President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Amends Kentucky Major Disaster Declaration

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional federal emergency aid available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding and tornadoes beginning Dec. 10, 2021.

This assistance allows for funding at 100% federal cost share for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, for a 30-day period from the date of declaration.

Under the President’s major disaster declaration issued on Dec. 12, federal funding was made available at a 75% federal cost-share basis for emergency protective measures, hazard mitigation and assistance to affected individuals.         

amy.ashbridge Wed, 12/15/2021 - 22:55

FEMA Awards Osceola County $1.38 Million to Upgrade Traffic Signals

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $1,389,840 for Osceola County to upgrade the traffic signals at 14 locations and provide protection from winds up to 150 mph during future storms.

Funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) was approved in response to a proposal by the county after Hurricane Dorian in 2019. The grant will help pay for replacing the span wire and pole structures, upgrading the existing mast arm structures to current code wind speed and installing the underground infrastructure that will support the traffic signal system with its new mast arms.

The HMGP is an important source of federal disaster assistance. Program funding may become available after the president declares a major disaster, with a goal of strengthening communities by improving buildings and critical infrastructure. A 2018 report by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that one dollar spent on hazard mitigation saves more than six dollars of recovery and rebuilding costs.

Generally, the HMGP may provide a state, tribe or territory with additional grants up to 15 percent of the total disaster grants awarded by FEMA for a federally declared disaster. States such as Florida that meet advanced mitigation planning criteria may qualify for a higher percentage.

Florida has a FEMA-approved Enhanced Mitigation Plan, making the state eligible for HMGP funding not to exceed 20 percent of the estimated total amount of grant money spent by FEMA in the Hurricane Dorian disaster. From this amount, the HMGP reimburses the state up to 75 percent of eligible costs for hazard mitigation projects. The remaining amount comes from other sources such as state and local assets and a combination of cash and in-kind sources.

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

Nadine.Jones Wed, 12/15/2021 - 20:22

Disaster Recovery Center at Roller Kingdom in Hammond to Close Permanently Dec. 18

BATON ROUGE, La. – The Disaster Recovery Center located at the Roller Kingdom in Hammond will close at 6 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 18.

Residents of all parishes affected by Hurricane Ida can continue to visit a number of other centers open in Louisiana. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit www.FEMA.gov/DRC. All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for employees, volunteers and survivors. 

Survivors can meet face to face with FEMA specialists at the following center until it closes permanently at 6 p.m. on Dec. 18:

DRC Closing Dec. 18

Roller Kingdom

210 Hewitt Road

Hammond, LA 70403

 

rebecca.watson Wed, 12/15/2021 - 18:31

Connecticut FEMA Recovery Centers to Close, Help is Still Available

HARTFORD, Conn. – Three Disaster Recovery Centers will be closing this week in Fairfield and New Haven counties. While these sites will be closing help is still available, FEMA specialists are still just a phone call or mouse click away.

Two DRCs, will close at 6 p.m., Friday Dec. 17, and are located at:

• New Haven County: New Haven Fire Academy, 230 Ella T. Grasso Blvd., New Haven, CT 06519
• Fairfield County: Harry Bennett Library, 115 Vine Rd., Stamford, CT 06905

The final DRC, will close at 4 p.m., Saturday Dec. 18, and is located at:

• New Haven County: Milford Office Suites, 1 Darina Place, Milford, CT 06460

Help is Still Available

Disaster survivors can still access disaster information and assistance the following ways: online at DisasterAssistance.gov; by calling 800-621-3362; (TTY:800-462-7585); or download the FEMA app available for smart phones. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, 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. Multilingual operators are available.

adrien.urbani Wed, 12/15/2021 - 17:13

FEMA Approves $2.7 Million for Robinson Bayou Drainage Improvement Study

PENSACOLA, Fla. — FEMA has approved a hazard mitigation grant of $2,785,238 for the city of Panama City to examine a drainage improvement proposal for the Robinson Bayou Basin that will reduce water levels before, during and after rain events, and reduce downstream flood elevations.

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) will fund the study, which will include surveying, engineering, design, permitting and bidding for the proposed work. Data collection will be gathered for validation of the Hydrologic and Hydraulic (H&H) modeling, establishing a baseline for permitting and conducting an environmental assessment. The H&H modeling will become the basis of design for the hydraulic modifications to the system used in permitting and is a requirement of the HMGP drainage project to show no adverse impacts.

Once approved, the project will include upstream restoration of approximately 309 acres of wetlands which include minor modifications to channels, grading and hydraulics. Modifications include the redirection of water flow into the wetlands and reshaping of degraded channel sections to reduce erosion and ease maintenance. Wetland areas will be graded and replanted with native wetland vegetation and every effort will be made to protect and preserve remaining native species.

Additionally, two downstream culverts will be resized or removed for better water flow from the basin and land will be purchased to provide further open space for infiltration, thus managing upstream flood levels without causing adverse impacts downstream. 

The HMGP is an important source of federal disaster assistance. Program funding may become available after the president declares a major disaster, with a goal of strengthening communities by improving buildings and critical infrastructure. A 2018 report by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that one dollar spent on hazard mitigation saves more than six dollars of recovery and rebuilding costs.

Generally, the HMGP may provide a state, tribe or territory with additional grants up to 15 percent of the total disaster grants awarded by FEMA for a federally declared disaster. States such as Florida that meet advanced mitigation planning criteria may qualify for a higher percentage.

Florida has a FEMA-approved Enhanced Mitigation Plan, making the state eligible for HMGP funding not to exceed 20 percent of the estimated total amount of grant money spent by FEMA in the Hurricane Michael disaster. From this amount, the HMGP reimburses the state up to 75 percent of eligible costs for hazard mitigation projects. The remaining amount comes from other sources such as state and local assets and a combination of cash and in-kind sources.

Kimberly.Kipp Wed, 12/15/2021 - 14:31

FEMA Opens Two Mobile Registration Centers

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Two FEMA mobile registration centers are now open in Dawson Springs and Mayfield to help tornado survivors apply for FEMA assistance.

FEMA mobile units are at these locations:

First Baptist Church

960 Industrial Park Rd., Dawson Springs, KY 42408

 

The old Walmart location

Mayfield Plaza, 1102 Paris Rd., Mayfield, KY 42066

Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

FEMA personnel at the centers can help residents who were affected by the Dec. 10 severe storms and tornadoes apply for federal assistance.

There are three other ways to apply if you are unable to visit one of the centers: You can apply 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. When you apply, you will need to provide:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security Number.
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

The toll-free telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice.

The deadline for applications is Feb. 11, 2022.

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

For more information about Kentucky tornado recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at https://twitter.com/femaregion4.

neily.chapman Wed, 12/15/2021 - 13:56

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Illinois

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Illinois to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes on Dec. 10, 2021.

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance, to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in Bond, Cass, Coles, Effingham, Fayette, Jersey, Macoupin, Madison, Montgomery, Morgan, Moultrie, Pike and Shelby counties. 

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, will be provided at 75% federal funding to the state. 

Brian F. Schiller 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.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 12/14/2021 - 22:59

90 Days of FEMA Help – And Counting

HARRISBURG, PA – 90 days have passed since a major federal disaster was declared for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania after the Remnants of Hurricane Ida left many Pennsylvanians with losses and damage. On September 10, 2021 President Biden signed the declaration that allowed FEMA to assist. The declaration provided Individual Assistance (IA) for eight (8) counties: Bedford, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, Northampton, Philadelphia, and York.

Since then, between FEMA, the National Flood Insurance Program, and the U.S. Small Business Administration, more than $192.3 million in federal assistance has been approved for Pennsylvanians. FEMA and its federal partners continue working daily to support the commonwealth and its residents as they rebuild their lives and communities.

In the 90 days since the declaration, a total of 70,941 people in the eight designated counties have applied for federal assistance. The registration period ends on Jan. 10, 2022.

You can still register by going online at disasterassistance.gov or by calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362. Lines are open 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Help is available in most languages.

More than $82.7 million in federal disaster funds have been approved, including:

• More than $61.4 million in Individual Assistance grants for housing assistance.
• More than $21.2 million in grants for Other Needs Assistance to homeowners and renters to repair or replace certain household items, pay for disaster-related medical and dental expenses, and certain other disaster-related expenses.
• A total of 66,323 FEMA housing inspections have been completed.
• The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved more than $42.5 million in low-interest disaster loans to repair and replace damaged property and contents.
• All the above numbers continue to grow as FEMA and the SBA continue to process incoming registrations.
• The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has paid policyholders more than $67.1 million for 1,819 claims filed to repair and rebuild flood-damaged property and contents.
• The Disaster Recovery Centers closed on November 20. During their mission, 1,712 survivors visited the centers.

• During their mission, which ended Oct. 5, Disaster Survivor Assistance teams canvassed neighborhoods in all eight designated counties
  • There were 5,330 homes visited with 2,172 survivor interactions

Disaster response involves the whole community, including local, state, and federal agencies, the private sector, nonprofit, voluntary, and faith-based organizations. Volunteers have been working tirelessly to help Pennsylvanians who were impacted by the remnants of Hurricane Ida get back to a more normal life.

The following agencies have engaged in assisting survivors of the disaster:

• Pennsylvania VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster)
• Southeastern PA VOAD (SEPA VOAD)
• York County VOAD
• Northeastern PA VOAD (NEPA VOAD)
• American Red Cross
• Salvation Army
• United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR)
• United Church Christ Disaster Ministries
• Southern Baptist Convention
• Pennsylvania SPCA; ACLAMO (Accíon Comunal Latino Americano de Montgomery County / Latin American Action Committee of Montgomery County)
• Team Rubicon
• United Way 211
• Lutheran Disaster Services
• Lutheran Disaster Response
• Presbyterian Disaster Response
• Adventist Community Services
• Chester County Food Bank
• The Elevated Studio
• Nationalities Service Center
• Philabundance

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program (PA) is a grant program which provides funding for rebuilding necessary infrastructure to state and local governments and certain types of private nonprofit organizations following a presidential disaster declaration. FEMA announced that the program is available to Bedford, Bucks, Chester, Dauphin, Delaware, Fulton, Luzerne, Montgomery, Huntington, Philadelphia, Schuylkill, and York counties. All seven categories of PA (Categories A-G) are available on a 75 percent federal/25 percent state/local cost-share basis for eligible expenses.

As of 12/13/21, 194 Requests for Public Assistance have been submitted by local government entities for review.

On November 24, FEMA approved the commonwealth’s request to extend the use of emergency, non-congregate sheltering throughout the impacted areas of the commonwealth designated for Public Assistance to December 28, 2021, unless the needs of the commonwealth should end prior to this date.

For updates on the Pennsylvania response and recovery, follow the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency twitter.com/PEMAHQ on Twitter and Facebook https://m.facebook.com/PEMAHQ/. Additional information is available at fema.gov/disaster/4618.

To learn more about the City of Philadelphia’s Response and Recovery to Ida, please visit: https://www.phila.gov/2021-09-02-city-responds-to-damage-and-flooding-from-storm-ida/

Call 800-659-2955 for information about SBA’s disaster assistance, email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visit SBA’s website at SBA.gov/disaster. Deaf and hard of hearing individuals may call 800-877-8339.

valerie.amato Tue, 12/14/2021 - 20:59

Home/Business Damaged by Ida? A Low-Interest SBA Loan May be the Key to Recovery

Next to insurance, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are the primary source of funds for Connecticut disaster survivors to make property repairs and replace personal property destroyed by Hurricane Ida.

If SBA determines you are eligible for a loan, you don’t have to accept it, but you should complete the loan application as soon as possible to keep your recovery options open.  If you apply and are not approved for an SBA loan, you may be considered for additional FEMA assistance such as personal property replacement, disaster-caused vehicle repair, or moving and storage fees.

Types of SBA Disaster Loans

Home Disaster Loans – Loans to homeowners or renters to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and personal property, including automobiles. SBA disaster loans also may be used to pay insurance deductibles, if needed.

Low-interest disaster loans are available to businesses, nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters in Fairfield, New Haven and New London counties.

Business Physical Disaster Loans – Businesses of any size are eligible for loans to repair or replace disaster-damaged property owned by the business, including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery and equipment. Private, non-profit organizations such as charities, churches, private universities, etc., are also eligible.

Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) – Working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of the disaster. These loans are intended to assist through the disaster recovery period.

EIDL loans are available to businesses and private nonprofit organizations of any size in Fairfield, New Haven and New London counties and in the following adjacent counties: Hartford, Litchfield, Middlesex, New Haven, Tolland and Windham in Connecticut; Dutchess, Putnam and Westchester in New York; and Kent and Washington in Rhode Island.

Through SBA, homeowners may be eligible for a disaster loan up to $200,000 for primary residence structural repairs or rebuilding. SBA may also be able to help homeowners and renters with up to $40,000 to replace important personal property, including automobiles damaged or destroyed in the disaster.

SBA can also help businesses and private nonprofit organizations with up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged real estate and other business assets. Eligible small businesses and nonprofits can apply for economic injury disaster loans to help meet working capital needs caused by the disaster.

For more information, or to apply for a loan contact SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center by calling 800-659-2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or visiting SBA’s website at sba.gov/disaster. Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals may call 800-877-8339.

Face to face SBA disaster loan assistance can be found at any FEMA Disaster Recovery Center. To find your nearest DRC visit fema.gov/drc.

SBA applicants can also visit the SBA Business Recovery Center located at the Darien Public Library, 1441 Post Rd. Darien, CT, 06820. Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday.

The application filing deadline for physical damage loans is Jan. 28, 2022.

The application filing deadline for economic injury loans is Aug. 1, 2022.

Haven't Applied with FEMA? Apply One of Three Ways:

Those who have uninsured or underinsured losses can apply with FEMA in one of three ways: online at disasterassistance.gov, via the FEMA app, or call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, 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. Multilingual operators are available.

adrien.urbani Tue, 12/14/2021 - 14:58

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Tennessee

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Tennessee to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes on Dec. 10-11, 2021.

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance, to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in Cheatham, Decatur, Dickson, Dyer, Gibson, Lake, Obion, Stewart and Weakley counties. 

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, will be provided at 75% federal funding to the state. 

Myra M. Shird has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made later if warranted by the results of damage assessments.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 12/14/2021 - 14:43

Kentucky Tornado Survivors Can Apply for FEMA Assistance

FRANKFORT – Residents of Caldwell, Fulton, Graves, Hopkins, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Taylor and Warren counties in Kentucky who were affected by severe storms and tornadoes beginning Dec. 10, 2021, may apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

President Joseph Biden approved a major disaster declaration on Dec. 12. Residents in the designated counties can apply 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. When you apply, you will need to provide:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted.
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying.
• Your Social Security Number.
• A general list of damage and losses.
• Banking information if you choose direct deposit.
• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.

FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams will be in the field providing survivors help with applications for assistance and information, although survivors do not need to wait for these teams to begin the application process. These teams can help:

• Survivors apply for federal assistance.
• Check the status of an application already in the system or make minor changes to applications.
• Provide civil rights and disability integration assistance information to ensure equal access to FEMA programs. 

If you have homeowners or renter’s insurance, you must also file a claim with your insurance company. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. You will need to provide your insurance claim information to FEMA to determine eligibility for federal assistance.

Take photos to document damage and begin cleanup and repairs to prevent further damage. Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs, along with other programs to assist those recovering from the storms.

For more information about Kentucky tornado recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4630. Follow the FEMA Region 4 Twitter account at https://twitter.com/femaregion4.

neily.chapman Mon, 12/13/2021 - 22:55

FEMA Administrator Swears in Erik Hooks as Deputy Administrator

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell swore in Erik Hooks today as the agency’s new Deputy Administrator.  Hooks was appointed for the position by President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. earlier this year and confirmed by the Senate last week.

“I am so excited for Erik to be joining our team,” said Administrator Criswell. “He has such an amazing background and will be a tremendous asset in helping us take this agency where we want to go, with a people-first approach.”

In 2017, Hooks was appointed by North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper to become the state’s Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Advisor, leading the state’s disaster mitigation, response and recovery efforts. In this role, he led nearly 27,000 sworn and civilian public safety professionals, as well as approximately 12,000 National Guard soldiers and airmen.

After being sworn into office, Hooks told a story about some advice his brother Pete gave him during a sermon.  

“Help me to walk faithfully in my noble purpose,” said Hooks. “Helping people before, during and after disasters – there is no more noble purpose. I thank Administrator Criswell for this opportunity and I’m ready to roll up my sleeves and get to work.”

Hooks devoted three decades to public service in his home state of North Carolina. He served more than 27 years with the state’s bureau of investigation, starting as a special agent.  He is a member of the International Association of Chiefs of Police and served on the Executive Committee of the National Governors Homeland Security Advisors Council.

amy.ashbridge Mon, 12/13/2021 - 22:26

FEMA Continues Response to Tornado-Damaged Areas, Kentucky Receives Major Declaration Approval

WASHINGTON -- President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved Kentucky’s request for an expedited major disaster declaration Sunday night. The declaration authorizes federal assistance for disaster survivors in Caldwell, Fulton, Graves, Hopkins, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Taylor and Warren counties.

The declaration was granted after FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and DHS Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas visited affected areas of Kentucky Sunday to see tornado destruction firsthand and meet with first responders and emergency management officials conducting operations throughout the state.

“To all of the people of Kentucky, my heart goes out to each and every one of you who have experienced the tragic events from these tornadoes. I want you to know that the nation, your country, is praying with you,” said Administrator Criswell following the visit. Criswell said it was important for her and the secretary to see the damaged areas firsthand “so we can make sure that we're providing the right level of assistance to help with your response and your ongoing recovery.”

• Survivors in counties approved for individual assistance can apply for disaster assistance. The fastest way to apply is through DisasterAssistance.gov. They can also apply by calling 1-800-621-3362 (TTY 1-800-462-7585) or through the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
• If you have storm damage, take photographs or video to document it, and contact your insurance agent to start a claim.

FEMA, Federal and Voluntary Agency Partner Response Actions

FEMA’s priorities are to support lifesaving and life-sustaining actions. The agency continues working with federal, state, local, tribal and non-governmental partners to support the needs of areas affected by the tornado outbreak.

• FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams are in Kentucky working in declared counties to help survivors register for assistance. These teams will be working in declared counties and helping to address immediate and emerging needs.
• Two FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams have been working in Kentucky since Saturday to assist with federal coordination efforts. FEMA will also send disaster housing experts to work with these teams and commonwealth officials.
• Four Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) teams, including Canine Detection Search teams, are in Mayfield, Kentucky to assist local response. An additional 10-person team is relocating from Frankfort to Mayfield.
• An Incident Support Base was established at Fort Campbell, Kentucky to rapidly deploy personnel and supplies as needed. This includes:
  • Sixty-one generators, 74,000 meals, 135,000 liters of water, thousands of cots and blankets, infant toddler kits and pandemic shelter kits are staged to distribute at the commonwealth’s request.
  • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers temporary power and critical public facilities staff are providing support.
  • Mobile Emergency Response Support personnel is in Kentucky. Support includes two Mobile Emergency Operations Vehicles with emergency communications capabilities for federal resources, if needed. Three Mobile Communications Vehicles are expected to arrive today.
  • Staging teams, housing inspectors, damage assessment and voluntary agency liaison staff are staged and prepared to deploy.
• Eight shelters remain open in Kentucky, and the Salvation Army is serving meals and providing emotional support to survivors.

How to Help

After a disaster, people want to help. To make the most of your contributions, it’s important to follow guidelines for donating and volunteering responsibly.

• To help survivors in Kentucky, you can donate to the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund at http://TeamWKYReliefFund.ky.gov.
• Financial contributions to recognized disaster relief organizations are the fastest, most flexible and most effective method of donating. Organizations on the ground know what items and quantities are needed, often buy in bulk with discounts and, if possible, purchase through businesses local to the disaster, which supports economic recovery.
• To find a list of trusted organizations that can put your generous contributions to the best possible use, visit National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster.
• Before collecting donated items, confirm the items are needed, and how it will get to affected areas.
• Don’t self-deploy to disaster areas. Trusted organizations operating in the affected areas know where volunteers are needed. Work with an established non-profit organization to make sure you have the appropriate safety, training and skills needed to respond.
  • Recovery lasts much longer than media attention. There will be volunteer needs for many months, often many years, after the disaster. Your help is often needed long after a disaster.

Staying Safe During Clean Up

Following any emergency, always follow the instructions given by state, local or tribal emergency management officials. And before you begin cleaning up, take photos and make a list of your damaged property.

Survivors who cannot stay in their homes can locate emergency shelters options by zip code by visiting the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, or by texting SHELTER and your zip code (for example, “SHELTER 01234”) to 4FEMA (43362). For Spanish text REFUGIO and your zip code. (Standard text message rates apply.)  You can also download the FEMA mobile app to find open shelters. 

Additional safety tips include:

• Stay out of the area if possible. Emergency workers may be assisting people or cleaning up debris. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.
• If you suspect any damage to your home, shut off the electrical power, natural gas and propane tanks to avoid fire, electrocution or explosions, if you know how to do so safely.
• Do not touch downed power lines or any objects that are in contact with downed lines. If you see a downed power line or other electrical hazard, report it to the police and the utility company.
  • If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open all windows and leave the house immediately. Notify the gas company, the police or fire departments or State Fire Marshal's office. Do not turn on the lights, light matches, smoke or do anything that could cause a spark. Do not return to your house until your local officials say it is safe to do so.
• Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself.

Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

If you lost power, avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and fires.

• Use a generator safely! Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open. Keep generators far away from windows, doors and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
• Grills, camp stoves or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal burning devices should never be used inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. These should only be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. 

mayshaunt.gary Mon, 12/13/2021 - 19:19

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

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding and tornadoes beginning Dec. 10, 2021, and continuing.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Caldwell, Fulton, Graves, Hopkins, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Taylor and Warren counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the storms, winds, flooding and tornadoes.

Federal funding is also available to the state and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work in Caldwell, Fulton, Graves, Hopkins, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Taylor and Warren counties.

Lastly, federal funding is available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures for the entire commonwealth.

John Brogan is the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. 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 or 1-800-462-7585 TTY. 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 Mon, 12/13/2021 - 16:18

Eight Louisiana FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Remain Open With In-Person Service

BATON ROUGE, La. – FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers remain open in Jefferson, Lafourche, St. Charles, St. John the Baptist, Tangipahoa and Terrebonne parishes to provide in-person assistance to residents impacted by Hurricane Ida.

Survivors can get help with their disaster assistance applications, upload documents and have their questions about federal disaster assistance answered at any center. 

All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for employees, volunteers and survivors.   

Survivors can meet face to face with FEMA specialists 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday from at the following locations: 

Tarpon Heights Shopping Center

Galliano Government Complex (parking lot)

16245 East Main Street

Cut Off, LA 70345

Montegut Recreation Center

107 Recreation Drive   (southwest corner of Cross & Dolphin Streets)

Montegut, LA 70377

Edward Dufresne Community Center Parking Lot

274 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway

Luling, LA 70070

Alario Center

2000 Segnette Blvd.

Westwego, LA 70094

LPG Government Complex

4876 LA-1

Raceland, LA 70394

Houma Civic Center

346 Civic Center Blvd.

Houma, LA 70360

Roller Kingdom

210 Hewitt Road

Hammond, 70403

Garyville Library Parking Lot

111 Historic Front St.

Garyville, 70051

Note: Closes 5 p.m.

For other details, check the FEMA app (under Disaster Resources, select Talk to FEMA in Person) or visit the FEMA.gov/DRC for a complete list of DRCs currently open in Louisiana. 

kiarash.ghiam Mon, 12/13/2021 - 15:36

ICYMI - FEMA Administrator, DHS Secretary Tour Kentucky Tornado Damage

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and Department of Homeland Security Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas traveled to Kentucky today where they were briefed by local and commonwealth officials and held a media briefing with Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear.

The tour allowed Criswell and Mayorkas to see the tornado destruction firsthand and meet with first responders and emergency management officials conducting operations throughout the state. They toured areas of Graves and Marshall counties, also seeing the destroyed Mayfield Consumer Products factory.

“To all of the people of Kentucky, my heart goes out to each and every one of you who have experienced the tragic events from these tornadoes,” said Administrator Criswell. “I want you to know that the nation, your country, is praying with you. We've been seeing the pictures of this, but standing there in these communities, you don't get that feeling from a picture. When you stand in one direction and look and see all of the devastation and then just turn to your right and all of the devastation around you, you can't understand how this has impacted these communities until you're there,” she continued.  “That’s why it's so important to be here to see it for myself, so we can make sure that we're providing the right level of assistance to help with your response and your ongoing recovery.”

Criswell added that FEMA still will be working with the commonwealth on all their long-term recovery needs as these communities start to rebuild.  

 For additional photos from today’s tour visit FEMA’s DVIDS page.

BENTON, Ky. -- Kentucky Emergency Management Director Mike Dossett (center) briefs DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas (left) and FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (right) as they begin touring damage throughout the area.

BENTON, Ky. -- Local Marshall County incident commander briefs DHS Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas (center) and Administrator Criswell, showing a satellite image of the tornado’s path.

 

MAYFIELD, Ky. -- Louisville Emergency Management Director E.J. Meiman and Administrator Criswell discuss response operations near the Mayfield Consumer Products factory that was destroyed by a tornado late Friday.

zella.campbell Sun, 12/12/2021 - 23:27

FEMA Continues Response to Tornado-Damaged Areas

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and Department of Homeland Security Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas are traveling to Kentucky this morning to meet Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and local officials to discuss the commonwealth’s needs while touring the damaged areas.  While there, they will also brief media on the ongoing response and recovery activities.

On Saturday, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved Gov. Beshear’s emergency declaration request, authorizing  FEMA to provide measures to save lives and protect public health and safety for 16 counties in the commonwealth. Damage assessment teams are being deployed to Kentucky.

“On behalf of everyone at FEMA, our hearts and prayers are with all the families and lives who have been impacted by these devastating storms,” said Administrator Criswell.  “This operation remains a lifesaving and life sustaining mission. Our support to Kentucky will align with their resource requests to make sure we are giving first responders anything they need at this time.”

FEMA, Federal and Voluntary Agency Partner Response Actions

FEMA is working with its federal, state and local partners as well as non-governmental agencies to support needs of areas affected by the tornado outbreak. In addition to a Kentucky FEMA Integration Team member, two FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams are in Kentucky to assist with federal coordination efforts.

• An Incident Support Base is being established at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, to rapidly deploy personnel and supplies as needed. This includes:
  • Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) team Indiana Task Force-1 to assist local response.
  • An additional 10-person team US&R team deployed to the Kentucky Emergency Operations Center in Frankfort.
  • Fifty-two generators, 30,000 meals, 45,000 liters of water, cots, blankets, infant toddler kits and medical equipment and supplies.
  • U.S. Army Corps of Engineers temporary power and planning and response teams are on alert.
  • A Mobile Emergency Response Support has deployed to Kentucky, which includes two Mobile Emergency Operations Vehicles with emergency communications capabilities for federal resources, if needed.
  • Additional staging teams and damage assessment staff are being mobilized and prepared to deploy if needed to any of the affected areas.
• Eleven shelters are open in Kentucky. Three are open in Tennessee.
• FEMA is in contact with state emergency management officials as tornado damage reports come in from Arkansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Missouri and Tennessee.

Staying Safe During Clean Up

Following any emergency, always follow the instructions given by state, local or tribal emergency management officials. Follow these tips to stay safe after a tornado:

• Stay out of the area if possible. Emergency workers may be assisting people or cleaning up debris. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.
• Enter areas that have sustained damaged only after your local officials have said it is safe to do so. Always follow the direction of your local officials.
• If you suspect any damage to your home, shut off the electrical power, natural gas and propane tanks to avoid fire, electrocution or explosions, if you know how to do so safely.
• Do not touch downed power lines or any objects that are in contact with downed lines. If you see a downed power line or other electrical hazard, report it to the police and the utility company.
  • If you see frayed wiring or sparks, or if there is an odor of something burning, you should immediately shut off the electrical system at the main circuit breaker if you have not done so already.
  • If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open all windows and leave the house immediately. Notify the gas company, the police or fire departments, or State Fire Marshal's office. Do not turn on the lights, light matches, smoke or do anything that could cause a spark. Do not return to your house until your local officials say it is safe to do so.
• Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled.

Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

If you lost power, avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and fires.

• Use a generator safely! Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open. Keep generators far away from windows, doors and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
• Grills, camp stoves or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal burning devices should never be used inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. These should only be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. 
• Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home.
• For additional safety tips before, during or after a tornado visit Ready.gov/tornadoes.

How to Help

After a disaster, people want to help. To make the most of your contributions, it’s important to follow guidelines for donating and volunteering responsibly.

• To help survivors in Kentucky, you can donate to the Team Western Kentucky Tornado Relief Fund at http://TeamWKYReliefFund.ky.gov.
• Financial contributions to recognized disaster relief organizations are the fastest, most flexible and most effective method of donating. Organizations on the ground know what items and quantities are needed, often buy in bulk with discounts and, if possible, purchase through businesses local to the disaster, which supports economic recovery.
• To find a list of trusted organizations that can put your generous contributions to the best possible use, visit National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster.
• Before collecting donated items, confirm the items are needed, and how it will get to affected areas.
• Don’t self-deploy to disaster areas. Trusted organizations operating in the affected areas know where volunteers are needed. Work with an established non-profit organization to make sure you have the appropriate safety, training and skills needed to respond.
  • Recovery lasts a lot longer than media attention. There will be volunteer needs for many months, often many years, after the disaster.  Your help is often needed long after a disaster.

zella.campbell Sun, 12/12/2021 - 17:25

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Kentucky

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding and tornadoes beginning Dec. 10, 2021 and continuing.

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance, to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in Breckenridge, Bullitt, Caldwell, Fulton, Graves, Grayson, Hickman, Hopkins, Lyon, Meade, Muhlenberg, Ohio, Shelby, Spencer and Warren counties. 

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, will be provided at 75% federal funding to the commonwealth. 

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

 

 

zella.campbell Sat, 12/11/2021 - 22:47

FEMA Responds to Tornado Outbreaks

WASHINGTON -- Multiple states were affected by an outbreak of tornadoes Friday night. FEMA is monitoring to meet the needs of survivors as well as state, local and tribal governments and is actively coordinating with affected states to address unmet needs.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell spoke with Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear to ensure the state has all federal resources necessary to continue search and rescue efforts following these devastating tornadoes. FEMA received Gov. Beshear's emergency declaration request this morning and it is under review.

FEMA Response Actions

• Two FEMA Incident Management Assistance Teams are en route to Kentucky to assist with all federal coordination efforts.
• Damage assessment teams, additional staff and resources are positioned and ready to deploy to Kentucky or any other affected areas.
• FEMA is in contact with state emergency management officials as tornado damage reports come in from Arkansas, Illinois, Missouri and Tennessee.

Staying Weather Aware and Safe Before, During and After Tornadoes

Residents from east-central Mississippi to extreme southwestern Virginia should stay vigilant as this storm system moves east. Damaging wind gusts and a few tornadoes will be possible, mainly early in the day. Isolated strong wind gusts cannot be ruled out over parts of the Mid-Atlantic during the late afternoon and evening.

In any emergency, always follow the instructions given by state, local or tribal emergency management officials.

Follow these tips to stay safe after a tornado

• Stay out of the area if possible. Emergency workers may be assisting people or cleaning up debris. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.
• Enter areas that have sustained damaged only after your local officials have said it is safe to do so. Always follow the direction of your local officials.
• If you suspect any damage to your home, shut off the electrical power, natural gas and propane tanks to avoid fire, electrocution or explosions, if you know how to do so safely.
• Do not touch downed power lines or any objects that are in contact with downed lines. If you see a downed power line or other electrical hazard, report it to the police and the utility company.
  • If you see frayed wiring or sparks, or if there is an odor of something burning, you should immediately shut off the electrical system at the main circuit breaker if you have not done so already.
  • If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open all windows and leave the house immediately. Notify the gas company, the police or fire departments, or State Fire Marshal's office. Do not turn on the lights, light matches, smoke or do anything that could cause a spark. Do not return to your house until your local officials say it is safe to do so.
• Be careful when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.

Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

If you lost power, avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and fires.

• Use a Generator Safely! Never use a generator inside a home, basement, shed or garage even if doors and windows are open. Keep generators far away from windows, doors and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors.
• Grills, camp stoves or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal burning devices should never be used inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. These should only be used outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. 
• Never use a gas stovetop or oven to heat your home.
• For additional safety tips before, during or after a tornado visit. Ready.gov/tornadoes.

 

zella.campbell Sat, 12/11/2021 - 17:47

ICYMI – FEMA Administrator Highlights Advancing Climate Resilience to Western Governors

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell addressed the nation’s western governors today at the Western Governors' Association 2021 Winter Meeting in Coronado, California.

Administrator Criswell’s speech focused on the need to advance climate resilience, the value of mitigation and preparedness and our shared responsibility to equitably distribute resources and information.

“We are clearly at a turning point,” Criswell said. “The actions we take now will have a tremendous impact on future generations, so it is imperative that we act with purpose and solidarity to adapt, become more resilient and face the future with an optimism born from bold action.”

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell (left) with U.S. Secretary of Interior Deb Haaland at the Western Governors’ Association 2021 Winter Meeting. (U.S. Department of Interior Photo)

Administrator Criswell's remarks outlined her strategic vision for the next five years at FEMA. FEMA will instill equity as a foundation of emergency management, lead the whole of community in climate resilience and promote and sustain a ready FEMA and prepared nation. She noted that the agency will only be successful in these efforts insofar as it effectively collaborates with its state, local, territorial and tribal partners.

You can read Criswell’s full remarks at the winter meeting here. You can read FEMA’s new strategic plan by visiting the “2022-2026 FEMA Strategic Plan” page on fema.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 12/10/2021 - 21:36