• Have several ways to receive alerts. Sign up for Alert VI to receive emergency notifications in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Download the FEMA app on your smartphone and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Check the settings on your mobile devices to ensure you can receive Wireless Emergency Alerts, which require no sign-up.
  • Have an emergency charging option(s) for your phone and other devices.
• Protect your home against storms. Declutter drains and gutters, consider hurricane shutters and leave room in your home to bring in outside furniture during a storm. 
  • Inspect and maintain your generator regularly. Consider a maintenance contract that provides at least one service visit per year. Keep fresh fuel in the tank, and periodically run the generator to test performance. Visit flash.org for tips on how to use a generator safely.
• Identify where you would stay during a hurricane. Follow the instructions from territorial agencies who will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.
• Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents are up to date. Make and keep physical copies in a safe dry place and digital copies in a secure password protected digital space. You might need your documents to apply for and receive assistance after a disaster.
• Have enough supplies for your household, include medication, disinfectant supplies, masks, pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk. After a hurricane, you may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks.
  • Replenish supplies in your emergency kit and replace expired items as needed. 

Visit www.ready.gov/hurricanes for more information on how to prepare for, stay safe during and return home after a hurricane. Review National Hurricane Preparedness Week’s themes, such as understand forecast information and use caution after storms at www.noaa.gov/hurricane-prep-social-media-english and follow vitema.vi.gov for information on local events and community readiness.

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

gina.callaghan Tue, 05/07/2024 - 13:41

Complete Requests for Public Assistance Before the Deadline

Salem, Ore. – The deadline is approaching for Oregon state, eligible local governments and certain nonprofits to submit Requests for Public Assistance to the Oregon Department of Emergency Management for costs due to the severe winter storms, straight-line winds, landslides and mudslides that occurred Jan. 10-22, 2024.

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

The upcoming RPA deadline is May 13, 2024 for Benton, Clackamas, Coos, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Multnomah, Sherman, Tillamook, and Wasco counties, and the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians. 

The designated counties were a part of the April 13 Major Disaster Declaration which provides FEMA Public Assistance, a reimbursement program for public infrastructure damage and response costs in the affected counties. This declaration does not provide FEMA Individual Assistance for individuals, homes and businesses impacted by the disaster.

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

More information on the PA process may also be found at Oregon Department of Emergency Management : 2024 Oregon Severe Winter Storms Public Assistance : Disaster Assistance : State of Oregon.

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

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

mary.j.edmon Mon, 05/06/2024 - 21:20

Two Weeks Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance

Anchorage, Alaska – Wrangell Residents who were affected by the November 20th landslides have two weeks left to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The deadline is May 20, 2024.

FEMA assistance is unable to duplicate benefits offered through insurance, state programs or other programs. However, if your losses or damage go beyond disaster assistance available from other sources – or include items or categories not covered by other assistance – you may be eligible for additional funds from FEMA. Even if you have already registered for the State of Alaska's disaster assistance program, you must also register with FEMA to determine if you may be eligible to receive additional funds through FEMA.  

Low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience are another important form of federal disaster assistance. These loans are not just for businesses. Homeowners, renters and private nonprofit organizations can also apply. Residents and businesses referred by FEMA to SBA must also complete their loan application by the May 20th deadline. For more information, go to: www.sba.gov/disaster, call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 1-800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. 

Residents may apply for FEMA assistance by calling the Alaska Helpline at 1-866-342-1699 between 9:30 AM and 5:30 PM AKT, Monday through Friday. The Helpline has staff trained to answer Alaska-specific questions. You can also apply by visiting disasterassistance.gov or using the FEMA mobile app. 

If a reasonable accommodation -- such as language translation or interpretation, mobility assistance, or sign language interpretation – is needed, email FEMA-language-access-request@fema.dhs.gov. You can also notify FEMA staff in person. 

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FEMA is committed to providing equal access to our programs and services without discrimination. If you require a reasonable accommodation, email FEMA-language-access-request@fema.dhs.gov. You can also let staff in the field know you require an accommodation such as spoken language resources, mobility assistance, or sign language interpreting services. If you feel you have experienced discrimination, call the FEMA Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 or 800-462-7585 (TTY/TDD) or email FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov.

 

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

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

mary.j.edmon Mon, 05/06/2024 - 20:20

Ohio Tornado Survivors: Apply for FEMA Assistance

CHICAGO – Ohio homeowners and renters in Auglaize, Crawford, Darke, Delaware, Hancock, Licking, Logan, Mercer, Miami, Richland and Union counties with disaster-related losses from the March 14 tornadoes may now call or go online to apply for disaster assistance from FEMA.

If you have insurance coverage, first file a claim. If you have uninsured or underinsured losses, 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. When calling the FEMA Helpline, multilingual operators are available (press 2 for Spanish and 3 for other languages).

Federal assistance may include temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-related expenses. 

Have the following information ready when you register with FEMA:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
• Your social security number (or the social security number of a minor child in your household, if you're applying on their behalf)
• A general list of damage and losses
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

Those who already made repairs or started their recovery should still apply. FEMA inspectors are trained to recognize damage caused by a disaster even after recovery has started, and they will discuss that damage with you when they come to your home. Be prepared to show repair receipts, photos and any other disaster-related documentation as well.

Getting help to those who need it most is our priority. Recovery teams will be out soon in the neighborhoods affected by the disaster to provide one-on-one support to individuals. Recovery centers will also be opening for individuals to get additional, in-person help. For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Ohio, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4777.

kimberly.keblish Mon, 05/06/2024 - 16:28

Millions in FEMA Allocations for Several Roads Around the Island

Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO - The municipalities of Cayey, San Germán, Utuado and Yabucoa received a total of over $23 million in obligations from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to repair roads affected by hurricanes María and Fiona.

These funds include funds for mitigation measures that will help prevent similar damage in the event of future disasters.

“Roads are a vital part of the country, especially in emergency situations when access to a particular route can prevent accidents and even save lives. The funds that FEMA allocates to repair roads not only help provide safe access to our communities, schools or hospitals, but will also help reduce the wear and tear on our cars by driving on roads in better condition,” said FEMA’s Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

General work on these roads consists of removing and replacing asphalt, curbs and sidewalks, repairing embankments, and replacing gabions. In other cases, guardrails will also be replaced. Mitigation measures will consist mostly of pavement reinforcement, drainage repairs for runoff control, and the incorporation of bioengineering techniques to convert normal gabions into green gabions. 

These green gabions are created with galvanized baskets filled with filler stone, topsoil and planted with deep-rooted grass. The function of these green retaining walls is to filter water to regulate its flow and reduce soil erosion by creating a permanent protected system, stabilizing embankments and restoring vegetation in the affected area.

In the municipality of Utuado, nearly $8 million were allocated to repair a municipal road that provides access to a residential area in the Roblegar sector. Of these funds, over $670,000 were allocated for hazard mitigation measures. 

According to Utuado’s alternate contact for Federal Programs, Héctor Cruz Cruz, the repairs to this road provide access to about ten families who use it as the only entrance and exit to access Highway 10 in the municipality. “Awarding federal funds is the municipality’s highest priority to address and manage the damage and ensure vehicle traffic. This is of great importance for the benefit of the residents; to provide a safe and efficient roadway for their safety. By having adequate and safe roads they can have basic services, such as being able to go to the hospital and do their shopping,” Cruz Cruz said.

Moreover, in Cayey, several roads will be repaired in the Caña 1, 2 and 3 sector, Cana Los Valdíos in the Farallón neighborhood, in Cana Frente and in the Quebrada Arriba sector with an obligation of over $6 million, of which about $588,000 will cover mitigation measures. 

Municipal Programs Director Sherileen Rivera Muñiz mentioned that these roads provide access to the town and that in both neighborhoods there are small merchants who were affected by the damage and will benefit from the repairs, as they will provide safety for residents and visitors alike. "Public roads are of vital importance for our citizens to be able to move throughout the city, which results in economic and social development. In addition, having the road infrastructure in the best conditions ensures the life and safety of everyone, as well as their access to health and other services in their daily lives," she added.

Likewise, in Yabucoa, over $2.5 million were allocated to repair roads that give access to residences in the Calabazas neighborhood. Here, mitigation measures will be addressed with an allocation of over $490,000.

According to the Finance director of the municipality of Yabucoa, Pedro Crespo, the project will benefit 800 residents. Crespo explained that the project covers the Santa María neighborhood, the Rincón sector and two roads in the community of Calabazas Arriba. He detailed that the Santa María and the Rincón sector are in the design contracting stage, while in Calabazas Arriba part of the damage was already taken care of. “In case of the Rincón sector, the area suffered greater damage in Hurricane Fiona compared to María. Some damage was temporarily addressed because of the hazardous access,” he added.

Another municipality that suffered damage from Hurricane Fiona was San Germán, which was awarded nearly $7 million to repair Los Padillas and Los Sorrentini roads in the Cotui neighborhood and the Mr. Sánchez Road. In this rural area, over $439,500 were allocated for mitigation measures.

 Meanwhile, the executive director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, emphasized that the Working Capital Advance (WCA) program has played a fundamental role in expediting the construction of many of the road works in the municipalities. The COR3 program delivers FEMA funds in advance.

“For example, in Utuado, the Working Capital program has advanced some $6,041,833 and Yabucoa has received $5,824,722. This is the same for many other municipalities developing road projects. These road projects are part of 3,000 completed works and another 9,000 underway on public roads, bridges, the electrical system, the potable water and sewage system, sports and recreational facilities, among other public facilities throughout Puerto Rico,” said Laboy Rivera.

To date, FEMA has obligated approximately $33.8 billion for nearly 11,000 recovery projects in Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane María. Of these funds, over $2.4 billion are for road repairs. 

Likewise, about $812 million have been obligated for nearly 2,000 projects in the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona, of which over $466 million are for roads.

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.

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 05/06/2024 - 12:38

Two Weeks Remain to Apply for FEMA Assistance

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance after the January 9-13 severe storms and flooding is May 20, 2024. 

Homeowners and renters in Cumberland, Hancock, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Waldo, Washington and York counties with uninsured losses from the storms and flooding may be eligible for financial assistance for temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured disaster-related expenses. More than $2.3 million has been approved to date for more than 511 households.

To apply, call toll-free 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. You can find a center at fema.gov/drc. The phone line is open daily from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET, and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 05/06/2024 - 11:36

Oklahoma Survivors Can Apply for an SBA Loan

OKLAHOMA CITY – Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available to Oklahoma businesses and residents impacted by the April 30 major disaster declaration which includes Carter, Hughes, Murray and Love counties. The Presidential declaration was a result of the severe storms, straight‑line winds, tornadoes and flooding that began on April 25.

FEMA partners with other agencies to help meet the needs of disaster survivors. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers low-interest disaster loans not only to businesses, but also to homeowners and renters in a declared major disaster area. As a matter of fact, 80% of SBA loans are lending to homeowners and renters. 

SBA is the largest source of funds for privately damaged properties post disaster and are funded through the U.S. Treasury. The program is for the underinsured or the uninsured. The program covers deductibles, and increased cost of compliance post disaster. These loans cover losses not fully compensated by insurance or other recoveries. Survivors should not wait for an insurance settlement before submitting an SBA loan application. 

Interest rates can be as low as 2.688 percent for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Loan amounts and terms are set by SBA and are based on each applicant’s financial condition.

Homeowners may be eligible for a disaster loan up to $500,000 for primary residence repairs or rebuilding. SBA may also be able to help homeowners and renters with up to $100,000 to replace important personal property, including automobiles damaged or destroyed in the disaster.

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

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

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

You may also apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at MySBA Loan Portal or by visiting a Recovery Center. A Business Recovery Center is currently open in Sulphur.

 

Murray County

Mary Parker Memorial Library

500 W. Broadway Ave. 

Sulphur, OK 73086

 

Hours: Monday-Friday: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Saturday: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

 

Paper applications may be requested by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955. If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services or send an email to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. There is no cost to apply for an SBA disaster loan. 

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

alexa.brown Sun, 05/05/2024 - 23:05

Meet with FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams in Holdenville

OKLAHOMA CITY – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are available in person in Hughes County to assist Oklahomans with their recovery from the recent severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding that began April 25, 2024. This is a combined effort by the state and FEMA to continue to reach those in need.

These teams are in Holdenville and are equipped to help survivors apply for disaster assistance with FEMA, upload documents needed in the application process and answer questions about specific cases and the types of assistance available. 

DSA Teams will be available on a short-term basis while locations for longer-term facilities are being identified by the state and FEMA. 

DSA Teams will be available at the following location:

Hughes County

Church of the Nazarene (parking lot)

323 S Oak St.

Holdenville, OK 74848

Hours of operation: 8 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. daily

Residents impacted by the recent storms in Carter, Hughes, Love and Murray counties do not have to meet with FEMA specialists in person to apply for assistance. The fastest way to apply is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. Survivors can also apply by phone at 800-621-3362. Calls are accepted every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. 

Residents should be prepared to provide the following information when applying with FEMA:

• Social Security number
• Address of the damaged property
• Description of the damage
• Information about insurance coverage
• A current contact telephone number
• An address where you can receive mail
• Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds

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

alexa.brown Sat, 05/04/2024 - 23:22