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American Bar Association Offers Free Legal Aid to Kentucky Storm Survivors
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Free legal assistance is available to disaster survivors in Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup, Henry, Jefferson, Jessamine, Mason, Oldham, Union and Whitley counties who were affected by the April 2, severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides throughout Kentucky.
Kentuckians who need help can call 859-993-0300, 8:30 a.m. -- noon; 1:00 -- 4:30 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. If after business hours, survivors can leave a message and calls may be returned on the next business day. The hotline is available to connect survivors to free legal services in qualifying counties who cannot afford an attorney.
Legal Aid may be able to help survivors in the following ways:
- FEMA and SBA financial benefits;
- Home repair contracts and property insurance claims;
- Re-doing wills and other important legal documents destroyed in the disaster;
- Price gouging, scams or identity theft;
- Landlord or tenant problems, or threats of foreclosure; and
- Disability-related access to federal, state and local disaster programs.
The Disaster Legal Services (DLS) program works with state and local partners to provide free legal help for low-income disaster survivors. The service is a partnership between the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, FEMA, and various organizations and volunteer attorneys.
For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4782. Follow FEMA on X, formerly called Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.
sandra.habib Thu, 06/20/2024 - 16:38Second Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Open in Hinds County
MADISON, Miss. – The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and FEMA have opened a second Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Hinds County to help survivors affected by the April 8-11, 2024, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding.
Specialists from FEMA, the State of Mississippi and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the center to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, check the status of their application, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.
The center is located at:
Smith-Wills Stadium parking lot (look for the FEMA signage)
1200 Cool Papa Bell Drive
Jackson, MS 39216
The center is open:
- Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Saturday; 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Sunday; closed.
To find the location of all open centers, visit fema.gov/drc.
It is not necessary to visit a center to apply for assistance. Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA mobile app or calling the FEMA Helpline at
800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
For the latest information on recovery from the April tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4790. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4.
Gaynell.Tinsey Thu, 06/20/2024 - 15:08Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Open in Hinds County
MADISON, Miss. – The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and FEMA have opened a Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Hinds County to help survivors affected by the April 8-11, 2024, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding.
Specialists from FEMA, the State of Mississippi and the U.S. Small Business Administration will be at the center to help survivors apply for federal disaster assistance, check the status of their application, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.
The center is located at:
Cleon McKnight Tennis Center parking lot at Hinds Community College (look for the FEMA signage)
605 Hinds Blvd.
Raymond, MS 39154
The center is open:
- Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Saturday; 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Sunday; closed.
This center will close permanently at 6 p.m. on June 25, 2024, but will relocate to serve another location in Hinds County.
To find the location of all open centers, visit fema.gov/drc
It is not necessary to visit a center to apply for assistance. Survivors can apply for FEMA assistance by going online to DisasterAssistance.gov, downloading the FEMA mobile app or calling the FEMA Helpline at
800-621-3362. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.
For the latest information on recovery from the April tornadoes, visit msema.org and www.fema.gov/disaster/4790. On X/Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4.
Gaynell.Tinsey Thu, 06/20/2024 - 14:48
How to Apply for FEMA Assistance
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– Homeowners and renters in Leon County who were affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes on May 10 may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.
Disaster assistance can include financial help with immediate needs, temporary lodging and home repairs, as well as other disaster-related expenses.
There are several ways to apply: Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App or call 800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET daily. Multilingual operators are available. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
When you apply for assistance, please have the following information ready:
- A current phone number where you can be contacted
- Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying
- Your Social Security number
- A general list of damage and losses
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name
If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible.
FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.
For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to youtube.com/watch?v=HhtlyTX49RE.
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.
melanie.barker Wed, 06/19/2024 - 20:43Resources for Repairing, Retrofitting and Rebuilding After Severe Storms, Flooding and Tornadoes
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Like all natural disasters, tornadoes can end up causing massive destruction to homes, property and infrastructure. Typically, tornadoes cause the greatest damage to structures of light construction, including some manufactured homes and other residential dwellings.
Mitigation measures are available to improve personal safety and reduce or eliminate the risk of future damages to structures and personal property. FEMA building specialists can give you information on how to repair, retrofit, or rebuild your home to be safer and stronger before the next disaster.
Mitigation Topics to Consider
Roof Design
Roof failures are a common cause of major damage to buildings and their contents from high winds. There are mitigation measures that can be taken to reduce potential roof damage.
These mitigation measures include:
- Designing Wind-resistant Roofs
- Reinforcing Gable Roof Ends
- Securing Sheathing Properly
- Installing Shingles Properly
Breach Points
Exterior doors and windows are the weakest parts of a structure’s outer shell. If they are broken or blown in, high winds can enter a structure and create internal pressures which act on the roof and walls, resulting in serious damage. Once the structure is breached, wind, debris, and rain can damage the interior of the structure or injure any person inside.
Breach point mitigation measures include:
- Reinforcing Garage Doors
- Securing Double-entry Doors
- Installing Impact-resistant Glass
Local Building Officials
Always check with local building official before beginning any repairs or rebuilding because:
- Building codes, permits, inspection requirements, and zoning ordinances may be involved.
- A floodplain ordinance will affect rebuilding when the structure has sustained substantial damage and is situated in a floodplain.
Building officials will reinforce the point that only licensed professionals are qualified to perform structural repair or structural mitigation work.
Email a Specialist
If you are unable to call, email your questions, comments, or issues to FEMA-ARMit@fema.dhs.gov to receive a written response from a Specialist.
Speak to a Specialist
- Mitigation Helpline – Available Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by calling 833-FEMA-4-US or 833-336-2487.
- Web page is accessible through this QR Code or by visiting: Arkansas Disaster Web Page (cosocloud.com)
- Not available when you call? Leave a message and a Specialist will return your call within 24 hours.
Online Resources
- Visit https://fema.connectsolutions.com/armit/ to look through various publications for useful information to use when making repairs, retrofits, and rebuilding.
- Building Science Resources After an Extreme Wind Event FEMA Building Science Resources to Assist with Reconstruction after an Extreme-Wind Event.
- Improving Windstorm and Tornado Resilience: Recommendations for One- and Two-Family Residential Structures A brief overview of building improvements to reduce damage to wood-framed, one- and two-family residential structures when impacted by tornadoes rated on the Enhanced Fujita (EF) Scale as EF2 or less intensity, and indirectly by tornadoes with a greater EF rating.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4788. Follow the FEMA Region 6 X account at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
alexa.brown Wed, 06/19/2024 - 13:50Disaster Recovery Center Closed for Juneteenth Holiday
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- FEMA and the State of Arkansas Disaster Recovery Centers in Bentonville, Summit, Harrison and Mountain Home will be closed Wednesday, June 19 for the Juneteenth holiday.
Residents in Baxter, Benton, Boone, Fulton, Greene, Madison, Marion and Randolph affected by the May 24-27 severe storms and tornadoes are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance.
The quickest way to apply for FEMA assistance is by going online at disasterassistance.gov/.
Additional options when applying include:
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices
- Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
- To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4788. Follow the FEMA Region 6 X account at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6.
alexa.brown Wed, 06/19/2024 - 13:44FEMA Is Hiring in Oklahoma
OKLAHOMA CITY – FEMA is hiring Oklahoma residents to help the state recover from the April-May storms and tornadoes.
The agency has several openings for short-term, full-time jobs in Oklahoma City. The appointments are for 120 days, and may be extended based on the needs of the disaster.
By working with FEMA, you’ll play an important part in helping our neighbors recover from the tornadoes. Positions will fill needed roles in media, administration, community outreach and more, and range from entry-level to supervisors, with competitive salaries. Hiring locally is part of FEMA’s commitment to the community. Additionally, it helps build America’s disaster recovery workforce: many current FEMA employees started as local hires after disasters in their states.
To learn more and apply, go online to USAJobs.gov and search for “FEMA” under Keywords and “Oklahoma” under Location. Or visit this link: USAJOBS - Search.
Descriptions and applications for current jobs are available here:
- Hazard Mitigation Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement – closing June 24
- Community Education and Outreach Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement – closing June 24
- Digital Communications Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement – closing June 24
- Intergovernmental/Congressional and Private Sector Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement – closing June 24
- Geospatial and Data Analytics Call Manager: USAJOBS - Job Announcement – closing June 24
- Planning Specialist: USAJOBS - Job Announcement – closing June 24
More jobs may open later – check at USAJobs.gov.
You must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old, and possess a high school diploma or GED to apply. Some positions may require driving to impacted areas.
FEMA is committed to employing a highly qualified workforce that reflects the diversity of our nation. All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, gender, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. The federal government is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
For the latest information about Oklahoma’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4776. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
alexa.brown Tue, 06/18/2024 - 21:24President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Hawaii
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Hawaii to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, flooding and landslides from April 11-14, 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 storms, flooding and landslides in Kauai County.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Curtis Brown has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.
amy.ashbridge Tue, 06/18/2024 - 19:27Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Jessamine County
FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA is opening a Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Jessamine County to assist Kentucky survivors who were impacted by the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides. The MDRC will be located at Providence School, 200 Computrex Drive, Nicholasville, KY 40356. The center will be open June 19–23. The hours are 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Monday through Friday; 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Saturday; and 1–5 p.m. Sunday.
Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, update applications and learn about other resources available. FEMA financial assistance may include money for basic home repairs or other uninsured, disaster-related needs, such as childcare, transportation, medical needs, funeral or dental expenses.
Other Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Kentucky:- Boyd County: Boyd County Emergency Management Office, 12327 Anthony Drive, Ashland, KY 41102.
- Carter County: Members Choice Credit Union, 438 Interstate Drive, Grayson, KY 41143.
- Fayette County: Emergency Operations Center, 115 Cisco Road, Lexington, KY 40504.
- Greenup County: Greenup County Courthouse, 301 Main St., Greenup, KY 41114.
- Henry County: 4H Community Center, 1106 Castle Highway, Eminence, KY 40019.
- Union County: Senior Citizens Building, 225 North Richards Lane, Morganfield, KY 42437.
The Disaster Recovery Centers in Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup, Henry and Union counties are open 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Monday through Friday; 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Saturday; and 1–5 p.m. Sunday. For Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup and Henry counties, the hours are in Eastern Time; and for Union County, in Central Time.
Survivors in Boyd, Carter, Fayette, Greenup, Henry, Jefferson, Jessamine, Mason, Oldham, Union and Whitley counties can apply for FEMA assistance at any of the Disaster Recovery Centers.
It is not necessary to go to a center to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in designated counties can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app to apply. If you use a relay service, such as video relay, captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
For the latest information on Kentucky’s recovery from the April 2 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, landslides and mudslides, please visit fema.gov/disaster/4782. Follow FEMA on X, formerly called Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.
sandra.habib Tue, 06/18/2024 - 19:06President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Tennessee
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Tennessee to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding from May 8-9, 2024.
Public assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Cannon, Cheatham, Giles, Hamilton, Jackson, Macon, Maury, Montgomery, Polk, Smith, Sumner and Warren counties.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.
Leda M. Khoury has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.
amy.ashbridge Tue, 06/18/2024 - 18:56President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Florida
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Florida to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes on May 10, 2024.
The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Leon County. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
Federal funding is also available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes in Baker, Gadsden, Hamilton, Lafayette, Leon, Liberty, Madison, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla counties.
Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide. John E. Brogan has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments.
Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
amy.ashbridge Tue, 06/18/2024 - 17:03Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Baxter County
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- FEMA and the State of Arkansas will be opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Mountain Home on Tuesday, June 18 to provide one-on-one help to Arkansans affected by the May 24-27 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding.
The center is located at:
Food Bank of North Central Arkansas
1042 Highland Circle
Mountain Home, AR 72653
The center will operate Monday-Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and close Sundays.
The new location joins the present disaster recovery centers open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at:
Benton County
Northwest Arkansas Community College
Becky Paneitz Student Center, SC 108
1211 SE Eagle Way,
Bentonville, AR 72712
Parking available at 1202 Water Tower Road in the adjacent multi-level parking garage on levels 2 and 3
Boone County
Boone County Government Building
220 N. Arbor Drive
Harrison, AR 72602
Marion County
Marion County Fairgrounds
513 E Seawell Ave
Summit, AR 72677
Residents in Baxter, Benton, Boone, Fulton, Greene, Madison, Marion and Randolph counties can visit any of these disaster recovery centers to meet with representatives of FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, along with many Arkansas departments and other community partners. No appointment is needed to visit a center.
Each center is accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and is equipped with assistive technology. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call FEMA’s Civil Rights Resource Line: 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish). Line is open Monday-Friday 6 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. CT.
You do not have to visit a center to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The quickest way to apply is by going online at disasterassistance.gov/.
Additional options when applying include:
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices
- Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
- To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4788. Follow the FEMA Region 6 X account at X.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6.
alexa.brown Mon, 06/17/2024 - 23:03FEMA Promotes Extreme Heat Safety and Preparedness Ahead of Dangerous Long Duration Heat Wave
WASHINGTON -- This week, the National Weather Service reported that more than 72,650,000 people are under heat advisories and excessive heat watches and warnings across much of the Midwest, Great Lakes, Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. With the extreme heat forecast expected to last throughout this week and possibly the next, FEMA is encouraging communities to prepare and protect themselves against this hazard.
Extreme heat is the leading weather-related cause of death in the U.S. However, heat related illnesses and deaths are largely preventable with proper planning, education and action. In April, FEMA launched its annual #SummerReady Campaign with an Extreme Heat Summit to help people and communities build local capacity to prepare for and take actionable steps to address extreme heat. The Summer Ready Campaign provides free and low-cost tips to protect against this serious hazard. As we continue to experience the impacts of this extreme hazards, FEMA urges individuals in affected areas to pay close attention to weather forecasts, heed the advice from local officials and follow these tips to stay safe during extreme heat.
- Understand Your Risk and Hazard. Summer heat can be especially dangerous for older adults, those who work outside, people with certain health conditions, and those without access to air-conditioning. It’s important to recognize the signs of heat exhaustion, heat cramps, heat stroke and ways to respond. While all heat-related illnesses can require medical attention, heat stroke is always a medical emergency. If you experience – or notice someone else experiencing the symptoms of heat stroke, call 9-1-1 and get the person to a cooler place right away.
- Keep Everyone Safe. Never leave children or pets alone in hot vehicles. Heat can rise in a car up to 20 degrees in just 10 minutes. It is important to check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning and who spend much of their time alone.
- Stay Cool. Fans alone aren’t enough in high heat and high humidity. FEMA encourages people and especially those that are vulnerable to go somewhere with air conditioning or visit a public place like the library, museum, or shopping mall to stay cool. Other ways to keep cool include wearing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, taking a cool shower or bath to cool off and if you are at home, keep curtains closed to keep the heat out.
- Stay Hydrated. Drink plenty of water even if you do not feel thirsty and avoid drinks with caffeine. If you have epilepsy or heart, kidney, or liver disease, are on fluid-restricted diets, or have a problem with fluid retention consult a doctor before increasing liquid intake.
- Check the Air Quality. Hot weather can make air quality worse. Poor air quality can be especially dangerous for people with heart or lung disease, older adults and children. You can enter your zip code on the AirNow.gov page to get air quality data where you live.
- Extreme heat and heat waves can also affect power systems, as utility companies may shut down portion of the electric grid. If the power goes out, use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for emergency lighting. Never use candles during a blackout or power outage due to extreme risk of fire.
- Use generators safely and always use them outdoors and at least 20 feet from windows, doors and attached garages. Make sure to keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding.
- Visit Ready.gov or Listo.gov for more information on how to stay safe before, during and after extreme heat.
FEMA's mission is helping people before, during and after disasters.
erika.suzuki Mon, 06/17/2024 - 22:30Submit Receipts if You Made Repairs
If you made repairs to your home or replaced damaged items, you can submit receipts to FEMA for possible reimbursement.
Even if you cannot find the receipts for work done or items replaced, there are still ways to get that information to FEMA.
Did you use your credit card to buy home repair items or to replace something damaged in the flood?
- Reach out to your credit card company to get a copy of your statement with the purchases.
- Contact the store and ask them to look you up by a customer loyalty number or your credit card information.
Did you hire a contractor or company to do repairs?
- Contact the company/contractor and ask for a receipt or duplicate invoice for work completed.
- Contact the company/contractor and ask them to write a letter stating what work was done.
What information do your need to include when submitting documents?
- Include with your documents:
- Make sure you write your name, disaster number, and FEMA application number on all documents you send to FEMA.
- A signed letter to explain why you are submitting documents and what they are for.
- Copies of supporting documents, including proof of your disaster-caused losses which could be photos or an insurance claim.
- All documents, including receipts, bills, and estimates, must include contact information of the service provider.
- Keep all original documents for your records and only provide copies to FEMA.
How can you submit receipts and documents?
- There are a few different ways you can provide FEMA with your receipts:
- Bring them to a Disaster Recovery Center and a FEMA specialist can help you upload them to your registration. Visit the FEMA DRC Locator for more details on DRCs open in West Virginia.
- Upload them yourself on DisasterAssistance.gov or on the FEMA mobile app.
- Mail them to FEMA at P.O. Box 10055 Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055.
- Fax them to 1-800-827-8112 and mark Attn: FEMA on the fax sheet.
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).
amanda.hancher Mon, 06/17/2024 - 21:48
Disaster Recovery Centers Opening in Three Counties
FEMA is opening Disaster Recovery Centers in Clarke, Polk and Pottawattamie counties 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.
CLARKE COUNTY
Clarke CountyAnnex Building 109 South Main Street Osceola, IA 50213
Open 1-7 p.m. June 17
8 a.m.-7p.m. June 18-20
POLK COUNTY
Riley Resource Group 4400 E. University Ave. Pleasant Hill, IA 50327 1-7 p.m. June 18
8 a.m.-7 p.m. June19-21
POTTAWATTAMIE COUNTY
Charles E. LakinHuman Services Campus
North Parking Lot 815North 16th Street
Council Bluffs, IA 51501 Open 1-7 p.m. June 18
8 a.m.-7p.m. June 19-21
FEMA funding is available to homeowners and renters for severe storms, tornadoes and flooding that happened May 20-31 in the counties of Adair, Montgomery, Polk and Story. FEMA funding is also available for homeowners and renters in Clarke, Harrison, Mills, Polk, Pottawattamie, Ringgold, Shelby and Union counties for the April 26-27 tornadoes and storms.
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 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 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.
thomas.wise Mon, 06/17/2024 - 21:22Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Harris County
AUSTIN -- FEMA is opening a Disaster Recovery Center in Harris County June 18 to provide one-on-one help to Texans affected by the severe storms, tornadoes, flooding and straight-line winds April 26-June 5.
The center is located at:
Harris County
Acres Homes Multi-Service Center
6719 W. Montgomery Rd.
Houston, TX 77091
All centers operate from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.
Residents in Austin, Bell, Calhoun, Collin, Cooke, Coryell, Dallas, Denton, Eastland, Ellis, Falls, Guadalupe, Hardin, Harris, Henderson, Hockley, Jasper, Jones, Kaufman, Lamar, Leon, Liberty, Montague, Montgomery, Navarro, Newton, Polk, San Jacinto, Smith, Terrell, Trinity, Tyler, Van Zandt, Walker and Waller counties can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.
All centers are accessible to people with disabilities or access and functional needs and are equipped with assistive technology. If you need a reasonable accommodation or sign language interpreter, please call 833-285-7448 (press 2 for Spanish).
Texans do not have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for FEMA assistance. To apply, homeowners and renters can:
- Go online to disasterassistance.gov/
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices
- Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center -- fema.gov/drc.
Deadline to apply is July 16.
For more information about Texas disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4781. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
larissa.hale Mon, 06/17/2024 - 19:47Summer Starts with Dangerous Heat this Week: Are You Ready?
CHICAGO – This week marks the official start of summer as high levels of heat and humidity settle into the Midwest. The FEMA Region 5 office in Chicago encourages everyone to ensure they are #SummerReady by taking some simple steps to stay safe.
“High temperatures aren’t just uncomfortable; they can be downright dangerous,” said Tom Sivak, FEMA Region 5 regional administrator. “While certain populations—like small children, outdoor workers and older adults—may be especially vulnerable, extreme heat can affect us all. Have a plan to stay safe and cool then check on your family, friends and neighbors to ensure they’re staying safe and cool too.”
Don’t be caught unaware as highs spike this week.
- Watch for heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides a list of warning signs and symptoms of heat illness and recommended first aid steps.
- Stay indoors as much as possible and limit exposure to the sun. If you don’t have access to air conditioning at home, find places in your community with AC, such as a local cooling center, library or shopping mall.
- Keep your home as cool as possible. For example, roughly 40% of unwanted heat buildup in our homes is through windows. Use awnings or curtains to keep the heat out, and check the weather stripping on doors and windows to keep the cool air in.
- If you must be outside, find shade. Avoid strenuous activity, cover your head with a hat wide enough to protect your face and wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty.
- NEVER leave people or pets in a parked car.
- Consider pet safety. If they are outside, make sure they have plenty of cool water and access to comfortable shade. Asphalt and dark pavement can be very hot to your pet’s feet.
Finally, follow the direction of local and state officials for locations of cooling centers and other resources when available during the high heat.
FEMA’s #SummerReady public education effort is designed to reach all communities with simple, accessible and culturally competent messaging on extreme heat all summer long. For more information and tips on being ready for extreme heat, visit www.ready.gov/summer-ready and www.ready.gov/heat.
nicole.wilson Mon, 06/17/2024 - 18:16FEMA Home Inspections: What to Expect
OKLAHOMA CITY – If you apply for FEMA assistance and indicate that you cannot or may not be able to live safely in your home, FEMA will perform an on-site inspection to verify the disaster-caused damage. The inspection helps FEMA confirm the extent of the damage and determine your eligibility for assistance.
Within a few days, you will receive a call from an inspector, possibly using an unknown, out-of-state or restricted number, to schedule a meeting with you and tour the damaged property. If, after several attempts, the inspector is unable to contact you, you will be sent a letter indicating that your application cannot be processed further. To resume the process, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
When the inspector calls, be sure to write down:
- The inspector’s name
- Date of the call
- Date and time of the appointment
- Inspector’s telephone number
An inspection can be done only when you or the co-applicant is present. If neither of you can attend, a third party can be designated in writing. Whoever meets with the inspector must be at least 18 years old.
Information that you can gather before the inspection includes:
- Your photo identification
- Proof you owned and occupied your home at the time of the disaster
- List of people living in the home
- All disaster-caused damage to the property
- Your insurance policy and any additional documents the inspector may request
FEMA inspectors are trained to recognize damage caused by a disaster, but they do not decide if you will receive assistance. They record damage that may be eligible for FEMA assistance, which is different from assessments made by insurance adjusters or other disaster assistance programs such as the U.S. Small Business Administration. Inspectors will walk around the interior and exterior of your home, if feasible. Depending on the amount of damage, the inspection can take up to 45 minutes to complete.
If your house cannot be accessed (for example, a road or bridge is out), the inspector may meet with you at another location to verify your identity, occupancy or ownership.
An excellent video on the home inspection process, which also features American Sign Language, can be seen at FEMA Accessible: Home Inspections (youtube.com)
For the latest information about Oklahoma’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4776 and fema.gov/disaster/4791. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.
alexa.brown Mon, 06/17/2024 - 16:37FEMA Home Inspections: What to Expect
OKLAHOMA CITY – If you apply for FEMA assistance and indicate that you cannot or may not be able to live safely in your home, FEMA will perform an on-site inspection to verify the disaster-caused damage. The inspection helps FEMA confirm the extent of the damage and determine your eligibility for assistance.
Within a few days, you will receive a call from an inspector, possibly using an unknown, out-of-state or restricted number, to schedule a meeting with you and tour the damaged property. If, after several attempts, the inspector is unable to contact you, you will be sent a letter indicating that your application cannot be processed further. To resume the process, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
When the inspector calls, be sure to write down:
- The inspector’s name
- Date of the call
- Date and time of the appointment
- Inspector’s telephone number
An inspection can be done only when you or the co-applicant is present. If neither of you can attend, a third party can be designated in writing. Whoever meets with the inspector must be at least 18 years old.
Information that you can gather before the inspection includes:
- Your photo identification
- Proof you owned and occupied your home at the time of the disaster
- List of people living in the home
- All disaster-caused damage to the property
- Your insurance policy and any additional documents the inspector may request
FEMA inspectors are trained to recognize damage caused by a disaster, but they do not decide if you will receive assistance. They record damage that may be eligible for FEMA assistance, which is different from assessments made by insurance adjusters or other disaster assistance programs such as the U.S. Small Business Administration. Inspectors will walk around the interior and exterior of your home, if feasible. Depending on the amount of damage, the inspection can take up to 45 minutes to complete.
If your house cannot be accessed (for example, a road or bridge is out), the inspector may meet with you at another location to verify your identity, occupancy or ownership.
An excellent video on the home inspection process, which also features American Sign Language, can be seen at FEMA Accessible: Home Inspections (youtube.com)
For the latest information about Oklahoma’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4776 and fema.gov/disaster/4791. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.
alexa.brown Mon, 06/17/2024 - 16:34One Month Remains to Apply for FEMA Assistance in Texas
AUSTIN -- Texans who sustained losses from the storms and flooding April 26-June 5 have one month remaining to apply for federal assistance. The deadline is July 16, 2024.
One month after the disaster declaration, FEMA is helping 52,759 Texas households with $110.4 million in financial assistance. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved $13.1 million in low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofit organizations and businesses.
FEMA specialists have been working in 35 counties helping people apply for assistance. They have visited 67,597 homes and 5,430 public locations. FEMA has operated 33 Disaster Recovery Centers visited by 9,019 residents. More than 8,300 families with 25,000 members have stayed in hotels temporarily at FEMA expense because they could not return to their homes.
Homeowners and renters in Austin, Bell, Calhoun, Collin, Cooke, Coryell, Dallas, Denton, Eastland, Ellis, Falls, Guadalupe, Hardin, Harris, Henderson, Hockley, Jasper, Jones, Kaufman, Lamar, Leon, Liberty, Montague, Montgomery, Navarro, Newton, Polk, San Jacinto, Smith, Terrell, Trinity, Tyler, Van Zandt, Walker and Waller counties with uninsured losses from the storms and flooding April 26-June 5 may be eligible for FEMA assistance.
Texans have several options for how to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters can:
- Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Download the FEMA App for mobile devices.
- Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
- Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find the center location nearest you go to fema.gov/drc.
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest disaster loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofit organizations and businesses of any size. Applicants may apply online and receive additional disaster assistance information at SBA.gov/disaster or by calling 800-659-2955. SBA representatives are available to provide one-on-one assistance to disaster loan applicants at the Disaster Recovery Centers throughout the affected area. Business Recovery Centers are operating at University of Houston Downtown Marilyn Davies College of Business, Trini Mendenhall Community Center in Houston and East Montgomery County Improvement District in Montgomery County.
For more information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4781. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and on Facebook at @femaregion6.
To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.
larissa.hale Mon, 06/17/2024 - 16:32Pages
