Project to Strengthen Walter I.M. Hodge Pavilion’s Resilience Against Storms Moves Forward

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – The Territory's partnership with FEMA continues to move forward on initiatives to guarantee public housing communities have hazard mitigation measures in place to make dwellings safer for families and better resist future storms. The Virgin Islands Housing Authority can now proceed with its plans to harden roofs, doors, and windows at the housing complex in Frederiksted, thanks to FEMA's approval of $24.4 million for the second phase of a wind retrofit project for Walter I.M. Hodge Pavilion.

Through FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, a $24.4 million obligation brings the total financing allocated for the wind retrofit project to $25.3 million. In 2021, $835,903 was obligated for the first phase of the Hodge Pavilion wind retrofit to fund engineering and design for the project.

The Hodge Pavilion wind retrofit project is a major step in the development of resilience for the public housing community in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The hurricane-resistant windows and doors will be installed in the housing development's 20 apartment structures, office building, and community center.  

The project’s scope of work includes installation of hurricane impact window systems, wind-rated apartment entry and storefront doors at all building entry porticos, roof retrofit and protection, continuous load path retrofit, and hardening of electrical and mechanical equipment, gutters and downspouts, and other exterior equipment.

The wind retrofit project will allow the Housing Authority to better protect Virgin Islanders and more specifically residents living in or near Hodge Pavilion. 

“We are pleased to support the Territory’s vision to strengthen the resilience of public housing communities across the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Housing Authority’s plans to strengthen windows, doors and roofs at Hodge Pavilion will make homes safer for families during future storms,” said U.S. Virgin Islands Recovery Director Kristen A. Hodge. “We are looking forward to the overall revitalization of Hodge Pavilion and supporting the transformation of public housing across the territory,” said Hodge. 

“The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program plays an important role in the Territory’s efforts to build back better. The mitigation team has obligated over $137 million to ensure that critical structures like our housing communities are built to withstand future weather events,” said Adrienne L. Williams-Octalien, Director of the Office of Disaster Recovery.

“The Virgin Islands Housing Authority is excited to receive FEMA approval of the $25 million for wind retrofit. This funding is the final piece to a complex $116 million private and public sector funded project which will facilitate a comprehensive rehab allowing 248 families in St. Croix, with pride and dignity, to call the new Walter I.M. Hodge community - their “HOME,” said Virgin Islands Housing Authority Executive Director Robert Graham. “Our families will move into elegantly redesigned apartments in 22 buildings over a 27-month period, with completion in 2024. With this FEMA funding, our families will be secure in a modern, resilient and hurricane-hardened community. Our residents will also participate in a new resident service delivery model that will advance household equity, education and wellness.”

As of May 11, 2022, FEMA has obligated $137 million toward Hazard Mitigation Grant Program projects in the Territory since hurricanes Irma and Maria. FEMA’s continued partnership with the Territory will ensure the Territory builds smarter and stronger, and public housing communities withstand future hurricanes.

gina.callaghan Thu, 05/12/2022 - 20:30

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

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps are available for review in Haskell 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 May 12, 2022. 

Appeals and comments may be submitted through Aug. 10, 2022 for:

• The Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma; the cities of Kinta and Stigler; the towns of Keota and McCurtain; and the unincorporated areas of Haskell 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.

 

Kurt.Pickering Thu, 05/12/2022 - 16:02

Workshop aims to break the cycle of disaster damage and reconstruction

On April 19, 2022, the West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD) hosted a workshop at the West Virginia Conference Center in South Charleston for state and local agencies to head off disasters or, as one presenter said, solve problems before they become problems. 

Specialists from FEMA Region 3 engaged with state and local officials on how to create plans to reduce or eliminate the impacts of emergencies caused by hazards such as floods, landslides, fires and cyberattacks.

The workshop offered guidance, strategies and resources to help agencies prepare to update state and regional hazard mitigation plans for 2023.

In addition to staff from state Emergency Management and the West Virginia FEMA Integration Team (WVFIT), participants included members of the state Department of Environmental Protection, the Division of Forestry, the State Resiliency Office, regional Planning and Development Councils, state Floodplain Managers, West Virginia University GIS Technical Center, the National Flood Insurance Program, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

James Young, Disaster Field Coordinator for the WVFIT said, "It was encouraging to see so many local, state and federal partners come together to discuss mitigation planning.”

“This collaborative effort will help to identify priority mitigation projects that can reduce future risk and improve resiliency in the state," he said.

The presence of so many stakeholders is a crucial element of the planning process as it allows for exchanging ideas and establishing the State’s vision and priorities for mitigating disaster risk moving forward.

"Making a plan without the right tools is like making spaghetti without a pot," said WVEMD Planner and Hazard Mitigation Officer Tim Keaton. “You have to get the right people at the table.”

Learn more about Hazard Mitigation Planning at https://emd.wv.gov/MitigationRecovery/Pages/Hazard-Mitigation-Planning.aspx.

charles.elison Thu, 05/12/2022 - 15:51

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Coastal Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) regional administrator authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combatting the Coastal Fire burning in Orange County.

On May 11, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG). At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 500 homes and 10,000 people in and around Laguna Niguel. The fire also threatened the Coastal Water Treatment Plant, high-voltage power transmission lines, and the Aliso Canyon and Wood Canyon Wilderness State Park.

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

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

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

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

robert.barker Thu, 05/12/2022 - 14:37

Public Housing Projects that Address Water Filtration Aim to Ensure Safer Homes

The homes of around 730 families will be repaired with FEMA funds

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico –Gloricela Santiago Martínez spent the night of Hurricane María working in a shelter. After being away from her apartment in the Brisas del Mar public housing complex in Salinas for almost four days, she returned to find her home flooded. Despite not living on a first floor, the hurricane's rains came through her windows and walls. She spent about five hours bailing out water and rescuing what has been her home for nearly 30 years.

Even with the challenges that she and the other residents of Brisas del Mar have faced, Santiago Martínez describes her community as perseverant and involved. The community leader and President of the Residents’ Board  expressed that it was the neighbors themselves who cleared the access areas and who organized a community kitchen to feed the community in the absence of electricity.

Water filtration has been part of the structural problems in the apartments of Brisas del Mar residents, particularly after the hurricane. Recently, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) allocated $13.7 million to this and three other public housing complexes to repair their structures in order to help provide a safe and sanitary home for around 730 families.

The administrator of the Public Housing Administration (PHA), Alejandro Salgado Colón, explained that in general terms the work includes the removal and replacement of the waterproofing system, repair of surfaces and painting, replacement of exterior lighting and wall repairs, among other work.

“The quality of life of our residents has always been a priority. With this new multimillion-dollar allocation from FEMA, we will continue to address the waterproofing of roofs and the repair of some recreational areas that are so necessary for a healthy lifestyle in our public housing complexes, among other important work. We thank the federal agency for this effort and hope to continue collaborating for the benefit of our people,” said the administrator.

Another of the complexes that will benefit from the funds is the Rafael López Nussa public housing complex in the municipality of Ponce. According to Saraí Bernard, President of the Residents' Board, the repairs to the roof of the public housing complex will help prevent people from losing their belongings or putting their safety at risk. In addition, repairs to the basketball court roof will allow for the coordination of sports and recreational activities for the residents.

The Rafael López Nussa public housing complex was and still is home to several local talents: among them, judo athlete Kimberly Carrión and actress Maddy Rivera, who has worked in a variety of plays and soap operas, alongside artists such as Alba Roversi, Marisa Rodríguez, Juan Soler and Braulio Castillo.

According to Maddy Rivera, the restoration of recreational facilities at the public housing complex contributes to the cultural and artistic development of children, youth and adults living in Rafael López Nussa, as it provides a space to develop their talents.

“It is very important to advance projects that have an artistic and cultural value, as the arts are ageless and provide fun and entertainment to focus talents in achieving an essential goal. The repairs to the current recreational space will maximize its potential for residents to participate in workshops that will add to their growth as individuals through the arts,” she said.

To date, FEMA has allocated funds for 132 projects totaling $330 million for the PHA. These funds are in addition to the funds allocated through FEMA's Accelerated Award Strategy (FAASt), which totals another $554 million.

For more information on Puerto Rico's recovery from Hurricane María, please visit fema.gov/es/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow our social media pages at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

 

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 05/12/2022 - 13:33

FEMA Updates Flood Maps in Monterey County, including Salinas, Chualar, Soledad and Gonzales

OAKLAND, Calif. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has delivered preliminary flood maps for parts of Monterey County. The maps identify revised flood hazards along the Salinas River, Gonzales Slough, Natividad Creek and unnamed tributaries. These new maps will help building officials, floodplain administrators, developers and homeowners make effective mitigation decisions, thereby contributing to safer and more disaster resilient communities.

Before the new Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) become effective, there is a 90-day appeal period from May 12 to Aug. 10. During that time, public agencies, residents or businesses with supporting technical and scientific information, such as detailed hydraulic or hydrologic data, can appeal the flood risk information on the preliminary maps, which can be viewed at fema.gov/preliminaryfloodhazarddata.

Flood hazards are dynamic and change frequently for many reasons, including weather patterns, erosion and community development. Officials from FEMA, Monterey County and the communities of Salinas, Soledad, Chualar and Gonzales worked together to provide updated information that accurately reflects the flood risk. These changes may also affect future building standards or insurance requirements.

The local mapping project is part of a national effort led by FEMA to increase local knowledge of flood risks and support actions to address and reduce the effects of flooding on new and improved structures. FEMA encourages residents to review the preliminary flood maps to learn about local flood risks, potential future flood insurance requirements and identify any concerns or questions about the information provided.

Risk of flooding affects almost every corner of the nation. In total, 98% of counties have experienced a flood event, which makes floods the most common and widespread of all weather-related natural disasters.

For more information, contact Monterey County at (831) 755-5154 or lundquiste@co.monterey.ca.us. Other community information is available for the cities of Salinas at (831) 758-7194 or adrianar@ci.salinas.ca.us, Soledad at (831) 223-5000 or Donald.Wilcox@cityofsoledad.com, and Gonzales at (831) 675-5000 or pdobbins@ci.gonzales.ca.us.

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

robert.barker Wed, 05/11/2022 - 14:01

Preliminary Flood Maps for West Feliciana Parish, Louisiana Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in all communities and incorporated areas of West Feliciana Parish, Louisiana.

Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the appeal and comment periods for the maps.

This is West Feliciana Parish’s first complete set of digital FIRMs. These maps serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development and flood insurance.

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas.

Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting the local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify community FPAs. 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.

 

Kurt.Pickering Tue, 05/10/2022 - 16:25

Preliminary Flood Maps for East Feliciana Parish, Louisiana Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in portions of the Town of Jackson; the villages of Norwood and Wilson; and unincorporated areas of East Feliciana Parish, Louisiana.

Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the appeal and comment periods for the maps.

For this Physical Map Revision, the FIRMs for East Feliciana Parish serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Communities and residents can use the information to make informed decisions about building, development and flood insurance.

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas.

Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting the local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify community FPAs. 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.

 

Kurt.Pickering Tue, 05/10/2022 - 16:12

Ida Recovery Update and Other Disaster Funding Opportunities

NEW YORK – Eight months after the remnants of Hurricane Ida damaged homes, businesses and infrastructure across New York state, FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and the National Flood Insurance Program have approved nearly 800 million dollars to help New Yorkers recover and rebuild.

More than 41,000 households in the Bronx, Brooklyn (Kings County), Queens, Staten Island (Richmond County), Dutchess, Nassau, Orange, Rockland, Suffolk and Westchester counties have been approved for FEMA disaster assistance since the September 2021 disaster declaration.

As of May 9th, FEMA approved $219.2 million for housing assistance and other essential storm-related needs under the Individual Assistance program. This amount includes $197.2 million approved for temporary housing, rental assistance, home repair and replacement for eligible survivors and $21.9 million approved for other needs assistance which can help eligible survivors pay for medical and dental expenses, childcare, and other disaster-related expenses.

The Small Business Administration has approved 4,046 home and business loans for a total of more than $213.3 million to help homeowners, renters and businesses recover from remnants of Hurricane Ida. SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors. FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program has paid more than $138.9 million to New York policyholders and closed 2,779 claims for flood damage caused by the storm.

Through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, administered through New York State, funding opportunities are still available for projects supporting hazard mitigation planning and long-term mitigation measures to enhance the State’s resiliency. New York State’s HMGP application period remains available for all eligible sub applicants through June 1. State agencies, local, tribal and territorial governments may apply for a grant. Homeowners and businesses cannot apply directly to the program; however, a local community may apply for funding on their behalf.

More information is available through the New York State Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services: https://www.dhses.ny.gov/dr-4615-hazard-mitigation-grant-program-funding

For information about FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, visit: fema.gov/grants/mitigation/hazard-mitigation

For official information on New York’s recovery effort, visit fema.gov/disaster/4615. Follow FEMA on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion2  and at facebook.com/fema.

kimberly.keblish Tue, 05/10/2022 - 15:03

New Mexico Residents Can Expect to See FEMA Visiting Their Neighborhoods

DENTON, Texas –Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams and damage assessment inspectors from FEMA are out in New Mexico communities to help residents get connected with potential assistance.

New Mexico homeowners and renters in Colfax, Lincoln, Mora, San Miguel and Valencia counties, who sustained damage from wildfires and straight-line winds beginning on April 5 and continuing, could be eligible for help from FEMA.

If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may then be eligible for federal assistance.

Once residents have completed their application, they should expect a call from an inspector to set up a damage assessment. The phone number may not be a recognized number.

Damage assessments occur once residents apply with FEMA. They are an essential part of the recovery process for those who need to make their homes livable again or have serious personal property loss. Homeowners and renters should make sure their contact information is up to date and have access to a telephone. They will need to have a photo ID and proof of ownership or a lease.

Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams will be moving through affected areas to answer questions about the types of help available, help residents apply for state and federal assistance, update an applicant’s contact information and help with referrals to whole community partners.

DSA team members wear FEMA shirts and/or vests as well as carry photo identification. Residents should ask to see them.

While residents in all five affected counties can apply for disaster assistance, damage assessments can only be conducted in areas where wildfires are not ongoing. Lincoln and Valencia are currently the only counties not experiencing active fires.

The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting disasterassistance.gov/.

If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. MDT seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

Carmen.Castro Tue, 05/10/2022 - 13:44

New Mexico Residents Affected by Wildfires Can Apply for Possible FEMA Assistance

DENTON, Texas – New Mexico homeowners and renters in the five counties, who sustained damage from the wildfires and straight-line winds beginning on April 5 and continuing, could be eligible for help from FEMA.

The designated counties for FEMA Individual Assistance are Colfax, Lincoln, Mora, San Miguel and Valencia.

If you have homeowners or renters insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may then be eligible for federal assistance.

While residents in all five affected counties can apply for disaster assistance, damage assessments can only be conducted in areas where wildfires are not ongoing. Lincoln and Valencia are currently the only counties not experiencing active fires.

The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting disasterassistance.gov/.

If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. MDT seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

When you apply for assistance, have the following information readily available:

• 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, if available
• A general list of damage and losses
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name

Listen for instructions from local officials to tell you it’s safe to return home. If it is safe to do so, start cleaning up now. Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to cleanup and repair.

Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs along with other programs to assist families recovering from effects of the event.

U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster loans are available to businesses of all sizes, nonprofits, homeowners and renters. Like FEMA, SBA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance.

• For small businesses, those engaged in aquaculture and most nonprofits: Up to $2 million is available for working capital needs even if there was no property damage, with a $2 million maximum loan for any combination of property damage and working capital needs.
• For homeowners: Up to $200,000 is available to repair or replace their primary residence. For homeowners and renters: Up to $40,000 is available to replace personal property, including vehicles.

Businesses and residents can apply online at Disaster assistance (sba.gov). For questions and assistance completing an application, call 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerAssistance@sba.gov.

For the latest information on the wildfires, visit fema.gov/disaster/4652. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

Carmen.Castro Fri, 05/06/2022 - 15:27

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Closed Sundays

San Juan, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will close Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Cataño, Dorado, Toa Baja, Vega Alta and Vega Baja on Sundays beginning May 8, 2022.

All DRCs will resume regular operational hours beginning Monday May 9, 2022.

The temporary centers are located at:

Pabellón Comercial Rafael Hernández Colón

Calle Méndez Vigo #349

(in front of Residencial El Dorado), Dorado

Centro Comunal Los Naranjos

Barrio Cabo Caribe

Parcela 119-A

Vega Baja

Centro de Usos Múltiples - Luis Muñoz Marín

PR-647 Km 12.5,

Barrio Bajuras, Sector Machuchal, Vega Alta

Junta de Inscripción Permanente de Candelaria

RR-865

Barrio Candelaria, Toa Baja

Centro de Usos Múltiples

Carr. PR-5, Km 2.6

Sector Juana Matos, Cataño

 

Regular Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Survivors from the affected municipalities of Cataño, Dorado, Toa Baja, Vega Alta, and Vega Baja are eligible to apply for disaster assistance. To find a DRC nearest you, click on the FEMA DRC link: fema.gov/drc.

You may also apply with FEMA through your smart phone, home computer or by phone. The fastest ways to apply for assistance are:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• By phone at 800-621-3362. Press 1 for English, 2 for Spanish and 3 for all other languages. Those who use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week
• Download FEMA’s mobile app. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery from the February floods, visit fema.gov/disaster/4649. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Follow the FEMA Region 2 Twitter account at www.twitter.com/FEMAregion2.

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 05/05/2022 - 13:32

The UPR Institute of Neurobiology to Be Repaired

FEMA’s $6.2 million will support scientific research on the island

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico –When the Institute of Neurobiology (INB) was founded in the late 1960’s, the study of this science was beginning on the island. Today, INB has 11 laboratories that do research on the human brain, its functions and its behavior as part of the nervous system.

By studying the structure of the nervous system and how it works, the INB looks for ways to prevent and treat different conditions that affect people. This includes studies on addiction, the impact of the variables on the environment and their effect on the nervous system, as well as the development of treatments.

The three-story INB historic building located in the heart of Old San Juan attracts renowned researchers such as Dr. Guillermo A. Yudowski. Yudowski’s research, who has participated in studies in Sweden, Israel and the state of Massachusetts, seeks to understand neuropsychiatric disorders and why they develop.

Following an allocation of $6.2 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the organization will be able to restore its facilities to continue developing research projects –that inform residents about the causes of certain mental health or neurologic conditions– as well as clinical treatments that support a better quality of life.

Dr. Ilka C. Ríos Reyes, Dean of the Medical Sciences Campus, stated “we’re very pleased with this allocation of funds from FEMA to mitigate the considerable damage suffered at the INB building as a result of Hurricane María. These economic resources are of vital importance for the continuation of the scientific work being carried out at this important research center. It is also important for the completion of ongoing projects, the implementation of others and, above all, for the strengthening of infrastructure and resistance to future high-impact atmospheric phenomena”.

Another aspect of the INB is that it provides the means to sustain and develop research projects while it serves to educate and train the new generation of Puerto Rican scientists. Dr. María A. Sosa Lloréns belongs to a group of about 30 researchers from the Medical Sciences Campus that are in charge of generating new knowledge that results in advances for the biomedical sciences.

Likewise, the Institute contributes to the island’s public health through its research findings. In addition to working on studies on the neurological bases of addiction to alcohol and other drugs, the Institute's findings are applied in the development of clinical treatments for mental health or neurological conditions. According to Sosa Lloréns, nearly 17 percent of adults have some form of dependency or addiction. Learning about the cells that are affected with an addiction clears the way for the development of medicines to help regulate that addiction and prevent the dangerous behaviors that they cause.

The facilities employ about 50 people, including researchers, laboratory technicians, animal health technicians, as well as administrative and maintenance staff. During the past five years, about nine postdoctoral students, 15 graduate students and an annual average of 35 undergraduate students have been trained at the Institute. Also, during this period, the Institute of Neurobiology has been active in around 15 research projects involving the collaboration of local and international neuroscientists.

The funds allocated by FEMA to the institute will be used to restore the facilities and that they’re ready to function as they did prior to Hurricane María. The work includes the removal and replacement of doors, electrical and lighting systems, fans, the electrical substation and generator, air conditioners, exhaust fans, among other work.

Likewise, the project includes about $305,000 in hazard mitigation funds to prevent similar damage in the event of future atmospheric events: bars for air conditioners, reinforced doors and windows to prevent leaks, and surge protectors to protect electrical equipment from future outages.

For more information on Puerto Rico's recovery from Hurricane María, please visit fema.gov/es/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow our social media pages at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

frances.acevedo-pico Thu, 05/05/2022 - 12:20

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of New Mexico to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires and straight-line winds beginning on April 5 and continuing.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Colfax, Lincoln, Mora, San Miguel and Valencia 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.

Federal funding also is available to state, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures, limited to direct federal assistance and reimbursement for mass care including evacuation and shelter support in Colfax, Lincoln, Mora, San Miguel and Valencia counties.

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

Sandra I. Eslinger has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made later if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

Residents and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 05/05/2022 - 02:50

FEMA Administrator Meets with European Crisis Management Community in Brussels

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell discussed the importance of disaster resilient communities with European crisis management leaders in Brussels last week.

Partnerships with the international disaster community provide vital learning opportunities. By sharing lessons learned, all parties are better able to posture themselves for future events, thereby protecting their citizens and infrastructure. Resilience techniques are particularly important points of collaboration since their real-world efficacy can be compared, tested and reinforced.

“If the past two years of the pandemic have taught us anything, it’s that we’re all in this together,” Criswell said while speaking at the Network of Directors-General of the European Crisis Center. “The partnerships we are forging in this room today are part of our strong global crisis management system. Together, we build the resilience of our nations by recognizing the interdependencies that exist between us.”

To demonstrate this commitment to this international collaboration, Criswell signed a Protocol of Cooperation with the Belgian National Crisis Centre. The protocol formalizes bilateral crisis management cooperation between FEMA and the Centre.  

During her trip, Criswell also met with the Directorate-General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations, the European Commission’s department for overseas humanitarian aid and civil protection. There she discussed crisis response efforts with her European counterparts.  She also toured their response center, finding similarities between it and the FEMA National Response Coordination Center.

Administrator Criswell also met with leadership at the U.S. Mission to North Atlantic Treaty Organization and NATO’s Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana.  Their discussions focused on the evolving nature of resilience and the importance of FEMA’s crisis management expertise to advancing shared priorities.

You can read Administrator Criswell’s full remarks to the Network of Directors-General of the European Crisis Center and her remarks on approaches to crisis management on FEMA.gov.

BRUSSELS -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell is welcomed to Brussels by the U.S. Ambassador to Belgium Michael Adler. (Photo by FEMA photographer)

BRUSSELS -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (center left) speaks with North Atlantic Treaty Organization Deputy Secretary General Mircea Geoana (across from Criswell) on the evolving nature of resilience with European crisis management counterparts. (Photo by NATO photographer)

BRUSSELS -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell provides a keynote address at the Network of Directors-General of the European Crisis Centre. Her remarks focused on resilience, international collaboration and strengthening industry. (Photo by FEMA photographer)

mayshaunt.gary Wed, 05/04/2022 - 21:49

FEMA Provides $23.8M to Wisconsin Department of Administration

CHICAGO – The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM) announced today that $23,800,232.83 in federal funding has been made available to the Wisconsin Department of Administration (DOA) for costs related to the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic under the federal disaster declaration of April 4, 2020.

This funding will reimburse Wisconsin DOA for costs to provide clinical care for COVID-19 patients at the alternate care facility that was located at Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an important resource for state, tribal, territorial and local governments and eligible private non-profits to cover eligible COVID-19 expenses,” said Tom Sivak, regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This facility was critical in ensuring the state had the necessary resources in place to relieve pressure on their hospital systems during the early days of the COVID-19 response.” 

“We appreciate the support from our federal partners at FEMA throughout the pandemic,” said Wisconsin Department of Health Services Deputy Secretary Deb Standridge. “As part of the team that helped stand up the alternate care facility at State Fair Park, this facility was essential in supporting our hospitals and health systems during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are grateful for this funding through FEMA’s public assistance program, as the facility allowed our hospitals to focus on treating those with the most severe cases of COVID-19 to help save lives.”

“We are incredibly grateful for the support we received from FEMA to be able to stand up the alternative care facility, in order to provide flexible and quality care for patients and expand service capacity during a critical time in our state pandemic response,” said DOA Secretary-designee Kathy Blumenfeld. “The close collaboration among state, local and federal government partners also helped set the stage for a successful recovery in Wisconsin.”  

FEMA provides a 100 percent federal share of eligible reimbursable expenses for this project.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides supplemental grants to state, tribal, territorial and local governments, and certain types of private non-profits, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. To learn more, visit FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

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

troy.christensen Wed, 05/04/2022 - 14:08

FEMA to Evaluate Readiness of the State of Delaware

PHILADELPHIA – The Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will evaluate a Biennial Radiological Emergency Preparedness Exercise for Delaware communities around the Salem – Hope Creek Generating Station. The exercise will occur during the week of May 9, 2022 to assess the ability of the State of Delaware to respond to an emergency at the nuclear facility.

“These drills are held every other year to evaluate government’s ability to protect public health and safety,” said MaryAnn Tierney, Regional Administrator for FEMA Region 3. “We will assess state and local government emergency response capabilities within the 10-mile Emergency Planning Zone within the State of Delaware.”

Within 90 days, FEMA will send its evaluation to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) for use in licensing decisions.  The final report will be available to the public approximately 120 days after the exercise.

FEMA will present preliminary findings of the exercise during a public meeting at 10:30 a.m. on May 13, 2022.  The meeting will be conducted in a virtual format via Zoom.   Planned speakers include representatives from FEMA and the NRC.  Access to the public meeting is provided below:

 

Join ZoomGov Meeting

https://fema.zoomgov.com/j/1611707475

Passcode: 187700  

 

At the public meeting, FEMA may request that questions or comments be submitted in writing for review and response. Written comments may also be submitted after the meeting by emailing FEMAR3NewsDesk@fema.dhs.gov or by mail to:

 

MaryAnn Tierney

Regional Administrator

FEMA Region III

615 Chestnut Street, 6th Floor

Philadelphia, PA 19106

 

FEMA created the Radiological Emergency Preparedness (REP) Program to (1) ensure the health and safety of citizens living around commercial nuclear power plants would be adequately protected in the event of a nuclear power plant accident and (2) inform and educate the public about radiological emergency preparedness.

REP Program responsibilities cover only “offsite” activities, that is, state and local government emergency planning and preparedness activities that take place beyond the nuclear power plant boundaries. Onsite activities continue to be the responsibility of the NRC.

Additional information on FEMA’s REP Program is available online at FEMA.gov/Radiological-Emergency-Preparedness-Program.

 

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

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

charles.elison Wed, 05/04/2022 - 12:51

ICYMI: FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks Visits New Mexico Emergency Management and Tribal Leaders

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks traveled to New Mexico to connect with state and tribal leaders and discuss agency partnerships on preparedness, mitigation and response efforts as the region experiences continued increases in major wildfires.  

Hooks met with tribes and the state’s emergency management leaders to discuss the ongoing response to wildfires and other ongoing recovery projects in the state.

“I enjoyed discussing FEMA’s support and ongoing partnership opportunities with state and tribal leaders” said Hooks. “Wildfire mitigation, as well as preparedness and readiness efforts were priority topics, along with how FEMA can continue to better support underserved communities across both the state and the nation.”

Hooks met with Acting Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Diego Arecon about the four declared Fire Management Assistance Grants in the state. A prolonged drought across the Western U.S. has raised the risk of wildfires in the region. The Southwest Coordination Center reported New Mexico wildfires had burned over 173,000 acres this year alone, a figure that is greater than seven of the last eight years.         

Hooks also met with tribal leaders from Santa Clara Pueblo, Santa Domingo Pueblo and Pueblo of Santa Ana and visited ongoing FEMA mitigation projects with the leaders that are meant to tackle flood control and wildfire prevention. FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks traveled to New Mexico to connect with state and tribal leaders and discuss agency partnerships on preparedness, mitigation and response efforts as the region experiences continued increases in major wildfires.  

Hooks met with tribes and the state’s emergency management leaders to discuss the ongoing response to wildfires and other ongoing recovery projects in the state. “I enjoyed discussing FEMA’s support and ongoing partnership opportunities with state and tribal leaders,” said Hooks. “Wildfire mitigation, as well as preparedness and readiness efforts were priority topics, along with how FEMA can continue to better support underserved communities across both the state and the nation.” Hooks met with State Director of Emergency Management, Diego Arecon about the four declared Fire Management Assistance Grants in the state. A prolonged drought across the Western U.S. has raised the risk of wildfires in the region. The Southwest Coordination Center reported New Mexico wildfires had burned over 173,000 acres this year alone, a figure that is greater than seven of the last eight years.         

Hooks also met with tribal leaders from Santa Clara Pueblo, Santa Domingo Pueblo and Pueblo of Santa Ana and visited ongoing FEMA mitigation projects with the leaders that are meant to tackle flood control and wildfire prevention.  

SANTA CLARA PUEBLO, N.M. -- FEMA staff and Santa Clara Pueblo tribal members in the Santa Clara Canyon during FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks recent visit to New Mexico. The team visited a hazard mitigation project that took a naturalistic approach to flood mitigation. (Front row from left) James Baca of the Santa Clara Pueblo, SCP Gov. J. Michael Chavarria, FEMA Deputy Administrator Hooks, Paula Gutierrez (FEMA), and Garrett Altmann and Daniel Tafoya from Santa Clara Pueblo. (Back row from left) Santa Clara Pueblo's Donald Suazo, Jude Chavarria and Tribal Sheriff Joseph Gutierrez (FEMA photo by Charles Shaw)

 

SANTA CLARA PUEBLO, N.M. -- FEMA Deputy Administrator Erik Hooks (center) surveys the Santa Clara Canyon with Santa Clara Pueblo Gov. J. Michael Chavarria (far left), Garrett Altmann (2nd from right) and FEMA’s Sash Goswami. (FEMA photo by Charles Shaw)

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 05/03/2022 - 19:01

Hurricane Preparedness Week Heralds Call to Review Your Plan, Stay Vigilant and Be Informed

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands –- Today is an excellent day to begin preparing yourself and your family for the upcoming Atlantic storm season. During National Hurricane Preparedness Week, assess your personal risk, practice your family's emergency communications plan, begin replenishing your emergency kit, and examine your insurance plans.

The hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, but do not wait until shop shelves run out of supplies, food, and water, lines form at gas stations, and ATMs run out of cash when a storm forms in the Atlantic to update your emergency plans.

The time to prepare is now under blue skies.

FEMA and its partners in the U.S. Virgin Islands are set to test their capabilities to respond to storms and will conduct a series of response exercises this spring and through the summer. “We focus year-round on preparing for storms and are ready for the upcoming Atlantic hurricane season. The territory will have FEMA’s support if it requests federal resources for preparedness and response,” said Virgin Islands Caribbean Area Office Coordinator Mark A. Walters. “We are asking Virgin Islanders to take a vigilant stance to prepare their families, communities and businesses for hurricane season. It takes only one storm to cause a disaster,” said Walters.

"By building and sustaining effective partnerships with federal, state, and local government agencies, and with the private sector, VITEMA ensures the territory’s ability to rapidly recover from large and small disasters by assessing and mitigating hazards, enhancing preparedness, ensuring effective response, and building the capacity to recover,” said Daryl Jaschen, Director of the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency.

“Emergency management is a shared responsibility: government cannot effectively build resilience to disasters by itself. Individuals, families, and communities must work to mitigate risks, prepare themselves and their communities for disasters, build local partnerships that will help government agencies respond to, and care for those impacted by disasters," said Jaschen.

There are steps you can take right now to ensure you and your family are better prepared in the event of an emergencies.

• Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands your hurricane plan. Discuss the Virgin Islands Department of Health's recent COVID-19 recommendations and how it may affect your hurricane preparations. Remember to bring a plan to the office, the kids' day care, and everywhere else you go.
• Identify any additional help needed in an emergency if you or anybody in your home is senior or has a disability, access, or functional requirement. The V.I. Department of Human Services’ Elder, Dependent Adult, and Disabled Persons Disaster Registry is open to Virgin Islanders aged 60 and over, as well as those with disabilities.
  • To register, call 340-774-0930 ext. 4018 on St. Thomas, 340-776-6334 on St. John and 340-773-6630 on St. Croix. You can download and fill out a registry form at www.dhs.gov.vi  .
• Have several ways to receive alerts. Sign up for Alert VI to receive emergency notifications in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Download the FEMA app on your smartphone and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide. Check the settings on your mobile phones to make sure you can receive Wireless Emergency Alerts, which require no sign-up.
  • Have an emergency charging option for your phone and other devices.
• Protect your home against storms. Declutter drains and gutters, consider hurricane shutters and leave room in your home to bring in outside furniture during a storm.
• Learn your evacuation routes, practice with household, pets, and identify where you will stay during a hurricane. Follow the instructions from territorial agencies who will provide the latest recommendations based on the threat to your community and appropriate safety measures.
• Make sure your insurance policies and personal documents like ID are up to date. Make copies and keep them in a secure password protected digital space. You may need your documents to apply for and receive assistance after a disaster.
• Have enough supplies for your household, include medication, disinfectant supplies, masks, pet supplies in your go bag or car trunk. After a hurricane, you may not have access to these supplies for days or even weeks.
  • Replenish supplies in your emergency kit and replace expired items as needed.

Visit www.ready.gov/hurricanes or www.ready.gov/es/huracanes for more information on how to prepare for hurricanes, stay safe during a hurricane and returning home after a hurricane. Review Hurricane Preparedness Week’s themes, such as how to get an insurance checkup and how to strengthen your home, at www.weather.gov/wrn/hurricane-preparedness , and follow www.vitema.vi.gov for information on local events and community readiness.

Graphic gina.callaghan Tue, 05/03/2022 - 17:39

FEMA Provides Funds for Eisenhower Junior High Repairs

DENVER – FEMA has approved more than $630,000 in funding to the Granite School District for work completed at Eisenhower Junior High to repair damages that occurred during the Magna Earthquake, and to mitigate against future damage. The assistance was made available as part of the major disaster declaration made by President Trump in July 2020 to support Utah’s recovery.

The project includes repairs to the school to address earthquake damage and includes additional structural improvements that will make the building more resistant to a future quake. The mitigation work included stabilization of the roof structure by adding new steel bracing. In addition, new steel connections and a concrete roof beam were installed along the west wall of the gymnasium and east wall of the auditorium; this strengthened the connections linking the roof, wall, and foundation. Carbon fiber rods were also installed to stabilize the brick walls during earthquake shaking.

The funding comes from FEMA’s Public Assistance program, which provides aid to repair or replace damaged public infrastructure or for emergency actions taken to protect property or support public safety.  There is normally a 75 percent federal cost share, but the recently passed federal budget bill included a provision to increase the cost share to 90 percent for major disaster declarations made in 2020 and 2021. The remaining costs are the responsibility of the state and the local applicant receiving the funds.

The Eisenhower School project benefitted from a provision of the program that allows for the funding of additional mitigation work in certain cases.  This project was eligible for the mitigation funds because it was proven to be cost effective over the life of the project.  The mitigation funds amounted to more than $540,000.

To date, FEMA has provided more than $4.6 million to Utah households and communities for the Magna Earthquake recovery. Learn more about the disaster response and recovery efforts at www.fema.gov/disaster/4548.

Brian.Hvinden Tue, 05/03/2022 - 16:31