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Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Arlington County, Virginia
PHILADELPHIA - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Arlington County, Virginia. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.
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 partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.
The 90-day appeal period will begin on July 22, 2021. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that 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 the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.
Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator. For more information on floodplain management in Arlington County, visit https://environment.arlingtonva.us/flood-insurance-rate-maps/ or contact Aileen Winquist at awinquist@arlingtonva.us. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer: https://arcg.is/1LG0C4.
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; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. 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 and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.
Arlington County Flood Mapping Milestones
- April 6, 2020 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
- Sept. 18, 2020 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
- Nov. 9, 2020 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
- July 22, 2021 –Appeal Period starts.
- Fall 2022* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
amanda.hancher Wed, 08/04/2021 - 14:05
Learn Disaster Risk Reduction Tips at Hammer Time True Value Hardware
CHICAGO - As southeast Michigan survivors clean and repair damage to their homes caused by the severe storms and flooding that occurred June 25-26, 2021, FEMA has teamed up with Hammer Time True Value Hardware in Detroit to provide free information, tips and literature on making homes and businesses stronger and safer.
The FEMA Hazard Mitigation team will be at:
Hammer Time True Value Hardware
16380 E Warren Avenue
Detroit, MI 48224
From: Aug. 2, 2021 to Aug. 14, 2021
Hours: Mon. through Sat. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. ET and Sun. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. ET
Most of the information and the free publications provided are geared to do-it-yourself work and general contractors. Recovery topics covered include clean-up tips, flood insurance, elevating utilities and rebuilding flooded homes.
FEMA Hazard Mitigation specialists are also on hand at Disaster Recovery Centers to answer questions and offer floodproofing information, home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters. For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4607. FEMA assistance is currently available to residents in Washtenaw and Wayne counties. The deadline for individuals to apply for disaster assistance is Sept. 13, 2021.
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Wed, 08/04/2021 - 13:05FEMA Awards Lee County Electric Cooperative $27 Million for Hurricane Irma Expenses
ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $27,075,628 for the State of Florida to help the Lee County Electric Cooperative (LCEC) defray the cost of repairs and equipment replacement for its utility distribution system after Hurricane Irma in 2017.
FEMA Public Assistance program funds will reimburse LCEC for extensive damage to its electrical transmission and distribution system including the replacement of 879 power meters, 1,107 concrete and wood poles, 376 streetlights and 659 transformers. In addition, the utility restored power to approximately 70 percent of its more than 200,000 customers in five Southwest Florida counties.
The program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including some houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.
The federal share for Public Assistance projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the nonfederal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with subrecipients such as local and county governments.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
Nadine.Jones Wed, 08/04/2021 - 12:38
Regional Airport Rehabilitation Is Underway with Million-dollar FEMA Allocation
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded over $1.7 million for the repair of regional airports throughout the Island. The funds are destined for permanent repairs in the airports of Aguadilla, Ceiba, Culebra, Mayagüez and San Juan (Isla Grande).
According to the Puerto Rico Ports Authority, passenger activity between all regional airports-including those in Ponce and Humacao- reached over 1.2 million travelers between 2018 and 2019, prior to the start of the flight restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. In comparison, from 2020 to 2021, over 863,000 visitors have been registered.
“This network is an essential part of Puerto Rico’s tourism industry and is our first impression for many travelers visiting the island, for example, from Aguadilla International Airport. That is why it is important that these facilities are in peak condition and to be more competitive as a tourist destination,” said Puerto Rico Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator, José G. Baquero.
The Agency allocated close to $164,00 to Rafael Hernández International Airport in Aguadilla for security work directed towards compliance with the Federal Aviation Administration Agency regulations, and close to $430,900 for the architectural and engineering studies that precedes construction and remodeling works.
Located on the previous facilities of the United States Airforce’s Ramey Airport, the regional airport of Aguadilla provides direct weekly flights in both directions to the Dominican Republic and the cities of Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, New York, Newark and Philadelphia. It is the regional airport with most passenger traffic, almost 130,000 people between 2020 and 2021, and has approximately 400 employees.
“Aguadilla’s Rafael Hernández International Airport is the second largest airport facility on the island in terms of passengers, with the longest runway in the Caribbean. FEMA funds allocated to this airport are extremely important for the safety of the thousands of passengers who use it and the hundreds of people who work here,” said José A. Riollano, director of the Ports Authority’s Aviation Bureau and airport manager.
Likewise, obligations approved for architectural and engineering studies at other regional airports include over $401,000 for the Fernando Ribas Dominicci Airport in Isla Grande, nearly $132,000 for the José Aponte de la Torre Airport in Ceiba, and over $88,000 for the Fernando Ribas Dominicci Regional Airport in Culebra.
On the other hand, $147,000 were approved for the Eugenio María de Hostos Airport in Mayagüez for works on the security of the perimeter that protect this important installation. Regional airports provide a network of air access that supports the local tourism industry between Mayagüez, Aguadilla, San Juan and the east coast of the island, including the island municipalities of Vieques and Culebra.
On his part, engineer Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, the Executive Director of the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction, and Resiliency (COR3), highlighted that infrastructure is the foundation for the economic development of Puerto Rico. “Currently, in COR3 we have disbursed approximately $4 million for these works and we will continue providing assistance in the formalities related associated with reconstruction through which the diverse economic sectors are strengthened”, Laboy Rivera added.
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 Wed, 08/04/2021 - 11:27
FEMA and Territorial Partners Conduct Community Points of Distribution Exercises
ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – Last month, FEMA led classroom and field exercises for the territory’s points of distribution managers and U.S. Virgin Islands logistics staff. FEMA’s Logistics staff could be used to monitor distribution sites for future events.
During the territory’s Hurricane Response Initiative and Capstone this past spring, it was clear that new points of distribution managers in the U.S. Virgin Islands needed to be recruited and trained.
“Coordination during this year’s Capstone workshops between FEMA and our partners in the U.S. Virgin Islands led to Community Points of Distribution training last month. Points of distribution managers now have the ability to organize and distribute commodities to support Virgin Islanders for their greatest time of need,” said Mark A. Walters, Coordinator for FEMA’s U.S. Virgin Islands Caribbean Area Office. “Even as we work together improve our ability to respond to disasters, it is still very important for Virgin Islanders to prepare themselves and their families with at least 10 days of food, water and medicines to survive until Community Points of Distribution can be established.”
Coordinated distribution of food, water, tarps, and blankets is critical to reduce human suffering and provide life-sustaining commodities for disaster survivors. Disasters including hurricanes and earthquakes often disrupt supply chains, close retail stores, and fill ports and roads with debris making access to food, water and other important supplies challenging.
The path to standing up Community Points of Distribution begins long before the onset of disasters. The responders who lead these critical operations must be trained and ready to help survivors when the moment arrives.
Region 2’s Incident Management Assistance Team supported the training for points of distribution managers at the request of the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency and the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services. The Virgin Islands National Guard provided personnel and vehicles for the field exercises.
“It is crucial for the U.S. Virgin Islands, and especially the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services to obtain the most up-to-date training in all areas of disaster preparedness and readiness, including the Community Points of Distribution,” said Kimberley Causey-Gomez, Commissioner of the Department of Human Services. “We are truly thankful for our federal and local partners, FEMA and VITEMA and other local Emergency Support Function 6 support agencies to ensure effective outcomes for all types and sizes of threats and hazards, thereby improving resiliency locally. Enhancing public trust in our responsiveness before, during and post disaster is also important. We encourage our community to be diligent in preparing themselves and continuing to stay safe during all hazards,” said Causey-Gomez.
The Virgin Islands Voluntary/Community Organizations Active in Disasters participated in the points of distribution training as well. A combined 56 students attended the training at St. Croix Educational Complex, Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School on St. Thomas and located at St. John Rescue.
“Having trained individuals in the community with knowledge on how to properly manage a community distribution point is essential. These sites become a key location for distributing food and water and keeping calm in our community following a natural disaster, such as a hurricane,” said Daryl Jaschen, Director of VITEMA. “I am extremely pleased with the number of volunteers willing to participate and work together with VITEMA, National Guard, Department of Health, and FEMA to support such an endeavor, if ever the need arises,” said Jaschen.
Even as FEMA and the GVI work to improve their ability respond to disasters, Virgin Islanders should prepare to be self-sufficient in the immediate aftermath of a hurricane and take steps to protect their property. Those with disabilities and others with access and functional needs may have additional considerations. Find more ways to prepare at http://vitema.vi.gov/ready/build-a-kit .
St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, July 19, 2021 -- Daryl Jaschen, Director of the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency, (center), meets with members of Region 2's Incident Management Assistance Team, FEMA U.S. Virgin Islands logistics staff and partners from the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Human Services and Love City Strong during a Community Points of Distribution field exercise in Gifft Hill. FEMA/Geri Purvis
St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, July 13, 2021 – Members of Region 2's Incident Management Assistance Team, FEMA Virgin Islands logistics staff and territorial partners from the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency and U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Human Services conduct a Community Points of Distribution field exercise at Educational Complex. FEMA/Geri Purvis
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, July 15, 2021 -- Members of Region 2's Incident Management Assistance Team lead a class on Community Points of Distribution for FEMA's U.S. Virgin Islands logistics staff and territorial partners from the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Human Services at Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School. FEMA/Geri Purvis
gina.callaghan Tue, 08/03/2021 - 19:00FEMA Extends Emergency Non-Congregate Sheltering Assistance for Displaced Disaster Survivors
WASHINGTON -- FEMA has extended funding for Emergency Non-Congregate Sheltering during the COVID-19 public health emergency until Nov. 30, 2021, as the agency continues to help protect people during their recovery from hurricanes and wildfires. Under this policy, FEMA reimburses state, tribal and territorial governments partial cost of providing non-congregate sheltering for people who must evacuate during a disaster.
Typically, displaced disaster survivors are sheltered in facilities with large open spaces, such as schools, churches, community centers or similar facilities, rather than in non-congregate environments, which are locations where each individual or household has living space that offers some level of privacy such as hotels, motels or dormitories.
We have made significant progress over the past six months in our fight against COVID-19. To date,164 million Americans are fully vaccinated, including 80% of seniors and more than 60% of all adults. But the Delta variant is different. It’s more contagious, with the variant spreading more than twice as easily from one person to another.
FEMA recognizes sheltering operations during the COVID-19 public health emergency may require states, tribes and territories to consider additional strategies to ensure survivors are sheltered in a manner that does not increase the risk of exposure to or further transmit the disease. After a Stafford Act declaration, states, tribes and territories may be eligible for reimbursement of costs associated with non-congregate sheltering.
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, FEMA established a policy that allowed state, local, tribal and territorial governments to apply for reimbursement of costs associated with non-congregate sheltering of disaster survivors under FEMA’s Public Assistance program. Originally scheduled to end on Dec. 31, 2020, the policy was extended until July 31, 2021. Due to the continuing need to protect public safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, FEMA has further extended this policy until Nov. 30, 2021.
FEMA has extended the policy once again to ensure that survivors unable to return home can be safely sheltered after a disaster. Anyone interested in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine should visit vaccines.gov to find a location close to them and make an appointment. Individuals can also text their zip code to 438829 to receive a text with the closest COVID-19 vaccine location.
mayshaunt.gary Tue, 08/03/2021 - 13:53FEMA Awards Florida Keys Electric Cooperative $2.17 Million to Protect Transmission Poles
ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $2,174,276 for the Florida Keys Electric Cooperative (FKEC) to upgrade 82 electrical transmission poles to protect them from high wind damage and substantially reduce the vulnerability of the utility’s electrical distribution system to future storms.
Funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) was approved in response to a proposal by FKEC after Hurricane Irma in 2017. The grant will help pay for the conversion to stronger, stand-alone poles that can withstand winds of up to 210 miles per hour and provide natural corrosion resistance.
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 Irma 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 Tue, 08/03/2021 - 12:34
FEMA Awards Funding to Wyoming for Post-Fire Mitigation
DENVER – FEMA recently awarded more than $400,000 to Albany and Carbon counties for post-fire mitigation. The funds are related to FEMA’s approval of a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) request from the state of Wyoming for the Mullen Fire. The Mullen Fire started on Sept. 17, 2020, and burned more than 176,800 acres.
As a part of the FMAG award, funding is made available through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post-Fire assistance for hazard mitigation measures that substantially reduce the risk of future damage, hardship, loss, or suffering. Albany County received a federal cost share of $352,500, and Carbon County received $77,625. The program has a maximum 75 percent federal cost share, with the remaining costs the responsibility of the state and the applicant. The funding covers a variety of hazard mitigation measures including replanting grass and vegetation, erosion control, tree removal, soil stabilization, and mulching.
For more information about FEMA’s HMGP Post-Fire program, visit https://www.fema.gov/grants/mitigation/post-fire
jamie.casterton Mon, 08/02/2021 - 21:15FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Tops $888 Million
WASHINGTON -- FEMA has provided over $888 million to more than 135,000 people to assist with COVID-19-related funeral costs for deaths occurring on or after Jan. 20, 2020.
Eligibility determinations are not driven by state/location; instead, they are based on when the applicant submits all required documentation.
“Applications” in the below chart reflect the number of individuals who called to begin the assistance process.
Please find state-specific information below:
State/Territory
Applications
Amount Approved
Number of Awards
ALABAMA
5,562
$20,875,004
3,022
ALASKA
125
$307,329
55
AMERICAN SAMOA
Less than 10
$0
0
ARIZONA
4,230
$11,647,696
2,291
ARKANSAS
2,432
$9,210,111
1,448
CALIFORNIA
26,290
$83,433,610
12,851
COLORADO
1,901
$5,566,742
978
COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS
Less than 10
$4,344
Less than 10
CONNECTICUT
3,053
$12,859,055
1,835
DELAWARE
776
$2,506,199
394
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
489
$1,473,933
216
FLORIDA
14,176
$41,577,352
7,342
GEORGIA
9,310
$35,154,735
5,047
GUAM
13
$32,707
Less than 10
HAWAII
240
$737,790
126
IDAHO
514
$1,422,913
245
ILLINOIS
10,559
$40,584,290
5,919
INDIANA
4,394
$17,373,805
2,470
IOWA
2,215
$9,493,523
1,320
KANSAS
2,069
$7,313,221
1,103
KENTUCKY
3,318
$13,815,322
1,942
LOUISIANA
4,559
$16,341,602
2,384
MAINE
333
$824,021
152
MARYLAND
4,960
$18,081,381
2,681
MASSACHUSETTS
5,077
$20,546,999
2,941
MICHIGAN
8,492
$29,880,195
4,902
MINNESOTA
2,439
$10,867,337
1,566
MISSISSIPPI
3,994
$14,644,715
2,163
MISSOURI
4,386
$17,317,385
2,737
MONTANA
441
$978,218
195
NEBRASKA
1,063
$4,637,152
651
NEVADA
2,117
$5,748,725
1,037
NEW HAMPSHIRE
606
$2,024,960
342
NEW JERSEY
10,613
$40,261,837
5,798
NEW MEXICO
1,369
$3,178,052
623
NEW YORK
23,136
$78,463,913
11,306
NORTH CAROLINA
7,384
$28,099,342
4,234
NORTH DAKOTA
611
$2,498,601
331
OHIO
8,574
$32,897,260
5,103
OKLAHOMA
3,468
$14,079,585
2,185
OREGON
748
$1,866,649
350
PENNSYLVANIA
11,442
$44,492,137
6,782
PUERTO RICO
1,044
$1,561,354
447
RHODE ISLAND
1,035
$3,422,949
492
SOUTH CAROLINA
5,088
$20,898,631
3,024
SOUTH DAKOTA
654
$2,593,144
349
TENNESSEE
6,085
$24,007,882
3,467
TEXAS
22,413
$82,188,963
12,585
U. S. VIRGIN ISLANDS
23
$65,749
10
UTAH
946
$3,877,342
554
VERMONT
125
$399,388
66
VIRGINIA
5,429
$20,838,650
3,123
WASHINGTON
1,636
$4,155,541
749
WEST VIRGINIA
1,315
$4,369,649
640
WISCONSIN
3,989
$16,070,898
2,431
WYOMING
221
$746,083
131
* Funeral assistance data can/will change daily; the information reflects data as of 8 a.m. today.
Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. Please note, phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Applicants who use a relay service, such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, should provide FEMA with the specific number assigned to them for that service so that agency representatives are able to contact them.
Additional information about COVID-19 funeral assistance, including frequently asked questions, is available on FEMA.gov.
mayshaunt.gary Mon, 08/02/2021 - 20:48FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Mana Road Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of Hawaii in combating the Mana Road Fire burning in Hawaii County.
On August 1, the state of Hawaii submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Mana Road Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 140 homes in and around Puukapu Hawaiian Homeland and Waikii Ranch with a combined population of 560. The fire started on July 30 and had burned 14,000 acres of state and private land. The county issued mandatory evacuation orders for 440 residents.
The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on August 1, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.
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 cause major disasters. 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 Mon, 08/02/2021 - 17:44FEMA Provides an Additional $23.4 Million to the City and County of Denver for COVID-19 Response
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has provided $23.4 million in additional Public Assistance funding for the COVID-19 response to the City and County of Denver. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued March 28, 2020. FEMA has provided a total of $131 million for Denver’s COVID-19 response to date, and $951 million statewide.
The funding was provided to the City and County of Denver for establishing and operating emergency shelters in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Emergency sheltering services were provided to vulnerable members of the community needing isolation and quarantine. Such services include, but are not limited to, the following: facility leasing; staffing and support services; medical services; wraparound services; force account labor and supplies. This follows a previous award of $60.5 million, bringing the federal support for Denver’s vaccination mission to $83.9 million.
This funding is authorized under the January 21, 2021, Presidential Memorandum for the Secretary of Defense & the Secretary of Homeland Security and Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.
For the COVID-19 response, FEMA has simplified the Public Assistance application and funding process to address the magnitude of this event and to allow local officials to receive eligible funding more quickly. These reimbursements play a critical role as state, local and tribal officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response.
Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.
anthony.mayne Mon, 08/02/2021 - 17:04
Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Tarrant County, Texas
DENTON, Texas – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in Tarrant County, Texas. 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 90-day appeal and comment periods.
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 submit appeals or comments.
The 90-day appeal and comment periods will begin on or around July 30, 2021. Residents and business owners are also encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.
Appeals and comments may be submitted through Oct. 28, 2021 for:
- The cities of Arlington, Bedford, Benbrook, Colleyville, Dalworthington Gardens, Euless, Forest Hill, Fort Worth, Grand Prairie, Grapevine, Haltom City, Haslet, Hurst, Keller, Kennedale, Mansfield, North Richland Hills, Richland Hills, River Oaks, Saginaw, Southlake, Watauga, Westworth Village and White Settlement; the town of Pantego; and the unincorporated areas of Tarrant County.
Comments only may be submitted through Oct. 28, 2021 for:
- The cities of Azle, Blue Mound, Burleson, Crowley, Lake Worth, Lakeside, Roanoke and Sansom Park; and the towns of Trophy Club, Westlake and Westover Hills.
- 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.
Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. 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.
Carmen.Castro Mon, 08/02/2021 - 14:51
More Than $43 Million in Federal Assistance Already Approved for Southeast Michiganders
CHICAGO – More than $43 million has already been approved in FEMA grants and U.S. Small Business Administration disaster loans to help residents affected by the June 25-26, 2021, flooding in southeast Michigan.
Here is a snapshot of the disaster recovery effort as of July 30:
- More than 13,000 households have been approved for nearly $40 million in FEMA grant funding, including:
- More than $34.2 million in housing grants, including short-term rental assistance and home repair costs.
- Nearly $5.5 million approved for other essential disaster-related needs such as expenses related to medical, dental, and lost personal possessions.
- Nearly 19,000 home inspections have been completed.
- Five Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) and two Document Drop-off Centers (DDCs) have been opened in the declared areas of Wayne and Washtenaw counties, to provide individuals with in-person help through their application process.
- The SBA has approved $3.37 million in low-interest disaster loans, with more than 100 loan applications approved.
Individuals in Washtenaw and Wayne counties with uninsured or underinsured losses from the June 25 -26 storms are encouraged to apply for federal assistance.
There are several ways to register:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
- Using the FEMA App; or
- Calling 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). TTY users can call 800-462-7585. The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
If you need assistance with the registration process, you can also visit a Disaster Recovery Center. To find your nearest center, visit FEMA’s locator page at https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.
Anyone requiring a reasonable accommodation (ASL interpreting, Braille, Large print, etc.) may call 800-621-3362 to request assistance in advance or ask the recovery staff at the center for assistance.
For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4607. The deadline for individuals to apply for disaster assistance is Sept. 13, 2021.
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Sat, 07/31/2021 - 18:40Summer Rains Threaten Burn Scar Areas and Pose Flash Flood Threat, Be Prepared and Consider Buying Flood Insurance
DENVER – Recent years have brought many wildfires to the West. Beyond the damage caused and the challenges in battling them, fires often leave a hidden legacy – flash floods and mudflows. Wildfires leave the ground charred and unable to absorb water. As demonstrated this year, this creates a flash flooding potential for years to come, even in areas that rarely experienced flooding in the past. Sometimes these flash floods can pick up ash and large debris, turning into mudflows that are highly destructive.
It's important to be aware of your situation and to know if you live near a burn scar area. Make sure you have a solid evacuation plan and monitor changing weather conditions via the National Weather Service or local media outlets. You also should have important documents in a safe and easy to access place should you be forced to evacuate.
Unlike many causes of damage, flooding and mudflows are generally not covered by a homeowners’ policy. Floods are the most common and expensive natural disaster in the U.S. Just an inch of water in an average-sized home can cause $25,000 in damage. A National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policy protects against such losses and can ensure that a flood doesn’t bring financial ruin.
Buyers should be aware of the 30-day waiting period for an NFIP policy to go into effect. It is important to purchase a policy now to protect your property against the continuing threat of flooding. You can usually purchase flood insurance from your current agent. If that isn’t possible, NFIP representatives can help you find one.
As with any insurance, be sure to talk with your agent about the specifics of your policy. Find out more about your risk and flood insurance at www.floodsmart.gov. To purchase flood insurance or to find an agent, call 1-800-427-4661.
Brian.Hvinden Fri, 07/30/2021 - 17:52FEMA approves $6.29 million in Hurricane Michael Public Assistance grants
PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved grants totaling $6,296,948 to reimburse the Florida Department of Transportation and West Florida Electrical Cooperative Inc. for Hurricane Michael-related recovery expenses.
- Florida Department of Transportation: $3,783,133 for debris cleanup activities throughout Washington County from Nov. 2018 through July 2019, which includes collecting and removing 140,155 cubic yards of vegetative and construction/demolition debris, 94 stumps, 403 hazardous leaning trees and 635 hanging limbs from public roads, property and rights of way that posed a threat to public health and safety.
- Bringing total grants for the department's Hurricane Michael-related expenses to $304 million.
- West Florida Electric Cooperative Association Inc.: $2,513,834 for repairs to Sneads District Office - Altha Substation #8 and affiliated electrical grids, including repairs to electrical power poles, power distribution lines and transformers throughout the city.
Bringing total grants for the cooperative’s Hurricane Michael-related expenses to $52 million.
FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) works with FEMA during all phases of the program and reviews projects prior to FEMA final approval.
Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to FDEM after final approval.
Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to finalize grants and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.
FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.
zella.campbell Fri, 07/30/2021 - 12:48Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Jefferson Chalmers
CHICAGO – A Disaster Recovery Center will open in Jefferson Chalmers on Friday, July 30, to help renters, homeowners and business owners affected by the June 25 – 26 severe storms and flooding.
The center will be in the following location:
Golightly Career and Technical Center, 900 Dickerson Avenue, Detroit, MI 48215
Hours will be 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Sunday.
Other FEMA recovery and document drop-off centers are already open. Individuals can find their nearest center by visiting FEMA’s locator page at https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.
At recovery centers, representatives from FEMA, U.S. Small Business Administration, Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division, and other state agencies are available to explain disaster assistance programs, answer questions about written correspondence and provide literature about repairs and rebuilding to make homes more disaster resistant.
Individuals do not have to visit a recovery center to register or receive federal assistance. These centers provide a location for applicants to submit documentation or discuss their case in-person with a FEMA or SBA representative. Before visiting a recovery center, survivors should register for federal assistance one of the following ways:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
- Using the FEMA App; or
- Calling 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). TTY users can call 800-462-7585. The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
Anyone requiring a reasonable accommodation (ASL interpreting, Braille, Large print, etc.) may call 800-621-3362 to request assistance in advance or ask the recovery staff at the center for assistance.
Applicants and staff in the recovery center will be required to comply with federal guidelines for mask usage when interacting with federal employees. Any individual inside a recovery center must wear a face mask which covers the individual’s nose and mouth, as per CDC guidance.
For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4607. FEMA assistance is currently available to residents in Washtenaw and Wayne counties. The deadline for individuals to apply for disaster assistance is Sept. 13, 2021.
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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Fri, 07/30/2021 - 12:27FEMA Awards Florida Department of Transportation $1.29 Million for Hurricane Dorian Costs
FEMA Awards Florida Department of Transportation $1.29 Million for Hurricane Dorian Costs ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $1,290,940 for the State of Florida to help the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) defray the cost of its emergency response to Hurricane Dorian in 2019.
FEMA Public Assistance program funds will reimburse the FDOT for emergency measures taken to protect life and property, including the cost of evacuations, security, removal of large roadway debris and staffing of the emergency operations center.
The program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including some houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.
The federal share for Public Assistance projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the nonfederal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with subrecipients such as local and county governments.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
Nadine.Jones Fri, 07/30/2021 - 12:13ICYMI: FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell Traveled West to Address Climate Change, Connect with State, Tribal Leaders on Wildfire Response and Mitigation Efforts
WASHINGTON – Last week, FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and acting U.S. Fire Administrator Chief Tonya Hoover, traveled to Idaho, Oregon and California to meet with federal, state and tribal officials for discussions on wildfire preparedness, response and mitigation efforts.
“We spent our time out West connecting directly with state and tribal leaders who were ready to have tough conversations about what their communities are going through in the face of climate change,” said Administrator Criswell. “Wildfires are a central part of the larger climate crisis our country is facing, and we can’t shy away from the work that must be done to mitigate future risk.”
The 2021 wildfire season has already burned nearly 3.4 million acres across 13 states in the U.S. and FEMA has approved 19 Fire Management Assistance Grants in support of state wildfire fighting efforts.
“Wildfires aren’t seasonal anymore; they are a year-round threat,” said Administrator Criswell. “FEMA’s investment in reducing the impact of climate change isn’t seasonal either, it’s the biggest thing we are doing right now and we’re doing it every day.”
On Tuesday, July 20 Administrator Criswell traveled to Idaho where she visited the Idaho Office of Emergency Management to meet with Director Brad Richy and the National Interagency Fire Center. While at the center, she was briefed by the National Multi-Agency Coordination Group on wildfire threats around the country. The center recently raised the National Wildland Fire Preparedness level to Level 5 (highest level), which is the earliest the level has been reached in the past 10 years.
BOISE, Idaho (July 20, 2021) – From left, Idaho Office of Emergency Management Director Brad Richy, acting U.S. Fire Administrator Chief Tonya Hoover, FEMA Region 10 acting Administrator Vince Maykovich, Administrator Criswell, White House National Security Council representative Caitlin Durkovich, U.S. Fire Administration representative Aitor Bidaburu and National Interagency Fire Center representative Grant Cogswell outside of the Smoke Jumpers base at the center.
The Administrator met and thanked the FEMA staff working in Salem and was accompanied by the Region 10 acting Regional Administrator Vincent Maykovich.
Gov. Kate Brown issued a statement following her meeting with Administrator Criswell to discuss ongoing wildfire recovery efforts and natural disaster preparedness moving forward.
GRAND RONDE, Ore. (July 21, 2021) – Administrator Criswell (left) sits with Tribal Council Chairwoman Cheryle A. Kennedy at the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde.
PORTLAND, Ore. (July 21, 2021) – Administrator Criswell (right, center) meets with Oregon Gov. Kate Brown (left, center), Oregon Emergency Management Director Andrew Phelps and acting U.S. Fire Administrator Tonya Hoover for a discussion on the state’s wildfire preparedness efforts.
On Thursday, July 22 Administrator Criswell traveled to California where she was hosted by California Gov. Gavin Newsom, California Office of Emergency Services (CalOES) Director Mark Ghilarducci, and California Department of Forestry and Fire Prevention Director Thom Porter and leadership for briefings and tours of areas affected by wildfires and the ongoing drought. California leaders briefed the Administrator on their forest and vegetation management and mitigation actions, and the group. The group surveyed Folsom Lake, which is currently at 26% capacity. While at Folsom Lake, the Administrator was briefed on drought conditions, cascading impacts and the state’s current response actions. CalOES hosted a wrap-up discussion at their headquarters, focused on recovery and mitigation, and the partnerships, challenges, actions and projects the state is currently focused on. FEMA Region 9 Administrator Robert Fenton joined Administrator Criswell throughout her trip to make introductions to federal, state and tribal officials and help facilitate discussions.
Gov. Newsom issued a statement following his tour with Administrator Criswell of Folsom Lake reservoir and North Fork American River Shaded Fuel Break in Placer County.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (July 22, 2021) – Administrator Criswell meets with California Gov. Gavin Newsom (center) and California Office of Emergency Services Director Mark Ghilarducci (right) outside of California Department of Forestry and Fire Prevention Station 30.
mayshaunt.gary Thu, 07/29/2021 - 17:36FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Montana’s Poverty Flats Fire
DENVER – This afternoon, FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Poverty Flats Fire burning in Big Horn County and Crow Agency in Montana.
FEMA Acting Regional Administrator Tammy Littrell approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request earlier today and determining that the fire threatened such destruction that it would constitute a major disaster.
At the time of the request, the Poverty Flats Fire was threatening more than 1,240 homes in and around the Crow Agency and the town of Hardin in Big Horn County. The fire is also threatening buildings, infrastructure, utilities, equipment, and roads in the area. The fire started yesterday, July 27, 2021 and has burned more than 65,000 acres of state and private land. The fire is zero percent contained.
The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.
Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies.
With the FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.
For more information on FMAGs, visit https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.
minh.phan Wed, 07/28/2021 - 22:29
FEMA Issues Final Public Notice for Kentucky Counties
FRANKFORT, Ky. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is required by law to provide public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities via the Public Assistance (PA), Individual Assistance (IA), or Hazard Mitigation Grant (HMGP) programs.
A public notice for the current disaster recovery mission is posted on the following website: DR-4595-KY Public Notice 003 | FEMA.gov
This public notice addresses the agency’s intention to reimburse eligible applicants for costs to repair or replace facilities damaged by the severe storms, flooding, landslides, and mudslides, that occurred in Kentucky between Feb. 27 and March 17, 2021. This public notice concerns activities that may affect historic properties, activities that are located in or may affect wetland areas or the 100-year floodplain, and critical actions within the 500-year floodplain. The notice describes the agency’s legal requirement to include the public in its evaluation of proposed activities’ impact to or by floodplains and wetlands; and effects to historic resources.
This will serve as the final public notice regarding these actions funded by the FEMA PA program. Interested persons may obtain information about assistance projects by writing to the Federal Emergency Management Agency, Region 4, 3005 Chamblee-Tucker Road, Atlanta, GA 30341, or by emailing to FEMA-R4EHP@fema.dhs.gov. Comments should be sent in writing with the subject line, “FINAL PUBLIC NOTICE FEMA-4592/4595-DR-KY, involving roads for similar, and minor repairs,” at the above address within 15 days of the date of this notice.
felicia.jordan Wed, 07/28/2021 - 20:16Pages
