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Understanding Your FEMA Eligibility Letter
Understanding Your FEMA Eligibility Letter
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – If you applied for FEMA Individual Assistance following the Feb. 15 – 18, 2025 winter flooding, you will receive a determination letter from FEMA in the mail or by email. These letters can also be found on your online FEMA account, which can be accessed by logging into DisasterAssistance.gov and selecting the “Check Status” tab.
Your letter will explain your application status and how to respond. It is important to read your letter carefully because it will include the amount of any assistance FEMA may provide and information on the appropriate use of your disaster assistance funds.
Your letter will also explain if you need to submit additional information or supporting documentation for FEMA to continue to review and process your application for Individual Assistance. Examples of missing documentation may include:
- Insurance settlement, denial letter, or declaration page
- Proof of identity (i.e., passport, military ID, Social Security card with federal/state ID)
- Proof of occupancy (i.e., lease, rent receipts, utility bills)
- Proof of ownership (i.e., mortgage documentation, property tax, title, insurance)
If you have any questions about your FEMA letter, or if you disagree with the initial decision, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 to get more information about your FEMA Individual Assistance application.
HOW TO APPEAL
Your letter from FEMA will provide the information on the types of documents or information that FEMA needs in order to appeal. Your letter will also include an optional appeal form that you can use. Your appeal must be submitted within 60 days of the date of your decision letter.
You can submit your appeal and supporting documentation:
- Online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
- By mail: FEMA Individuals & Households Program, National Processing Center P.O. Box 10055 Hyattsville, MD 20782.
- By fax: (800) 827-8112, Attention: FEMA – Individuals & Households Program.
- In person at one of our FEMA West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers.
For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4861, and www.facebook.com/FEMA.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters.
Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA's Facebook page or Español page and at FEMA's YouTube account. Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam.
For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page.
kimberly.fuller Wed, 04/09/2025 - 14:10Seven Days Left to Submit Your Right of Entry (ROE) Form to LA County
LOS ANGELES – Property owners have seven days left to submit a Right of Entry (ROE) form to LA County. In order to have debris removed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), property owners affected by the Los Angeles Wildfires must submit a ROE form by April 15, 2025.
Federally funded debris removal is available to residents of single family and owner-occupied multi-family units.
All disaster impacted property owners should submit a ROE form by April 15, 2025, to opt-in or opt-out of the debris removal program.
If a property owner opts out of the USACE debris removal program, they become responsible for all permits, inspections and other associated debris removal requirements and costs.
There is no out-of-pocket cost to have debris removed by USACE, however the program is unable to duplicate other forms of funding specific to debris removal. If a property owner has insurance for debris removal, residual funds not used by the property owner may be remitted to the county to offset the cost of debris removal at a later date.
Submit a ROE form to LA County:- Complete a form online at: Los Angeles County Right of Entry Permit for Debris Removal on Private Property.
- Download and complete a form: Debris Removal Right of Entry Permit (00011201.DOCX;1) and submit it at a Disaster Recovery Center.
- Forms are also available at Disaster Recovery Centers. Visit the DRC Locator to find a location.
- Visit the LA County Debris Removal Website: recovery.lacounty.gov/debris-removal/
- Call LA County’s Public Works Fire Debris Hotline: 844-347-3332
Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA's YouTube account. For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page.
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.
erika.suzuki Wed, 04/09/2025 - 11:53Disaster Recovery Centers in Kentucky to Reopen Following Temporary Weather-Related Closures
FRANKFORT, Ky. – Disaster Recovery Centers across Kentucky will reopen at 9 a.m. Wednesday following temporary closures due to severe weather and flooding over the past several days.
“We understand how important these recovery centers are to Kentuckians impacted by the February Severe Storms,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Jeremy Slinker. “Our priority remains the safety of everyone involved in the recovery process.”
Now that weather conditions have improved, all centers are ready to reopen and resume normal operations. Survivors can visit any center to speak with FEMA specialists in person, ask questions, check application status, and receive help with uploading documents. Find a DRC near you: DRC Locator
Survivors do not have to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply for assistance. Help remains available in multiple languages through:
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
- Phone at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). Lines are open daily. FEMA remains committed to working side by side with the Commonwealth of Kentucky, local leaders, and community organizations to ensure everyone impacted by this disaster receives the help they need.
For the most up-to-date information on recovery efforts, visit: fema.gov/disaster/4860
martyce.allenjr Tue, 04/08/2025 - 21:21FEMA Launches Direct to Customer Flood Insurance Premium Quoting Tool
WASHINGTON -- Today, FEMA is announcing it is expanding ways people can access flood insurance products.
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is making it easier to access flood insurance pricing information by launching a Direct to Customer Flood Insurance Quoting Tool. Customers will be able to get a flood insurance policy quote for their property and be provided local and national carrier information to assist them in purchasing their quoted policy.
FEMA is expanding the tools for customers to learn about their flood risk, insurance costs and to close the insurance gap to create a more resilient nation. This effort means customers have a new way to learn about flood insurance and connect with companies that service flood insurance policies.
“I encourage Americans to visit Floodsmart.gov to get a flood insurance quote,” said Cameron Hamilton, Senior Official Performing the Duties of FEMA Administrator. “It’s quick and easy and takes just a few minutes. Insured survivors recover faster. With spring flooding and hurricane season both approaching fast, it’s important to take this first step so you can better protect the life you’ve built.”
“In this country, less than 4% of households have flood insurance, yet 99% of all communities have experienced a flood. FEMA is working to make flood insurance more accessible and promote customer choice with its Direct to Customer (D2C) initiative,” said Elizabeth Asche, Ph.D. the senior executive of the National Flood Insurance program.
“The D2C platform provides customers direct access to a property’s flood risk and the ability to purchase a flood policy from just about anywhere. We believe this new approach will appeal to customers that have never considered a policy before and we’re counting on it to help us narrow the insurance gap.”
Flooding is the most common disaster across America and it is not covered under most homeowner’s insurance policies. Flood insured survivors are more resilient and recover more quickly following a disaster.
On average, 40% of NFIP flood insurance claims occur outside high hazard areas. That’s why it’s important to protect property with flood insurance even if one lives in an area with low-to-moderate flooding risk since it brings peace of mind to homeowners and renters no matter where they live.
FEMA encourages homeowners and renters nationwide to learn more about their unique flood risk by accessing the tool on Floodsmart.gov. This service is free and there is no cost to receive a quote.
Over the next year, the NFIP plans to expand the tool so customers will have the option to purchase policies directly through the tool.
Currently, the National Flood Insurance Program provides about $1.3 trillion in coverage for approximately 4.7 million policyholders in about 22,500 communities across the nation.
To learn what’s covered under an NFIP policy visit www.floodsmart.gov/whats-covered.
amy.ashbridge Mon, 04/07/2025 - 14:50FEMA Disaster Assistance to West Virginians Tops $20 Million
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — More than $20 million in federal disaster assistance has been approved for homeowners and renters in seven West Virginia counties following the impacts of the Feb. 15-18 winter storms.
“Reaching this milestone in less than six weeks highlights the commitment to West Virginians of emergency management at all levels,” FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Mark K. O’Hanlon said. “Our FEMA team is proud to work hand in hand with our partners in state and local government and voluntary agencies in getting assistance to the people who need it most.”
FEMA assistance for individuals and families in Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh, Wayne, and Wyoming counties who were affected by the Feb. 15-18, 2025, storms, mudslides, landslides, and straight-line winds can cover home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.
The deadline to apply for federal assistance is April 28, 2025.
“I want to urge West Virginians who were affected by the February storms to apply for assistance today,” Mr. O’Hanlon said. “Registering potentially opens the door to recovery funds that can change lives and help people find a new normal in their lives.”
Residents, both homeowners and renters, in Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh, Wayne, and Wyoming counties who sustained losses can apply for assistance in several ways:
- Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Downloading the FEMA App.
- Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
- Phone lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, please provide FEMA your number for that service.
- Speaking with someone in person at a Disaster Recovery Center.
- Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are on the ground in Raleigh County, walking door-to-door to share information and help residents apply for FEMA assistance.
- In coordination with the West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD) and officials in impacted counties, FEMA has opened Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Logan, Mercer, McDowell, Mingo, Wayne and Wyoming counties. At a center, you can get help applying for federal assistance, update your application, and learn about other resources available. The DRCs located in the table below remain open.
Southern WV Community & Technical College
100 College Drive
Logan, WV 25601
Hours of operation:
Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Closed Sundays
Lifeline Princeton Church of God
250 Oakvale Road
Princeton, WV 24740
Hours of operation:
Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Closed Sundays
Closed April 26
McDowell County (Welch) Disaster Recovery Center McDowell County Disaster (Bradshaw) Recovery Center
Board of Education Office
900 Mount View High School Road
Welch, WV 24801
Hours of operation:
Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Closed on Saturdays and Sundays
Bradshaw Town Hall
10002 Marshall Hwy
Bradshaw, WV 24817
Hours of operation:
Monday to Saturday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Closed Sundays
Mingo County Disaster Recovery CenterWyoming County Disaster Recovery CenterWilliamson Campus
1601 Armory Drive
Williamson, WV 25661
Hours of operation:
Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Closed on Sundays
Wyoming Court House
24 Main Ave
Pineville, WV 24874
Hours of operation:
Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Closed on Sundays
Wayne County
Tolsia High School
1 Rebel Drive
Fort Gay, WV 25514
Hours of operation:
Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Closed on Saturdays and Sundays
DRCs are accessible to all, including survivors with mobility issues, impaired vision, and those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
The easiest way to apply for FEMA assistance is by phone at 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Residents can also apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA app to their smartphone or tablet.
April 28, 2025, is also the application deadline for homeowners, renters and business owners to apply for a U.S. Small Business Administration physical disaster loan. Applicants can apply online at sba.gov/disaster, call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay service.
For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4861 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters.
Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA's Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA's YouTube account. Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam.
For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page.
lianza.yap Mon, 04/07/2025 - 13:04FEMA to Host Housing Resource Fair Apr. 12 in Berrien County
FEMA is hosting a Housing Resource Fair from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, April 12, in Berrien County at the following location:
Carrie Dorsey Perry Memorial Library
315 W Marion Ave
Nashville, GA 31639
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 get 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 from community partners about educational funding resources.
For FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Kevin Wallace, the Housing Resource Fair will give survivors a 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.”
Everyone affected by Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene, whether they have applied for FEMA assistance or not, is welcome to attend.
jakia.randolph Mon, 04/07/2025 - 12:38President Trump Approves Emergency Declarations for Arkansas, Kentucky and Tennessee to Supplement State-led Response Activities
Residents are urged to listen to local officials as severe weather and flooding risk continues
WASHINGTON -- FEMA is actively coordinating with states across the mid-west and central U.S. affected by recent severe storms and flooding to support their locally-led response efforts. Residents and visitors should continue to listen to instructions from local officials, monitor local weather alerts and evacuate immediately if told to so.
The President approved emergency declarations for Arkansas, Kentucky and Tennessee, which allows FEMA to identify, mobilize and provide equipment and resources to support state and local efforts. FEMA is also coordinating with the Department of Defense and other federal agencies to leverage their resources and equipment if requested by the state.
FEMA activated Regional Response Coordination Centers in Georgia and Texas and its National Response Coordination Center in Washington, D.C. to support state partners. Incident Management Teams, as well as emergency communication support and Urban Search and Rescue teams, have been deployed to the area to bolster the state and local responders’ operations. Federal resources – including meals, water, generators and other commodities – plus additional search and rescue teams are in position and ready to deploy in anticipation of state requests for assistance.
Keep Informed. Stay Safe.Even as rainfall amounts in the area begin to decrease, river and flash flooding may become more widespread and create hazardous conditions. Never walk, swim or drive through floodwaters. Just six inches of moving water can knock a person down, and one foot of water can carry away a vehicle.
People in the affected area should continue to listen to instructions from local officials to stay safe. Shelters are open in each state for people who are unable to return home due to the risks from the storm and possible flooding. Visit redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS to find the nearest shelter.
While the effects of the storm are widespread and impact many states simultaneously, each disaster is unique. FEMA continues to work alongside state and local partners to address the specific needs of each affected area.
Arkansas- Residents and visitors can get updated weather information on the National Weather Service Little Rock Decision Support Page and can visit the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management online for more information.
- Urban Search and Rescue teams and personnel from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have been deployed for safety and rescue operations.
- The state is monitoring power and communication outages and their impacts across the area.
- Residents and visitors can visit the Kentucky Emergency Management website for the latest information.
- Urban Search and Rescue teams are currently deployed to Greenville, Louisville and Moorehead.
- FEMA Mobile Emergency Response Support assets are deployed to Frankfort and Louisville, which provide mobile telecommunications, operational support and power generators in support of response officials on the ground.
- Emergency Management Assistance Compact task forces, which enable resource sharing across states during disasters, are supporting state and local operations.
- Voluntary evacuations are in place for residents of Nelson County.
- Residents and visitors can visit the TN Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) website for the latest information.
- Federal response teams are on the ground and coordinating with local and state search and rescue personnel.
- Montgomery and Obion counties have issued voluntary evacuations.
- Roads may be impacted by debris or flooding. Find the latest on road conditions on TDOT’s Smartway map.
President Donald J. Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Arkansas
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Arkansas to supplement response efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding beginning on April 2, 2025, and continuing.
The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all federal 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.
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, under the public assistance program, will be provided at 75% federal funding.
The assistance is available statewide for all impacted counties.
Roland W. Jackson has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected area.
mashana.davis Sat, 04/05/2025 - 16:45West Virginians Have Until April 28, 2025, to Apply for Disaster Assistance
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginians have until April 28 to apply for FEMA Assistance for damages sustained during the mid-February winter storms.
FEMA assistance for individuals and families affected by the Feb. 15-18, 2025, storms, mudslides, landslides, and straight-line winds can cover home repairs, personal property losses and other disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.
Residents, both homeowners and renters, in Logan, McDowell, Mercer, Mingo, Raleigh, Wayne, and Wyoming counties who sustained losses can apply for assistance in several ways:
- Visiting DisasterAssistance.gov.
- Downloading the FEMA App.
- Calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
- Phone lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, please provide FEMA your number for that service.
- Speaking with someone in person at a Disaster Recovery Center.
- Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams are on the ground in Raleigh County, walking door-to-door to share information and help residents apply for FEMA assistance.
- In coordination with the West Virginia Emergency Management Division (WVEMD) and officials in impacted counties, FEMA has opened Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) in Logan, Mercer, McDowell, Mingo, Wayne and Wyoming counties. At a center, you can get help applying for federal assistance, update your application, and learn about other resources available. The DRCs located in the table below remain open.
Southern WV Community & Technical College
100 College Drive
Logan, WV 25601
Hours of operation:
Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Closed Sundays
Lifeline Princeton Church of God
250 Oakvale Road
Princeton, WV 24740
Hours of operation:
Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturdays: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Closed Sundays
Closed April 26
McDowell County (Welch) Disaster Recovery Center McDowell County Disaster (Bradshaw) Recovery CenterBoard of Education Office
900 Mount View High School Road
Welch, WV 24801
Hours of operation:
Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Closed on Saturdays and Sundays
Bradshaw Town Hall
10002 Marshall Hwy
Bradshaw, WV 24817
Hours of operation:
Monday to Saturday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Closed Sundays
Mingo County Disaster Recovery CenterWyoming County Disaster Recovery CenterWilliamson Campus
1601 Armory Drive
Williamson, WV 25661
Hours of operation:
Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Closed on Sundays
Wyoming Court House
24 Main Ave
Pineville, WV 24874
Hours of operation:
Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Closed on Sundays
Wayne CountyTolsia High School
1 Rebel Drive
Fort Gay, WV 25514
Hours of operation:
Monday through Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Closed on Saturdays and Sundays
As a reminder, accepting FEMA funds will not affect eligibility for Social Security – including Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) – Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, or other federal benefit programs.
DRCs are accessible to all, including survivors with mobility issues, impaired vision, and those who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.
The easiest way to apply for FEMA assistance is by phone at 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Residents can also apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA app to their smartphone or tablet.
April 28, 2025, is also the application deadline for homeowners, renters and business owners to apply for a U.S. Small Business Administration physical disaster loan. Applicants can apply online at sba.gov/disaster, call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay service.
For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4861 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during and after disasters.
Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA's Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA's YouTube account. Also, follow on X FEMA_Cam.
For preparedness information, follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page.
lianza.yap Sat, 04/05/2025 - 12:53FEMA Ends Wasteful, Politicized Grant Program, Returning Agency to Core Mission of Helping Americans Recovering from Natural Disasters
Under Secretary Noem, DHS is eliminating waste, fraud and abuse
WASHINGTON -- FEMA is ending the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program and canceling all BRIC applications from Fiscal Years 2020-2023. If grant funds have not been distributed to states, tribes, territories and local communities, funds will be immediately returned either to the Disaster Relief Fund or the U.S. Treasury.
Statement Attributable to a FEMA Spokesperson:
“The BRIC program was yet another example of a wasteful and ineffective FEMA program. It was more concerned with political agendas than helping Americans affected by natural disasters. Under Secretary Noem’s leadership, we are committed to ensuring that Americans in crisis can get the help and resources they need.”
Approximately $882 million of funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will be returned to the U.S. Treasury or reapportioned by Congress in the next fiscal year. The 2021 law made $1 billion available for BRIC over five years, $133 million to date has been provided for about 450 applications. FEMA estimates more than $3.6 billion will remain in the Disaster Relief Fund to assist with disaster response and recovery for communities and survivors.
Ending this program will help ensure that grant funding aligns with the President’s Executive Orders and Secretary Noem’s direction and best support states and local communities in disaster planning, response and recovery.
amy.ashbridge Fri, 04/04/2025 - 20:03President Donald J. Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Kentucky
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement response efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding beginning on April 2, 2025, 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.
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, under the public assistance program, will be provided at 75% federal funding.
The assistance is for all 120 Kentucky counties.
Jeremy Slinker has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected area.
amy.ashbridge Fri, 04/04/2025 - 14:37Disaster Recovery Centers in Kentucky Adjusting Operation Hours
FRANKFORT, Ky. –Beginning April 4, Disaster Recovery Centers in Kentucky will have hours and days of operation.
- Friday, April 4, all Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to operate 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Saturday, April 5, all Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to operate 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Sunday, April 6, all Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to be closed.
- The center in Simpson County remains closed through April 6.
Beginning April 7, working hours at all centers are scheduled to operate 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday and closed on Sunday.
FEMA representatives can explain available assistance programs, how to apply to FEMA, and help connect survivors with resources for their recovery needs. Representatives from the Kentucky Office of Unemployment Insurance, the Kentucky Department of Insurance and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will also be available at the recovery centers to assist survivors.
Click here to find centers that are already open in Kentucky. You can visit any open center to meet with representatives of FEMA, the commonwealth of Kentucky and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed.
To find all other center locations, including those in other states, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362.
FEMA is encouraging Kentuckians affected by the February storms to apply for federal disaster assistance as soon as possible. The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance is April 25.
Kentucky homeowners and renters in Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry, Pike, Simpson and Woodford counties can apply for federal assistance.
If you are unable to visit the center, there are other ways to apply: online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (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.
martyce.allenjr Fri, 04/04/2025 - 13:29FEMA Follow-Up Calls Lead to Millions in Disaster Assistance for West Virginians
FEMA Follow-Up Calls Lead to Millions in Disaster Assistance for West Virginians
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – FEMA recovery efforts likely conjure images of safety vests and disaster sites. But a significant recovery effort in the past 10 months under FEMA reforms now includes headsets, mobile phones and office cubicles.
Staff from FEMA’s Enhanced Applicant Services (EAS) work from call centers eight hours a day, six days a week to follow up on applications submitted after a federal disaster is declared.
In West Virginia, EAS specialists have been calling survivors to check on the status of their applications, identify issues that could be slowing the process, discover additional assistance for which they may be eligible, or answer any questions a survivor might have.
While the phone conversations might be simple, their effects have been profound. In West Virginia, which has had four federally declared disasters since May 2024, EAS outreach has led to more than $4.1 million in additional assistance. That’s nearly 12 percent of the $35 million helping thousands of applicants.
Just weeks into its latest disaster resulting from February 2025 flooding, EAS calls have led to more than three-quarters of a million dollars that otherwise would have been left on the table for more than 1,000 state residents – already the highest rate of the four disasters declared.
Those millions of disaster dollars helping West Virginians are the result of more than 6,200 calls and conversations between EAS specialists and nearly 2,600 survivors.
This extra effort has been essential to FEMA’s recovery mission and demonstrates the importance of the personal touch in helping survivors obtain all the disaster assistance to which they’re entitled.
Read more about FEMA’s Enhanced Applicant Services in West Virginia at https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20250321/fema-reaching-out-west-virginians-phone.
For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4861 and www.facebook.com/FEMA.
kimberly.fuller Fri, 04/04/2025 - 11:52
FEMA Urges Residents to Listen to Local Officials About Flooding Risks as Storms Sweep the South and Midwest
WASHINGTON -- Large storms and severe weather systems are moving across the South and Midwest, which are bringing heavy rain and risks of flooding. FEMA is coordinating with its state, local, tribal and territorial partners to ensure people’s safety is prioritized.
Additionally, President Donald J. Trump has approved an emergency declaration for Tennessee, providing federal disaster assistance that allows FEMA to identify, mobilize and provide, at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency.
It is critical to listen to local authorities because they are the best source of information as weather impacts change and develop. There are several ways residents in affected areas can prepare to stay safe during these storms.
How to get information:
- Do not rely on a single source of weather alert information. Instead, tune in to multiple information sources and set up your devices to receive warnings and alerts.
- Make a habit of checking weather conditions regularly. This includes TV news, radio, a weather app on your smartphone or an online weather service.
- The FEMA App is your personalized disaster resource. Within the app, you can receive real-time weather and emergency alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations across the country. It can also help you find a nearby shelter if you need to evacuate. It is available on iPhone or Android.
How to stay safe:
- Evacuate immediately, if told to do so.
- When thunderstorms are in the area, stay alert for rapidly changing conditions. You may notice streams start to rise quickly and become muddy or hear a roaring sound upstream that may be a flood wave moving rapidly toward you. If you observe these things, head immediately for higher ground.
- Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Flash flooding can develop in just minutes. If a flash flood warning is issued, it means a flash flood is imminent or occurring and you should take action. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground.
- Get to the highest level if trapped in a building. Only get on the roof as a last resort and once there, signal for help. Do not climb into a closed attic, as you could be trapped by rising floodwater.
- If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately (unless water is moving quickly) and move to higher ground. Rapidly rising water can engulf the vehicle and its occupants, sweeping them away.
- Many flood deaths occur from cars being swept downstream. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars and just 2 feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks.
- Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
Information on keeping important documents safe:
- Keeping important documents such as birth certificates, passports, drivers’ licenses and Social Security cards in a safe place is important so they are accessible once disaster recovery starts. Take time now to safeguard these items to increase your peace of mind.
- Think about where to store important documents and valuables. If you have important items in your basement, you may want to consider moving them to a higher location and putting them in waterproof containers if possible.
- Consider storing electronic copies of important documents in a password-protected format on a removable flash or external hard drive.
To learn more about flood safety and preparedness, visit Ready.gov/floods or Listo.gov in Spanish language.
joy.li Thu, 04/03/2025 - 20:19FEMA Updates Flood Maps in Cochise County
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has delivered preliminary flood maps for Cochise County, the City of Benson, the City of Bisbee, the City of Sierra Vista, the City of Tombstone, and the Town of Huachuca City, Arizona. These maps identify revised flood hazards within the Upper San Pedro Watershed. The updated maps will help building officials, contractors, and homeowners make informed mitigation decisions, thereby contributing to safer, more disaster-resilient communities.
Before the new Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) become effective, there will be a 90-day appeal period from April 3, 2025, to July 3, 2025. During this time, residents or businesses with supporting technical and scientific information—such as detailed hydraulic or hydrologic data—may appeal the flood risk information on the preliminary maps. The maps can be viewed at hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/prelimdownload/.
Flood hazards are dynamic and frequently change due to factors such as weather patterns, erosion, and community development. Officials from FEMA and Cochise County have worked together to provide updated information that accurately reflects the current flood risk. These changes may also impact future building standards and insurance requirements.
This local mapping project is part of a national effort led by FEMA to enhance public awareness of flood risks and support actions that mitigate the effects of flooding on new and existing structures. FEMA encourages residents to review the preliminary flood maps to better understand local flood risks, potential future flood insurance requirements, and any concerns they may have about the information provided.
Flooding affects nearly every part of the nation. In fact, 98% of U.S. counties have experienced a flood event, making floods the most common and widespread weather-related natural disaster.
For more information, contact Joaquin Solis, Cochise County Floodplain Administrator at (520) 432-9317 or floodplain@cochise.az.gov.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at x/femaregion9.
brandi.richard… Thu, 04/03/2025 - 17:01President Donald J. Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Tennessee
WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Tennessee to supplement response efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding beginning on April 2 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.
The assistance is for all 95 Tennessee counties.
Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide, at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, limited to direct federal assistance, under the public assistance program, will be provided at 75% federal funding.
Darryl L. Dragoo has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected area.
Mental Health Support is Available as Kentuckians Face Repeated Severe Weather Events
FRANKFORT, Ky. – As Kentuckians brace for another round of severe weather, many residents are still recovering from the devastating storms and flooding that occurred between February 14 and March 7. These repeated incidents can take a serious toll on mental health and leave people feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed.
For adults and children having negative feelings or thoughts, free crisis counseling is available through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Disaster Distress Helpline.
Call 800-985-5990 (Spanish Press 2) or text “TalkWithUs” to 66746 (for Spanish text “Hablamos” to 66746) to connect with a trained crisis counselor. SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline provides free, 24/7, 365-day-a-year crisis counseling and support to people experiencing emotional distress related to natural or human-caused disasters.
Stress, anxiety, and other depression-like symptoms are common reactions before, during and after a disaster. This national hotline provides immediate crisis counseling for people who are feeling emotional distress related to any natural or human-caused disaster. The hotline is toll-free, multilingual, and confidential, offering crisis support service to all residents in the United States and its territories.
Counselors can also provide information about recognizing emotional distress and its effects, coping tips and referrals to other call centers for more support.
For more information about who is most at risk for emotional distress from natural disasters and to find related resources, visit https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline.
martyce.allenjr Thu, 04/03/2025 - 12:31
Kentucky Survivors: Tornado and Flood Safety Information
FRANKFORT, Ky. –When a tornado warning is issued, immediately seek the best available refuge area. Your chance of surviving improves if you follow these guidelines.
Where to go during a tornadoBest Options
- Above or below ground tornado storm shelter
- Specifically designed FEMA safe room
- Interior room of a well-constructed home or building
- Basement
- Large open rooms like gymnasiums
- Manufactured housing
- Mobile homes
- Vehicles
- Underneath a highway overpass
What to do during a flood
- Stay Informed: Listen to radio and television, including NOAA weather radio, if possible, check the Internet and social media for information and updates.
- Get to Higher Ground: If you live in a flood prone area or are camping in a low-lying area, get to higher ground immediately.
- Obey Evacuation Orders: If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock your home when you leave. If you have time, disconnect utilities and appliances.
- Practice Electrical Safety: Don't go into a basement, or any room, if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping or popping noises--get out! Stay out of water that may have electricity in it!
- Avoid Flood Waters: Don't walk through flood waters. It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock you off your feet. If you are trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and call 911 if possible.
- Do NOT drive into flooded roadways or around a barricade; Turn Around, Don't Drown! Water may be deeper than it appears and can hide hazards such as sharp objects, washed out road surfaces, electrical wires, chemicals, etc. A vehicle caught in swiftly moving water can be swept away in seconds 12 inches of water can float a car or small SUV, 18 inches of water can carry away large vehicles.
- Stay inside your car if it is trapped in rapidly moving water. Get on the roof if water is rising inside the car.
- Get to the highest level if trapped in a building. Only get on the roof if necessary and once there signal for help. Do not climb into a closed attic to avoid getting trapped by rising floodwater.
Assistance is Still Available for Wildfire Survivors After the Registration Deadline
LOS ANGELES – FEMA is still working in Los Angeles County to help residents recover from the LA wildfires. The deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance has passed, but Disaster Recovery Centers remain open and the deadline to submit a Right of Entry (ROE) to participate in the federally funded debris removal program has been extended to April 15.
Survivors who registered prior to the deadline are encouraged to keep in touch with FEMA to continue to update their application as their situation changes and to work through the approval process. For those displaced by the fires, rental assistance is still available.
If you do not qualify for FEMA assistance, state and local resources may also be available. For more information visit: 2025 Los Angeles Fires | CA.gov
If you were impacted by the fire but were unable to apply for FEMA assistance prior to the deadline due to extenuating circumstances, you may be able to file a late application.
If you have additional needs or wish to submit a late application, call the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. If you use a relay service, give FEMA your number for that service. Assistance is available in multiple languages. Lines are open Sunday–Saturday, from 4 a.m.- 10 p.m. Pacific Time.
To be eligible for the federally funded debris removal program, an ROE form must be submitted to the County by the property owner. The deadline to submit an ROE has been extended to April 15:
- Complete and submit the opt-in form online at: Los Angeles County Right of Entry Permit for Debris Removal on Private Property.
- Download and complete a form: Debris Removal Right of Entry Permit (00011201.DOCX;1). Submit at a Disaster Recovery Center.
Disaster Recovery Centers are still open if you need more information:
To find a DRC near you, visit the DRC Locator. Addresses are also listed below:
- UCLA Research Park West
10850 West Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
Open Mon. – Sat.: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. - Altadena Disaster Recovery Center
540 West Woodbury Rd.
Altadena, CA 91001
Open Mon. – Sat.: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Follow FEMA online, on X @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol, on FEMA’s Facebook page or Espanol page and at FEMA's YouTube account. For preparedness information follow the Ready Campaign on X at @Ready.gov, on Instagram @Ready.gov or on the Ready Facebook page.
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.
alberto.pillot Wed, 04/02/2025 - 19:22Oklahoma County, Oklahoma Flood Maps Become Final
DENTON, Texas – New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on or about Oct. 2, 2025, for Oklahoma County, Oklahoma. During the next six months, a FEMA compliance specialist will work with the community to update each floodplain ordinance and adopt these new flood maps.
Residents are encouraged to examine the maps to determine if they are in a low-to-moderate or high-risk flood zone. The current and future Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) can be viewed on FEMA’s Flood Map Changes Viewer at https://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.
By understanding flood risks, individuals can decide which insurance option is best for their situation. Community leaders can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards and development to help lessen the impacts of a flooding event.
Anyone without flood insurance risks uninsured losses to their home, personal property and business. Flood insurance is available either through a private policy or through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for those in communities that participate in the NFIP. Residents with federally backed mortgages must have flood insurance if their structures are in the Special Flood Hazard Area.
Contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA) to review the new flood maps and learn more about your risk of flooding. A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify your community FPA and answer questions about the maps as well. Contact them by phone or online chat.
- 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 Wed, 04/02/2025 - 16:13