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FEMA and SBA Top $6 Million for South Fork and Salt Fires and Flooding Recovery

DHS News and Updates - Sat, 07/20/2024 - 09:00
FEMA and SBA Top $6 Million for South Fork and Salt Fires and Flooding Recovery

Just 30 days after President Biden declared a major disaster for the state of New Mexico following the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding that began on June 17, more than $6 million in federal assistance has been approved by FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to support disaster recovery.  

FEMA and our federal partners are working closely with the state of New Mexico to provide help in recovery for all its affected residents as quickly as possible,” said Robert M. Patterson Jr., FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer for New Mexico. “Federal assistance is just one part of the whole community effort to support New Mexico’s recovery from last month’s fires and floods,” he added. 

As of July 19, New Mexico’s recovery assistance includes: 

More than $3 million in grants awarded to eligible homeowners and renters in Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba and San Juan counties and the Mescalero Apache Reservation. These grants help pay for eligible losses and disaster-related damage, including:

  • More than $1.7 million in FEMA housing grants to help pay for home repair, home replacement and rental assistance for temporary housing. 
  • More than $1.3 million in grants to help pay for personal property replacement and other serious disaster-related needs — such as moving and storage fees, transportation, childcare, and medical and dental expenses. 
SBA

More than $3 million in long-term, low-interest disaster loans from SBA has been approved and are available to homeowners, renters, businesses of all sizes and non-profit organizations to repair, rebuild or replace disaster-damaged physical property and to cover economic injury from the fires and flooding.

SBA opened a Business Recovery Center (BRC) to help applicants to complete their disaster loan applications. It is located inside the Ruidoso Public Library (Archive Room), 107 Kansas City Road, Ruidoso. The BRC is open Mondays – Fridays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. No appointment is needed. 

SBA has the largest source of funds to help private property owners pay for disaster losses not covered by insurance or other recoveries. The program covers deductibles and increased cost of compliance after a disaster. Survivors should not wait for an insurance settlement before submitting an SBA loan application. 

Applicants may apply at https://lending.sba.gov. Business owners also may apply in-person by visiting SBA Business Recovery Center at the Ruidoso Public Library. The deadline to apply to SBA for property damage is Aug. 19, 2024. The deadline to apply for economic injury is March 20, 2025.

New Mexicans who suffered damage from the wildfires and flooding may apply for help from both FEMA and SBA at the same time. 

FEMA on the Ground

FEMA response staff was on site in southern New Mexico within hours of the first fire alarm. To date more than 300 FEMA personnel have deployed to this disaster — in-person and virtually — to execute disaster assistance and recovery programs in partnership with the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (NMDHSEM).

The state and FEMA have staffed and operated Disaster Recovery Centers in Roswell, Ruidoso and the Mescalero Apache Reservation, which have provided face-to-face assistance to nearly 1,000 homeowners, renters and their families. To find the closest center to you, visit fema.gov/drc.

FEMA’s Volunteer Agency Liaisons (VALs) are operating four donation centers and points of distribution in areas affected by the fires and floods. In addition, about 113,000 immediate relief supplies have been donated and distributed to impacted residents from the Roswell Armory, and more than 1,969 individual volunteers from VOAD and the American Red Cross have contributed more than 52,911 hours to the recovery.

Public Assistance 

FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) program reimburses the state, counties, local governments, tribes, and certain private nonprofits (including houses of worship) for eligible costs of disaster-related debris removal, emergency protective measures and repair and replacement of storm-damaged facilities, such as roads, bridges, public utilities, including water treatment and electrical plants, government buildings and parks. PA is available, on a cost -sharing basis, in all five designated areas: Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba and San Juan counties and the Mescalero Apache Reservation.

How to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance

The first step for individuals and households to receive assistance is to apply to FEMA for federal assistance. There are no costs involved to apply for, or receive, FEMA assistance. There are four ways to apply:

  1. Go online to disasterassistance.gov/
  2. Download the FEMA App for mobile devices at fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products
  3. Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. MT. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
  4. Visit a Disaster Recovery Center operated by the state of New Mexico and FEMA. For location and hours, visit fema.gov/drc

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

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Aug. 19, 2024.

For more information about FEMA’s Individual Assistance program, visit  www.fema.gov/assistance/individual

kwei.nwaogu Sat, 07/20/2024 - 13:00
Categories: DHS News

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

DHS News and Updates - Fri, 07/19/2024 - 15:51
President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Montana

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Montana to supplement recovery efforts in areas affected by the severe winter storm and flooding from May 6-9, 2024.

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe winter storm and flooding in Blaine, Chouteau, Fergus, Hill, Judith Basin, Petroleum, Pondera, Teton, Toole and Wheatland counties and the Rocky Boy's Indian Reservation and the Fort Belknap Indian Community.

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

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

amy.ashbridge Fri, 07/19/2024 - 19:51
Categories: DHS News

West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers Reopening Saturday, July 20

DHS News and Updates - Fri, 07/19/2024 - 15:27
West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers Reopening Saturday, July 20

July 19, 2024
DR-4783-WV MA-037
DR-4787-WV MA-005
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers Reopening Saturday, July 20

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The Disaster Recovery Centers in West Virginia will resume regular hours of operation on Saturday, July 20, 2024. 

The sites and hours are as follow. Please note that the Wayne County Disaster Recovery Center will close permanently at 6 p.m., Saturday, July 20.

Kanawha County Disaster Recovery Center

Tyler Mountain FD

5380 Big Tyler Road

Charleston, WV 25313

Hours of operation:

Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed on Sundays

Kanawha County Disaster Recovery Center

Recreation Center

2601 Fairlawn Ave

Dunbar, WV 25064

Hours of operation:

Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed on Sundays

Wayne County Mobile Disaster Recovery Center

Wayne County Office of Emergency Management

1 Hendricks St.

Wayne, WV 26651

Hours of operation:

Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closing permanently at 6 p.m., Saturday, July 20, 2024

Ohio County Disaster Recovery Center

U.S. Army Reserve Center

25 Armory Dr.

Wheeling, WV 26003

Hours of operation:

Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed on Sundays

Hancock County Disaster Recovery Center

New Cumberland City Hall 

104 North Court St

New Cumberland, WV 26407

Hours of operation:

Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed on Sundays

Survivors can continue to call FEMA for assistance at 800-621- FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. 

The fastest and easiest way to apply for assistance is by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page,www.fema.gov/disaster/4783www.fema.gov/disaster/4787 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

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

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

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

issa.mansaray Fri, 07/19/2024 - 19:27
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Specialists in Texas Communities After Hurricane Beryl

DHS News and Updates - Fri, 07/19/2024 - 14:43
FEMA Specialists in Texas Communities After Hurricane Beryl

AUSTIN – FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) crews are in Texas neighborhoods helping people apply for FEMA assistance after Hurricane Beryl.

These specialists can help Texans apply for federal assistance, check the status of an application, identify potential needs and make connections with organizations that can provide resources. DSA crews carry FEMA photo identification and never ask for, or accept, money.

How to Apply to FEMA

Homeowners and renters in Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nagcodoches, Orange, Polk, San Jacinto, Walker and Wharton counties can apply in several ways:

  • Go online to disasterassistance.gov.
  • Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
  • Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. CT. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
  • Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. For locations, visit fema.gov/drc. These centers can help with both Hurricane Beryl and the April 26-June 5 storms and flooding.
alexa.brown Fri, 07/19/2024 - 18:43
Categories: DHS News

Disaster Recovery Center to Close in Wayne County, W.Va.

DHS News and Updates - Fri, 07/19/2024 - 14:27
Disaster Recovery Center to Close in Wayne County, W.Va.

July 19, 2024
DR-4783-WV MA-036
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Disaster Recovery Center to Close in Wayne County, W.Va.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The state-federal Disaster Recovery Center at the Wayne County Office of Emergency Management in Wayne is closing permanently tomorrow, Saturday, July 20, 2024, at 6 p.m.

The center is located at:

Wayne County Mobile Disaster Recovery Center

Wayne County Office of Emergency Management/911 Center

1 Hendricks St.

Wayne, WV 25570

Hours of operation:

Closing permanently at 6 p.m., Saturday, July 20, 2024

Residents of all counties can continue to visit other DRCs in West Virginia. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).

If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps.  DRC staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.

Survivors do not have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to register with FEMA. If it is not possible to visit a DRC, call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

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

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

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

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

issa.mansaray Fri, 07/19/2024 - 18:27
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Falls Fire in Oregon

DHS News and Updates - Fri, 07/19/2024 - 14:27
FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Falls Fire in Oregon

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

The state of Oregon’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Deputy Administrator Vincent J. Maykovich on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at 7:34 p.m. PT. He determined that the Falls Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the fourth FMAG declared in 2024 to help fight Oregon wildfires. 

At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of Burns and Silvies. The fire also threatened state highways, cell towers, rangeland, agricultural assets and irrigation and utilities infrastructure in the area. 

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

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

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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 Fri, 07/19/2024 - 18:27
Categories: DHS News

West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers closed Friday, July 19

DHS News and Updates - Fri, 07/19/2024 - 12:10
West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers closed Friday, July 19

July 19, 2024
DR-4783-WV MA-035
DR-4787-WV MA-004

FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers closed Friday, July 19 

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The Disaster Recovery Centers in West Virginia will be closed Friday, July 19, 2024, because of an outage affecting computers nationwide.  

This affects the following Disaster Recover Centers:

Kanawha County Disaster Recovery Center

Tyler Mountain VFD
5380 Big Tyler Road
Charleston, WV 25313

Kanawha County Disaster Recovery Center

Recreation Center

2601 Fairlawn Ave

Dunbar, WV 25064

Wayne County Mobile Disaster Recovery Center

Wayne County Office of Emergency Management

1 Hendricks St.

Wayne, WV 26651

Ohio County Disaster Recovery Center

U.S. Army Reserve Center
25 Armory Dr.
Wheeling, WV 26003

Hancock County Disaster Recovery Center

New Cumberland City Hall 

104 North Court St

New Cumberland, WV 26407

Survivors can continue to call FEMA for assistance at 800-621- FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. 

The fastest and easiest way to apply for assistance is by visiting www.disasterassistance.gov.

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

###

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

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

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

issa.mansaray Fri, 07/19/2024 - 16:10
Categories: DHS News

Hays County, Texas, Flood Maps Become Final

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 07/18/2024 - 17:27
Hays County, Texas, Flood Maps Become Final

DENTON, Texas – New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on Jan. 17, 2025, for Hays County, Texas. During the next six months, a FEMA compliance specialist will work with the community to update each floodplain ordinance and adopt these new flood maps. 

Residents are encouraged to examine the maps to determine if they are in a low-to-moderate or high-risk flood zone. The current and future Flood Insurance Rate Map can be viewed on FEMA’s Flood Map Changes Viewer at https://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.

By understanding flood risks, individuals can decide which insurance option is best for their situation. Community leaders can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards and development that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flooding event.

Anyone without flood insurance risks uninsured losses to their home, personal property and business. Flood insurance is available either through a private policy or through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for those in communities who participate in the NFIP. Residents with federally backed mortgages must have flood insurance if their structures are in the Special Flood Hazard Area.

Contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA) to review the new flood maps and learn more about your risk of flooding. A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify your community FPA and answer questions about the maps as well. Contact them by phone or online chat.

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

alexa.brown Thu, 07/18/2024 - 21:27
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Lone Rock Fire in Oregon

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 07/18/2024 - 14:08
FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Lone Rock Fire in Oregon

BOTHELL, Wash. -  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Lone Rock Fire burning in Gilliam, Morrow and Wheeler counties, Oregon. 

The state of Oregon’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Deputy Administrator Vincent J. Maykovich on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at 12:10 a.m. PT. He determined that the Lone Rock Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the third FMAG declared in 2024 to help fight Oregon wildfires. 

At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of Spray, Lonerock, Hardman and Winlock. The fire also threatened power lines, cell towers, rangeland and agricultural assets in the area. 

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

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

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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 Thu, 07/18/2024 - 18:08
Categories: DHS News

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Allen Parish, Louisiana

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 07/18/2024 - 11:19
Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Allen Parish, Louisiana

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review in Allen Parish, Louisiana. 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 July 18, 2024. 

Appeals and comments may be submitted through Oct. 16, 2024, for:

  • The Village of Reeves and the unincorporated areas of Allen Parish

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:

For more information about the flood maps:

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

alexa.brown Thu, 07/18/2024 - 15:19
Categories: DHS News

One Month Remains for Floridians to Apply for FEMA Assistance

DHS News and Updates - Thu, 07/18/2024 - 09:29
One Month Remains for Floridians to Apply for FEMA Assistance

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- Floridians who sustained loss from the May 10 severe storms and tornadoes have one month to apply for federal assistance. The deadline to apply is Aug. 19, 2024.

One month after the disaster declaration for the storms, FEMA has approved $5.6 million in assistance to households.

If you sustained loss from the May 10 severe storms and tornadoes and live in Leon County, FEMA may be able to help. You may be eligible for FEMA financial assistance for temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured disaster-related expenses. 

Call toll-free 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. The telephone line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET. 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/4794. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

david.heckard Thu, 07/18/2024 - 13:29
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Texas Fire in Idaho

DHS News and Updates - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 17:00
FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Texas Fire in Idaho

BOTHELL, Wash. -  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Texas Fire burning in Latah and Nez Perce Counties, Idaho.

The state of Idaho’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) was approved by FEMA Region 10 Administrator Willie G. Nunn on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, at 8:50 p.m. PT. He determined that the Texas Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the first FMAG declared in 2024 to help fight Idaho wildfires. 

At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the community of Kendrick. The fire also threatened several cell towers, radio towers, private transmission lines, and agricultural assets in the area.

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

In addition to the firefighting funds authorized under this FMAG, another $985,111 will be available to Idaho 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 Wed, 07/17/2024 - 21:00
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Inspecting Homes After Hurricane Beryl

DHS News and Updates - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 16:23
FEMA Inspecting Homes After Hurricane Beryl

AUSTIN – After Texans apply for FEMA assistance, a home inspection may be necessary to help determine whether the home is safe, sanitary and livable.

The inspectors do not make decisions regarding eligibility for assistance. Information gathered during the inspection is only one of several criteria by FEMA to determine if applicants are eligible for federal assistance. 

The housing inspector will consider:

  • The structural soundness of the home, both inside and outside.
  • Whether the electrical, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer/septic systems are all in working order.
  • Whether the home is safe to live in and can be entered and exited safely.

Housing inspectors will make an appointment with the applicant before coming. They will already have the applicant’s FEMA application number. They carry photo identification and will show it to the applicant. For security reasons, federal identification may not be photographed. Inspectors will never ask for, or accept, money. Their service is free. 

The inspectors will call or text applicants to arrange to meet at the home. They will leave messages and/or texts on the phone number listed on the FEMA application. These communications may come from unfamiliar phone numbers, and it is important that applicants respond so their application can be processed.

A typical home inspection takes about 45 minutes to complete. After the inspection, applicants should allow seven to 10 days for processing. If they have questions about the status of their application, they can call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362.

alexa.brown Wed, 07/17/2024 - 20:23
Categories: DHS News

Cass County Residents Invited to Attend Flood Map Open House

DHS News and Updates - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 15:17
Cass County Residents Invited to Attend Flood Map Open House

CHICAGO — FEMA will be hosting a Flood Map Open House for Cass County, MI on Wednesday, July 24, 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 Cass County 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:              Cass County—Flood Map Open House  

WHEN:             Wednesday, July 24, 2024
                            5 – 7 PM

WHERE:           Board of Commissioners Chambers
                            120 N Broadway ST
                            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 Wed, 07/17/2024 - 19:17
Categories: DHS News

Columbia County Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

DHS News and Updates - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 14:52
Columbia County Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

TALLAHASSEE, Fla.- Local governments and certain nonprofit organizations in Columbia County are now eligible for FEMA Public Assistance grants for debris removal, emergency protective measures and permanent work to repair public facilities that were damaged by the May 10 severe storms and tornadoes.

This county joins Baker, Gadsden, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Santa Rosa, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla counties which were all previously approved for FEMA Public Assistance.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster damaged public facilities and infrastructure. Houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations may also be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

For the latest information about Florida’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4794. Follow FEMA on X, formerly known as Twitter, at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

david.heckard Wed, 07/17/2024 - 18:52
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Reminds Southeast Michiganders to Maintain Flood Insurance Coverage

DHS News and Updates - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 14:34
FEMA Reminds Southeast Michiganders to Maintain Flood Insurance Coverage

CHICAGO – July marks the third anniversary of the 2021 disaster declaration in southeast Michigan, and FEMA is reminding flood survivors who received a temporary Group Flood Insurance Policy (GFIP) of the need to purchase an individual flood insurance policy. The three-year GFIP will expire in September 2024, so policyholders must plan now to switch to a standard flood insurance policy to ensure continuous flood insurance coverage.

Following the 2021 disaster, FEMA purchased GFIP policies for disaster survivors whose homes were flooded. Part of the eligibility of receiving future financial assistance after a flood is that a homeowner or renter must obtain and maintain flood insurance to ensure that there is no lapse in coverage. If a property affected by a flood is sold, the new owners are required to have flood insurance for the property as well.

Southeast Michigan households who received a group policy need to purchase a new, standard flood insurance policy, or obtain other flood insurance for at least the amount of assistance that they received for repairs and replacement of property to remain eligible for future FEMA assistance. Those who received a GFIP policy as part of their FEMA disaster assistance after the disaster but don’t buy a standard flood insurance policy will likely not receive federal disaster assistance for home repairs if they experience another flood event.

Steps to Take Now

Purchase an individual flood insurance policy through a local insurance agent before your GFIP expires. There is typically a 30-day waiting period between submitting the policy application and the effective date. An insurance agent can help you select a flood insurance policy tailored to your specific needs.

  • To find an insurance carrier or agent, visit FloodSmart.gov, or call FEMA NFIP Direct toll-free, (800) 638-6620, option 2.
  • For more information about the National Flood Insurance Program and or insurance, call the National Flood Insurance General Call Center at 800-427-4661.
  • If you have questions about your GFIP call the National Flood Insurance Direct Call Center at 800-638-6620.

FEMA will send you a reminder letter 45 days before your GFIP expires, as well as when your GFIP expires. FEMA will also mail you a reminder of these requirements each year.

Flooding is the nation’s most common and costly natural disaster.  Flood insurance policies are crucial to recover quickly following a flood event as homeowners and renters’ policies do not typically cover flood damage. Visit FloodSmart.gov to learn more.

kimberly.keblish Wed, 07/17/2024 - 18:34
Categories: DHS News

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Spring Valley Fire

DHS News and Updates - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 13:52
FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Spring Valley Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 9 Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on July 16 at 7:00 p.m. PDT / 10:00 p.m. EDT to assist the state of Nevada to combat the Spring Valley Fire burning in Douglas County.

On July 16, the state of Nevada submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 1,200-1,500 homes in and around Double Springs, Holbrook Junction and Topaz Ranch Estates, population 1,750. 100% of the threatened homes are primary residences and 0% are secondary residences.

The fire started on July 16, 2024, and had burned more than 200 acres, 80 acres of State and Private land and 120 acres of Tribal land. The fire was 3% contained. There are two large fires burning uncontrolled within the State. 

FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to become a greater incident.

Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.

For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.

###

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

brandi.richard… Wed, 07/17/2024 - 17:52
Categories: DHS News

Disaster Recovery Center in Nicholas County, W.Va., Closing

DHS News and Updates - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 13:52
Disaster Recovery Center in Nicholas County, W.Va., Closing

July 17, 2024
DR-4783-WV MA-035
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Disaster Recovery Center in Nicholas County, W.Va., Closing

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The state-federal Disaster Recovery Center at the Nicholas County Office of Emergency Services in Summersville is closing permanently tomorrow, Thursday, July 18, 2024, at 6 p.m.

The center is located at:

Nicholas County Disaster Recovery Center

Nicholas County Office of Emergency Services

449 Water St.

Summersville, WV 26651

Hours of operation:

Closing permanently at 6 p.m., Thursday, July 18, 2024

Residents of all counties can continue to visit other DRCs in West Virginia. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).

If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps.  DRC staff can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.

Survivors do not have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to register with FEMA. If it is not possible to visit a DRC, call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

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

###

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

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

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

issa.mansaray Wed, 07/17/2024 - 17:52
Categories: DHS News

Disaster Recovery Center is Opening in Hancock County, W.Va.

DHS News and Updates - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 13:44
Disaster Recovery Center is Opening in Hancock County, W.Va.

July 17, 2024
DR-4787-WV MA-003
FEMA News Desk: 215-931-5597
FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov

Media Advisory

Disaster Recovery Center is Opening in Hancock County, W.Va.

CHARLESTON, W.Va.– A state-federal Disaster Recovery Center will open at New Cumberland City Hall in New Cumberland, Thursday, July 18, 2024, at 8 a.m.

The center is located at:

  1. Hancock County Disaster Recovery Center

New Cumberland City Hall 

104 North Court St

New Cumberland, WV 26407

Hours of operation:

Monday - Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed on Sundays

West Virginia residents who were impacted by the April 11-12 severe storms can visit a disaster recovery center to get help registering for FEMA disaster assistance. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit DRC Locator (fema.gov).

  • The FEMA registration deadline for the April 11-12 storm is Sept. 3, 2024.

If you have received a letter from FEMA about your application status, visit a DRC to learn more about next steps. Staff at the center can help you submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to process your application and answer any questions you may have.

Survivors do not have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to register with FEMA. If it is not possible to visit a center, call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page,www.fema.gov/disaster/4787 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

###

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

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

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

issa.mansaray Wed, 07/17/2024 - 17:44
Categories: DHS News

Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Cherokee County

DHS News and Updates - Wed, 07/17/2024 - 11:48
Disaster Recovery Center Opening in Cherokee County

FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Cherokee on Saturday, July 20 to provide one-on-one help for people affected by recent flooding and severe storms.

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.

Cherokee County – FEMA Disaster Recovery Center

Cherokee County Emergency Management

Formerly the Cherokee County Work Services Building

322 Lake St., Suite B

Cherokee, IA 51012

 

Open Saturday, July 20 from 1–6 p.m.

Then, open every day from 8 a.m.– 6 p.m., until further notice

 

Four other FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers are open in northwest Iowa. Survivors can visit any location:

Spencer -

Clay County

Clay County Regional Events Center

Tower Gate Pavilion

800 W. 18th St.

Spencer, IA 51301

Open Monday – Sunday 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Rock Valley -  

Sioux County

City Park Shelter House

1013 13th Ave.

Rock Valley, IA 51247

Open Monday – Sunday 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Estherville – 

Emmet County

St. Patrick's Church - Gym

903 Central Ave.

Estherville, IA 51334

Open Monday – Sunday 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Rock Rapids – 

Lyon County

Forster Community Center

404 First Ave.

Rock Rapids, IA 51246

Open Monday – Sunday 8 a.m.-6 p.m.


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

Designated counties are Adair, Adams, Buena Vista, Cedar, Cherokee, Clarke, Clay, Emmet, Harrison, Jasper, Lyon, Mills, Montgomery, O’Brien, Plymouth, Polk, Pottawattamie, Ringgold, Shelby, Sioux, Story, Union and Woodbury.

To save time, please apply with FEMA online or by phone before visiting a Disaster Recovery Center.

To find closest Disaster Recovery Center near you, please visit: https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator

How to Apply with FEMA

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

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

thomas.wise Wed, 07/17/2024 - 15:48
Categories: DHS News

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