FEMA Direct Temporary Housing Helps Families Return Home in Western Kentucky

Frankfort, KY – Eighteen months after a major disaster was declared for Western Kentucky due to tornadoes and severe storms, FEMA’s temporary housing program is scheduled to end for survivors Friday, June 12, 2023.

To date, 92 households have been licensed into temporary housing in Western Kentucky. Of that number, 70 households have found permanent housing with the help of this program.

Kentuckians participating in this program have been informed via mail that this program is concluding, they will also receive a hand-delivered letter 30 days before the program ends. The letter will state that the Direct Temporary Housing program will end on June 12, survivors will have until June 15, 2023, to move to alternate housing.

While this FEMA program is scheduled to end, help is still available. Homeowners and renters getting temporary housing assistance from FEMA still have options.  Survivors in temporary housing are strongly encouraged to contact their Disaster Case Manager for help. They may also reach out to voluntary agencies and long-term recovery groups in their area for assistance finding suitable housing before the June deadline.

For more information, survivors are encouraged to contact their disaster case manager or call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362.

This housing program helps to fill the need for short-term housing allowing survivors time to identify permanent housing solutions. Survivors work directly with Disaster Case Managers to assess their housing needs and help them build a permanent housing plan. Temporary housing was available in the following counties: Caldwell, Graves, Hopkins, Marshall, Muhlenberg, and Warren.

For the latest information on Kentucky disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4630 and follow FEMA on Twitter at twitter.com/FEMARegion4. Visit the Governor’s website at governor.ky.gov/disaster-response/flood-response.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 05/10/2023 - 18:46

ICYMI: Secretary Mayorkas and U.S. Fire Administrator Honored Fallen Firefighters and Discussed National Fire Strategy to Prevent Firefighter Deaths

42nd National Fallen Fire Fighters Memorial Weekend took place at National Emergency Management Center on May 7

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas and U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell delivered remarks during the 42nd National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF) Memorial Weekend on May 7 in Emmitsburg, Maryland. The Secretary and the Fire Administrator paid tribute to the 79 firefighters who died in the line of duty in 2022 and 65 firefighters who died in previous years.  

EMMITSBURG, Md. -- Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas delivers remarks during the 42nd National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend. (DHS photo)

“The emergencies to which a fire fighter responds are varied as a life can be. One thing is constant throughout it all: the qualities of courage, devotion to duty, service and sacrifice that define the character of a fire fighter,” Secretary Mayorkas stated during his remarks. “Rare is the individual who runs toward danger and rarer still, is the individual who does so only to help others. That is the fire fighter. That is the 144 fallen heroes we honor this weekend. Heroes who gave their lives to save others.”

Mayorkas also stated that fires are increasingly a threat to our homeland security, and firefighters need the personnel, tools, training and resources to be prepared to face these challenges. “Our Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) and Assistance to Firefighter Grants programs provide funds directly to fire departments to hire, maintain, equip and train frontline personnel. This year we will award $684 million through these two grant programs, helping fire departments like the College Park Volunteer Fire Department here in Maryland, which is using grant funding to grow its program to attract and retain firefighters.”

U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Moore-Merrell remarked on the bravery and service of firefighters and paramedics and encouraged all those who had lost loved ones in the line of duty to never forget their impact.

“Firefighter and paramedics are a special breed -- you know that. Many times, I have asked them, ‘Why do you do this? Why did you become a firefighter?’ Their response far and above is ‘To serve others,’” remarked Administrator Moore-Merrell. “Today, I encourage you to remember the good in your firefighter. Remember the laughs, a meal that you had with them, perhaps a gift they gave you. Remember the influence and impact they had on your life, whether you were family, a close friend, or even an acquaintance. Remember how they made you feel when they spoke or laughed. Remember their service and the hope they gave to others.” 

The Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend is partly supported by a grant from the Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Assistance and in partnership with the U.S. Fire Administration, a component of the Department of Homeland Security.

EMMITSBURG, Md. -- Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas and U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Moore-Merrell address members of the National Fire Service. (DHS photo)

Before delivering his remarks, Secretary Mayorkas met and led a discussion with the fire service leaders on the U.S. Fire Strategy and its goals, including preparing firefighters for climate driven changes, establishing a cancer strategy, investing in a national recruitment and retention program, providing behavioral wellness resources, implementing and enforcing codes and standards and elevating the fire service to a national level of visibility.

Fire service leaders in the meeting included: Ron Siarnicki; NFFF Executive Director, Troy Markel; NFFF Board Chair, Bill Webb; NFFF Board Vice-Chair and CFSI Executive Director, Donna Black; President, International Association of Fire Chiefs, John Butler; Vice-President, International Association of Fire Chiefs, Pat Morrison; International Association of Fire Fighters, Kevin Quinn; Vice-Chair, National Volunteer Fire Council , Jim Pauley; President & CEO, National Fire Protection Association , Victor Stagnaro; NFFF Managing Director.

EMMITSBURG, Md. -- Homeland Security Secretary Mayorkas and Dr. Moore-Merrell stand with members of the National Fire Service. (DHS photo)

EMMITSBURG, Md. -- Secretary Mayorkas and U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Moore-Merrell honor fallen firefighters at the National Fallen Firefighters Memorial. (DHS photo)

After the meeting, U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Moore-Merrell accompanied Secretary Mayorkas to the September 11th memorial on campus through the brick Walk of Honor and to the National Fallen Firefighters Monument.

The U.S. Congress created the federation to lead a nationwide effort to honor America's fallen firefighters. The mission is to honor America's fallen fire heroes, support their families, colleagues and organizations and reduce preventable firefighter death and injury.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 05/10/2023 - 17:40

Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Making Stop in Greenville

Madison, Miss. – A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) run by FEMA and the state of Mississippi is now open in Greenville. FEMA and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) want to serve the survivors staying in the Greenville area following the May 24-25 tornadoes and severe storms.

• Location: Red Rempson Memorial Expo Building, Washington County Convention Center, 1040 S. Raceway Road, Greenville, MS 38703
• Dates: May 9 – 13, 15 - 20

This location will have specialists from MEMA on site in addition to FEMA and the Small Business Administration.

What help is available at a Disaster Recovery Center?

Recovery centers offer customer service for disaster survivors. Survivors can get help with:

• Applying for federal assistance
• Updating their applications
• Submitting documents
• Completing a disaster loan application
• Appealing a FEMA determination

Fixed location Disaster Recovery Centers

In addition to mobile centers, there are five fixed DRCs operating across the state. They are staffed by specialists from FEMA, MEMA, SBA and other agencies at the following locations:

• Humphreys County: Humphreys County Library, 105 Hayden St., Belzoni, MS 39038
• Monroe County: Monroe County Government Complex, 1619 Highway 25, Amory, MS 38821
• Montgomery County: Montgomery County Coliseum, 200 Recreation Drive, Winona, MS 38967
• Panola County: Mississippi State University Extension Center, 245 Eureka St., Suite C, Batesville, MS 38606
• Sharkey County: Sharkey Issaquena Nursing Home, 463 West Race St., Rolling Fork, MS 39159

DRC Hours of operation:

• 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturdays; closed Sundays.

Survivors do not need to visit a center to apply. They can create an application online at disasterassistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app for smartphones or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 anytime between 6 a.m. and midnight Central Time seven days a week. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service.

For the latest information on recovery, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) and fema.gov/disaster/4697. On Twitter follow MEMA @MSEMA and FEMA Region 4 @femaregion4).

sandra.habib Tue, 05/09/2023 - 21:47

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

WASHINGTON ­-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides Feb. 15-20, 2023.

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the commonwealth, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides in Bell, Breathitt, Caldwell, Carter, Clay, Elliott, Floyd, Harlan, Hart, Johnson, Knott, Lawrence, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Powell, Whitley and Wolfe counties.

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

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

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 05/09/2023 - 20:17

U.S. Fire Administration Announces Effort to Launch New Fire Information and Analytics Platform

WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) announces the launch of the modernization effort to develop a new, interoperable fire information and analytics platform, known as the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS), for the American fire and emergency services. This effort is being carried out as a partnership between USFA and the US Department of Homeland Security's Science and Technology Directorate (S&T). The goal of NERIS is to empower the local fire and emergency service community by equipping them with near real-time information and analytic tools that support data informed decision making for enhanced preparedness and response to incidents involving all-hazards.

“Once launched, the new NERIS platform will provide capabilities for documenting and introducing community risk reduction efforts, associated resilience and mitigation efforts into the overall preparedness and resilience equation — providing greater insights into vulnerability gaps where resources can be used to harden communities and minimize future emergency and disaster events,” said U.S. Fire Administrator Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell.

The platform will integrate data from multiple federal data sets, computer-aided dispatch (CAD) and other authoritative live data sources — to inform community risks including vulnerable populations, the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI), drought areas and flood plains. Further, it will support rapid data capture from hostile event response, including response to structure fires, emergency medical incidents and hazardous materials events.

This project is made possible through a research & development contract awarded through S&T’s Long-Range Broad Agency Announcement  program awarded to The Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI). FSRI is a part of UL Research Institutes, the nonprofit safety science organization within the UL enterprise. In collaboration with USFA, DHS S&T and the American fire service, FSRI will develop and provide the new NERIS platform for use by fire and emergency service departments nationwide.

The new NERIS platform will replace the legacy data system (known as the National Fire Incident Reporting System — NFIRS) with a secure, cloud-hosted platform that will fulfill the USFA’s National Fire Data Center’s (NFDC) obligation under the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of 1974 (PL 93-498) — to mitigate the fire problem, reduce loss of life and property and educate the public on fire prevention and protection, as well as effects of all-hazards.

Once NERIS is developed and operational, USFA will work to migrate fire and emergency service departments onto the new platform. The legacy NFIRS will remain operational throughout the transition process so all fire and emergency services departments should continue to use the current NFIRS data system and maintain status quo until migrated to the new platform. For the latest information on NERIS development, visit www.USFA.FEMA.gov/nfirs/Neris.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 05/09/2023 - 17:47

One Month Left to Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Homeowners and renters in Cannon, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Lewis, Macon, McNairy, Rutherford, Tipton and Wayne counties who had damage or losses in the recent storms and tornadoes have until Tuesday, June 6, 2023, to apply for federal disaster assistance.

Residents are encouraged to file insurance claims for damage to their homes, personal property and vehicles before applying with FEMA. FEMA assistance is not taxed and will not affect Social Security, Medicaid or other federal benefits. FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. But you must have had losses or property damage in the March 31 to April 1 tornadoes.

As an applicant, you may be eligible for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program, which assists disaster survivors with basic critical needs such as finding a safe, accessible and functional place to live. The grants can help pay for temporary housing and for home repairs to your primary home. They may also cover personal property loss, childcare, medical or dental care, and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance.

If you had damage and applied for FEMA assistance, you can expect a call, text or email from FEMA to schedule an appointment for an inspection. Be aware that phone calls from FEMA may come from an unknown number and your case will be locked if the inspector cannot reach you after three attempts.

FEMA may refer individuals to the U.S. Small Business Administration even if they do not own a business or home. SBA loans are the largest source of federal disaster funding for people impacted by disasters. The deadline to apply for a low-interest disaster loan from the SBA is also June 6.

If approved for an SBA loan, there is no obligation to accept the loan. If SBA cannot approve your loan application, SBA will refer you to FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance program for possible additional assistance.

To apply to SBA online or to download applications, go to https://DisasterLoanAssistance.sba.gov/. You may call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov for more information or to have a loan application mailed to you. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, dial 711 to access telecommunications relay services.

Completed paper loan applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155. You may also apply with the help of an SBA representative or submit your loan application at a Business Recovery Center. To find one, click https://www.fema.gov/press-release/20230421/its-important-return-your-sba-loan-application.

To apply for FEMA disaster assistance:

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Use the FEMA mobile app
• Call the Disaster Assistance Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. Helpline operators speak many languages and lines are open from 6 a.m. to midnight Central Daylight Time daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
• For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI&list=PL720Kw_OojlKOhtKG7HM_0n_kEawus6FC&index=6

Disaster Recovery Centers are staffed with specialists who can help you update your FEMA applications and learn about Tennessee state and community programs and other available assistance. You may visit any Disaster Recovery Center; no appointment is needed. Find a center here:  https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator

For the latest information on Tennessee’s recovery from the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes, visit FEMA.gov/Disaster/4701. You may also follow TN.gov/TEMA; Twitter.com/TEMA, Facebook.com/TNDisasterInfo, @FEMARegion4/Twitter and Facebook.com/FEMA.

sandra.habib Tue, 05/09/2023 - 15:35

Cleveland County Disaster Survivors Now Eligible for FEMA

OKLAHOMA CITY – Cleveland County has been added to the major disaster declaration for Oklahoma’s tornadoes, straight-line wind and severe storms April 19-20. Residents who had damage or losses from the storms may now apply for FEMA disaster assistance.

The federal disaster declaration now allows FEMA to provide direct support to individuals and households in three counties under the Individual Assistance program: Cleveland, McClain and Pottawatomie.

Homeowners and renters in the three counties who had damage or losses as a direct result of the storms are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance. Disaster assistance may include grants to help pay for temporary housing and essential home repairs as well as other serious disaster-related needs such as medical and dental expenses, transportation, childcare, and moving and storage expenses.

The fastest and easiest way to apply for FEMA assistance is by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov.

If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT 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.

alexa.brown Tue, 05/09/2023 - 15:09

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Broward County

LAKE MARY, Fla. – The State of Florida and FEMA are operating a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Broward County.

Location:

Hortt Park, 1700 SW 14TH Court, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

Hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closed Sundays.

Disaster Recovery Centers provide disaster survivors with information from Florida state agencies, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance, learn about the types of assistance available, learn about the appeals process and get updates on applications.

In addition to visiting a center, you can apply by going online to disasterassistance.gov, using the FEMA mobile app  or calling 800-621-3362, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET every day. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.

Disaster Recovery Centers are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available and in-person sign language is available by request. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps, and restrooms.

In addition to the centers, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) crews are canvassing communities affected by the April 12-14 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Broward County to help residents apply for FEMA assistance and to answer questions about federal assistance. DSA crews wear FEMA attire and have federal photo identification badges. There is no charge for service.

FEMA Individual Assistance can help with temporary lodging expenses, basic home repairs and other essential disaster-related needs.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For more information about recovery in Florida, visit fema.gov/disaster/4709 and  floridadisaster.org/. Follow us on Twitter: @FLSERT and @FEMARegion4.

bree-constance… Mon, 05/08/2023 - 18:16

ICYMI: Administrator Criswell Delivers Commencement Address at Penn State College of Information Sciences and Technology

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell delivered the 2023 commencement address at Pennsylvania State University’s College of Information Sciences and Technology (IST) on Saturday.

Administrator Criswell Delivers Commencement Address at Pennsylvania State University’s College of Information Sciences and Technology (Photo Credit: Penn State)

Administrator’s Criswell’s remarks highlighted technological advances that help FEMA and the emergency management enterprise respond to disasters, including COVID-19, but reminded the new graduates that it is the people behind the technology that are the real heroes.

“Technology helped fast-track the development of COVID vaccines, but it took people to get the shots in arms. Technology enabled virtual medical appointments, but it took people to work through the complex process of protecting patient information. And when it came to your college education, technology brought you into virtual classrooms, but it took your professors and administrators to maintain the experience of a world-class education,” remarked Administrator Criswell. “We can never forget that it is the people behind the technology that has helped us get here today. Technology is only one part of the solution -- you are the other.”

The Administrator also challenged the IST class of 2023 to continue to question and challenge the status quo in order to make change in their own communities, nationwide and across the globe.

“Regardless of the career you choose, I challenge you to give back to the places you call home. Use your skills to make a difference, change a life and perhaps save one too.”

You can read the Administrator’s full remarks here, and watch her commencement speech here.

luther.wills-dudich Mon, 05/08/2023 - 15:02

Disaster Recovery Center Open in Allen County

INDIANAPOLIS – The state of Indiana and FEMA will open a Disaster Recovery Center in Allen County from May 8-10 to help survivors of the March 31–April 1 storms and tornadoes continue their recovery.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the state and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be at the center to help with FEMA applications, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.

The center will be located at:

Saint Joseph Township Community Center

6033 Maple Crest Rd.

Ft . Wayne, IN 46835, Door 10

Center hours on May 8-9 will be 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Hours for May 10 will be 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Additional recovery centers are open or will be opening soon in other impacted areas. Individuals and businesses in Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan, and White counties can visit any open center for help. To find a nearby center, visit fema.gov/drc.

To apply for FEMA assistance without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or use the FEMA App. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA your number for that service.

The deadline to apply for federal assistance is June 14, 2023

###

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. For more information on Indiana’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4704. Follow us on our Facebook.com/FEMA page and Twitter at @femaRegion5.

FEMA does not discriminate against individuals based on their race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.

nicole.wilson Mon, 05/08/2023 - 14:06

Disaster Recovery Center Open in Monroe County

INDIANAPOLIS – The state of Indiana and FEMA will open a Disaster Recovery Center in Monroe County from May 8- 10 and May 18-20 to help survivors of the March 31–April 1 storms and tornadoes continue their recovery.

Recovery specialists from FEMA, the state and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) will be at the center to help with FEMA applications, answer questions and provide referrals to resources.

The center will be located at: 7973 W Main St. Stinesville, IN 47464

Center hours on May 8-9 and 18-19 will be 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Hours for May 10 and 20 will be 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Additional recovery centers are open or will be opening soon in other impacted areas. Individuals and businesses in Allen, Benton, Clinton, Grant, Howard, Johnson, Lake, Monroe, Morgan, Owen, Sullivan, and White counties can visit any open center for help. To find a nearby center, visit fema.gov/drc.

To apply for FEMA assistance without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or use the FEMA App. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA your number for that service.

The deadline to apply for federal assistance is June 14, 2023

###

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. For more information on Indiana’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4704. Follow us on our Facebook.com/FEMA page and Twitter at @femaRegion5.

FEMA does not discriminate against individuals based on their race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status.

nicole.wilson Mon, 05/08/2023 - 14:01

Cannon County Disaster Recovery Center to Close but FEMA Help Still Available

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Cannon County Disaster Recovery Center in Woodbury will close at 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 9, but that does not mean that FEMA is leaving the state.

Three Disaster Recovery Centers will remain open to help survivors of the March 31 to April 1, 2023, severe storms and tornadoes. The table below lists hours and locations. For additional Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers open after May 6, visit https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator. You may visit any recovery center to get help.

DRCs by County

Address

Hours of Operation/Days (Central Daylight Time)

 

Cannon

East Side Elementary School

5658 McMinnville Highway

Woodbury, TN 37190

May 5 and May 6: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

May 8 and May 9: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Closes: 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 9

 

 

McNairy

The Latta Theater

205 W. Court Avenue

Selmer, TN 38375

May 5 and May 6:  7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

May 8 to May 12: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

May 13: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

Tipton

Dyersburg State Community College

Public Library

3149 Highway 51 South

Covington, TN 38019

 

May 5 and May 6:  7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

May 8 to May 12: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

May 13: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 

 

Wayne

Lincoln Brass Works

309 Hurricane Meadows Drive

Waynesboro, TN 38485

May 5 and May 6:  7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

May 8 to May 12: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

May 13: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

MOBILE DRCs by County

Address

Hours of Operation/Days (Central Daylight Time)

Haywood

Haywood County Justice Complex

100 S. Dupree Avenue

Brownsville, TN 38012

May 5 to May 6: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 

Lewis

Lewis County 911 Center

116 Commerce Street

Hohenwald, TN 38462

May 5 to May 6: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 

Rutherford

Rockvale Community Center

9972 Rockvale Road

Rockvale, TN 37153

May 5 to May 6: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

 

FEMA is continuing its work with the state and other partners to help Tennessee residents recover from the storms. FEMA specialists are available to help update information in your accounts and direct you to federal, state and community programs and assistance.

Even with the scheduled closing of the Cannon County Disaster Recovery Center, help from FEMA is just a phone call away. Survivors can get answers from specialists at the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

It is important to stay in touch with FEMA if you change your address or phone number, even if only temporarily. Missing or wrong information could delay your check.

The deadline to apply for FEMA disaster assistance is Tuesday, June 6. Here are the ways to apply:

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov
• Use the FEMA mobile app; or
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. Helpline operators speak many languages and lines are open from 6 a.m. to midnight Central Daylight Time daily. Press 2 for Spanish. Press 3 for an interpreter who speaks your language.
• For an American Sign Language video on how to apply, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LU7wzRjByhI&list=PL720Kw_OojlKOhtKG7HM_0n_kEawus6FC&index=6

For the latest information on Tennessee’s recovery from the severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes, visit FEMA.gov/Disaster/4701. You may also follow TN.gov/TEMA; Twitter.com/TEMA, Facebook.com/TNDisasterInfo, @FEMARegion4/Twitter and Facebook.com/FEMA.

sandra.habib Mon, 05/08/2023 - 14:00

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

DENTON, Texas – Revised Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review in Collin 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 stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.

The 90-day appeal and comment period will begin on or around May 8, 2023. 

Appeals and comments may be submitted through Aug. 6, 2023, for:

• The cities of Dallas and Plano

Comments only may be submitted through Aug. 6, 2023, for:

• The cities of Carrolton and Richardson; and the unincorporated areas of Collin County

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

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

The next step in the mapping process is 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

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 Mon, 05/08/2023 - 13:13

FEMA Is Hiring

Central, Miss. — FEMA, in partnership with the State of Mississippi, is hiring state residents to assist with recovery efforts from the March 24-25 tornadoes and severe storms.

The agency has more than a dozen openings for a variety of short-term, full-time jobs based at FEMA’s temporary offices in the surrounding areas. The temporary positions are for 120 days, but may be extended based on the needs of the disaster.

Hiring locally allows Mississippi residents to help their neighbors with their recovery. Hiring locally is part of FEMA’s commitment to the community. And hiring locally helps build America’s disaster recovery workforce, because many FEMA employees started as local hires after major disasters in their states.

To learn more, and to apply, go online to USAjobs.gov. Once there, search for “FEMA” under “Keywords” and “Mississippi” under “Location.” You also can use this link FEMA Local Hire or the QR code below.

Or use these links.

Communications:

Creative Specialist

External Affairs Specialist

Media Relations Specialist

Intergovernmental Congressional Affairs and Private Sector Specialist

Program Liaison Specialist

Environmental Historic Preservation:

Environmental Specialist

Administrative Specialist

Historic Preservation Specialist

Floodplain Management:

Floodplain Management Specialist

Hazard Mitigation:

Community Education and Outreach Specialist

Engineering and Architect Specialist

Grants Specialist

Hazard Mitigation 406 Specialist

Training and Administrative Specialist

Interagency Recovery Coordination:

National Disaster Recovery Support Specialist

Community Planning Expert Specialist

Local Government Admin Expert Specialist

Planning:

Planning Specialist

Certain positions may require driving to the impacted areas. You must be a U.S. citizen, 18 years of age or older, and possess a high school diploma or GED to apply.

FEMA is committed to employing a highly qualified workforce that reflects the diversity of our nation. All applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age, political affiliation, non-disqualifying physical handicap, sexual orientation, and any other non-merit factor. The federal government is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

For the latest information on recovery from the Mississippi tornadoes, visit March 24 2023 Severe Weather Disaster Information - MEMA (msema.org) or fema.gov/disaster/4697. Follow FEMA on Twitter at @femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema.

sandra.habib Mon, 05/08/2023 - 13:08

Historic Buildings in Old San Juan Will Be Repaired with FEMA Funds

San Juan, Puerto Rico – Three centuries-old structures located in Old San Juan that are considered architectural jewels and house hundreds of years of history within their walls will be repaired with nearly $10.7 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). These are the Catedral de San Juan Bautista, Iglesia Santa Ana and the Capilla Santo Cristo de la Salud, all facilities that are part of the National Register of Historic Places.

The cultural and historical value of these buildings is incalculable, which underscores the importance of repairing the damage caused by Hurricane María and restoring these spaces of great significance to Puerto Rico. According to historian José Marull del Río of the State Historic Preservation Office, for example, the Iglesia Santa Ana once housed five oval works with saints of the Order of Mercy, created by Puerto Rican painter José Campeche. It is also the only current example of a 19th century urban structure of its kind.

Likewise, the Catedral de San Juan stands out as the oldest cathedral on the island and the second oldest in America. Moreover, the construction of the Capilla del Cristo dates back 270 years.

“These facilities are important spaces of Puerto Rican history and identity. The mission of our Environmental and Historic Preservation division is one of great impact, where we seek to address the damage taking into account the laws that protect structures such as these, which are a great example of our heritage,” said federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

Due to the historic characteristics of the structures, repairs must comply with the Department of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation of Historic Properties. These guidelines are used to determine the type of treatment — either preservation, rehabilitation, restoration or reconstruction — to be applied based on the level of historic significance of the facility and the use and condition the structure is in.

Repairs already completed for the three facilities include lime plaster, brick slabs and flooring, stairs, wood supports and doors. Some of the pending work includes replacing the roof membrane, electrical conduit and wiring, floor tiles and chandeliers. Plaster, stained glass and windows will also be repaired; and interior and exterior painting will be completed, among other work.

For the Catedral de San Juan, over $177,000 of its reconstruction funds are for mitigation measures: the waterproofing of the roof will be reinforced, a coating will be applied to the clear glass windows to prevent cracks and breakage, and impact-resistant non-reflective panels will be installed to protect the stained-glass windows. These repairs are intended to strengthen the structure so that it will not sustain similar damage during atmospheric events that may occur in the future.

Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, Executive Director of the Central Office for Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), said, "Our team is committed to continue supporting the subrecipients of faith-based organizations in the development of their reconstruction projects. I urge these organizations to apply for a Working Capital Advance for the development of works that will make the infrastructure resilient and help preserve its historical and cultural value.”

To date, FEMA has obligated nearly $30.4 billion in Public Assistance funds for roughly 10,600 projects that will support the rebuilding of a more resilient Puerto Rico.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 y recovery.pr. Follow us on social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

 

frances.acevedo-pico Sun, 05/07/2023 - 18:51

ICYMI: FEMA, NOAA Tour Gulf States to Urge Preparedness Ahead of Hurricane Season

WASHINGTON -- This week, FEMA leaders participated in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s annual Hurricane Awareness Tour in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Florida.

Representatives from all levels of government joined community partners to showcase the coordinated approach to hurricane readiness and response, while urging the public to prepare now.  

“No one is immune from disasters. Act today to keep yourself, your family and your community safe,” said FEMA Deputy Associate Administrator for Response and Recovery Keith Turi. “The steps you take now matter. Download the FEMA App and sign up for your local community’s emergency alerts. Make an emergency plan. Visit ready.gov or Listo.gov for Spanish speakers, for information on what your emergency plan should include.”

At each stop, the public met FEMA and NOAA hurricane experts, scientists and crew members. Attendees had the unique opportunity to tour aircrafts that help forecasters keep us safe -- NOAA’s WP-3D and the U.S. Air Force Reserve WC-130J.

 

HOUSTON -- FEMA Deputy Associate Administrator for Response and Recovery Keith Turi provides opening remarks at Ellington Airport Houston. (FEMA photo)

 

NEW ORLEANS -- FEMA Region 6 Regional Administrator Tony Robinson (left) with John Gharbi and son at Lakefront Airport New Orleans. (FEMA photo)

 

NEW ORLEANS -- Fourth and fifth-grade students from St. Mary's Academy in New Orleans line up to tour the Air Force Reserves command weather airplane at Lakefront. (FEMA photo)

 

JACKSON, Miss. -- FEMA Region 4 Regional Administrator Gracia B Szczech (middle) stands with airport workers, Mississippi Emergency Management Agency Executive Director Stephen McCraney, Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba and Meteorologist in Charge National Weather Service Bill Parker at Jackson Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport. (FEMA photo)

 

JACKSON, Miss. -- FEMA Region 4 Regional Administrator Gracia Szczech chats with crew member Chief Master Sgt. Jay Latham of the Hurricane Hunters team aboard one of the team’s planes at Jackson’s Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport. (FEMA photo)

 

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- (from left) Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis, FEMA Region 4 Regional Administrator Gracia Szczech and Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie with flight crew at Tallahassee International Airport. (FEMA photo)

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 05/05/2023 - 22:11

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Major Declaration for the State of Alabama

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced federal emergency aid has been made available to the state of Alabama to supplement state, tribal and local recovery efforts in areas affected by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes March 24-27, 2023.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to state, tribal, eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by severe storms, straight-line winds and tornadoes in Chambers, Colbert, Coosa, Elmore, Lauderdale, Macon, Marion, Morgan, Randolph and Tallapoosa counties.

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

Kevin A. Wallace, Sr. has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations for the affected areas. Additional designations may be made later if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further assessments.

mayshaunt.gary Fri, 05/05/2023 - 21:15

Nearly $4 Billion in Flood Insurance Payments Reach Policyholders After Hurricane Ian

Recovery Boosted Through Advance Payments and Insurance Villages

WASHINGTON -- Months after Hurricane Ian swept across the southeast United States in 2022, FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has paid over $3.9 billion to more than 48,000 policyholders.  

The amount includes more than $3.4 billion to repair or rebuild property and $445 million to replace damaged contents, with an average payment of more than $104,000. As of May 2, about 95% of the nearly 48,000 claims in Florida, North Carolina and South Carolina have been closed.

“Flooding is the most common and most reoccurring natural disaster. Yet, damage caused by flooding is rarely covered by most homeowners and renters’ insurance,” said David Maurstad, Assistant Administrator for the Federal Insurance Directorate and senior executive of the National Flood Insurance Program. “Flood insurance remains the best defense against this threat, enabling policyholders to protect their property and more quickly jumpstart their road to recovery.”

Immediate Response

FEMA began to issue advance payments within a week of the Sept. 28 landfall in Florida to help policyholders jumpstart their recovery. Policyholders affected by Hurricane Ian were able to receive between $5,000 and $20,000 prior to an inspection by an adjuster.

In total, nearly $300 million in advance payments went to 41,000 policyholders.

Additional Steps

FEMA works closely with NFIP insurers -- Write Your Own insurance companies and NFIP Direct -- to support NFIP policyholders after a flood disaster. FEMA took additional steps to ease burdens on its policyholders so they could take advantage of flood insurance benefits.

• FEMA provided on-the-ground support to assist the Florida State Department of Insurance sponsored insurance villages in affected areas within the state to help policyholders with their claims. NFIP representatives attended those events to work with policyholders on outstanding claims.
• FEMA extended the proof of loss requirement for Florida NFIP policyholders who suffered flood damage from Hurricane Ian from the standard of 60 days to 365 days from the date of loss.
• FEMA authorized its Write Your Own insurance company partners and the NFIP Direct to pay claims based on the adjuster’s report without requiring policyholders to sign a proof of loss. This is still in effect today.

FEMA deployed NFIP expert support staff to assist NFIP insurers with disaster response.

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 05/04/2023 - 18:43

FEMA Awards State of Rhode Island Almost $19 Million for COVID Technology Costs

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending nearly $19 million to the State of Rhode Island to reimburse the state health department for the cost of technology it used to help fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $18,927,864 FEMA Public Assistance grant will go to the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) for the cost of contracting for technology and data analytics to fight the pandemic between April 2021 and June 2022.

RIDOH contracts included staffing for case investigation and program management which included nurses, physician, case investigators, epidemiologists, staff for outbreak detection, response, quarantine and isolation support, interpreting and translation services.

The state also contracted with IBM to provide support for case investigation including Command Center Management, COVID-19 Inbound Call Center Assessment & Improvement Plan for COVID-19 Hotline, and COVID-19 Inbound Call Process Definition & Deployment for K-12 School COVID-19 Hotline and case investigation.

A contract with KPMG assisted in capacity building and resources support, including coordinating the planning, development, and delivery of new hire onboarding and training, monitoring CDC and RIDOH guidance, and identifying potential changes to training and professional development processes and procedures.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the State of Rhode Island with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

This grant brings the total awarded by FEMA to the State of Rhode Island to almost $793 million to reimburse the state for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Thu, 05/04/2023 - 18:14

FEMA Awards Over $2 Million to Massachusetts for COVID-19 Hospital Staffing

BOSTON – The Federal Emergency Management Agency will be sending more than $2 million to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to reimburse it for the cost of hiring temporary staff to handle the increased patient loads at public health care facilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The $2,079,767 Public Assistance grant will reimburse the Massachusetts Department of Public Health for the cost of contracting for medical and nursing staff to support the state-run medical facilities between April 2020 and July 2021.

The department contracted for 123 staff such as registered nurses, certified medical assistants, physicians, and respiratory therapists for a total of 20,595 hours at the Lemuel Shattuck Hospital in Jamaica Plain, Tewksbury Hospital, and Pappas Rehabilitation Hospital for Children in Canton.

“FEMA is pleased to be able to assist the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with these costs,” said FEMA Region 1 Regional Administrator Lori Ehrlich. “Providing resources for our partners on the front lines of the pandemic fight is critical to their success, and our success as a nation.”

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for states and communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency.

So far, FEMA has provided more than $1.6 billion in Public Assistance grants to Massachusetts to reimburse the commonwealth for pandemic-related expenses.

adrien.urbani Thu, 05/04/2023 - 18:13