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Reminder! Check Utilities Such as Water Heaters Before Winter
ST. PAUL – With the late summer heat across Minnesota, the last thing you may be thinking about is the winter months ahead. But as temperatures drop, your furnace will become the most important appliance in your home. Ahead of the cold weather, FEMA suggests making sure your heating systems, water heaters and other appliances in your primary residence are in good working condition if you were impacted by the June 16 - July 4 severe storms and floods.
If floodwaters reached your home heating systems, you should have them checked for operating safety by experienced repair personnel. If you are a homeowner, and your essential appliances were damaged or destroyed in your primary residence, by the storms, you may be able to receive funds from FEMA to get them repaired or replaced. FEMA home repair assistance is intended to make the damaged home safe, sanitary, and functional to essential living areas.
First, you must apply for FEMA assistance. When filling out the application make sure to report any disaster-caused damage to the furnace, water heater, other electrical appliances and occupied, lower-level rooms. After applying, a FEMA housing inspector may contact you to schedule an appointment to verify damage you reported on your application. FEMA inspectors do not decide if you will receive funds. After the home inspection is completed, FEMA specialists review your application, the results of the inspection and/or documentation submitted to determine all damage and losses that may be eligible. A FEMA decision letter will be sent to you by email or U.S. postal service mail.
Appealing a FEMA Decision with New DocumentationIf you received a FEMA grant to repair your furnace and/or water heater and later discover those items need to be replaced, you may choose to appeal to FEMA for additional grant funds. Appeals must be submitted within 60 days of the date on the decision letter.
Your FEMA letter will detail information on what will need to be provided if you choose to appeal FEMA’s decision. Your decision letter also includes an Appeal Request Form that may be used to help provide additional information like copies of supporting documents including proof of your disaster-caused losses. All submitted documents, receipts, bills, and estimates must include contact information of the service provider/contractor.
Your appeal may be submitted by fax or mail, in-person, or online if you have a FEMA online account. To set up a FEMA online account, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, click on “Apply Online” and follow the directions.
- By mail: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055
- By fax: 800-827-8112, Attention: FEMA
- In-person: Visit any Disaster Recovery Center to submit your appeal. Find a center here: fema.gov/DRC.
To learn more about FEMA’s appeal process, visit www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/after-applying/appeals.
Disaster Survivors who have not yet applied for FEMA assistance should apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App on your phone, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply.
The deadline to apply with FEMA is September 27, 2024. For even more information about the disaster recovery operation in Minnesota visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4797.
kimberly.keblish Fri, 09/06/2024 - 13:08FEMA to Evaluate Readiness of the State of Maryland
PHILADELPHIA – The Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will evaluate a Biennial Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercise for communities around the Calvert Cliffs Nuclear Power Plant. The exercise will occur during the week of September 10, 2024, to assess the ability of the State of Maryland to respond to an emergency at the nuclear facility.
“These drills are held every other year to evaluate government’s ability to protect public health and safety,” said MaryAnn Tierney, Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 3. “We will assess state and local government emergency response capabilities within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone within the State of Maryland.”
Within 90 days, FEMA will send its evaluation to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for use in licensing decisions. The final report will be available to the public approximately 120 days after the exercise.
FEMA will present preliminary findings of the exercise during a public meeting at 4:30 p.m. on September 12, 2024. The meeting will be conducted in person at the Crown Plaza Hotel, 173 Jennifer Road, Annapolis, MD. Planned speakers include representatives from FEMA and the NRC.
amanda.hancher Thu, 09/05/2024 - 21:01Texas Hurricane Beryl Survivors Can Apply for an SBA Loan
Austin – 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 in a declared major disaster area. As a matter of fact, 80% of SBA loans are approved homeowners and renters. Low-interest federal disaster loans are available to businesses and residents impacted by Hurricane Beryl.
Residents and businesses in Austin, Bowie, Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Orange, Polk, San Jacinto, Shelby, Trinity, Walker, Waller and Wharton counties are eligible to apply.
SBA is the largest source of funds to help private property owners pay for disaster losses not covered by insurance or other programs. The program may cover deductibles and increased cost of compliance. Survivors should not wait for an insurance settlement before submitting an SBA loan application.
Interest does not begin to accrue until 12 months from the date of the first disaster loan disbursement. SBA disaster loan repayment begins 12 months from the date of the first disbursement.
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.
Applicants may apply online and can find additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster.
The deadline to apply for assistance for property damage is October 10, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is April 14, 2025. If your application is approved, you are not obligated to accept an SBA loan.
SBA representatives are also available to provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants at FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers. Disaster Recovery Centers operate from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday - Saturday, closed Sunday. To find a center location near you, go to fema.gov/drc.
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.
Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. There is no cost to apply for an SBA disaster loan.
For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4798. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
alexa.brown Thu, 09/05/2024 - 18:01Schedule Change for Disaster Recovery Centers in Manatee, Sarasota Counties
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– Disaster Recovery Centers in Manatee and Sarasota counties will be closed on Sundays starting Sept. 8.
The centers will operate 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday-Saturday.
Center locations:
Manatee County
Lakewood Ranch Library
16410 Rangeland Pkwy.
Bradenton, FL 34211
Open 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday-Saturday
Sarasota County
Sarasota Christian Church
2923 Ashton Rd.
Sarasota, FL 34231
Open 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday-Saturday
For other Disaster Recovery Center locations, go online to fema.gov/drc.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
kirsten.chambers Thu, 09/05/2024 - 16:01Levy County Disaster Recovery to Relocate
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– A Disaster Recovery Center in Levy County will operate 9 a.m. to noon Sept. 5-7. The center will close permanently at noon Sept. 7 and reopen in a new location Sept. 9.
The center did not open as scheduled Sept. 4 because of severe weather.
Current location:
Chiefland City Hall
214 East Park Ave.
Chiefland, FL 32626
Open 9 a.m.-noon Thursday-Saturday, closed Sunday
New location Sept. 9:
Levy County Government Complex
310 School St.
Bronson, Florida 32621
Open 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Sunday
For other Disaster Recovery Center locations, go online to fema.gov/drc.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
Doniphan Disaster Recovery Center Temporarily Closes
Cape Girardeau, MO – The state/federal Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at the Ripley County Caring Community Partnership building, 209 West Highway St., Doniphan, MO 63935, will temporarily close Saturday, Sept. 7 at 4 p.m. It will reopen at the same location from Sept. 16 to 20.
The DRC, which opened Aug. 21, is part of a circuit in which DRCs move to multiple locations so impacted residents have may meet face-to-face with disaster recovery specialists within a reasonable distance of where they live.
Doniphan DRC staff will move to Cassville over the weekend to open a DRC there on Sept. 9 at the First Baptist Church, Family Life Center, 504 West St., Cassville, MO 65625. The center will close permanently on Saturday, Sept. 14. Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
DRCs are one-stop shops for disaster survivors who have applied for FEMA assistance and need to provide additional documentation or have questions about the status of their cases. In addition to FEMA staff, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be on hand to help survivors apply for low-interest disaster loans to help fund recovery efforts.
The DRC that opened on Aug. 1, at the Sikeston YMCA, 511 Taylor St., Sikeston, MO 63801 remains open.
All DRCs in Missouri are open the same hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. until further notice. All centers are closed on Sundays.
Homeowners, renters and self-employed business owners in 10 Missouri counties who were impacted by May 19-27 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding can visit any of the centers for one-on-one help, regardless of where they live. Services at the centers are free.
The 10 counties are: Barry, Butler, Carter, Howell, New Madrid, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Texas.
Survivors are encouraged to apply with FEMA before visiting a DRC to make their visit most efficient. Individuals who are having difficulty applying can go to a DRC and get help with filing their initial application.
Here are the 3 best ways to apply:
- Online: www.disasterassistance.gov
- Phone: 800-621-FEMA (3362)
- Download and use the FEMA app
- 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 more disaster-related information, visit the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency online at www.sema.dps.mo.gov or FEMA at www.fema.gov and www.fema.gov/disaster/4803.
thomas.wise Thu, 09/05/2024 - 12:38FEMA May Be Trying to Reach You
MADISON, Miss. — FEMA is providing enhanced customer service in Mississippi to help all survivors of the April 8-11, 2024, severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides receive much-needed assistance.
If you have applied for FEMA assistance, you may receive a call, text or email from the Enhanced Applicant Services (EAS) team. These calls may come from unfamiliar area codes and phone numbers or show no caller ID. You should take the opportunity to let FEMA know about your current needs and how FEMA can better serve you. It is important to answer phone calls from FEMA, even if the caller ID is unknown. When taking calls about your FEMA application, keep in mind that only FEMA knows your nine-digit application number.
FEMA ensures that all survivors, particularly those with additional needs, receive the assistance for which they are eligible to rebuild and recover. As of September 3, the EAS team has already contacted 7,627 applicants to assist with completing applications. These outreach efforts contributed significantly to the more than $29 million approved for survivors of the April 8-11 disaster.
Homeowners and renters in Hancock, Hinds, Humphreys, Madison, Neshoba and Scott counties who have questions about their FEMA application should log on to DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362
6 a.m. – 10 p.m. Central Time daily in most languages, or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
For the latest information on recovery from the April tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4790. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4@femaregion4.
luther.wills-dudich Wed, 09/04/2024 - 20:36Lyon County Disaster Recovery Center to Close on Sept. 7
The Disaster Recovery Center in Lyon County will close permanently on Saturday, Sept. 7 at 6 p.m.
It is located at:
Lyon County
City of Rock Rapids
Forster Community Center 404 1st Ave.
Rock Rapids, IA 51246
Stay in Touch with FEMA
- Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
- Download and use the FEMA app
- Call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI.
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. For Spanish, press 2. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
thomas.wise Wed, 09/04/2024 - 19:32FEMA Assistance May be Available for Damaged Wells and Septic Systems
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – South Dakotans who lost access to water through a private well or damaged septic system in Davison, Lincoln, Turner, and Union counties as a result of the severe storms, straight-line winds, and flooding from June 16 to July 8, 2024, may be eligible for FEMA assistance.
For private wells and septic systems that supply water to your home, FEMA may reimburse you for the cost of a professional, licensed technician to visit your home and prepare an estimate detailing the necessary repairs or replacement of your disaster-damaged systems.
In addition to the technician’s estimate, FEMA may also pay for the actual repair or replacement cost of your septic system or private well, which typically are not covered by homeowner’s insurance.
If you have applied for FEMA assistance and have not had a home inspection, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. At the time of your inspection, let the FEMA inspector know you have a private well and/or septic system that may have been damaged by the storms and flooding.
If the damage is determined to have been caused by the disaster, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance.
If you have already had an inspection and damage to the well or septic system wasn’t reported, contact the FEMA Helpline to learn how to amend your application.
How to Apply for Disaster Assistance
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center in person. To search for Disaster Recovery Centers, visit www.fema.gov/drc or text DRC and your Zip Code to 43362 for a list of centers closest to you.
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov for English, or DisasterAssistance.gov/es for Spanish.
- Use the FEMA mobile app in English or Spanish.
- Call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 anytime from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week until further notice. Multilingual operators are available. Anyone using a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA the number for that service.
For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI
anthony.mayne Wed, 09/04/2024 - 19:14Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Scott County
FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center on Thursday, Sept. 5 in Scott County to provide one on one help to people affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding this spring.
Recovery specialists from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will provide information on available services, explain assistance programs and help survivors complete or check the status of their applications.
The DRC will open on Thursday, Sept. 5 at 1 p.m. at:
Scott County
Former Davenport Fire Station
3506 N Harrison St.
Davenport, IA 52806
Open daily 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Closed on Sunday.
To save time, apply online or by phone before visiting a Disaster Recovery Center by:
- Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov
- Calling FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA (3362)
- Using the FEMA app
All DRCs are subject to temporarily closures with no notice due to weather.
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or with access and functional needs. They are equipped with assistive and adaptive technology such as amplified phones, caption phones, video phones, wheelchair ramps and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources.
Anyone using a relay service, such as a video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, can give FEMA number for that service. For an accessible video on three ways to apply for FEMA assistance, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI.
Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 833-285-7448. Press 2 for Spanish. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
thomas.wise Wed, 09/04/2024 - 18:49Community Libraries Repaired with FEMA Funds
The allocations for these projects go over half a million dollars
Guaynabo, PUERTO RICO ― Repairs to several libraries in the municipalities of Barceloneta, San Lorenzo and San Juan were recently completed with an allocation of over $652,000 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The projects are aimed at supporting the educational activities of these facilities, which serve over hundreds of visitors each month.
“Libraries are a fundamental tool for students, teachers and citizens in general. These spaces facilitate information and provide resources, in addition to providing learning opportunities where critical thinking, creativity and teamwork are developed. For FEMA, these are important characteristics that contribute to the comprehensive recovery of Puerto Rico, not only today, but their impact will reach the next generations,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.
One of the entities that received a federal allocation to repair its facilities was the Sixto Escobar Library in Barceloneta, inaugurated in 1994 and organized by a committee of volunteers. With the obligation of over $532,000, glass and aluminum windows, light fixtures, doors, acoustic ceilings, air conditioners and several monitors, among other things, were replaced. This project included a share of nearly $102,000 for hazard mitigation measures, such as anchoring systems for the air conditioners and adding a waterproof asphalt membrane to the roof.
“The library provides services to approximately 600 to 1,800 participants each month. The repairs are extremely important because they preserve the building and, therefore, benefit tourists and the community. In addition, these repairs allow us to guarantee our collections and equipment,” said the supervisor of Federal Programs for the Municipality of Barceloneta, Berenice Reyes Machado.
Meanwhile, in the Cerro Gordo neighborhood of San Lorenzo, two educational and community service facilities received FEMA funds. The Josefa Domingo Virtual Library received an obligation of just over $61,000, while the Josefa Domingo Community Learning and Recreation Center was granted nearly $40,000. Both spaces are located in a disused school that was refurbished for this new purpose and which were named after the late educator Josefa Domingo Cordon, a native of Andalusia, Spain, who worked for many years in this facility built in 1950.
The virtual library offers internet, computer, government document processing and photocopying services. It also has a conference room, books and magazines in digital and printed format. Here, the roof waterproofing system, acoustic panels, an air conditioning unit and signs, among others, were replaced. Mitigation measures, such as the installation of a secondary waterproofing system, were carried out with a share of nearly $17,200.
Likewise, at the community center, the roof waterproofing system was replaced. The share of over $13,600 for mitigation was used to install a reinforced waterproofing system on the roof and correct a slope to prevent water accumulation; and to reinforce the roof to prevent it from being blown off by the wind.
According to the San Lorenzo Recovery Office director, Héctor Román, educational and social activities and training workshops are held at the center. In addition, it serves as the headquarters of the Community Board meetings and from where the community resilience plan is developed.
Román added that both facilities serve mostly seniors and students, at a rate of about 100 people per month. “The importance of this type of center is that it serves as a backbone for technological advancement and for adult populations in need of services.”
Furthermore, an allocation of over $19,400 was granted to the Francisco Oller Library of the Puerto Rico School of Plastic Arts and Design (EAPD, for its Spanish acronym) for a different restoration task. The entity is located in the former Nuestra Señora de la Concepción Hospital in Old San Juan and received the funds to address a specialized cleaning: restore eight boxes of books with mold and water damage; and replace a total of 69 damaged books. Specialized repairs were also made to 21 framed pieces and one piece of 12 frames.
This library offers services to college students, researchers and the general public, such as group and individual counseling, workshops, bibliographic searches, and the loan of educational materials and audiovisual equipment. The library serves an average of 1,900 students and 100 visitors each month.
According to the EAPD Library director, Estrella Del R. Vázquez Domínguez, the library has stood out for having the most complete art and design collections in Puerto Rico.
“Both the repairs and the cleaning, disinfection and mold control service allowed our staff to return to work inside the facilities, as the priority was to protect the health of employees and users. Also, the installation of a new air conditioner allowed us to deal with the proliferation of fungi that affected our collections,” she added.
For his part, the executive director of the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “the work carried out in these libraries, in addition to providing structural resiliency, preserves the material and tools that students need for their academic performance. According to the Quarterly Progress Report as of June 30 of this year, some 15 libraries are in the process of reconstruction at a cost of approximately $3.7 million. Our team will continue to assist the municipalities in this important process that contributes to the preservation of our island’s libraries.”
To date, FEMA has obligated nearly $34 billion for over 11,000 recovery projects in Puerto Rico in the aftermath of Hurricane María
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.
JOSEFA DOMINGO VIRTUAL LIBRARY, SAN LORENZO, PR
San Lorenzo, PUERTO RICO (September 21, 2023) — Repairs to several libraries in the municipalities of San Lorenzo, Barceloneta and San Juan were recently completed with an allocation of over $652,000 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The projects are aimed at supporting the educational activities of these facilities, which serve over hundreds of visitors each month. In the Cerro Gordo neighborhood of San Lorenzo, two educational and community service facilities received FEMA funds. The Josefa Domingo Virtual Library received an obligation of just over $61,000, while the Josefa Domingo Community Learning and Recreation Center was granted nearly $40,000. Photo FEMA/Eliezer Hernández
frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 09/04/2024 - 14:51
Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Madison County
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- FEMA has opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Madison County to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Debby.
Center location:
Madison County
The Bridge Church
1135 US East 90
Madison, FL 32340
Open 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday
To find other center locations for Hurricane Debby go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.
Homeowners and renters in Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the State of Florida and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.
The quickest way to apply for FEMA assistance is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day 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. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
Gaynell.Tinsey Wed, 09/04/2024 - 13:07FEMA Posts Public Notice for Florida
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- A public notice has been posted describing available FEMA assistance and proposed FEMA-funded actions, including activities that may affect historic properties, threatened and endangered species, critical habitat, or wetlands and floodplains in Florida.
FEMA is required by law to provide public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities via the Individual Assistance, Public Assistance and Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs following the major disaster declaration for Hurricane Debby.
The public notice is posted on FEMA’s disaster web page at fema.gov/disaster-federal-register-notice/4806-dr-fl-initial-public-notice and on the Florida Division of Emergency Management website at floridadisaster.org/public-notices/.
This may be the only public notice. Interested persons may obtain information about these actions or a specific project by writing to the Federal Emergency Management Agency Region 4, 3005 Chamblee Tucker Road, Atlanta, Georgia 30341-4112, or by email to FEMA-R4EHP@fema.dhs.gov. Please include in the subject line of the email, “DR-4806-FL EHAD.” Comments should be sent in writing within 30 days of the date of this notice.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
Gaynell.Tinsey Wed, 09/04/2024 - 13:04Van Buren and Cass County Residents Invited to Attend Flood Map Open House
CHICAGO — Van Buren County and Cass County officials announce FEMA will be hosting a Flood Map Open House for Van Buren and Cass counties on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, from 5 – 7 PM. Local officials will be joined by FEMA who will be presenting the preliminary flood maps to help leaders and residents identify known flood risks and use that information to make decisions about future development and buying flood insurance.
Homeowners, renters, and business owners in Van Buren County and Cass County residents are encouraged to attend and meet with experts one-on-one to view their own addresses on the new maps. They’ll learn about their specific risk and ways to help prevent flood loss.
WHAT: Van Buren County and Cass County—Flood Map Open House
WHEN: Tuesday, September 10, 2024
5 – 7 PM
WHERE: Board of Commissioners Chambers
120 N Broadway Street
Cassopolis, MI 49031
Digital files of the preliminary maps can be viewed and downloaded from www.fema.gov/preliminaryfloodhazarddata. If you need a reasonable accommodation (sign language interpreters, Braille, CART, etc.), please send an email to FEMA-Region5-FloodInsuranceOutreach@fema.dhs.gov at least 48 hours before the event. Last minute requests will be accepted but may not be possible to fulfill.
For more information, contact FEMA-R5-MAP@fema.dhs.gov. You may also email the FEMA News Desk at FEMA-R5-News-Desk@fema.dhs.gov.
kimberly.keblish Tue, 09/03/2024 - 21:05St. Joseph Watershed Residents Invited to Attend Flood Map Open House
CHICAGO — St. Joseph County officials announce FEMA will be hosting a Flood Map Open House for the St. Joseph Watershed on September 9, 2024, from 5 – 7 PM. Local officials will be joined by FEMA who will be presenting the preliminary flood maps to help leaders and residents identify known flood risks and use that information to make decisions about future development and buying flood insurance.
Homeowners, renters, and business owners in the St. Joseph Watershed are encouraged to attend and meet with experts one-on-one to view their own addresses on the new maps. They’ll learn about their specific risk and ways to help prevent flood loss.
WHAT: St. Joseph Watershed—Flood Map Open House
WHEN: Monday, September 9, 2024
5 – 7 PM
WHERE: Three Rivers Area Chamber of Commerce
1116 N. Main Street,
Three Rivers, MI 49093
Digital files of the preliminary maps can be viewed and downloaded from www.fema.gov/preliminaryfloodhazarddata. If you need a reasonable accommodation (sign language interpreters, Braille, CART, etc.), please send an email to FEMA-Region5-FloodInsuranceOutreach@fema.dhs.gov at least 48 hours before the event. Last minute requests will be accepted but may not be possible to fulfill.
For more information, contact FEMA-R5-MAP@fema.dhs.gov. You may also email the FEMA News Desk at FEMA-R5-News-Desk@fema.dhs.gov.
kimberly.keblish Tue, 09/03/2024 - 21:02Coming Soon! Barry County Disaster Recovery Center
Cape Girardeau, MO – A state/federal Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open Sept. 9 in Cassville to give Missourians impacted by the late May storms an opportunity to talk face-to-face with disaster recovery specialists.
The center – which will be open from Sept 9-14 – will be located at the First Baptist Church, Family Life Center, 504 West St. in Cassville. Hours of operation are: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. are a one-stop shop for disaster survivors who have applied with FEMA and need to provide additional documentation or have questions about the status of their cases.
In addition to FEMA staff, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be on hand to help survivors apply for low-interest disaster loans to help fund recovery efforts.
The Barry County DRC is one of three centers serving disaster-impacted Missourians. The two other DRCs are in Sikeston at the YMCA, 511 Taylor St. and in Doniphan at the Ripley County Caring Community Partnership building, 209 West Highway St. Doniphan. Hours of operation are: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday-Friday, and Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. until further notice. All centers are closed on Sundays.
Homeowners, renters and self-employed business owners in 10 Missouri counties who were impacted by May 19-27 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding can visit any DRC for one-on-one help, regardless of where they live. Services at the centers are free.
The 10 counties are: Barry, Butler, Carter, Howell, New Madrid, Ripley, Scott, Shannon, Stoddard and Texas.
Federal assistance to eligible individuals and households can be in the form of grants to find a temporary place to live, make minimal home repairs and/or to replace certain personal property. Eligible survivors who need accessibility equipment also may benefit from these grants.
Survivors are encouraged to apply with FEMA before visiting a DRC to make the visit most efficient. Individuals who are having difficulty applying can go to a DRC and get help with filing their initial application.
Here are the 3 best ways to apply:
- Online: www.disasterassistance.gov
- Phone: 800-621-FEMA (3362)
- Download and use the FEMA app
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 more disaster-related information, visit the Missouri State Emergency Management Agency online at www.sema.dps.mo.govor FEMA at www.fema.gov and www.fema.gov/disaster/4803.
thomas.wise Tue, 09/03/2024 - 20:11Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Madison County
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- FEMA has opened a Disaster Recovery Center in Madison County to provide one-on-one help to Floridians affected by Hurricane Debby.
Center location:
Madison County
The Bridge Church
1135 US East 90
Madison, FL 32340
Open 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday-Saturday
To find other center locations for Hurricane Debby go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology.
Homeowners and renters in Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Sarasota, Suwannee and Taylor counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the State of Florida and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.
The quickest way to apply for FEMA assistance is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day 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. To view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4806. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.
kirsten.chambers Tue, 09/03/2024 - 18:59FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Copperfield Fire in Oregon
BOTHELL, Wash. - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Copperfield Fire burning in Klamath County, Oregon.
The state of Oregon’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Sunday, September 1, 2024, at 11:58 p.m. PT. He determined that the Copperfield Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the eleventh FMAG declared in 2024 to help fight Oregon wildfires.
At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the community of Chiloquin. The fire also threatened active recreation areas and power transmission and distribution infrastructure.
FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies. This authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.
In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $985,111 will be available to Oregon through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of future wildfires and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.
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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.
natalie.shaver Tue, 09/03/2024 - 18:48
Preparedness Month Marks Call to Vigilance During Peak of Hurricane Season
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – The arrival of peak activity in the Atlantic hurricane season and the recent passage of Tropical Storm Ernesto through the U.S. Virgin Islands both underscore the importance of being ready for cyclonic events that could affect you and your family. Virgin Islanders have showcased their resilience through multiple emergencies and a pandemic since the 2017 twin hurricanes, and this hurricane season provides another opportunity to mitigate your risk and better prepare your loved ones for any disaster.
Assess your needs today and see what items you might need to replenish in your disaster supply kit in the wake of Ernesto to give your household time to take the steps to prepare for the next weather event that forms in the Atlantic. You should prepare to be self-sufficient in the immediate aftermath of a tropical storm or hurricane and take steps today to prepare your home or business.
To raise awareness about the importance of preparedness, FEMA and the USVI will join the nation in observing National Preparedness Month this September. This annual campaign encourages individuals, families, businesses, and communities to take proactive steps to ensure their readiness in the event of emergencies or natural disasters. Start a conversation today and take simple steps to strengthen your preparedness for the peak of hurricane season.
“Tropical Storm Ernesto’s path over the U.S. Virgin Islands earlier this month was a wake-up call for Virgin Islanders to assess how self-sufficient they might be in the immediate days after a storm makes landfall,” said FEMA Virgin Islands Caribbean Area Office Acting Coordinator Aaron VanDoren. “National Preparedness Month provides an excellent opportunity for families and businesses to practice their emergency plans. Take steps today to replenish emergency supplies used during Ernesto and ask friends and neighbors if they need help with their preparedness plans.”
The weekly themes for this year’s Preparedness Month are:
- Know your risks. Knowing the disasters and emergencies that can happen where you live is important to mitigate risk. Being aware of what could happen will help you understand the steps to take to have what is needed to stay safe.
- Have a plan. Talk about the plans you’ve made and ask if family members need help doing so for themselves. Your plan can include contact information to stay in touch during a disaster, where you and your pets will stay if you must leave home and the latest safety info to share with friends and family.
- Community Preparedness. Your friends and neighbors can help each other be ready no matter what happens. Share what’s worked for you and your family on your preparedness journey.
- Protect what you love. There are many ways to strengthen your home from disasters. You can protect important documents and heirlooms through proper storage. Consider other protections such as keeping your homeowner’s insurance policy in force.
You can learn more about National Preparedness Month and hurricane preparedness at www.ready.gov/september.
According to VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen, “For those who prepared early this Hurricane Season, both physically with their home survival kits and mentally with creating and sharing your emergency plan with your family and friends, thank you very much! For those choosing to procrastinate, please act now and follow our weekly themes to prepare yourself and your families, as we are now in the peak of Hurricane Season. Don’t forget to Include your pet’s needs in your survival kit and plans.”
To support preparedness efforts, FEMA and VITEMA and other local agencies have organized a series of events and initiatives. These include workshops, emergency drills, public service announcements and training. Residents are encouraged to participate actively, assemble emergency supplies, and develop communication plans with their families.
FEMA and VITEMA remind residents of the key elements of emergency preparedness, including:
- Create an emergency supply kit with essential items such as non-perishable food, water, prescription medications, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit.
- Develop a family emergency plan that includes communication methods, evacuation routes, and a designated meeting point.
- Stay informed by monitoring local weather forecasts, emergency alerts, and official announcements.
- Secure important documents and make digital copies of vital records.
- Protect your property by securing loose objects, trimming trees, and reinforcing doors and windows.
- Plan for an extended power outage. Make an inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs when the power goes out.
- Sign up for Alert VI at VITEMA - Public - Sign In (everbridge.net).
It is critical for everyone to remain vigilant not only during the peak of hurricane season, but for any weather or
man-made events that may disrupt our lives and community.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
kate.macedo Tue, 09/03/2024 - 17:40FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Island Pond
A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) is now open in Island Pond in the town of Brighton, at the Brighton Town Hall Gym from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. The joint DRC, a temporary facility established in partnership between Brighton, the state of Vermont and FEMA, has disaster assistance specialists available to help disaster survivors apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, upload documents needed for their application and answer questions in person.
The DRC is located at:
- Brighton Town Hall Gym - 49 Mill Street, Island Pond, VT 05846
- Sunday – Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
You do not need an appointment to visit a DRC.
Other DRCs open include:
- Lyndonville Public Safety Facility - 316 Main St., Lyndonville, VT 05851
- Waterbury Armory - 294 Armory Blvd, Waterbury, VT 05676
- Barre Auditorium - 20 Auditorium Hill, Barre, VT 05641
- Goddard College - 123 Pitkin Road. Plainfield, VT 05667
All locations are open Sunday – Saturday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
FEMA specialists and representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration, which can provide low-interest disaster loans to survivors, will be on hand at all DRCs to discuss available assistance.
Those affected by the disaster do not have to visit a DRC in order to apply. Survivors can also register in one of the following ways:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov. The FEMA website is accessible and includes language translation options.
- By phone at 1-800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week.
- Download FEMA’s Mobile App. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology equipment. If you need a reasonable accommodation
adrien.urbani Tue, 09/03/2024 - 14:45Pages
