President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kentucky

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides beginning on April 2, 2025, and continuing.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Anderson, Butler, Carroll, Christian, Clark, Franklin, Hardin, Hopkins, Jessamine, McCracken, Mercer, Owen and Woodford counties.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Jeremy Slinker 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 requested by the state and warranted by the results of further 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, provide FEMA the number for that service.

erika.suzuki Sat, 04/26/2025 - 02:07

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Jones Road Wildfire in New Jersey

New York, N.Y. - The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Region 2 Acting Regional Administrator authorized the use of federal funds on April 24 at 9:27 p.m. to assist the state of New Jersey in combating the Jones Road Wildfire, currently burning in Ocean County, New Jersey.

On April 24, the state of New Jersey submitted a request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, approximately 15,000 acres were burning. 

The fire threatened approximately 1.845 structures in the state, including approximately 1,320 homes located mostly within Lacey and Ocean Townships, in Ocean County, combined population of more than 38,000. The fire started on April 22, 2025, and has burned in excess 15,000 acres of state and private land. 

The authorization makes federal funding available to pay up to 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant to assist in fighting fires that threaten to become major incidents.

FMAGs are provided through the Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. 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. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire. For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.

kate.macedo Fri, 04/25/2025 - 20:41

April 28, is the last day for West Virginians to apply for FEMA assistance

Monday, April 28, is the last day for West Virginians to apply for FEMA assistance 

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The deadline for West Virginians to apply for FEMA assistance is this Monday, April 28.  If you are a resident of Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh, Wayne, or Wyoming counties and had damage to your home or personal property due to the February storms, FEMA encourages you to submit an application by Monday. 

If you have already applied for assistance, encourage your friends, family, and neighbors to apply. If you have questions about your application or a FEMA determination letter, please get in touch. 

Survivors can apply for assistance, ask questions about their application, or receive help submitting an appeal by: 

• Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362,
• Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Downloading and using the FEMA App,
• Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). 

Disaster Recovery Centers remain open in McDowell, Mingo, Raleigh, and Wyoming counties. You can visit a center to talk face-to-face with FEMA staff, apply for assistance, check the status of your application, and learn about recovery resources. 

McDowell County Disaster (Bradshaw) Recovery Center Mingo County Disaster Recovery Center

Bradshaw Town Hall

10002 Marshall Hwy

Bradshaw, WV 24817

 

Hours of operation:

Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Closed weekends

Williamson Campus

1601 Armory Drive

Williamson, WV 25661

 

Hours of operation:

Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Closed weekends

Raleigh County Disaster Recovery CenterWyoming County Disaster Recovery Center

Beckley-Raleigh County Emergency Services

1224 Airport Road

Beaver WV 25813

 

Hours of operation:

Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Closed weekends

Wyoming Court House

24 Main Ave

Pineville, WV 24874

 

Hours of operation:

Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Closed weekends

 

DRCs are accessible to all, including survivors with mobility issues, impaired vision, and those who are who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.

Residents who live in one of the seven designated counties can register at any Disaster Recovery Center, regardless of the county it is in. 

PLEASE NOTE: While the deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is April 28, centers will stay open past that date to allow residents to visit and check on their cases, add needed documents or appeal decisions.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, please visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4861, and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

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

Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA's Facebook page or Español page and at FEMA's YouTube account. Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam. 

For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page.  

 

kimberly.fuller Fri, 04/25/2025 - 13:09

Replacing Missing or Damaged Documents

FRANKFORT, Ky. – If you lost important documents in the recent floods, you are not alone. We know this is a difficult time and dealing with lost or damaged documents can feel overwhelming. But there is help available.

You can learn more and get assistance retrieving these important documents by visiting your local FEMA Disaster Recovery Center. Staff there can help guide you through the process and connect you with additional resources.

Find a center near you: FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Locator

Replacing things like IDs, insurance papers, and birth certificates is important. Below is a simple guide to getting your documents back quickly. 

It is also a good idea to double check your current inventory of these important documents, in case you need to access them quickly in an emergency. 

Insurance Policy Information

• Call your insurance company or agent and ask for a copy of your policy, including the Declaration Page.

Birth, Marriage, & Death Certificates

• Order certified copies online, by mail, or in person through the Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics.
• Visit the Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics or call (502) 564-4212.

Driver’s License & ID Cards

• If your license or ID was lost or damaged, visit a Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) Driver Licensing Regional Office.
• Check for locations and details at drive.ky.gov.

Social Security Card

• Apply for a replacement at www.ssa.gov.
• Visit your local Social Security office.
• Call 1-800-772-1213 for assistance.

Medicare Cards

• Request a new card at MyMedicare.gov.
• Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

Tax Returns & Military Records

• IRS Tax Returns – Request copies of past tax returns at irs.gov.
• Military Service Records – Request replacements at www.archives.gov/veterans/military-service-records

martyce.allenjr Thu, 04/24/2025 - 14:03

The Costs of Responding to Tropical Storm Helene in North Carolina

HICKORY, N.C. – Debris removal. Restoration of utilities. Emergency repairs to public bridges and water systems. Overtime costs for emergency personnel. Evacuation support. Transportation of supplies for the public.

These are some of the costs the state of North Carolina and communities in Western North Carolina experienced for emergency response to Tropical Storm Helene. FEMA is reimbursing most of those costs through its Public Assistance Program. More than 2,300 projects have been submitted to Public Assistance and are in process.

“The state and FEMA continue to work together to provide the much-needed assistance to those communities impacted by Tropical Storm Helene and to help them with the costs associated with responding to this unprecedented storm,” said North Carolina Emergency Management Director Will Ray. “We recognize there is a long road ahead but through a whole of community approach we will get there.”

Since January, here are some of the FEMA grants provided to the state and communities:

French Broad Electric Membership Corporation: $8,694,790 for costs of restoring emergency power. The funding reimburses the utility for work in Buncombe, Haywood, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell and Yancey counties. Emergency work included restoration of gauges, poles, transformers, conductor wires, crossarms and associated hardware as well as removal of debris affecting the power system.

North Carolina Highway Patrol: $3,352,651 for costs for emergency protective measures, including personnel overtime, evacuations, water rescues, transportation of supplies for the public, placement of barricades, and other activities.

North Carolina Department of Transportation: $33 million for emergency replacement of public bridges in Alleghany, Ashe, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Haywood, Henderson, McDowell, Mitchell, Yancey and Watauga counties. 

Town of Spruce Pine: $2,609,254 for permanent repairs to the wastewater treatment plant.

Town of Burnsville: $1,160,571 for emergency protective measures, including establishment of a temporary raw water intake system.

Madison County: $1,636,697 for emergency protective measures, including placement of six modular units at the Sprinkle Shelton Building and the Madison County Courthouse.

Town of Spruce Pine: $1,845,849 for permanent repairs at the Riverside Park pedestrian bridge.

Rutherford County: $7,643,529 for debris removal.

Cleveland County: $3,854,825 for debris removal.

Town of Biltmore Forest: $2,022,931 for debris removal.

North Carolina Emergency Management: $6,709,159 for personnel, contractual support and other support expenses related to Tropical Storm Helene.

These large projects are among $135 million provided since January. Since the disaster declaration in September, 373 projects have been obligated for $451.8 million.

travis.kasparek Tue, 04/22/2025 - 19:04

West Virginians have one week left to apply for disaster assistance

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginians have one week left to apply for FEMA assistance for damages from the February storms. Assistance is available to residents of Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh, Wayne and Wyoming counties. The deadline to apply is Monday, April 28, 2025.

Both homeowners and renters can apply for assistance to help with disaster-related expenses. FEMA assistance can help with costs from replacing or repairing necessary and disaster-damaged personal property. This can include appliances, computers, work equipment if you are self-employed, vehicles, and more.  

If you have already applied for assistance and received a FEMA determination letter, please read that letter carefully. If you disagree with the decision or assistance amount, don’t worry—you have the right to appeal. FEMA’s first decision may not be the final decision. But you should act quickly. You need to respond to a FEMA decision letter within 60 days. For help responding to a FEMA letter, bring your letter to a Disaster Recovery Center, call the FEMA helpline, or visit DisasterAssistance.gov.

Homeowners and renters can apply for assistance, ask questions about their application, or receive help submitting an appeal by: 

• Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362,
• Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Downloading and using the FEMA App,
• Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC). 

In coordination with the West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD) and officials in impacted counties, FEMA has open Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in McDowell, Mingo, Raleigh, and Wyoming counties. You can visit a DRC to talk face-to-face with FEMA staff. 

Disaster Recovery Center locations and hours are:

McDowell County Disaster (Bradshaw) Recovery Center  Mingo County Disaster Recovery Center

Bradshaw Town Hall

10002 Marshall Hwy

Bradshaw, WV 24817

 

Hours of operation:

Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Williamson Campus

1601 Armory Drive

Williamson, WV 25661

 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

 

Raleigh County Disaster Recovery CenterWyoming County Disaster Recovery Center

Beckley-Raleigh County Emergency Services

1224 Airport Road

Beaver WV 25813

 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Wyoming Court House

24 Main Ave

Pineville, WV 24874

 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

You do need to visit the center in your county. You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center that works best for you. 

You can also reach FEMA by phone or online. You can call 800-621-FEMA (3362). The toll-free telephone line operates seven days a week. You can also register online at DisasterAssistance.gov or through the FEMA App on your phone. 

 

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4861, and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

 

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

Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA's Facebook page or Español page and at FEMA's YouTube account. Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam. 

For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page.  

 

lianza.yap Mon, 04/21/2025 - 20:15

FEMA to Host Housing Resource Fair April 26 in Burke County

FEMA is hosting a Housing Resource Fair on Saturday, April 26 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Burke County at the following location:

Burke County Office Park Auditorium

715 W 6thSt.

Waynesboro, GA 30830

The Housing Resource Fair will bring together federal, state and local agencies in one place to offer services and resources to families recovering from Hurricane Helene.  

The goal of this collaborative effort is to help connect eligible disaster survivors with affordable housing along with valuable information and resources on their road to recovery.

Survivors will meet with local housing organizations, property owners and landlords, as well as get information on the HEARTS Georgia Sheltering Program and U.S. Small Business Administration loans.

The Housing Resource Fair is an opportunity for survivors to: 

• Explore affordable housing options and rental assistance programs.
• Meet with representatives from local housing organizations, landlords and property managers.
• Gain access to resources for displaced individuals and families.
• Learn from community partners about educational funding resources. 

For FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Kevin Wallace, the Housing Resource Fair is an opportunity to give survivors a one-on-one experience: “We want survivors to know we are here for them and want to see the best outcome, which is moving into safe, sanitary and functioning housing,” he said. “We will walk them through their options to ensure they are aware of the resources that are available to fit their need.”

Anyone affected by Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene, whether they applied for FEMA assistance or not, is welcome to attend.

jakia.randolph Mon, 04/21/2025 - 12:40

FEMA Extends Individual Assistance Deadline for Homeowners and Renters in Kentucky

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Kentucky homeowners and renters who suffered uninsured or underinsured damage to their property from the February Severe Storms, Flooding and Straight-line winds now have a few weeks left to apply for federal disaster assistance. FEMA has extended the application deadline to Monday, May 25, 2025.

FEMA assistance for individuals affected by the severe weather can cover rental assistance, temporary housing, home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits.

Survivors are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, personal property and vehicles before they apply for FEMA assistance. FEMA Individual Assistance cannot duplicate insurance benefits or other sources of assistance.

To apply with FEMA:

• Go online at DisasterAssistance.gov (fastest option);
• Use the FEMA App (available at the Apple App Store or Google Play);
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone, or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. For locations: DRCLocator.

Disaster Recovery Centers are physically accessible to people with disabilities and others with access and functional needs. They are equipped with assistive technology and other resources to help ensure all applicants can access resources.

martyce.allenjr Mon, 04/21/2025 - 12:35

Disaster Recovery Center in Lee County Closing, Help Is Still Available

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Disaster Recovery Center in Lee County will close temporarily at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 18.

Regardless of your county of residence, you can get in-person assistance at any Disaster Recovery Center. To find a center close to you, visit fema.gov/DRC, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Example: “DRC 29169”). 

You don’t have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for federal assistance. You can submit your applications online at DisasterAssistance.gov, through the FEMA App, or by calling 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Simpson and Woodford counties affected by the February flooding can apply for federal assistance. FEMA urges the those affected by the February flooding to apply for assistance by the deadline of Friday, April 25. 

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

For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4860. Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x.com/femaregion4. 

martyce.allenjr Fri, 04/18/2025 - 19:31

West Virginians should be prepared for a storm anytime

West Virginians should be prepared for a storm anytime

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A storm can impact the residents of West Virginia at any time so it is important to be prepared year-round.

Make sure you can receive alerts and warnings quickly through several different technologies no matter where you are–at home, at school, at work, or in the community.

Know your area’s severe weather risk and practice your emergency plan with your family and pets. In other words, know whether to shelter in place or go to your identified safe place, which could mean leaving town or deciding to stay with friends or family. 

Before extreme weather happens, it’s a good idea to invest in a NOAA Weather Radio. A public service offered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, weather information is broadcast directly and continuously from your nearest National Weather Service office. Click Emergency Alerts | Ready.gov to learn more.

Some communities use the Emergency Alert System, a national public warning system, to deliver warnings of imminent threats to specific areas. A severe weather threat such as a tornado warning can be sent by state and local public safety officials. If your community has outdoor warning sirens, become familiar with their warning tone(s).

If you don’t have a safe room you can access in an emergency, the next best protection is a small, interior, windowless room or basement on the lowest level of your home or a sturdy building. 

 

12 Ways to Prepare: Sign up for alerts and warnings, make a plan, save for a rainy day, practice emergency drills, test family communications, safeguard documents, plan with your neighbors, make your homes safer, know your evacuation routes, make a supply kit, get involved in your community, and document and insure your property.

 For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4861, and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

 

###

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

Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA's Facebook page or Español page and at FEMA's YouTube account. Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam. 

For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page.  

 

kimberly.fuller Fri, 04/18/2025 - 12:50

Allen Parish, Louisiana Flood Maps Become Final

DENTON, Texas – New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on Oct. 16, 2025, for Allen Parish, Louisiana. 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 to help 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.

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

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

toan.nguyen Wed, 04/16/2025 - 22:25

How to Document Damages After Severe Weather Events

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA understands that clean up and rebuilding after a flood can take time and be overwhelming. Guidance is available and it’s always important to put safety first.

Follow instructions from your local officials to ensure it is safe to reenter your home. You can begin the recovery process by documenting damage and taking steps to stop the spread of mold.

First, confirm the electricity and gas are shut off to avoid fire or injury. Have an electrician check the house before turning the power back on. 

Document Your Flood Damage

• Take photos and videos of the damage, including structural and personal property on the inside and outside of your home, before discarding items. Remember to take photos of the insides of closets and cabinets.
• Record serial numbers of large appliances, such as washers, dryers, and refrigerators.
• Keep receipts of any purchases made to replace damaged property or repair property.
• Retain material samples of damaged items such as carpeting, wallpaper, furniture upholstery, and window treatments. The type and quality of material may impact insurance claims.
• Contact repair services as necessary to address damage to the building’s electrical, water, or HVAC systems. Consult your insurance adjuster or insurance company before you sign any cleaning, remediation, or maintenance agreement.

After taking photos, you should immediately throw away flooded items that pose a health risk, such as perishable food items, clothing, cushions, and pillows.

Mold and Cleanup

It is important to understand that National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) flood insurance policies will not cover damage from mold. Avoiding damage from mold is an important responsibility of a resident. Building owners are strongly encouraged to begin cleanup and documentation immediately after a flood to prevent the growth and spread of mold.

Remember these guidelines while undergoing mold cleanup:

• Wear personal protective equipment. Wear an N-95 respirator at a minimum, goggles, and protective gloves.
• Use portable generators carefully, outside and away from the home, to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and fires.
• Ensure the mold cleanup is complete before reoccupying your home.

For more information, please see the Homeowner's and Renter's Guide to Mold Cleanup after Disasters (pdf).

martyce.allenjr Wed, 04/16/2025 - 19:38

Last Day to Submit Your Right of Entry (ROE) Form to LA County

LOS ANGELES – Today is the last day for property owners to submit a Right of Entry (ROE) form to LA County. In order to have debris removed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), property owners affected by the Los Angeles Wildfires must submit a ROE form by 11:59 p.m. PT today, April 15. 

Federally funded debris removal is available to residents of single family and owner-occupied multi-family units. 

All disaster impacted property owners should submit a ROE form by April 15, 2025, to opt-in or opt-out of the debris removal program. 

If a property owner opts-out of the USACE debris removal program, they become responsible for all permits, inspections and other associated debris removal requirements and costs. 

There is no out-of-pocket cost to have debris removed by USACE, however the program is unable to duplicate other forms of funding specific to debris removal. If a property owner has insurance for debris removal, residual funds not used by the property owner may be remitted to the county to offset the cost of debris removal at a later date.

1. Submit a ROE form to LA County:

• Complete a form online at: Los Angeles County Right of Entry Permit for Debris Removal on Private Property.
• Download and complete the Debris Removal Right of Entry Permit and submit at a Disaster Recovery Center.
• Forms are also available at Disaster Recovery Centers. Visit the DRC Locator to find a location.

1. Contact Los Angeles County for more information about debris removal:

• Visit the LA County Debris Removal Website: recovery.lacounty.gov/debris-removal/
• Call LA County’s Public Works Fire Debris Hotline: 844-347-3332

 

1. Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA's YouTube account. For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page.

2. California is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process. Visit CA.gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs, important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance.

joy.li Wed, 04/16/2025 - 16:15

Kentuckians Have Until April 25 to Apply for Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA is reminding the residents of Kentucky who were impacted by the February severe storms to apply for Disaster Assistance before the deadline of Friday, April 25. If applicants received a letter from FEMA and need to appeal, they have 60 days from the date of the letter to do so.

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance

If you live in Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Simpson, or Woodford counties, and haven’t yet applied for FEMA assistance, you may still complete an application.

Remember: the deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Friday, April 25.

You can visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) to meet face to face with specialists from FEMA to get assistance filling out your application. The Small Business Administration (SBA) and other state and local agencies are also in DRCs to answer questions about disaster assistance and other recovery resources. You may also upload any documents needed for applications at the centers.

If you are unable to visit a DRC, there are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

When you apply, you will need to provide:

• 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.

What Happens After I Apply?

Once FEMA has reviewed your application and evaluated the results of the inspection and/or documentation submitted, you will get a letter explaining:

• Whether you are approved for assistance.
• How much assistance you will receive.
• How the assistance must be used.
• How to appeal FEMA’s decision if you do not agree with it.

The letter will be sent to you by email or mail based on what you selected when you completed your application. Please read the letter in its entirety. If you were not initially approved for assistance, it may be due to something very simple like an additional document that is needed. If for any reason you do not agree with the initial decision, you can file an appeal. 

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

For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4860. Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x.com/femaregion4.

martyce.allenjr Wed, 04/16/2025 - 12:36

Three Days Left to Submit Your Right of Entry (ROE) Form to LA County

LOS ANGELES – Property owners have three days left to submit a Right of Entry (ROE) form to LA County. To have debris removed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), property owners affected by the Los Angeles Wildfires must submit a ROE form by April 15, 2025. 

Federally funded debris removal is available to residents of single family and owner-occupied multi-family units. 

All disaster impacted property owners should submit a ROE form by April 15, to opt-in or opt-out of the debris removal program. 

If a property owner opts out of the USACE debris removal program, they become responsible for all permits, inspections and other associated debris removal requirements and costs. 

There is no out-of-pocket cost to have debris removed by USACE, however the program is unable to duplicate other forms of funding specific to debris removal. If a property owner has insurance for debris removal, residual funds not used by the property owner may be remitted to the county to offset the cost of debris removal at a later date.

Submit a ROE form to LA County:

• Complete a form online at: Los Angeles County Right of Entry Permit for Debris Removal on Private Property.
• Download and complete a form: Debris Removal Right of Entry Permit (00011201.DOCX;1) and submit it at a Disaster Recovery Center.
• Forms are also available at Disaster Recovery Centers. Visit the DRC Locator to find a location.

Contact Los Angeles County for more information about debris removal: 

• Visit the LA County Debris Removal Website: recovery.lacounty.gov/debris-removal/
• Call LA County’s Public Works Fire Debris Hotline: 844-347-3332

Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA's YouTube account. For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page.

California is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process. Visit CA.gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs, important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance.

erika.suzuki Mon, 04/14/2025 - 11:36

Raleigh County, W.Va., Disaster Recovery Center opens April 15

News release

Raleigh County, W.Va., Disaster Recovery Center opens April 15

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) will open in Raleigh County at 8 a.m. April 15, 2025. FEMA encourages residents, including homeowners and renters, of the disaster-impacted counties to register for assistance.

 

The center is located at: 

Raleigh County Disaster Recovery Center

Beckley-Raleigh County Emergency Services 

1224 Airport Road

Beaver WV 25813

 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed Sundays

Homeowners and renters in Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh, Wayne, and Wyoming counties who sustained losses can apply for assistance in several ways:

• Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
  • Phone lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, please provide FEMA your number for that service.
• Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Downloading the FEMA App.
• Speaking with someone in person at a Disaster Recovery Center.
  • In coordination with the West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD) and officials in impacted counties, FEMA has opened Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh, Wayne and Wyoming counties. At a center, you can get help applying for federal assistance, update your application, and learn about other resources available. The DRCs located in the table below remain open. DRCs are open to all, including residents with mobility issues, impaired vision, and those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. 

Logan County Disaster Recovery CenterMercer County Disaster Recovery Center

Southern WV Community & Technical College

100 College Drive

Logan, WV 25601

 

Hours of operation:

Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Closed Sundays 

 

Lifeline Princeton Church of God

250 Oakvale Road 

Princeton, WV 24740

 

Hours of operation:

Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Closed Sundays 

Closed April 26

 

McDowell County (Welch) Disaster Recovery Center McDowell County Disaster (Bradshaw) Recovery Center  

Board of Education Office

900 Mount View High School Road

Welch, WV 24801

 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed Saturdays and Sundays

 

Bradshaw Town Hall

10002 Marshall Hwy

Bradshaw, WV 24817

 

Hours of operation:

Monday to Saturday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Closed Sundays

Mingo County Disaster Recovery CenterRaleigh County Disaster Recovery Center

Williamson Campus

1601 Armory Drive

Williamson, WV 25661

 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Closed Sundays

 

Beckley-Raleigh County Emergency Services

1224 Airport Road

Beaver WV 25813

 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed Sundays 

Wayne County Disaster Recovery CenterWyoming County Disaster Recovery Center

Tolsia High School

1 Rebel Drive

Fort Gay, WV 25514

 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Closed on Saturdays and Sundays

Wyoming Court House

24 Main Ave

Pineville, WV 24874

 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 

Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Closed on Sundays

 

As a reminder, accepting FEMA funds will not affect eligibility for Social Security – including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, or other federal benefit programs. 

FEMA assistance does not need to be repaid, but residents should file insurance claims as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot cover expenses that have already been covered by other sources like insurance, crowdfunding, local or state programs, donations, or financial assistance from voluntary agencies.

For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4861, and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

 

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

Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA's Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA's YouTube account. Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam. 

For preparedness information, follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page.  

 

kimberly.fuller Sat, 04/12/2025 - 15:58

Disaster Recovery Center Re-Opening in Lee County

FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Disaster Recovery Center in Lee County is re-opening Monday, April 14, to offer in-person support to Kentucky survivors who experienced loss as the result of the February 14 – March 7 severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides.

The Disaster Recovery Center in Lee County is located at:

Happy Top Park Community Center, 500 Happy Top Road, Beattyville, KY 41311

Working days and hours are April 14 – April 18, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Eastern Time.

FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs. Representatives from the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance, the Kentucky Department of Insurance and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will also be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors.

To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362. 

You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the commonwealth of Kentucky and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. 

FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the February storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible. Kentucky homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Simpson and Woodford counties can apply for federal assistance.

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is Friday, April 25.

If you are unable to visit a Disaster Recovery Center, there are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

When you apply, you will need to provide:

• 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.

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

For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4860. Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x.com/femaregion4.

martyce.allenjr Fri, 04/11/2025 - 20:09

Laurel, McCreary Counties Now Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Additional counties in the Commonwealth of Kentucky have been added to the major disaster declaration for the FEMA Public Assistance program for Kentucky’s severe storms and flooding in February. 

• Laurel and McCreary counties added for all categories of Public Assistance, including direct federal assistance.

Commonwealth, local and territorial governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations in these designated counties are eligible for assistance for emergency work and the repair or replacement of disaster-damaged facilities. Learn more about the Public Assistance program.

For the latest information about Kentucky’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4860. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or on Facebook at facebook.com/fema.

martyce.allenjr Thu, 04/10/2025 - 13:00

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

Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review by residents and business owners in affected communities in Hartford County, Connecticut. 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. Before the maps become final, community stakeholders can raise questions or concerns about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment periods.

The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around April 16, 2025. The affected communities in Hartford County, Connecticut are listed in the Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations Notice in the Federal Register at the following website: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/03/21/2025-04886/proposed-flood-hazard-determinations

Residents may submit an appeal if they think 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, contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed at the following websites:

• FEMA Map Service Center – http://msc.fema.gov/portal
• Preliminary Map Products Download Page – https://hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/prelimdownload
• Flood Map Changes Viewer – http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv

For more information about the flood maps, please contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

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

adrien.urbani Wed, 04/09/2025 - 16:46

President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Virginia

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Commonwealth of Virginia to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe winter storms and flooding from Feb. 10-18, 2025.

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 disaster-damaged facilities in Bland, Buchanan, Carroll, Craig, Dickenson, Floyd, Franklin, Grayson, Lee, Pulaski, Russell, Scott, Smyth, Tazewell, Washington and Wise counties and the independent city of Bristol.

Jeffrey L. Jones 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 Wed, 04/09/2025 - 14:58