Disaster Recovery Center in Richmond County to Permanently Close Feb. 28

The Disaster Recovery Center in Richmond County is set to permanently close at 5:30 p.m., Friday, Feb. 28. It is currently open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The recovery center is at this location:

Diamond Lakes Branch Library

101 Diamond Lakes Way

Hephzibah, GA 30904

There are additional ways to check the status of your application or update your contact information:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• The FEMA App for mobile devices
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Survivors can also contact the Georgia Call Center Monday through Saturday at 678-547-2861 for assistance with their application.

FEMA Staff will also be available at these Small Business Administration locations:

Bulloch County 

Statesboro-Bulloch County Library

124 S. Main St.

Statesboro, GA 30458

Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday–Friday; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday.

Coffee County

Satilla Regional Library

200 S Madison Ave

Douglas, GA 31533

Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday.

Lowndes County  

Lowndes County Civic Center Bldg. D 

2102 E. Hill Ave. 

Valdosta, GA 30601 

Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday; closed Sunday.

Jeff Davis County

Jeff Davis County Recreation Department

83 Buford Road

Hazlehurst, GA 31539

Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday–Friday; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday; closed Sunday.

Telfair County

Telfair Community Service Center

91 Telfair Ave # D

McRae-Helena, GA 31055

Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday – Friday, Closed Saturdays and Sundays

FEMA provides help to all disaster survivors, regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation,  religion, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Our top priority is ensuring that disaster assistance is reaching people in need.

jakia.randolph Thu, 02/27/2025 - 13:14

President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for West Virginia

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of West Virginia to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides beginning on Feb. 15, and continuing.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in McDowell, Mercer, Mingo and Wyoming counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

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

Mark O’Hanlon has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of further damage assessments. 

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

luther.wills-dudich Thu, 02/27/2025 - 04:52

Disaster Recovery Centers Open in Pike County

FRANKFORT, Ky –Two Disaster Recovery Centers will open in Pike County on Feb. 27 in areas affected by the February floods. 

Disaster Recovery Centers, operated by the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management and FEMA, offer in-person support to survivors in declared counties as the result of severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides from Feb. 14, 2025, and continuing.   

FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs. The deadline to apply for federal assistance is April 25, 2025.

Additional Disaster Recovery Centers will open across the Commonwealth disaster area in the coming days. 

Disaster Recovery Center Locations

PIKE COUNTY

Pike Public Library, 126 Lee Ave, Pikeville, Ky 41501

Belfry Public Library, 24371 US-119, Belfry, Ky 41514

Hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET Monday through Sunday.

In addition to FEMA personnel, representatives from the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance, the Kentucky Department of Insurance and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors.

You do not need to visit a center to apply with FEMA

If you are unable to visit the center, there are other ways to apply: you can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 800-621-3362, or by using the FEMA mobile app. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

When you apply, you will need to provide:

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

For an accessible video on how to apply for FEMA assistance, go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

For more information about Kentucky flooding recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4860. Follow the FEMA Region 4 X account at x.com/femaregion4.

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

wesley.lagenour Wed, 02/26/2025 - 19:39

Request a No-Cost Conservation Restoration Plan by March 14 for Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and Floods

SANTA FE, N.M. — Landowners impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire or subsequent flooding now have until March 14, 2025, to request a no-cost conservation restoration plan through the U.S. Agriculture Department’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). 

The Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office (“Claims Office”) has partnered with the NRCS to offer landowners the opportunity to request a restoration plan for their property. These plans help address natural resource losses and provide cost estimates for recovery actions. NRCS plans will be provided to claimants at no charge and will be utilized by the Claims Office to streamline the claims review process. Through this partnership, NRCS assesses the damage to resources and produces the conservation restoration plans, while the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office handles compensation for affected landowners.

Congress recently extended the deadline for starting a claim to March 14, but those who are impacted are encouraged to begin as soon as possible. Submitting a Notice of Loss (NOL) and requesting a conservation restoration plan are separate steps. To receive compensation based on an NRCS plan, both an NOL and a plan request must be submitted by the new deadline.

“We encourage all eligible landowners to take advantage of this opportunity to restore their natural resources,” said Jay Mitchell, FEMA Director of Operations for the New Mexico Joint Recovery Office. “Our partnership with NRCS ensures claimants receive a comprehensive recovery plan tailored to their specific needs; but time is of the essence—requests for these plans must be submitted by March 14.”

To request a Conservation Restoration plan:

• Submit an NOL to the Claims Office: Once an NOL is submitted, your Claims Navigator can help determine if an NRCS plan would benefit your claim. If so, the Claims Office will coordinate with NRCS to initiate the process.
• Contact the NRCS Directly: Landowners may also request a plan directly by emailing ConservationRestorationPlan@usda.gov or by visiting one of the local NRCS service centers in Mora or Las Vegas. The request form and additional information can be found at https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/hermits-peak.

Conservation restoration plans address natural resources losses, such as erosion control, debris removal, fencing, and riparian (river) restoration. These plans, developed by certified planners, provide the costs estimated to repair or replace damaged resources and ensure claimants receive fair and transparent compensation for eligible losses. Once the plan has been developed, it is up to the claimant as to whether they utilize it for their claim. 

The deadline to submit an NOL to the Claims Office is March 14. To submit an NOL, you may visit /hermits-peak to download the NOL form. You can submit the form via email, mail, or in-person at one of the three Claims Offices. Please visit https://www.fema.gov/hermits-peak/contact-us for Claims Office locations and operating hours.

For questions, please contact the Claims Office Helpline Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. MT, at (505) 995-7133. Voice messages can be left after hours. 

Compensation through the Claims Office is not taxable income and will not impact eligibility for other federal benefits including social security or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Contact a tax professional for specific tax-related questions.

The Claims Office is committed to meeting the needs of people impacted by the fire and subsequent flooding by providing full compensation available under the law as expeditiously as possible. To date, the Claims Office has paid more than $1.88 billion to claimants. 

For information and updates regarding the Claims Office, please visit fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak. You can also follow our Facebook page and turn notifications on to stay up to date about the claims process, upcoming deadlines and other program announcements at facebook.com/HermitsPeakCalfCanyonClaimsOffice.

erika.suzuki Wed, 02/26/2025 - 17:03

That Phone Call You Blocked May be FEMA Calling

It is important for Georgians who applied for FEMA assistance need to answer calls from unknown numbers. FEMA is calling applicants to ensure they receive all the assistance they are eligible for, which could include housing options, additional funds, or referrals to agencies or organizations who may be able to provide help that FEMA cannot.

This is why you should stay in touch with FEMA and update your contact information if it changes. FEMA needs to be able to reach you.

You can update your information through your account at DisasterAssistance.gov, on the FEMA app for your smartphone, or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. The Helpline is available daily, and assistance is available in most languages. You can also call the Georgia Call Center at 678-547-2861 Monday through Friday.

For the latest information about Georgia’s recovery, visit fema.gov/helene/georgia and fema.gov/disaster/4821. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. Also, follow Acting Administrator Cameron Hamilton on X @FEMA_Cam.

jakia.randolph Tue, 02/25/2025 - 13:34

President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Kentucky

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides from Feb. 14, and continuing.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Breathitt, Clay, Harlan, Knott, Lee, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry and Pike counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

Federal funding is also available to the Commonwealth and eligible local governments and certain nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance in Breathitt, Clay, Harlan, Knott, Lee, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry and Pike counties.

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

Jeremy Slinker has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of further damage assessments. 

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

sarah.cleary Tue, 02/25/2025 - 00:44

FEMA Tips to Get Ready for Severe Weather

Winter and early spring storms can bring snow, tornadoes, hail, lightning and flooding. FEMA encourages Tennesseans to keep cell phones on and fully charged with the volume turned up and severe weather alerts enabled. Follow directions from your local and state officials.

If you are planning to travel by car, check your local weather and traffic reports before heading out. Tell others your route and anticipated arrival time. If your roads are not in good shape, consider postponing non-essential travel until the roads are cleared. 

When driving in wet conditions, snow or ice, increase your following distance to 5-to-6 seconds, and watch for icy conditions on bridges and overpasses. It takes longer to slow down on icy roads. Make sure you have your auto insurance provider and towing company numbers close at hand.

Power outages can impact communications, transportation, utilities and much more. If experiencing an outage, keep freezers and refrigerators closed. Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges. Prevent house heating fires by keeping anything that can burn at least 3 feet away from all heat sources including fireplaces, wood stoves, radiators, portable heaters and candles. 

Always plug a space heater directly into an outlet and make sure its cord isn’t damaged. Never use generators indoors. Never use a gas stove or oven to heat your home. Doing so can put you at risk for carbon monoxide poisoning. 

If your area is under a thunderstorm warning, go inside. Listen for alerts or warnings, unplug appliances and do not use landline phones. Watch for flash flooding and be sure to look out for downed power poles and lines after the storm is over.

Visit Ready.gov for more severe weather tips and resources.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 02/24/2025 - 16:27

Help FEMA Help You

As FEMA assistance applications are processed, individual situations can change. It is important that you keep FEMA informed of your current contact information. This will ensure any benefits you are eligible for reach you without delay.

A simple way to provide FEMA with missing or new information is to create an account at DisasterAssistance.gov. If you do not have internet access or need services not available on FEMA’s website, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Multilingual staff will take your call from 7 a.m. to midnight ET, seven days a week.

If more information is needed to process your application, FEMA may call you. These calls may come from unfamiliar area codes or phone numbers. It is important to answer the call. The specialists will already have your nine-digit FEMA registration number and will not ask you for it. Always verify a caller is from FEMA to avoid scams and fraud.

Survivors who need extra time to apply for FEMA assistance have until Friday, March 7. The initial application period for the Tennessee disaster has closed, but late applications are still being accepted. Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

Some information that you come across about FEMA may be inaccurate and come from unreliable sources. Don’t let rumors and scams about FEMA assistance delay your recovery. Get the facts here: Hurricane Rumor Response | FEMA.gov.

kwei.nwaogu Fri, 02/21/2025 - 19:21

Be aware of post-disaster fraud and scams Protect yourself from fraud, schemes and scams 

Crow Agency, MT - FEMA encourages Crow Tribe members who have applied for disaster assistance to be alert to potential fraud by scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals. 

Common tactics used by scam artists include phone calls from people claiming to work for FEMA. The caller may ask for your Social Security number, income or banking information. This is not FEMA. 

There have been reports of recent phone calls asking tribal member for various documents, claiming they would come by and pick them up. This is not FEMA. 

The only FEMA representative who will visit your home is an inspector, accompanied by a tribal guide, to assess your damage. They will have a FEMA identification badge. 

You MAY hear from FEMA by phone, as FEMA does do call outs for follow up work. FEMA may ask for:

• last 4 numbers of your social security number
• the address of your damaged home
• current mailing address
• current phone number
• current location 

FEMA will NOT ask for a full social security number, banking information, or income. 

Do not provide your documents to anyone who comes to your home claiming to be with FEMA. We are reviewing and uploading documents for you at the Disaster Recovery Center, located at the Black Lodge Community Center, I-90 at the Dunmore exit, #503. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 9am – 4pm. 

In addition, never trust someone claiming to be a disaster assistance employee asking for money. FEMA does not endorse any commercial business, product or service, and local and federal disaster assistance workers do not solicit or accept money.

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

minh.phan Fri, 02/21/2025 - 16:16

Two Weeks Left for Crow Tribe Members to Apply for Disaster Assistance Applicants Should Keep In Touch With FEMA

CROW AGENCY – Crow Tribe members who had damage caused by the August 6, 2024 severe storm and straight-line winds have until February 28, 2025 to apply for disaster assistance. They can apply at the Disaster Recovery Center located at the Black Lodge Community Center, I-90 at the Dunmore exit, #503.. FEMA is asking applicants to stay in touch as there are several steps in the assistance process.

Damage Inspections

After applying for assistance, a FEMA inspector and a Crow Tribal Guide will call to schedule a time to come to your home. The number may show as “Unknown” or be an out of state area code. Please answer the call and schedule your visit as soon as possible.

FEMA letters and next steps

After the damage inspection, applicants receive one or more letters on the status of their application. The letter(s) may say ineligible or not approved, or even denied. Don’t be discouraged, FEMA may just need more information. Read each letter to find out what is needed to continue moving the application forward. It may be missing information or a document that is needed. Come to the Disaster Recovery Center for help with next steps. 

It is helpful to have the nine-digit application number you were given when you applied. This number is included in all correspondence FEMA sends to you — it is very important to use this number.

Stay in touch through the Disaster Recovery Center

The deadline to apply for federal disaster assistance is February 28, 2025 but FEMA will still be here to help. Please visit the Disaster Recovery Center at the Black Lodge Community Center. Bring your letter and any additional requested information with you if possible. 

Black Lodge Community Center 
6772 Crow River Road, Hardin, MT 59034 (I-90 at the Dunmore exit, #503)
Hours of operation: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mon.– Sat. (Closed Sundays and holidays)
If you have questions or need to check on possible weather delays or closures, call 406-679-0022.  

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished impartially, without discrimination. Anyone may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they have a complaint of discrimination at FEMA-OCR-ECRD FEMA-OCR-ECRD@fema.dhs.gov or toll-free at 833-285-7448.

jamie.casterton Wed, 02/19/2025 - 22:01

Preliminary Flood Maps for Harper County, Oklahoma Ready for Public View

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

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

This is Harper County’s first complete set of digital FIRMs. These maps serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Community leaders can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards and development that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flooding event.

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 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

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
• The Base Level Engineering-to-FIRM Viewer at https://webapps.usgs.gov/fema/ble_firm

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

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 floodsmart.gov.

toan.nguyen Tue, 02/18/2025 - 20:51

Get Repair, Rebuilding Advice Feb. 17-March 1 in Hawkins County

FEMA’s mitigation specialists have partnered with Lowe’s Home Improvement to offer free advice and tips on rebuilding homes stronger and safer as Tennessee residents repair, rebuild and make improvements after Tropical Storm Helene.

FEMA specialists will be available as detailed below: 

Monday, Feb. 17, to Saturday, March 1
7 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET Monday to Friday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET Saturday

Hawkins County
Lowe’s Home Improvement
2526 East Stone Dr. 
Kingsport, TN 37660

The mitigation specialists are available to answer questions and offer home-improvement tips and proven methods to help reduce damage from disasters. Most information is aimed at general contractors or those who do the work on their own.

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 02/18/2025 - 17:37

Preliminary Flood Maps for Madison County, Arkansas Ready for Public View

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

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

This is Madison County’s first complete set of digital FIRMs. These maps serve multiple purposes, including defining Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). SFHAs are areas at high risk for flooding. Community leaders can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards and development that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flooding event.

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 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

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
• The Base Level Engineering-to-FIRM Viewer at https://webapps.usgs.gov/fema/ble_firm

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

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 floodsmart.gov.

alexa.brown Tue, 02/18/2025 - 17:16

FEMA to Host Housing Resource Fair Feb. 22 in Savannah

FEMA is hosting a Housing Resource Fair from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 22, in Savannah at the following location:

Carver Village Community Center

905 Collat Ave

Savannah, GA 31415                                                                                                                    

The Housing Resource Fair will bring together federal, state and local agencies in one place to offer services and resources to families recovering from Hurricane Helene.  

The goal of this collaborative effort is to help connect eligible disaster survivors with affordable housing along with valuable information and resources on their road to recovery.

Survivors will meet with local housing organizations, property owners and landlords, as well as gain information on the HEARTS Georgia Sheltering Program, and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans.

The Housing Resource Fair is an opportunity for survivors to: 

• Explore affordable housing options and rental assistance programs.
• Meet with representatives from local housing organizations, landlords and property managers.
• Gain access to resources for displaced individuals and families.
• Learn about community partners that will provide educational funding resources to attendees. 

For FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Kevin Wallace, the Housing Resource Fair will give survivors that needed one-on-one experience: “We want survivors to know we are here for them and want to see the best outcome, which is moving into safe, sanitary and functioning housing,” he said. “We will walk them through their options to ensure they are aware of the resources that are available to fit their need.”

Anyone who was affected by Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene, whether they have applied for FEMA assistance or not, is welcome to attend.

jakia.randolph Tue, 02/18/2025 - 13:27

FEMA Supports State and Local Response to Ohio Valley Flooding

Following President Trump’s Approval of Emergency Declaration for Kentucky

WASHINGTON -- FEMA is closely coordinating with state and local officials to provide support as widespread flooding impacts portions of Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia. With winter weather in the forecast, residents should stay informed about changing conditions, as freezing temperatures and additional precipitation could worsen impacts and create hazardous travel conditions.

“I spoke to Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear to offer federal resources and action for the deadly flash floods impacting Kentucky. We discussed how while emergency management is best led by local authorities, we reinforced that the Department of Homeland Security stands ready to take immediate action to offer resources and support,” said DHS Secretary Kristi Noem. “Local emergency managers should swiftly notify people in the affected areas to take action to protect themselves and their belongings. DHS stands ready to help when a state needs, requests and declares an emergency. Follow us for updates and closely monitor messages from your state and local leaders.” 

Within 12 hours of the initial weather impacts, FEMA deployed Urban Search and Rescue teams and swift-water rescue teams from Missouri, Indiana and Ohio, to work alongside state National Guard personnel, to assist with evacuations. Additionally, two FEMA Incident Management Teams and emergency communications support were deployed in Kentucky today to assist with response efforts. FEMA is delivering 40 truckloads of meals and water requested by the states. FEMA also deployed staff to the Virginia and West Virginia emergency operations centers to monitor and coordinate on any requests for additional assistance.

Resources for Affected Residents

People in affected areas are encouraged to follow local officials' guidance and seek available resources. 

• Kentucky: Residents with immediate needs should complete the Rapid Needs Assessment Form online or call 502-607-6665. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 immediately.
• Virginia, Tennessee and West Virginia: Residents should monitor local emergency management agencies and the National Weather Service for updates and emergency instructions.

Shelters are open for those displaced by the flooding. Individuals in need of shelter can locate the nearest open facility by visiting www.redcross.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

FEMA urges residents to take precautions as floodwaters continue to rise. Never attempt to walk, swim or drive through floodwaters. Just six inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet, and one foot of water can carry away most vehicles.

FEMA remains committed to working with federal, state, tribal and local partners to support the recovery for communities and the Americans who were affected by the storms and flooding.

mashana.davis Mon, 02/17/2025 - 22:13

President Donald J. Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Kentucky

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement response efforts to the emergency conditions in the area affected by severe storms, straight-line winds flooding and landslides beginning on Feb. 14 and continuing. 

The President's action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population, and to provide appropriate assistance to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. 

This assistance is for all 120 counties in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. 

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

Jeremy Slinker has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected areas.

amy.ashbridge Sun, 02/16/2025 - 21:14

Two Weeks Left for Crow Tribe Members to Apply for Disaster Assistance: Applicants Should Keep In Touch With FEMA

Crow Agency, Mont. – Crow Tribe members who had damage caused by the August 6, 2024 severe storm and straight-line winds have until February 28, 2025 to apply for disaster assistance. They can apply at the Disaster Recovery Center located at the Black Lodge Community Center, I-90 at the Dunmore exit, #503. More than 650 applications have already been submitted. FEMA is asking applicants to stay in touch as there are several steps in the assistance process.

Damage Inspections

After applying for assistance, a FEMA inspector and a Crow Tribal Guide will call to schedule a time to come to your home. The number may show as “Unknown” or be an out of state area code. Please answer the call and schedule your visit as soon as possible.

FEMA letters and next steps

After the damage inspection, applicants receive one or more letters on the status of their application. The letter(s) may say ineligible, not approved, or even denied. Don’t be discouraged, FEMA may just need more information. Read each letter to find out what is needed to continue moving the application forward. It may be missing information or a document that is needed. Come to the Disaster Recovery Center for help with next steps. 

It is helpful to have the nine-digit application number you were given when you applied. This number is included in all correspondence FEMA sends to you — it is very important to use this number.

Stay in touch through the Disaster Recovery Center

The deadline to apply for federal disaster assistance is February 28, 2025, but FEMA will still be here to help. Please visit the Disaster Recovery Center at the Black Lodge Community Center. Bring your letter and any additional requested information with you if possible. 

Black Lodge Community Center 
6772 Crow River Road, Hardin, MT 59034 (I-90 at the Dunmore exit, #503)
Hours of operation: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mon.– Sat. (Closed Sundays and holidays)
If you have questions or need to check on possible weather delays or closures, call 406-679-0022. 

Brian.Hvinden Fri, 02/14/2025 - 21:40

How to do Business with FEMA After a Disaster

LOS ANGELES – FEMA works with private sector vendors to help fulfill the response and recovery needs for disasters like the recent Los Angeles County Wildfires.

The Doing Business with FEMA webpage outlines the steps that companies and small businesses looking to compete for federal contracts should take. During response and recovery, FEMA’s goal is to contract with local businesses in the affected area whenever practical and feasible.

FEMA will only engage with companies through the federal procurement process. Business solicitations sent to individual members of the FEMA workforce will not be processed. The FEMA website outlines how companies can see and respond to the agency’s solicitations. The key steps to beginning the process are:

• Consult your local procurement center: We recommend you consider consulting with these Procurement Technical Assistance Centers.
• Register with SAM.gov: This is the System for Award Management. Entity registrations are free, and registration is required to do business with the federal government.
• Understand the FEMA mission: FEMA’s mission, as authorized by the Robert T. Stafford Act, is to help people before, during and after disasters.
• Monitor contracting sites for opportunities: Contracting sites are listed on FEMA’s webpage.

Debris removal is often contracted locally after a disaster. If your company provides debris removal services, you can sign up with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Contractor Registry. You can also register your business information (including capabilities and locations served).

Additional information can be found on our Frequently Asked Questions webpage.

For the latest information about California’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4856. Follow FEMA Region 9 @FEMARegion9 on X or follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on X, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel. 

California is committed to supporting residents impacted by the Los Angeles Hurricane-Force Firestorm as they navigate the recovery process. Visit CA.gov/LAFires for up-to-date information on disaster recovery programs, important deadlines, and how to apply for assistance.

daniel.demski Fri, 02/14/2025 - 18:01

Cocke County Awarded $7.89 Million to Replace Conway Bridge

The State of Tennessee and FEMA have approved $7.89 million to replace Cocke County’s Conway Bridge, which crosses the Nolichuky River and was destroyed when floodwaters from Tropical Storm Helene swept across Eastern Tennessee in late September.

Funding from FEMA’s Public Assistance program covers eligible costs to replace the 414 foot-long concrete bridge built in 1924, using best construction practices and codes and standards set by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials.

FEMA’s share for this project is $5,919,427; the nonfederal share is $1,973,142.

Federal funding for the one-lane bridge is based on estimates from FEMA’s Rapid Assessment of Public Infrastructure Data. That process uses geospatial and aerial imagery as well as assessor information to develop an estimated cost for public infrastructure that was destroyed or damaged in a disaster. The final scope of work will reflect the reconciled actual costs and capture any additional changes.

Because Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program, FEMA reimburses state applicants 75% of the eligible costs of repairs to existing structures. The federal share is paid directly to the state to disburse to agencies, local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations that incurred those costs. The remaining 25% represents nonfederal funds. 

The Public Assistance program is FEMA’s largest grant program, providing funding to help communities responding to and recovering from major presidentially declared disasters or emergencies. Tropical Storm Helene swept across Tennessee Sept. 26-30 and the president approved a major disaster declaration on Oct. 2, allowing FEMA to pay for disaster-damaged infrastructure.

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 02/13/2025 - 20:35

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

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

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

The 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around Feb. 13, 2025. 

Appeals and comments may be submitted through May 14, 2025, for:

• The cities of Fairfield, Oakwood, Streetman and Teague; the towns of Kirvin and Wortham; and the unincorporated areas of Freestone County.

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

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information — such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary — they can submit a written comment.

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

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

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
• The Base Level Engineering-to-FIRM Viewer at https://webapps.usgs.gov/fema/ble_firm

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat Open” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone at 877-FEMA-MAP (877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

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 floodsmart.gov.

alexa.brown Thu, 02/13/2025 - 17:46