Does it Pay to Buy Flood Insurance?

NASHVILLE, Tenn.  – As Tennesseans continue the often costly process of repairing and rebuilding after the storms and flooding that took place from March 25 to April 3, now is a good time for everyone to consider investing in flood insurance. It’s important to know that homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage from a natural disaster. Usually, the only way for homeowners, renters and businesses to be protected from the costs of floods is with a policy from the National Flood Insurance Program.  

“Experience teaches, but only if we pay attention,” said Myra M. Shird, FEMA’s federal coordinating officer for the affected areas in Tennessee. “Almost no one likes investing in insurance until they need it; then, people are very relieved they have coverage.”

Paying insurance premiums is almost always a less costly alternative than taking out a loan to repair flood damage. Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are the primary form of federal help following a federal disaster declaration. As of mid-June, 75 homeowners in the federally declared counties of Davidson, Williamson and Wilson, have taken out disaster loans from the SBA averaging $36,000 each. A flood insurance policy provides peace of mind and freedom from having to take on future debt.

The average annual cost of a flood insurance policy in Tennessee is $860 per year or about $70 a month. Policy rates vary based on what flood zone the home is in, age of the home, amount of coverage needed, and other factors. Even if your home is not in a designated high-risk area, it can still be flooded. Keep in mind, as many as one-fourth of all NFIP claims come from areas not designated as high risk.

The maximum coverage available for a residential building is $250,000 and $100,000 for contents. Non-residential (commercial) structures are eligible for maximum coverage of $500,000 on the building and $500,000 on contents. 

For additional information and to purchase an NFIP policy, contact your insurance agent today. You may also obtain comprehensive information on flood insurance on the floodsmart.gov website.

Homeowners and business owners are eligible to purchase flood insurance if their community is among the more than 20,000 communities participating in the NFIP. Participating communities agree to adopt and enforce floodplain management ordinances to reduce future flood damage.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4601. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Fri, 07/02/2021 - 20:33

FEMA Determination Letters Can Help You Find Disaster Assistance Answers

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – If you received a letter from FEMA that says you’re ineligible for help or that there is “no decision,” read the letter carefully. FEMA may need additional information from you to continue processing your application. If you have insurance and are applying for federal assistance, you must file a claim with your insurance provider. If applicable, you will need to provide a copy of your insurance settlement approval or denial letter.

A few common reasons for being determined ineligible or receiving “no decision” include:

• You are insured. FEMA will not duplicate benefits that are covered by insurance, but you may be eligible for help with losses not covered or those in excess of your insurance coverage. You must provide a copy of your insurance settlement approval or denial letter to FEMA. If your insurance settlement is insufficient to meet your disaster-related needs, you may be eligible for federal assistance. Contact FEMA to provide any additional information or documentation.
• You reported no home damage or minimal damage when you registered with FEMA. If you reported your home had no disaster-related damage but later discover it’s not habitable, contact FEMA to let them know. Documentation from a local official or contractor supporting your appeal may help you prove that your home is not habitable.
• Proof of occupancy. When FEMA is unable to verify the occupancy of your primary residence, you may need to provide documentation, such as utility bills, a bank or credit card statement, phone bill, pay stubs, a driver’s license, state-issued ID card or voter registration card showing the damaged dwelling’s address.
• No initial rental assistance. You indicated to the inspector that you were not willing to move while your damaged home was being repaired. This made you ineligible for FEMA temporary rental assistance. If you later found further damage to your home or your housing needs have changed, contact FEMA as soon as possible to update your housing status and explain why you have a need to relocate.
• No communication with FEMA. If you missed an inspection and did not follow up with FEMA, your assistance could be affected. Make sure that FEMA has your contact information. If you are unable to meet with an inspector as planned, let FEMA know. Be aware that an out-of-state area code on an incoming call may be FEMA trying to reach you.
• Your home is safe to occupy. FEMA housing assistance typically only covers costs to make your home habitable. Damage to non-essential space, landscaping or spoiled food is not covered by FEMA grants.
• Apply for a Small Business Administration (SBA) loan. Assistance from FEMA may not cover all damage or property loss. An SBA loan application, however, may make FEMA assistance available to replace essential household items, replace or repair a damaged vehicle, or pay storage costs. It is critical that the SBA loan application be completed and returned before further FEMA assistance may be considered.

If you have questions or need to speak about your eligibility status, call 800-621-3362, open daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., EDT. Multilingual operators are available.

Applicants can appeal a FEMA determination, to do so, you need to submit supporting information along with a letter describing in detail the reason (or reasons) you are appealing.

You should include your full name, FEMA application number and disaster number, pre-disaster primary residence address and current phone number and address on all submitted documents. You can find the application and disaster number printed on page 1 of your determination letter.

You can submit your appeal and any associated documentation by:

1. Mailing your documents and letter within 60 days of receiving your determination letter to the address below. Your letter with accompanying documents must be postmarked within 60 days of the date on your letter from FEMA regarding your eligibility.

FEMA National Processing Service Center

P.O. Box 10055

Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055

2. Uploading your documentation online at disasterassistance.gov.
3. Faxing your information to 800-827-8112.

Survivors should call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) to register. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service. Survivors can also register online at disasterassistance.gov.

###

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

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). Multilingual operators are available. (Press 2 for Spanish).

Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMAregion3.

 

gabriel.lugo Fri, 07/02/2021 - 19:40

One Week Left to Register for Federal Assistance for Spring Storms

NASHVILLE, Tenn.  – Homeowners and renters in Davidson, Williamson and Wilson counties with uninsured damage or losses from the March 25 – April 3, 2021 severe storms have one week left to apply to FEMA for federal disaster assistance and to the U.S. Small Business Administration for low interest disaster loans.

The deadline for both is Wednesday, July 7, 2021

After registering with FEMA, many residents are automatically referred to SBA to apply for a low-interest disaster loan. SBA’s disaster loans are the largest source of long-term federal disaster recovery funds for residents, businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations.

Those who still have not registered with FEMA can do so at DisasterAssistance.gov or by downloading fema.gov/mobile-app. Or you can call the disaster assistance helpline: 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Please note that helpline will be closed on Sunday, July 4 and Monday, July 5. Normal operations will resume on Tuesday, July 6.  Lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Time. Operators are multilingual and those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service. If you need accommodations for language or a disability, let the operator know.

To apply for a disaster loan, you can go to https://DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov/ela/s/. You may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center. The center is open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central Time, seven days a week. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call 800-877-8339.  The CSC will be open Saturday, Sunday and Monday (federal holiday). The Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center/Business Recovery Center (VDLOC/VBRC) is open: Monday - Sunday (7 days/week) Hours: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. (Eastern Time)

There is no obligation to take an SBA disaster home loan or cost to apply. Residents that are declined for an SBA loan will be referred to FEMA for grant consideration.

Survivors with insurance should also apply to FEMA, as they may be eligible for grants to help with disaster-related expenses their insurance doesn’t cover. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits.

For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4601. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.

felicia.jordan Fri, 07/02/2021 - 16:49

Inspectores de FEMA visitan los condados de West Virginia afectados por inundaciones invernales

Después de la declaración de desastre federal por las tormentas severas e inundaciones del 27 de febrero al 4 de marzo de 2021, la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés) enviará a inspectores a los condados de Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo y Wayne para documentar los daños a los hogares afectados por el desastre.

Los inspectores de FEMA se comunicarán con los solicitantes para documentar el alcance de los daños a sus hogares. No se programarán automáticamente las inspecciones de vivienda para los sobrevivientes que sufrieron daños mínimos y pueden residir en sus hogares cuando éstos solicitan la asistencia de FEMA, pero éstos pueden solicitar una inspección si después descubren daños significantes causados por el desastre.

Los residentes de los condados afectados deben estar atentos contra posibles fraudes y estafas por parte de personas que dicen ser representantes de FEMA:

• Usted podría recibir llamadas o visitas inesperadas a su hogar de personas que dicen que son inspectores de viviendas de FEMA o que trabajan con FEMA. La persona podría pedir el número de Seguro Social de usted e información sobre sus ingresos y cuentas bancarias. Los representantes de FEMA tendrán una placa laminada y sabrán su número de inscripción de FEMA.
• Proteja la privacidad de su número de caso/inscripción de nueve dígitos de FEMA. Los inspectores de vivienda de FEMA que son legítimos solo pedirán los últimos cuatro dígitos como parte del proceso de verificación; para completar el proceso, el inspector proveerá al solicitante los primeros 4 dígitos de su número de inscripción.
• No facilite su información bancaria a ninguna persona que dice que es inspector de vivienda de FEMA. Los inspectores de FEMA nunca son autorizados para recibir su información financiera personal.

Los residentes de los condados de Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo y Wayne que fueron afectados por el desastre que ocurrió del 27 de febrero al 4 de marzo deben comunicarse con FEMA por Internet en disasterassistance.gov/es o llamar a la Línea de ayuda de FEMA al 800-621-3362. Las personas sordas, con dificultades de audición o con una discapacidad del habla que usan un TTY pueden llamar al 800-462-7585. Se atienden las líneas todos los días de 6 a.m. a 10 p.m. CT.

Esta asistencia es inelegible para daños individuales y familiares ocasionados por las tormentas invernales que ocurrieron del 10 al 16 de febrero de 2021 y que afectaron los condados de Cabell, Lincoln, Mason, Putnam y Wayne.

Para más información sobre la recuperación del desastre en Virginia Occidental, visite emd.wv.gov, la página en Facebook de la División de West Virginia para el Manejo de Emergencias, www.fema.gov/es/disaster/4605 y www.facebook.com/FEMA.

###

La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres.

amanda.hancher Fri, 07/02/2021 - 16:37

¡No espere! Los residentes de West Virginia que fueron afectados por las inundaciones a fines de febrero deben solicitar la asistencia federal por desastre

CHARLESTON - Si usted sufrió daños o pérdidas por las inundaciones que ocurrieron del 27 de febrero al 4 de marzo de 2021, le quedan menos de seis semanas para solicitar la asistencia federal por desastre de la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés). La fecha límite para solicitar es el lunes 19 de julio de 2021.

Subvenciones de asistencia individual por desastre para propietarios de vivienda e inquilinos está disponibles para los residentes elegibles en los condados de Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo y Wayne.

Cómo solicitar:

• Llame al 800-621-FEMA (3362) o, para TTY, al 800-462-7585
• En línea en DisasterAssistance.gov/es
• Descargue la aplicación móvil de FEMA

Las subvenciones de FEMA no tienen que ser reembolsadas. La asistencia de FEMA es no imponible y no afectará la elegibilidad para el Seguro Social, Medicaid u otros beneficios federales.

Debe solicitar asistencia incluso si tiene seguro. FEMA no puede duplicar los pagos del seguro, pero si usted sufrió pérdidas que el seguro no cubrirá, podría recibir ayuda de FEMA después de resolver sus reclamaciones al seguro.

No espere hasta el último momento. El último día para solicitar es el lunes 19 de julio de 2021.

Para más información sobre la recuperación del desastre en West Virginia, visite www.fema.gov/es/disaster/4605. Conozca más sobre la Asistencia por desastre en www.disasterassistance.gov/es. Para orientación sobre el proceso de solicitud de Asistencia por desastre, visite www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/program#apply.

 

Hay tres maneras en que los residentes de los condados de Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo y Wayne que sufrieron daños durante las inundaciones del 27 de febrero al 4 de marzo de 2021 pueden solicitar la Asistencia de FEMA. Asistencia para vivienda incluye Asistencia de alquiler, Reembolsos de gastos de alojamiento y Asistencia para reparaciones a la vivienda. Se aceptarán hasta el 19 de julio de 2021. (Gráfico de FEMA)

###

La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres. La jurisdicción de la Región 3 de FEMA incluye Delaware, el Distrito de Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia y West Virginia. 

 Síganos en Twitter en twitter.com/femaregion3 y en LinkedIn en  linkedin.com/company/femaregion3 

amanda.hancher Fri, 07/02/2021 - 16:30

Equipos de FEMA salen a las calles para ayudar a los residentes de West Virginia a recuperarse de las inundaciones en febrero

CHARLESTON – Después de las inundaciones severas de la primavera que afectaron a los residentes de West Virginia del 27 de febrero al 4 de marzo de 2021, los equipos de Asistencia a Sobrevivientes del Desastre (DSA, por sus siglas en inglés) de la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés) están en las comunidades afectadas para ayudar a orientar a los sobrevivientes de las inundaciones sobre los programas de FEMA y para ayudarles a solicitar la asistencia por desastre de FEMA.

Los residentes de los condados de Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo y Wayne son elegibles para solicitar asistencia de FEMA para ayudar con sus gastos por los daños y pérdidas que causaron las inundaciones en febrero. Se recomienda que los residentes soliciten la asistencia antes del lunes 19 de julio de 2021.

Cómo solicitar:

• Llame al 800-621-FEMA (3362) o, para TTY, al 800-462-7585
• Visite DisasterAssistance.gov/es
• Descargue la aplicación móvil de FEMA en un teléfono inteligente.

Los equipos de Asistencia a Sobrevivientes del Desastre (DSA, por sus siglas en inglés) de FEMA están ayudando a los sobrevivientes de desastre a navegar el proceso de asistencia por desastre y se están comunicando con los residentes en las áreas afectadas de los condados de Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo y Wayne. Estos equipos tienen para sus objetivos ayudar a los sobrevivientes a solicitar asistencia de FEMA, contestar preguntas sobre el proceso de asistencia y apoyar a los sobrevivientes si tienen problemas con sus solicitudes que tienen que corregirse. 

Los equipos de DSA también apoyan en la recuperación del desastre de West Virginia de otras maneras:

• Visitan ciertos vecindarios, espacios públicos y negocios locales para proporcionar información directamente a los residentes y sobrevivientes en las comunidades afectadas.
• Proporcionan información sobre derechos civiles e integración de discapacidades para asegurar un acceso equitativo a los servicios y programas de FEMA.
• Involucran a organizaciones con base de fe, organizaciones comunitarias, el sector privado (negocios) y bibliotecas públicas que podrían tener la capacidad para distribuir información sobre el desastre a los sobrevivientes en los condados afectados.
• Identifican organizaciones que proveen servicios y/o recursos relacionados con el desastre para los sobrevivientes para su recuperación inmediata y a largo plazo.

Mientras los equipos de DSA visitan los vecindarios, los residentes de los condados afectados también deben estar atentos contra posibles fraudes y estafas por parte de personas que dicen ser representantes de FEMA:

• Los representantes de FEMA nunca cobran tarifas ni piden pagos.
• Usted podría recibir llamadas o visitas inesperadas a su hogar de personas que dicen que trabajan con FEMA. La persona podría pedir el número de Seguro Social de usted e información sobre sus ingresos y cuentas bancarias. Los representantes de FEMA tendrán una placa laminada de identificación y, si usted ya ha solicitado, sabrán su número de inscripción de FEMA.
• Proteja la privacidad de su número de caso/inscripción de nueve dígitos de FEMA. Los representantes legítimos de FEMA solo pedirán los últimos cuatro dígitos como parte del proceso de verificación; para completar el proceso, el inspector proveerá al solicitante los primeros cuatro dígitos de su número de inscripción.
• Si usted sospecha que un individuo en su comunidad esté haciéndose pasar por un funcionario de FEMA o intentando estafar a los sobrevivientes de desastre de otra manera, notifique a la agencia del orden público local.

Los equipos de Asistencia a Sobrevivientes del Desastre (DSA, por sus siglas en inglés) de FEMA han estado trabajando para ayudar a los residentes de los condados de Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo y Wayne que fueron afectados por las inundaciones del 27 de febrero al 4 de marzo de 2021. Los equipos de DSA están ayudando a los residentes con el proceso de solicitud para la asistencia por desastre de FEMA. (Philip Maramba/FEMA)

Los equipos de Asistencia a Sobrevivientes del Desastre (DSA, por sus siglas en inglés) de FEMA han estado trabajando para ayudar a los residentes de los condados de Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo y Wayne que fueron afectados por las inundaciones del 27 de febrero al 4 de marzo de 2021. Los equipos de DSA visitan a vecindarios y proveen ayuda en determinados puntos de solicitud. (Philip Maramba/FEMA)

###

La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres. 

La jurisdicción de la Región 3 de FEMA incluye Delaware, el Distrito de Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia y West Virginia. 

 Síganos en Twitter en twitter.com/femaregion3 y en LinkedIn en linkedin.com/company/femaregion3 

Para más información sobre la recuperación del desastre en West Virginia, visite emd.wv.gov, la página en Facebook de la División de West Virginia para el Manejo de Emergencias, y www.fema.gov/es/disaster/4605.

La asistencia para recuperación por desastre está disponible sin distinción de raza, color, religión, nacionalidad, sexo, edad, discapacidad, dominio del inglés o situación económica. Si usted o alguien que conozca ha sido víctima de discriminación, llame al número sin costo de FEMA al 800-621-3362 (voz, 711 o servicio de retransmisión por video). Los usuarios de TTY deben llamar al 800-462-7585.

 

amanda.hancher Fri, 07/02/2021 - 16:20

Deadline to Apply for Flooding Assistance from FEMA and SBA is August 2

BATON ROUGE, La. – The deadline to apply for federal assistance for May’s severe storms, tornadoes and flooding is Aug. 2. You will not want to miss out on the opportunity to receive a grant from FEMA or a low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), if qualified. The five designated parishes for disaster assistance are Ascension, Calcasieu, East Baton Rouge, Iberville and Lafayette.

First, be sure to file a claim with your home and flood insurance provider. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance benefits, but help may be available for under-insured or uninsured losses. Be sure to update FEMA once your insurance claim is settled.

FEMA disaster assistance for individuals and families can include money for rental assistance, essential home repairs, personal property and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance

There are three ways to apply to FEMA:

• Visit  www.disasterassistance.gov;
• Call 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. CT seven days a week. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
• Download the FEMA Mobile App by texting ANDROID or APPLE to 43362.

After applying, you may be contacted by the SBA about a low-interest disaster loan. Complete the SBA application to keep the process moving. An SBA low-interest disaster loan may cover some or all of the difference. In other words, the SBA may bridge the gap between your recovery costs, the insurance settlement, and the FEMA grant amount.

• SBA offers loans for homeowners up to the $200,000 statutory maximum to repair or replace your primary residence. The loans are customized to your personal financial circumstances. On a case-by-case basis, the SBA may be able to assist with refinance of your current mortgage(s).
• SBA can also help renters and homeowners replace household contents and vehicles, referred to as personal property. You may be able to borrow up to the $40,000 statutory maximum to repair or replace clothing, furniture, cars, or appliances that were damaged or destroyed in the disaster.

For additional assistance, the SBA has established a Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center that is open Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CST. You can contact an SBA customer service representative via email at FOCWAssistance@sba.gov or by phone at 800-659-2955. SBA will answer specific questions about how a disaster loan may help each survivor with their disaster recovery and will provide one-on-one assistance in completing applications for these loans. You can apply online at https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov

For the latest information on severe storms, tornadoes and flooding visit fema.gov/disaster/4606. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.  

stuart.lewis Fri, 07/02/2021 - 16:09

Don’t Spark a Fire This Fourth of July -- Celebrate Your Holiday Safely

BOTHELL, Wash. – This fire season, FEMA is urging extreme caution with any Fourth of July celebrations that include fireworks, campfires, or grilling. Record-breaking temperatures and drought conditions have increased the fire danger of outdoor recreational activities this summer.

Much of the region is currently under red flag warnings and faces the risk of thunderstorms and lightning strikes. Outdoor activities (driving on high grass, camping, grilling) heighten the threat of human-caused wildfires.  While fireworks are an American tradition, they also intensify wildfire danger and can be extremely dangerous in the hands of consumers.

According to the National Fire Protection Association, an estimated 19,500 fires reported to local fire departments in the U.S. in 2018 were started by fireworks. The safest way to enjoy fireworks is to attend a display put on by professionals or view a virtual show. Be sure to heed local regulations for firework use.

Group holiday gatherings also bring increased chance of exposure to COVID-19. Follow local guidance for safe outdoor activities as well as recommendations for face coverings and social distancing guidelines.

FEMA wishes you a safe and happy holiday weekend.

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 07/01/2021 - 20:33

Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Luzerne County, PA

Philadelphia - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) along the Susquehanna River in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania and its incorporated areas. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period, which will begin on or around July 1, 2021.

Because flood risk changes over time, flood maps are routinely updated to more accurately represent flood risk. In this case, updates were made in response to the extensive flooding seen during Tropical Storm Lee in September 2011. For more background information on this mapping update, visit: https://www.fema.gov/pennsylvania/mitigating-flood-risk.

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.

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.

Appeals and comments may be submitted by contacting your municipality’s floodplain administrator. 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.

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 Susquehanna River Flood Map Viewer: https://arcg.is/1CLSan. If you do not have access to the internet, you can view hardcopies of the maps by contacting your municipality’s floodplain administrator or by contacting the Luzerne County Flood Protection Authority:  Christopher J. Belleman, PE, Executive Director; cbelleman@lcfpa.org; (570) 208-6100 ext.1. Additional information and property owner resources are provided on the Authority website at www.lcfpa.org .

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 flood. 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.

Luzerne County Flood Mapping Milestones

• Aug. 16, 2017 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• Sept. 15, 2020 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• Nov. 5, 2020 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
• On or Around July 1, 2021 –Appeal Period starts.
• Luzerne County Open House (date and location to be decided, at the County’s discretion)
• September 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.)

amanda.hancher Thu, 07/01/2021 - 19:36

FEMA Announces $700 million in Hazard Mitigation Selections

WASHINGTON-- FEMA has selected the subapplications for the $700 million being made available in fiscal year 2020 (FY20) for Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) and Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant programs.

These competitive programs provide funding to states, tribes, territories and local governments for eligible mitigation activities to strengthen our nation’s ability to reduce disaster losses and protect life and property from disaster damage.

“Mitigation is an investment that makes a real difference in our communities,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “We’re seeing the effects of climate change now. We must continue to identify opportunities to combat the impacts of climate change and help our communities become more resilient against the threats of future disasters.”

These FY20 selections are a first for the BRIC program which was authorized by Section 1234 of the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018.

Over the last several months, FEMA reviewed subapplications to ensure that they are eligible, long-term, cost-effective and technically feasible in reducing the impacts of hazards.  A subapplication can be determined as one of three categories: “Identified for Further Review,” “Not Selected” or “Does not Meet HMA Requirements.” 

FEMA regions will work with applicants to conduct programmatic reviews of the selected “Identified for Further Review” subapplications before making a final decision for funding.

Through the FEMA Grants Outcomes (FEMA GO) system, FEMA will notify applicants and subapplicants that a determination has been made regarding the status of their FY20 grant application.

The determinations can be reviewed online at the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities and Flood Mitigation Assistance web pages.

The top five project types selected for BRIC by total project cost are:

• Flood Control, $550 million
• Utility/Infrastructure Protection, $91.3 million
• Wildfire Management, $49.3 million
• Relocation, $21.9 million
• Saferoom/shelters, $15.2 million

The top five project types selected for FMA total project cost are:

• Flood Control, $187.7 million
• Elevation, $159.3 million
• Acquisition, $75.2 million
• Relocation, $11.8 million
• Mitigation Reconstruction, $8.3 million

For additional information or any questions, grant applicants can contact their FEMA regional office. More information about Hazard Mitigation Assistance is available online.

For additional information about the funding priorities for both programs, visit the Notice of Funding Opportunities available at FEMA.gov.

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 07/01/2021 - 18:29

FEMA Cost Share Adjustment Grants Oregon More Funds for Disaster Recovery

WASHINGTON-- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell announced today that on June 30, President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. made additional disaster assistance available for the state of Oregon.

The President authorized an increase in the level of federal funding for Public Assistance projects undertaken as result of wildfires and straight-line winds during the period of Sept. 7 to Nov. 3, 2020. The state of Oregon received a major disaster declaration on Sept. 15, 2020.

Federal funding was originally available for Public Assistance, Hazard Mitigation and Other Needs Assistance at 75% of the total eligible costs.         

Under the President's order, the federal share for debris removal and emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program has been increased to 100% of the total eligible costs for a continuous period of 30 days established by the state of Oregon.  

zella.campbell Wed, 06/30/2021 - 22:32

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight 0419 Fire in Oregon

BOTHELL, Wash.  -  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the 0419 Fire burning in Deschutes County, Oregon, near the City of Redmond.

FEMA Region 10 Acting Regional Administrator Vincent Maykovich determined that the fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. He approved the State of Oregon’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) on Tues. June 29, 2021, at 11 p.m. PT. This is the first FMAG declared in 2021 to help fight Oregon wildfires.

At the time of the State’s request, the fire was threatening homes in and around the city of Redmond. The fire also threatened the Redmond Municipal Airport, Central Oregon Community College, as well as local businesses, railroads, and transmission lines in the area. The State of Oregon continues to experience extreme heat conditions and has burn bans and red flag warnings in place.

FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials, and supplies. 

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.

With this FMAG authorization, additional funds will be available to Oregon 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. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area. 

###  

Follow FEMA Region 10 on Twitter and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.

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

hannah.weinstein Wed, 06/30/2021 - 21:41

AFG Program Awarded More Than $1.1 Billion to Arizona, California and Nevada Fire Departments, Fire Districts and EMS Organizations

OAKLAND, Calif. – June marks the 20th anniversary of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program (AFG). The program, which also includes Staffing for Adequate Emergency Response and Fire Prevention and Safety grants, was authorized by Congress to provide federal funding directly to local fire departments and emergency organizations. Since its inception, AFG’s mission has remained the same: Help firefighters and first responders obtain the equipment, training and other resources necessary to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards.

AFG is a profoundly important program. Over the past 20 years, it has provided recipients with more than 79,000 individual awards, totaling more than $12 billion. Over the program’s 20-year history, Arizona, California and Nevada received 4,451 grants worth more than $1.1 billion.

• Arizona received 1,217 awards for $239,463,292.
• California received 3,025 awards for $829,958,307.
• Nevada received 209 awards for $69,791,827.

In the last grant cycle, 82 fire departments, fire districts and non-affiliated emergency medical services organizations received awards in FEMA Region 9. Here are a few highlights:

• The Santa Ynez Band of Mission Indians in California used funds to contract a grant writer, which helped procure an AFG award to purchase vehicle extrication equipment.
• The North Las Vegas Fire Department’s grant purchased portable defibrillation and monitoring technology to help deliver high-quality CPR, provide optimal defibrillation and pacing treatments, and manage data to address critical quality improvements.
• Arizona’s Northwest Fire District purchased public safety two-way radios to deliver clear and secure communications during emergency situations.

AFG’s latest award cycle provided $350 million to 2,500 eligible fire departments, nonaffiliated emergency medical services organizations and state fire training academies. Eligible activities included operations and safety, vehicle acquisition and regional projects to equip and train emergency personnel to recognized standards, enhance operational efficiencies, foster interoperability and support community resilience.

For more information on the AFG program, visit fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters.

###

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 9 includes Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa and more than 150 federally-recognized tribes. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9.

robert.barker Wed, 06/30/2021 - 20:31

Preliminary Flood Maps for Wilson County, Texas, Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in portions of Cities of Elmendorf and La Vernia; and unincorporated areas of Wilson 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 appeal and comment periods for the maps.

The San Antonio River Authority (River Authority) is collaborating with FEMA to schedule open house meetings to help the public learn more about the FIRMs and local flood risk to assist during this public comment period. Information about the open house meetings will be available at www.sariverauthority.org/whats-new/events.

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

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas. Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting the local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify community FPAs. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com. 

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

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

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at 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. Cost-saving options are available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about flood insurance options by talking with an insurance agent or visiting www.floodsmart.gov.

The River Authority is the local Cooperating Technical Partner (CTP) with FEMA as they assist in delivering high-quality hazard identification and risk assessment products throughout their four-county jurisdiction of Bexar, Wilson, Karnes, and Goliad counties. As a CTP, the River Authority also provides FEMA outreach support to empower local communities to take action to reduce risk based on informed, multi hazard-based data and resources. For more information about flood risk in Bexar County, please visit the River Authority’s Flood Risk page at: www.sariverauthority.org.

Carmen.Castro Wed, 06/30/2021 - 17:17

Preliminary Flood Maps for Bexar County, Texas, Ready for Public View

DENTON, Texas – Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in portions of the Cities of China Grove, Elmendorf, San Antonio and St. Hedwig; and unincorporated areas of Bexar 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 appeal and comment periods for the maps.

The San Antonio River Authority (River Authority) is collaborating with FEMA to schedule open house meetings to help the public learn more about the FIRMs and local flood risk to assist during this public comment period. Information about the open house meetings will be available at www.sariverauthority.org/whats-new/events.

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

FEMA stresses that flooding can and does happen outside of the most vulnerable areas. Review the preliminary flood maps by visiting the local floodplain administrator (FPA). A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify community FPAs. Specialists are available by telephone at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com. 

The preliminary maps may also be viewed online:

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

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at 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. Cost-saving options are available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about flood insurance options by talking with an insurance agent or visiting www.floodsmart.gov.

The River Authority is the local Cooperating Technical Partner (CTP) with FEMA as they assist in delivering high-quality hazard identification and risk assessment products throughout their four-county jurisdiction of Bexar, Wilson, Karnes, and Goliad counties. As a CTP, the River Authority also provides FEMA outreach support to empower local communities to take action to reduce risk based on informed, multi hazard-based data and resources. For more information about flood risk in Bexar County, please visit the River Authority’s Flood Risk page at: www.sariverauthority.org.

Carmen.Castro Wed, 06/30/2021 - 17:12

Vermont Awarded Over $14 Million in Federal Funds for Community-Based, Coronavirus Testing

REGION 1 – Through its Agency of Human Services, the State of Vermont recently received a $14,305,846 FEMA grant for community-based, COVID-19 testing of Vermonters.

The Vermont agency contracted with Cambridge, Massachusetts-headquartered CIC Health to provide coronavirus testing throughout the Green Mountain State.

FEMA provided funds through a grant from its Public Assistance Grant Program. The grant reimbursed the Agency of Human Services for eligible costs it submitted for testing kits and associated operations beginning March 25 and possibly continuing through September 30. FEMA is providing a 100% federal cost share of eligible costs for this Public Assistance project.

“We are pleased to once again reimburse our valued partners at the State of Vermont for their efforts in the ongoing fight against COVID-19,” said Acting Region 1 Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Paul Ford, who oversees FEMA’s operations throughout New England. “These testing kits have helped protect the health of many—and will continue to be important in keeping many safe throughout the summer.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance Grant Program reimburses eligible applicants for actions taken in the immediate response to and during recovery from a major disaster. Eligible applicants include states, commonwealths, local governments, federally recognized Tribal governments, certain private non-profit organizations and territories.

As of June 23, FEMA’s Public Assistance Program obligated more than $232 million in 115 projects related to the coronavirus pandemic in Vermont. Additional information about the program is at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

###

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

adrien.urbani Wed, 06/30/2021 - 14:44

FEMA Amends COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Policy

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is amending the agency’s COVID-19 funeral assistance policy to assist with COVID-19 related fatalities that occurred in the early months of the pandemic.

This policy change will allow applicants to submit a statement or letter from the death certificate’s certifying official, medical examiner, or coroner that attributes the death to COVID-19 fatalities that occurred between Jan. 20 and May 16, 2020.

This policy change was made after consulting with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention officials and other health experts. The new policy provides applicants, as well as medical authorities, coroners and jurisdictions, flexibility to attribute a death to COVID-19 without amending the death certificate. The change also provides flexibility with documentation for the period before the CDC-published and implemented COVID-19 death certificate guidance in the spring of 2020.

Since FEMA began taking COVID-19 funeral assistance applications, the agency has awarded more than $447 million in assistance to over 66,800 applicants.

Applicants who incurred COVID-19-related funeral expenses between Jan. 20 and May 16, 2020, will be able to submit a death certificate that does not attribute the death to COVID-19 along with a signed statement from the certifying official listed on the death certificate, coroner, or medical examiner linking the death to COVID-19. The written statement must show causal pathway, or an explanation, linking the cause of death listed on the death certificate to the virus and should be submitted with the death certificate.

Applicants also retain the option of contacting the individual who certified the death to request a death certificate amendment if they can provide justification demonstrating the death should be attributed to COVID-19. The certifying individual’s name and address should be on the death certificate. 

For deaths occurring after May 16, 2020, COVID-19 funeral assistance documentation must include a copy of a death certificate that attributes the death to COVID-19.

Individuals who would like to apply for assistance should call the COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Helpline tollfree, at 844-684-6333 | TTY: 800-462-7585 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday - Friday. 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 agency representatives are able to contact them. Phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.

Additional information about COVID-19 funeral assistance, including frequently asked questions can be found on FEMA.gov. This information is available online in 12 different languages and through FEMA-provided language services.

zella.campbell Tue, 06/29/2021 - 22:41

Region II Acting Administrator Focuses on Disaster Preparedness During Visit to U.S. Virgin Islands

ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands – Region II Acting Administrator Thomas Fargione focused on ways FEMA could strengthen support for disaster response with Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and other leaders in the Territory during the monthly Emergency Management Council meeting at the V.I. Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA) building on St. Thomas.

The council meeting discussed ongoing efforts to strengthen the Territory’s ability to respond to a disaster while addressing complexities in the areas of medical evacuations, airport and seaport operations, communications and commodity distribution. Acting Regional Administrator Fargione later reviewed the focus areas in greater detail with VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen after the council meeting.

Acting Regional Administrator Fargione joined the agency in 2009 and is a former Region II Incident Management Assistance Team (IMAT) leader. He has served as the team lead for National IMAT-Blue since 2017.

“I am thankful for the opportunity to get an on-the-ground look at disaster preparedness and response with FEMA’s partners in the U.S. Virgin Islands. I’m particularly excited to see the progress the Territory has made to build its capacity and strengthen its posture for disaster response. Rest assured, FEMA Region 2 stands ready to deploy its resources to support the Territory at a moment’s notice this hurricane season,” said Acting Regional Administrator Fargione.

Building on the success of the jointly held Response Capstone event several weeks ago, Region II’s Response Division and FEMA’s U.S. Virgin Islands Caribbean Area Office continue to coordinate planning and resources with Governor Bryan and Director Jaschen to put the U.S. Virgin Islands in position to respond to any storms that may impact the Territory this summer.

"After the last EMC meeting, I'm confident in our preparedness efforts, and Acting Administrator Fargione stands ready to continue our long-standing and close partnership with FEMA," Governor Bryan said. "Residents can be reassured that together with our federal partners, we are ready and resilient for the hurricane season."

VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen emphasized the importance of federal and territorial partnerships for successful emergency management. “The partnership with VITEMA and FEMA in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic through the fundamentals and discipline of emergency management for the past 15 months are the exact same methods used to prepare for and respond to a tropical cyclone threat,” said Director Jaschen. “Our recent Capstone event focused on a major hurricane response to the Territory and included additional local agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and federal partners. When lives are at risk and time is limited, planning and response efforts must be maximized. Quickly gathering information, identifying gaps, and providing sound recommendation to leaders is paramount for our teams.”

FEMA will continue to leverage its resources to support preparedness, response, and recovery in the U.S. Virgin Islands, but these efforts begin and end with individuals. Virgin Islanders have an opportunity to prepare themselves and their families for tropical storms and hurricanes well before watches and warnings arise during the peak of the season in late summer.

Review emergency plans for your families and businesses, get informed and stay alert. Focus on alternatives for medical needs such as dialysis treatment and diabetes as well as prescriptions. Review insurance policies for your homes, businesses, and vehicles.

Learn more about emergency planning at https://www.ready.gov/plan , readiness for individuals with disabilities at www.ready.gov/disability and financial preparedness at www.ready.gov/financial-preparedness . Subscribe to VITEMA’s mass notification system Alert VI to receive emergency alerts.

• Discuss the latest V.I. Department of Health guidance of COVID-19 with your family and how it could affect your hurricane planning.

If you or anyone in your household is elderly or an individual with a disability, access, or functional need, identify any additional help during an emergency. Virgin Islanders age 60 and older and persons with disabilities may register with the V.I. Department of Human Services’ Elder, Dependent Adult and Disabled Persons Disaster Registry.

• To register, call 340-774-0930 ext. 4018 on St. Thomas, 340-776-6334 on St. John and 340-773-6630 on St. Croix. You can download and fill out a registry form at http://dhs.gov.vi/home/index.html .

It takes only one hurricane, or even a tropical storm, to cause a disaster.

delia.husband Tue, 06/29/2021 - 22:15

FEMA Awards City of Jacksonville $1.4 Million for Hurricane Irma Expenses

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $1,418,366 for the State of Florida to help the City of Jacksonville defray the costs associated with Hurricane Irma in 2017.

FEMA Public Assistance program funds will reimburse the city for administrative costs of tracking and accounting for labor, equipment, materials and other expenses after the storm.

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.

barbara.murien… Tue, 06/29/2021 - 17:23

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Lava Fire

OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combating the Lava Fire, which is burning in Siskiyou County.

On June 28, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Lava Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 2,100 homes in and around Lake Shastina, Mt. Shasta Vista and Carrick. The fire also threatened a local water supply, power lines and a major rail line in the area. Mandatory evacuations were in place for around 10,000 people.

The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on June 28, 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.

###

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

robert.barker Tue, 06/29/2021 - 14:26