FEMA repasa los cinco años de María con histórica Cumbre de Alcaldes

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico - Las lecciones aprendidas, el trabajo completado y el que está en camino fueron los objetivos principales de la Cumbre de Alcaldes que lideró la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, en inglés). El evento, que tuvo lugar en el Centro Cultural Yolanda Guerrero en Guaynabo, contó con la participación del gobernador Pedro R. Pierluisi, alcaldes y miembros de apoyo municipal.  

Entre los temas que se abordaron, los funcionarios discutieron la diversidad de fondos disponibles bajo la Ley federal Stafford y las asignaciones aprobadas al día de hoy. También se destacaron proyectos de envergadura —unos con fondos obligados, otros ya en proceso de reconstrucción— que se han traducido en asignaciones que tienen efectos directos en las comunidades y en la economía local.

Entre las asignaciones significativas, se subrayaron las asignaciones mediante la Estrategia de Obligación Acelerada de FEMA (FAASt, por sus siglas en inglés) y cómo la aprobación en bloque de estos fondos permitirá una reconstrucción acelerada para las instalaciones de la Autoridad de Energía Eléctrica, la Autoridad de Acueductos y Alcantarillados, el Departamento de Educación; y para estructuras de vivienda pública bajo el Departamento de la Vivienda.

En la actividad también hubo participación del personal de la agencia para contestar preguntas y atender las inquietudes de los alcaldes sobre los proyectos municipales en curso.

El coordinador federal de Recuperación por Desastre, José G. Baquero, dijo que la agencia continuará trabajando de la mano con COR3, el gobierno local y los demás subrrecipientes, a fin de seguir apoyando el proceso de reconstrucción que, aunque tomará tiempo, se mantiene a paso firme y seguro. Resaltó, además, que la meta del 2022 es completar la mayor parte de las asignaciones que están pendientes, además de apoyar la transición de los proyectos a la fase de construcción.

Mientras, el gobernador Hon. Pedro R. Pierluisi indicó que su compromiso es hacer realidad todos los proyectos que se han esperado ya que el 75 por ciento de la reconstrucción está en los municipios. “Mi meta es que cada pueblo de nuestra Isla pueda constatar ese cambio, que cada puertorriqueño se sientan más seguros y confiados sobre nuestro futuro. Para eso, nuestros alcaldes pueden contar con que mi administración continuará arreciando sus esfuerzos para asistirles en todo lo que tenga que ver con la recuperación del huracán María y con todos los proyectos que sean para construir el Puerto Rico que todos queremos”, expresó el mandatario.

De los sobre 10,000 proyectos aprobados por FEMA hasta la fecha, sobre 6,000 son para los ayuntamientos lo que representa unos $3,300 millones en fondos para obra permanente correspondiente a proyectos municipales.

Por su parte, la alcaldesa del municipio de Loíza, Julia Nazario Fuentes, indicó que un 79 por ciento de las carreteras del municipio ya están pavimentadas y destacó los parques y áreas recreativas restauradas como proyectos de reconstrucción de gran beneficio para las comunidades. Explicó, además, que sus proyectos pequeños están cerca de concluir y que ya están en proceso de diseño para los proyectos grandes. “Después de María, la gente quedó con el ánimo bien deteriorado. Pero ver las calles pavimentadas y la infraestructura renovada levanta el ánimo. Loíza está muy bonito. Nos falta, pero estamos encaminados”, precisó la alcaldesa.

Igualmente, el alcalde del municipio de Orocovis, Hon. Jesús Colón Berlingeri, mencionó que ya han completado cerca de 90 proyectos en diferentes comunidades y que ahora se enfocarán en los proyectos grandes, tales como el Centro de Envejecientes, el Centro de Bellas Artes y uno de los puentes que conecta a comunidades en Ciales con otra comunidad de Orocovis. Sostuvo que la paciencia y la preparación son dos de las lecciones que ha recibido durante el proceso de reconstrucción.

En la actividad también se discutieron los próximos pasos respecto a la reconstrucción del país y el compromiso de FEMA. De cara al futuro, la agencia busca continuar su apoyo en proyectos de mitigación de riesgos y a definir los proyectos alternos para una recuperación más eficiente.

Mientras, el director ejecutivo de la Oficina de Recuperación, Reconstrucción y Resiliencia (COR3, en inglés), Manuel Laboy, repasó varios puntos clave del proceso de reconstrucción y destacó que son los municipios quienes lideran las métricas. Además, identificó que la visión de la oficina se mantiene enfocada en transformar la infraestructura y las comunidades, desarrollar la resiliencia al cambio climático y alcanzar el desarrollo económico de Puerto Rico. 

“Yo me siento sumamente satisfecho con la relación que hemos establecido con los municipios. Hemos demostrado que ustedes son muy importantes para la reconstrucción. Estamos sumamente agradecidos con el apoyo de FEMA, y con la relación y el apoyo que tenemos con ustedes los alcaldes. No vamos a bajar la guardia. Queremos seguir siendo un agente de apoyo para canalizar sus proyectos de reconstrucción”, añadió el ingeniero.

manuel.deleon Tue, 08/23/2022 - 21:59

FEMA Reviews the Five Years after María with Historic Mayors' Summit

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico - Lessons learned, work completed and work in progress were the main objectives of the Mayors' Summit led by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The event, which took place at the Yolanda Guerrero Cultural Center in Guaynabo, was attended by Governor Pedro R. Pierluisi, mayors and municipal support staff.   

Among the topics addressed, officials discussed the diversity of funds available under the federal Stafford Act and the allocations approved to date. They also highlighted major projects - some with obligated funds, others already under construction - that have resulted in allocations that have a direct impact on communities and the local economy.

Among the significant allocations, those awarded through the FEMA Accelerated Awards Strategy (FAASt) were highlighted and how the bulk approval of these funds will allow for a faster reconstruction of the facilities of the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority, the Department of Education and for public housing structures under the Department of Housing.

Agency staff also participated in the event to answer questions and address inquiries from the mayors about ongoing municipal projects.

The Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator, José G. Baquero said the agency will continue to work alongside COR3, the local government and the other subrecipients to continue supporting the reconstruction process, which, although it will take time, remains at an ongoing steady pace. He also emphasized that the goal for 2022 is to complete most of the pending allocations, in addition to supporting the transition of projects to the construction phase.

Meanwhile, Governor Hon. Pedro R. Pierluisi stated that his commitment is to make all the expected projects a reality since 75 percent of the reconstruction is corresponds to municipalities. “My goal is that every town on our island can see that change, that every Puerto Rican can feel reassured and confident about our future. To that end, our mayors can count on the fact that my administration will continue to step up its efforts to assist them in everything that has to do with Hurricane María's recovery and with all the projects to build the Puerto Rico that we all want,” the governor said.

Of the over 10,000 projects approved by FEMA to date, over 6,000 are for municipalities, representing around $3.3 billion in funds for permanent work corresponding to municipal projects.

For her part, the Mayor of the Municipality of Loíza, Julia Nazario Fuentes, stated that 79 percent of the municipality's roads are already paved and highlighted the restored parks and recreational areas as reconstruction projects of great benefit to the communities. She also explained that her small projects are nearing completion and that they are already in the design process for the large projects. “After María, people's spirits were greatly affected. But seeing the streets paved and the infrastructure renovated lifts their spirits. Loíza is very beautiful. We still have a long way to go, but we’re on the right track,” the mayor added.

Likewise, the Mayor of the Municipality of Orocovis, Hon. Jesús Colón Berlingeri, stated that they've already completed close to 90 projects in different communities and that they'll now focus on large projects, such as the Elderly Center, the Fine Arts Center and one of the bridges that connects communities in Ciales with another community in Orocovis. He stated that patience and preparation are two of the lessons he has learned during the reconstruction process.

At the event, the next steps regarding the reconstruction for the Island were also discussed as well as FEMA's commitment. Going forward, the Agency seeks to continue its support for hazard mitigation projects and to define alternative projects for a more efficient recovery.

Meanwhile, the Executive Director of the Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel Laboy, reviewed several key points of the reconstruction process and highlighted that it's the municipalities who are leading the metrics. He also identified that the office's vision remains focused on transforming infrastructure and communities, building resilience to climate change, and achieving economic development in Puerto Rico. 

“I’m extremely satisfied with the relationship we've established with the municipalities. We’ve shown that you're very important for the reconstruction. We're extremely grateful for FEMA's support and with the relationship and support we have with you, the mayors. We're not going to let our guard down. We want to continue to be an agent of support to channel your reconstruction projects,” added the engineer.

manuel.deleon Tue, 08/23/2022 - 21:08

First Responders First in Line on Fridays

FRANKFORT, Ky – First responders – police officers, firemen, medical personnel, and all those who rush to the scene of a disaster to help however they can – are going to be first in another situation. Beginning Friday, August 26, and every Friday after that, from 7 to 8 a.m., first responders can move to the front of the line at every disaster help center and mobile registration center in eastern Kentucky. By showing their identification badges, they will not have to wait in line to talk with center staff about their own applications for help, following the July 26 floods.

While first responders will move to the head of the line early on Fridays, other survivors are welcome to visit the disaster centers whenever they can. Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are staffed by representatives from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and agencies from the Commonwealth to assist survivors with their applications for federal assistance and in accessing information on other flood resources.  Posters reminding visitors of First Responder Fridays will be posted in each of the following disaster centers:

• Knott County: Knott County Sport Plex, 450 Kenny Champion Loop #8765 Leburn, KY 41831
• Clay County: Clay Community Center, 311 Highway 638, Manchester, KY 40962
• Perry County: Hazard Community College, First Federal Center, 1 Community College Dr., Hazard, KY 41701
• Breathitt County: Breathitt Library, 1024 College Ave, Jackson, KY 41339
• Letcher County: Letcher County Recreation Center, 1505 Jenkins Rd., Whitesburg, KY 41858
• Pike County: Dorton Community Center, 112 Dorton Hill Rd., Pikeville, KY 41501

These centers are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Sundays

For the latest information on Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4663  and follow FEMA on Twitter at www.twitter.com/FEMARegion4. Visit the Governor’s website at www.governor.ky.gov/disaster-response/flood-response.

sandra.habib Tue, 08/23/2022 - 19:13

LaSalle Parish, Louisiana, Flood Maps Become Final

New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on Feb. 23, 2023, for LaSalle 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 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.

• To use the live chat service, visit https://www.floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• To contact a FEMA Map Specialist, call 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627) or send an email to FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

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.

daniel.green2 Tue, 08/23/2022 - 18:31

FEMA Helps Kentucky Flood Survivors with Immediate Needs

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA may provide financial assistance to applicants who have immediate or critical needs because they are displaced from their primary dwelling. Immediate or critical needs are life- saving and life-sustaining items including, but not limited to water, food, first aid, prescriptions, infant formula, diapers, consumable medical supplies, durable medical equipment, supplies for cleaning and sanitizing your home, personal hygiene items and fuel for transportation.

Critical Needs Assistance (CNA) is awarded under the Other Needs Assistance (ONA) provision of the Individuals and Households Program (IHP). CNA is a one-time $500 payment per household.

Kentucky survivors may be eligible for CNA if they:

• Complete a FEMA registration;
• Pass identity verification;
• At registration, let FEMA know you have critical needs and request financial assistance for those needs and expenses; and
• Have a pre-disaster primary residence located in an area designated for assistance: Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike or Whitley counties.

Kentucky flood survivors can apply for FEMA assistance online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

For more information about flood recovery in Kentucky, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4663. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4.   

 

sandra.habib Tue, 08/23/2022 - 18:11

Lee, Lincoln and Powell Counties Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Local governments and certain nonprofit organizations in Lee, Lincoln and Powell counties 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 Eastern Kentucky flooding that began on July 26.

These counties join Breathitt, Clay, Cumberland, Floyd, Johnson, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Whitley and Wolfe 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 on Kentucky flooding recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663 and follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4.

sandra.habib Tue, 08/23/2022 - 15:41

FEMA/Commonwealth Supports Disaster Survivors with Temporary Sheltering and Housing Solutions

FRANKFORT, Ky. – FEMA and the Commonwealth of Kentucky are working hard to ensure that disaster survivors whose homes and property were damaged by Eastern Kentucky flooding have safe places to stay temporarily while they take steps to recover.  

To help with the shortage of sheltering and housing options, the Commonwealth established the Commonwealth Sheltering Program. This non-congregate sheltering program offers temporary solutions, including state parks and travel trailers. Non-congregate shelters are locations where an individual or family can live safely with some level of privacy. Survivors seeking short term shelter can go online to the Governor's Flood Resources webpage and click on Eastern Kentucky Sheltering Program or call 502-234-1225.

FEMA has approved direct temporary housing assistance in four counties: Breathitt, Knott, Letcher and Perry. This program makes available several additional short-term housing solutions to disaster survivors. However, it takes time to transport, permit, install and inspect these units, before they are available. This is why the state’s more immediate temporary sheltering program is such a critical bridge to recovery.

The Direct Housing program provides three primary options:

• Multi-Family Lease and Repair, where FEMA enters into a lease agreement with the owner of multi-family rental properties (i.e., three or more units) and makes repairs to provide temporary housing for applicants.
• Temporary Housing Units such as a travel trailer or manufactured home; and
• Direct Lease, which is leasing existing ready-for-occupancy housing.

Direct temporary housing takes significant time to implement and is not an immediate solution for a survivor's interim and longer-term housing needs. Additionally, not everyone impacted by the disaster will be eligible for direct housing. Therefore, it is important that partners at all levels – local, Commonwealth, other federal, nonprofit and private sector – work together to fill any gaps.

Survivors who have applied with FEMA for assistance do not need to reapply to be eligible for Direct Housing. If a survivor has not yet applied with FEMA, they can do so by going to DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or downloading the FEMA mobile app.

FEMA aid may include rental assistance, which is money for eligible survivors to temporarily rent another place to live, such as a house, apartment, hotel or motel room, or travel trailer while repairs are being made to their primary residences. Many people may also be referred to one of our partner agencies such as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

Survivors need to stay in touch with FEMA as their plans and contact information change. When phone numbers or mailing addresses change, FEMA can’t reach you. So, after you apply for disaster assistance, you need to let FEMA know each time your information changes. Individuals and households may be eligible for different programs as they move forward with their recovery.

sandra.habib Mon, 08/22/2022 - 19:57

Free Legal Assistance for Kentucky Disaster Survivors

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Free legal assistance is available to survivors in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties who were affected by Eastern Kentucky flooding.

Survivors facing disaster-related issues who cannot afford an attorney may call the KBA Young Lawyers Section Disaster Legal Relief Committee hotline toll free at 844-478-0099. The number will be routed to a voicemail box. Calls are checked Monday through Friday between the hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST.

This service is overseen by KBA Young Lawyers Section Disaster Legal Relief Committee in partnership with various organizations and volunteer attorneys.  

Legal Aid may be able to help survivors in the following ways:

• Clarify home ownership/heir property
• Assist with benefits applications and appeals processes
• Support victims of fraudulent contractors or assist with landlord disputes
• Provide insurance policy assistance
• Assist community groups that support long-term recovery

For the latest information on Kentucky flooding recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663 and follow FEMA on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4. Visit the Governor’s website at governor.ky.gov/disaster-response/flood-response.

sandra.habib Mon, 08/22/2022 - 18:41

Experts Here to Help Kentuckians Save Family Treasures

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Survivors of the Eastern Kentucky flooding can learn how to save disaster damaged household treasures from Heritage Emergency National Task Force experts visiting local Disaster Recovery Centers.

Among the heirlooms that might be saved are photos, artwork, quilts, important documents and other keepsakes. The experts will discuss how to handle, dry and clean these items, as well as personal safety during the cleaning process, setting priorities and treatment options.

Experts from Heritage Emergency National Task Force are visiting these locations:

• Breathitt County: Breathitt County Library –1024 College Avenue, Jackson, KY 41339
  • Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 22 to Aug. 25
• Clay County: Clay County Community Center– 311 Highway 638, Manchester, KY 40962
  • Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 23 to Aug. 25
• Letcher County: Letcher County Recreation Center – 1505 Jenkins Rd, Whitesburg, KY 41858
  • Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 23 to Aug. 25

Recovery center hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Co-sponsored by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Smithsonian Institution, the Heritage Emergency National Task Force is a partnership of 60 national service organizations and federal agencies. It was created to protect cultural heritage from the damaging effects of natural disasters and other emergencies. For more information on the task force, email HENTF@si.edu.

Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can apply for assistance or check the status of their application online at disasterassistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362 or using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Flood survivors who apply for FEMA assistance may be referred to the SBA. It is important to submit an SBA application so you can be considered for additional FEMA grants.

sandra.habib Mon, 08/22/2022 - 12:30

Recovery Continues in Middle Tennessee One Year after Devastating Flood

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The flooding in August 2021 was unlike what most people in Middle Tennessee had ever seen. In 12 hours on Aug. 21, between 10 and 15 inches of rain fell on four counties, as much as one-quarter of the total annual rainfall for the area.

Waverly and Humphreys County experienced the worst damage. Twenty lives lost, hundreds of homes and businesses were flooded, and schools and public facilities damaged.

One year after the Aug. 23, 2021, federal major disaster declaration, recovery is continuing, led by local communities, managed by the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency and supported with funding from FEMA and other federal agencies.

“We know the challenges and heartache these communities have felt following the devastating flooding of August 2021. In the past year, we have witnessed incredible resilience and progress towards recovery,” said Gov. Lee. “We continue to support Waverly and the flood impacted counties as they rebuild and heal from the disaster.”

FEMA has provided $8 million to 955 households in Dickson, Hickman, Houston and Humphreys counties for temporary lodging, basic home repairs, destroyed home replacements and other disaster-related expenses. FEMA and State of Tennessee provided 188 households with flood insurance policies for three years. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has provided more than $16.1 million in low-interest disaster loans to 158 homeowners and businesses. The National Flood Insurance Program has paid $15.9 million in claims.

“Partnerships between local, state, and federal agencies have been critical for providing support and resources to flood survivors and the jurisdictions,” TEMA Director Patrick Sheehan said. “We thank FEMA for their help in providing financial relief and expertise to the impacted counties throughout the past year.”

By the end of 2022, with a grant from FEMA’s Public Assistance, approximately 1,000 students and faculty members who have been dispersed to different schools throughout the county, will attend classes in a renovated factory, once one of the town’s largest employers, the ACME Boot Company. Other public infrastructure projects are being processed for potential funding. To date, FEMA has obligated $27.7 million in PA funding.

Immediately after the flooding, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams canvassed the four counties visiting more than 1,300 homes, businesses and other locations, providing information, referrals and application help to more than 1,100 individuals. More than 45 voluntary organizations, schools and houses of worship provided aid to fellow residents.

“Recovery in Tennessee involves so many partners,” said Gracia B. Szczech, FEMA Region 4 Administrator. “The governor, Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, local jurisdictions, the faith community, voluntary organizations, the private sector, FEMA, other federal agencies, and of course all the individual Tennesseans who are making things happen. This is how disaster recovery works.”

The August 2021 flooding was one of five federally declared disasters in Tennessee between April 2021 and March 2022. TEMA and FEMA continue working on all five recovery efforts.

Follow FEMA on facebook.com/fema and Twitter@FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Fri, 08/19/2022 - 22:34

Mobile Recovery Center is Coming to Whitley County

FRANKFORT, Ky. – A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center is opening Aug. 21, 2022 in Whitley County to assist Kentucky flood survivors who experienced loss from the Eastern Kentucky flooding.

Mobile Center location:

• Whitley County:  Whitley County Home Health Agency - 368 Penny Ln Williamsburg KY 40769

This mobile center will be open Aug. 21 - Aug. 23 and will be back at these location Sept. 2 – Sept. 4.

Fixed centers are also available at these locations:

• Breathitt County: Breathitt Library–1024 College Ave, Jackson, KY 41339
• Clay County: Clay County Community Center–311 Highway 638, Manchester, KY  40962
• Knott County: Knott County Sport Plex –450 Kenny Champion Loop #8765, Leburn, KY 41831
• Letcher County: Letcher County Recreation Center – 1505 Jenkins Rd., Whitesburg, KY 41858
• Perry County: Hazard Community College –1 Community College Dr, Hazard, KY 41701
• Pike County: Dorton Community Center –112 Hill Rd., Pikeville, KY 41501

Hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Sunday.

Survivors in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can go to any center to get help applying for FEMA assistance.

FEMA representatives will be at the centers to help with applications for federal assistance and provide information about other disaster recovery resources.

FEMA financial assistance may include money for temporary housing, basic home repairs or other uninsured, disaster-related needs such as childcare, transportation and medical, funeral or dental expenses.

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and agencies from the Commonwealth will be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors.

It is not necessary to go to a disaster recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance. Homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Whitley counties can go online to disasterassistance.gov, call 800-621-3362 or use the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

Flood survivors who apply for FEMA assistance may be referred to the SBA. It is important to submit an SBA application so you can be considered for additional FEMA grants.

sandra.habib Fri, 08/19/2022 - 21:02

Hazard Mitigation Grant Funds Resiliency for Wastewater Treatment Plant in Leominster

On Monday, August 1, FEMA announced the FY 2022 funding level for the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) annual grant program will more than double to nearly $2.3 billion while the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) funding level will see a five-fold increase to $800 million.  The funding will help communities increase resilience to heat waves, drought, wildfires, flood, and hurricanes by preparing before disaster strikes. Funding for these two programs combined has increased from $700 million in FY20 and $1.16 billion in FY21. This funding will significantly increase the ability of state and local government to enhance community resiliency and to mitigate potential issues. 

There are also a number of FEMA programs which continually fund mitigation and resiliency projects, one of these ongoing Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) projects is in Leominster, MA.  FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding after a presidentially declared disaster to state, local, tribal, and territorial governments so they can rebuild in a way that reduces future disaster losses.  Homeowners and businesses cannot directly apply for a Hazard Mitigation grant. However, a local community may apply for funding on their behalf. 

The Leominster resiliency project is designed to protect the infrastructure of the Wastewater Treatment Plant.  The location of the project is between the treatment plant and the Leominster Connector, in the vicinity of Nashua Street. The primary purpose is to protect the infrastructure of the plant from potential failure since the banks of the Nashua River have eroded. The funding for this project is just under $900,000.

The proposed activities provide the greatest support to those with the greatest need. The project provides 100-year-level flood protection to infrastructure that serves a large portion of the community.

For communities interested in accessing these Mitigation programs should contact your State’s Hazard Mitigation Officer. You can locate your States Hazard Mitigation Officer at the following link:  State Hazard Mitigation Officers | FEMA.gov   For BRIC information follow this link: Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC). For FMA information, follow this link: Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA).

adrien.urbani Fri, 08/19/2022 - 20:29

FEMA Awards Vermont More Than $2 Million For Tropical Storm Irene Work

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $2 million to the State of Vermont to reimburse the costs of stabilizing the Waterbury State Office Complex after Tropical Storm Irene in 2011.

The $2,052,222 Public Assistance grant will go to the Department of Buildings and General Services for work done to stabilize buildings in the complex in an effort to prevent further damage after the August 2011 storm flooded many of them.

The state received $53 million in FEMA funding to repair or replace buildings, and spent nearly $13 million drying, cleaning and disinfecting buildings; removing debris; and other measures to preserve the structures.

But the actual insurance proceeds the state received from their insurance settlement were less than what FEMA estimated when it determined how much reimbursement the project should receive, resulting in the $2 million worth of costs being eligible for FEMA funding.

“Recovery from a catastrophic event like Tropical Storm Irene is a long and complex process,” said FEMA Region I Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “FEMA is pleased to assist Vermont as it wraps up the few remaining projects and prepares to close the books on Irene.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. Vermont received nearly $209 million from the program for Tropical Storm Irene.

 

adrien.urbani Fri, 08/19/2022 - 19:16

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Four Corners Fire in Idaho

BOTHELL, Wash.  -  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Four Corners Fire burning in 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 Friday, August 19, 2022, at 2:02 a.m. PT. He determined that the Four Corners Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the first FMAG declared in 2022 to help fight Idaho wildfires. 

At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of French Creek, Gods Acres, and Campbell Creek south to Raspberry Road, near the City of Cascade. The fire also threatened privately owned power lines, municipal water pumps, a privately owned church camp, and a federally owned radio repeater 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 $786,522 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 Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

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

mary.j.edmon Fri, 08/19/2022 - 18:16

Disaster Recovery Center to Open in St. Charles County

ST. LOUIS – A FEMA disaster recovery center will open Saturday, Aug. 20, in St. Charles County to provide one-on-one assistance to people directly affected by the July 25—28 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.

The disaster recovery center location is:

Developmental Disabilities Resource Board (DDRB Building)

1025 Country Club Road

St. Charles, MO 63303

(I-70 near Zumbehl Road Exit)

Hours: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Seven days a week, until further notice

People directly affected by flooding in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County may visit the recovery center. Before visiting the center, apply with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-FEMA (3362).

For needs directly related to the July 25-28 flooding, FEMA may be able to provide Individual Assistance grant money that does not have to be repaid for:

• Rental Assistance if you need to relocate because of flood damage
• Personal Property that was damaged or destroyed by flooding
• Lodging Reimbursement if you had to stay in a hotel temporarily
• Basic Home Repairs for homeowners whose primary residence was damaged by flooding
• Other Serious Needs caused by recent flooding

In addition to the assistance listed, please note the following:

• Only one application per household
• FEMA does not pay for lost or spoiled food

By law, FEMA is not allowed to duplicate insurance payments or assistance provided by other sources.

Other St. Louis-area disaster recovery centers are expected to be announced soon.

For updates, follow us on Twitter @MOSEMA and @FEMARegion7.

Get the latest information at Recovery.MO.gov and FEMA.gov/disaster/4665.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status.

amy.ashbridge Fri, 08/19/2022 - 17:54

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

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

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.

The 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around Aug 19, 2022. 

Appeals and comments may be submitted through Nov. 16, 2022, for:

• The cities of Moore and Oklahoma City

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 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

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

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

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.

daniel.green2 Fri, 08/19/2022 - 15:45

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

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

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.

The 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around Aug 19, 2022. 

Appeals and comments may be submitted through Nov. 16, 2022, for:

• Oklahoma City and the unincorporated areas of Oklahoma County

Residents may submit an appeal if they consider modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.

• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.

• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment.

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

To review the preliminary maps or submit appeals and comments, visit your local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can identify your community FPA. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

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

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

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.

daniel.green2 Fri, 08/19/2022 - 15:42

ICYMI: FEMA Administrator Speaks at Texas CERT Conference, Meets Houston Leaders to Discuss Hurricane Harvey Lessons Learned

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell joined FEMA Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson at the National Community Emergency Response Team conference today in Galveston, wrapping up a two-day trip to Texas.

The conference brings together volunteer emergency managers engaged in community emergency response across the country.

Criswell delivered the keynote address and recognized the CERT volunteers for their impact to their communities. CERT members are often the first to assist their community after a disaster and continue to support after the state, federal and voluntary agency response.

“You bring together the partners, you steer the ship through the first few hours of a disaster,” said Criswell. “You staff the shelters and find the food, so no one goes hungry. You are the first ones in and the last ones out. You stay to finish the job during the many, many months of recovery.”

These emergency managers often remove impediments to response and recovery efforts following a disaster.

Prior to the CERT conference, the Administrator met with faith-based leaders from the Houston area and staff from the Texas Division of Emergency Management as part of a roundtable to discuss lessons learned from Hurricane Harvey and how to better coordinate for future events.

Administrator Criswell also visited with members of the Harris County Flood Control District and local officials. During the meeting, officials demonstrated their flood forecast dashboard which was improved using FEMA hazard mitigation grant funding after Hurricane Harvey. The system measures rainfall amounts and monitors water levels in bayous and major streams, providing real-time information to the community.

HOUSTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell interacts with faith-based and community leaders during her visit to Houston. (FEMA photo by Daniel Rojas)

HOUSTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell listens as members of community and faith-based organizations describe how they continue supporting survivors and community groups to help the Houston-area’s recovery, almost five years after Hurricane Harvey. Criswell updated the group on important FEMA programs and acknowledged that disaster response and recovery efforts require additional work to provide emotional and spiritual care to those impacted during disasters. (FEMA photo by Daniel Rojas)

HOUSTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell tours the Harris County Flood Control District’s Flood Forecast Dashboard at its Transtar Regional Coordination Facility. This new technology helps the district monitor 188 gauge stations across Harris County bayous and their tributaries to view potential flooding during heavy rainstorms. FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provided funds for this project following Hurricane Harvey. (FEMA photo by Daniel Rojas)

GALVESTON, Texas -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell delivers the keynote address at the National CERT Conference Thursday in Galveston, to finish her two-day trip to southeast Texas. Criswell recognized many tribal members in attendance as well as CERT volunteers from across the nation. (FEMA photo by Daniel Rojas)

amy.ashbridge Thu, 08/18/2022 - 21:51

FEMA, MDEM and Baltimore host Building Resilience Infrastructure and Communities News Conference at MedStar Health

On August 22, FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney and Maryland Department of Emergency Management Agency Secretary Russ Strickland will travel to Baltimore, MD to visit one of FEMA’s Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities 2022 Building Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant selectees, MedStar Health. They will be joined by Mayor Brandon Scott, as well as representatives from Southern Baltimore Gateway Partnership and MedStar Health, as they announce BRIC’s funding support to the Middle Branch Resiliency Initiative and BRIC’s FY22 Notice of Funding Opportunity available to communities.

Advisory

• Monday, August 22, 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM EDT
• Medstar Harbor Hospital: 3001 S Hanover St, Baltimore, MD 21225
• Speakers:
  • MaryAnn Tierney, Regional Administrator, FEMA Region 3
  • Russell J. Strickland, Maryland Secretary of Emergency Management
  • Brandon M. Scott, Mayor of Baltimore
  • Bradley S. Chambers, Chief Operating Officer, Baltimore Region, MedStar Health
  • Brad Rogers, Executive Director, South Baltimore Gateway Partnership
• Media planning to attend the press event must RSVP to Charlie Elison at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov by 5:00 PM EDT on August 20.
• Media must arrive no later than 8:15 AM EDT.
• Speakers, including FEMA Region 3’s Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney, will be available for individual interviews following the news conference.
• BRIC Support to the Middle Branch Resilience Initiative (MBRI) protects the heart of Baltimore against sea level rise-related flood risk and erosion and was selected as part of FEMA’s FY20 BRIC application cycle (FEMA announces $72 million in BRIC & FMA grants to fund resiliency projects across Region 3 | FEMA.gov). While selected, this project has not been officially awarded and is still pending Large Project Notification by Congress, as is the case with all BRIC projects.
  • Sea level rise increases Baltimore’s vulnerability to storm-related and nuisance tidal flooding. Through a coordinated network of vegetated berms, living shorelines, restored wetlands/aquatic habitats, and public space enhancements, the Middle Branch Resiliency Initiative (MBRI) Stage 1 will focus on increasing the resilience of two community lifelines located along the shoreline of the Middle Branch of the Patapsco River: the Baltimore Gas and Electric Company’s (BGE) Spring Gardens site and MedStar Harbor Hospital site.
  • Stage 1 of the MBRI will also benefit 410,000 nearby residents; customers of the BGE Spring Gardens facility and MedStar Harbor Hospital; and employees who work at both sites—representing 21% of the total population of Baltimore City and Baltimore and Anne Arundel counties.
• The Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program supports states, local communities, tribes and territories as they undertake hazard mitigation projects, reducing the risks they face from disasters and natural hazards. The BRIC program focuses on larger infrastructure projects that enhance human health and ecological benefits for a multitude of residents.
• These funds help state, local, tribal, and territorial governments address high-level future risks to natural disasters such as extreme heat, wildfires, drought, hurricanes, earthquakes, and increased flooding to foster greater community resilience and reduce disaster suffering.
• On Aug. 12, FEMA published funding opportunities doubling the BRIC funding level from $1 billion to $2.295 billion and increasing the funding level for Flood Mitigation Assistance by five times from $160 million to $800 million for FY22. This additional funding highlights the importance of our commitment to “people first” and helping communities, families, and businesses build climate resilience. FEMA doubled the funding set-aside through the BRIC program for tribes to $50 million and increased the allocation for each state and territory to $2 million for this funding cycle.  The application period opens Sept. 30.  (Biden-Harris Administration Announces More than $3 Billion in Funding for Two FEMA Programs to Increase Climate Resilience Nationwide | FEMA.gov)
• FEMA continues to evolve mitigation grants to be more equitable, reduce complexity, and address climate resilience. FEMA also remains focused on reducing barriers to accessing funding to those who need it the most and building capacity and capability to deliver mitigation grant programs.

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For questions about FEMA, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.  

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 Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

 

charles.elison Thu, 08/18/2022 - 20:17

Disaster Recovery Center to Reopen in Hazelwood on Monday

ST. LOUIS – A FEMA disaster recovery center will reopen on Monday, August 22, in Hazelwood (St. Louis County) to provide one-on-one assistance to people directly affected by the July 25—28 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.

The disaster recovery center location is:

Hazelwood Civic Center East

8969 Dunn Road

Hazelwood, MO 63042

Opens: Monday, Aug. 22, Noon –7 p.m.

Then: Tuesday, Aug. 23—Friday, Aug.26, 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

People directly affected by flooding in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and St. Charles County may visit the recovery center. Before visiting the center, apply with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov or call 800-621-FEMA (3362).

For needs directly related to the July 25—28 flooding, FEMA may be able to provide Individual Assistance grant money that does not have to be repaid for:

• Rental Assistance if you need to relocate because of flood damage
• Personal Property that was damaged or destroyed by flooding
• Lodging Reimbursement if you had to stay in a hotel temporarily
• Basic Home Repairs for homeowners whose primary residence was damaged by flooding
• Other Serious Needs caused by recent flooding

In addition to the assistance listed, please note the following:

• Only one application per household
• FEMA does not pay for lost or spoiled food

By law, FEMA is not allowed to duplicate insurance payments or assistance provided by other sources.

Another FEMA disaster recovery center is open seven days a week:

Ranken Technical College

Mary Ann Lee Technology Center

1313 N. Newstead Ave

St. Louis, MO 63113

(Corner of Newstead and Page)

Hours: 8 a.m.--7 p.m., seven days a week, until further notice

Other St. Louis-area disaster recovery centers are expected to be announced soon.

For updates, follow us on Twitter @MOSEMA and @FEMARegion7.

Get the latest information at Recovery.MO.gov and FEMA.gov/disaster/4665.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status.

amy.ashbridge Thu, 08/18/2022 - 19:27