Your FEMA Flood Recovery Checklist

CHICAGO – Michiganders in Washtenaw and Wayne counties who were affected by the June floods and still need help have many resources to support their rebuilding efforts. Review FEMA’s flood recovery checklist to ensure you’ve taken all the steps in your federal assistance process:

1. Register with FEMA before 11:59 p.m. ET on Sept. 13 if you have unmet needs as a result of the June floods by:

            calling 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) 7 a.m.- 11 p.m. ET seven days a week

           online at http://www.disasterassistance.gov

download: FEMA App.

2. Apply to the US Small Business Administration (SBA) before their Sept. 13 deadline. Next to insurance, an SBA low-interest disaster loan is the primary source of funds for property repairs and for replacing contents destroyed during the June floods. To apply for a low-interest disaster loan from the SBA, complete an online application at disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/.
3. Visit a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC)/Document Drop Off Center (DDC) or nearby hardware store to talk with a FEMA Mitigation specialist. Mitigation specialists can answer questions and offer floodproofing information, home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future floods. FEMA has teamed up with True Value and Menards Hardware stores to provide free information, tips and literature on making homes and businesses stronger and safer. Most of the free publications offered are geared to do-it-yourself work and general contractors. To locate the closest DRC or DDC click: Disaster Recovery Centers.
4. Request continued rental assistance forms: If you remain unable to return to your pre-disaster primary residence due to the June flooding disaster, make sure to apply for FEMA’s Continued Rental Assistance. If you did not receive a form by mail, you may request one by calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585).
5. Verify your home’s heating and septic systems are functioning: When you register, report any damage to your furnace, septic tank or water heater as a result of the disaster. If your home has already been inspected and the damage wasn’t identified, you may send FEMA a dated and signed letter within 60 days of your initial FEMA decision, along with a contractor’s estimate, indicating you are appealing for assistance with these items. Keep in mind: if you need to replace your furnace or septic system, you have the option to appeal for additional grant funding through FEMA.
6. Examine your vehicle for water damage. If your vehicle was damaged or destroyed in the flood, FEMA may provide financial assistance. Assistance is usually limited to one uninsured vehicle per household. For questions about eligibility requirements, call FEMA’s helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585).  
7. Know your appeal options. If you disagree with other FEMA decisions, you have the option to submit an appeal letter with additional documentation to have your case reconsidered. The appeal should be submitted within 60 days of the initial FEMA decision and include a letter explaining what you are appealing, be signed and dated, and include supporting documentation, such as a copy of a verifiable contractor’s estimate.

For questions about federal disaster assistance, the FEMA helpline is available to Michigan survivors by calling 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585).  For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4607     

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

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs.

If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.

www.fema.gov/disaster/4607

https://twitter.com/femaregion5

troy.christensen Mon, 08/09/2021 - 12:58

Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Cumberland County, Pennsylvania

FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Cumberland County, Pennsylvania. Beginning on August 5, 2021, community partners from the following municipalities are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period (a separate appeal period for the remaining municipalities began on July 8, 2021):

• Borough of Carlisle
• Borough of Mechanicsburg
• Borough of Mt. Holly Springs
• Borough of New Cumberland
• Borough of Newville
• Township of Dickinson
• Township of Middlesex
• Township of Monroe
• Township of North Middleton
• Township of Silver Spring
• Township of South Middleton

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments. An earlier appeal period for the proposed map updates was held in Spring of 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however, FEMA is offering a second appeal period this summer.

Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

To submit an appeal:

Appeals and comments may be submitted by contacting your municipality’s floodplain administrator.  The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

• 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 preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer: https://arcg.is/0jn54u. 

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

Cumberland County Flood Mapping Milestones

• June 26, 2019 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
• November 6, 2019 — Open house for community members to review the location of their properties on the flood maps with mapping and insurance specialists. 
• Dec. 18, 2021 — Revised Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• July 8, 2021 — Appeal Period starts for first 22 municipalities
• August 5, 2021 — Appeal Period starts for remaining 11 municipalities
• September 2022* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.

 

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

amanda.hancher Fri, 08/06/2021 - 13:36

More Than $58.5 Million in Federal Assistance Already Approved for Southeast Michiganders

CHICAGO – More than $58.5 million has already been approved in FEMA grants and U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster loans to help residents affected by the June 25-26, 2021 flooding in southeast Michigan.

Here is a snapshot of the disaster recovery effort as of August 4:

• More than 17,240 households have been approved for $51.2 million in FEMA grant funding, including:
  • More than $43.6 million in housing grants, including short-term rental assistance and home repair costs.
  • Nearly $7.59 million approved for other essential disaster-related needs such as expenses related to medical, dental and lost personal possessions.
• More than 26,588 home inspections have been completed.
• Five Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) and two Document Drop-off Centers (DDCs) have been opened in the declared areas of Wayne and Washtenaw counties, to provide individuals with in-person help through their application process. Mobile Registration Centers are also popping up, the most recent one at the VA Medical Center in Detroit.
• Mitigation specialists have spoken with more than 500 individuals in two hardware stores providing advice on preventing flood damage and removing mold and mildew.
• National Flood Insurance Program has paid out more than $365,400 in flood insurance
• The SBA has approved $7.3 million in low-interest disaster loans, with more than 243 loan applications approved.

Individuals in Washtenaw and Wayne counties with uninsured or under insured losses from the June 25 -26 storms are encouraged to apply for federal assistance.

There are several ways to start the process:

1. Online at DisasterAssistance.gov;
2. Using the FEMA App; or
3. Call 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). TTY users can call 800-462-7585. The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.
4. DRCs are open, to find your nearest center visit FEMA’s DRC locator page at https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator.

Anyone requiring a reasonable accommodation (American Sign Language interpreting, Braille, Large print, etc.) may call 800-621-3362 to request assistance in advance or ask the recovery staff at the center for assistance.

For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4607. The deadline for individuals to apply for disaster assistance is Sept. 13, 2021.       

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.

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

www.fema.gov/disaster/4607

https://twitter.com/femaregion5

troy.christensen Fri, 08/06/2021 - 01:58

FEMA Provides $3.1 Million to the University of Utah Hospitals and Clinics

DENVER – The Federal Emergency Management Agency has provided $3.1 million in Public Assistance funding for the University of Utah Hospitals and Clinics COVID-19 response. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued April 4, 2020. FEMA has provided a total of $100.6 million for Utah’s COVID-19 response to date.

The $3.1 million was received by the University of Utah Hospitals and Clinics:

• $1.2 million to rent humidifiers and ventilators to support the increased capacity of COVID-19 positive patients. Additionally, the University purchased personal protective equipment (PPE), medical supplies and equipment, powered air purifying respirators (PAPR), and disinfection supplies. Work in this project was completed from 01/21/2020 through 12/31/2020.

 

• $1.9 million to rent humidifiers and ventilators to support the increased capacity of COVID-19 positive patients. Additionally, the University purchased personal protective equipment (PPE), medical supplies, and equipment. Work in this project was completed from 1/1/2021 through 4/30/2021.

This funding is authorized under the January 21, 2021, Presidential Memorandum for the Secretary of Defense & the Secretary of Homeland Security and Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

For the COVID-19 response, FEMA has simplified the Public Assistance application and funding process to address the magnitude of this event and to allow local officials to receive eligible funding more quickly. These reimbursements play a critical role as state, local and tribal officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.

anthony.mayne Thu, 08/05/2021 - 19:54

FEMA Provides $1.9 Million to Salt Lake County

DENVER – The Federal Emergency Management Agency has provided $1.9 million in Public Assistance funding for Salt Lake County’s COVID-19 response. The assistance was made available under a major disaster declaration issued April 4, 2020. FEMA has provided a total of $100.6 million for Utah’s COVID-19 response to date.

The $1.9 million was received by Salt Lake County for disseminating information to the public through mass mail, directional and social distancing signage, bus wraps, and other media platforms. Additionally, county staff organized a communications team to educate the public on vaccination programs.  Work was completed from 3/2/2020 through 12/31/2020.

This funding is authorized under the January 21, 2021, Presidential Memorandum for the Secretary of Defense & the Secretary of Homeland Security and Section 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act.

For the COVID-19 response, FEMA has simplified the Public Assistance application and funding process to address the magnitude of this event and to allow local officials to receive eligible funding more quickly. These reimbursements play a critical role as state, local and tribal officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/assistance/public.

anthony.mayne Thu, 08/05/2021 - 19:47

Biden Administration Commits Historic $3.46 Billion in Hazard Mitigation Funds to Reduce Effects of Climate Change

WASHINGTON – President Biden today approved more than $3.46 billion to increase resilience to the impacts of climate change nationwide. This significant investment will be available for natural hazard mitigation measures across the 59 major disaster declarations issued due to the COVID-19 global pandemic.

With the growing climate change crisis facing the nation, FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program will provide funding to states, tribes, and territories for mitigation projects to reduce the impacts of climate change. Every state, tribe, and territory that received a major disaster declaration in response to the COVID-19 pandemic will be eligible to receive 4% of those disaster costs to invest in mitigation projects that reduce risks from natural disasters. This influx of funding will help communities prioritize mitigation needs for a more resilient future, including underserved communities that are most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. These projects can help address effects of climate change and other unmet mitigation needs, including using funds to promote equitable outcomes in underserved communities

“The Department of Homeland Security is committed to helping build stronger and more resilient communities that are prepared for future disasters,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas.  “States, tribes, territories, and localities will now receive the funding needed to treat the climate crisis with the sense of urgency it demands.  Through this funding, communities across the nation will have the critical resources needed to invest in adaptation and resilience, and take meaningful action to combat the effects of climate change.  This funding will also help to ensure the advancement of equity in all communities, especially those that are disproportionately at risk from climate change impacts.”

"Climate change is our country’s biggest crisis. Our communities will continue to suffer from losses caused by extreme weather events unless we invest in mitigation efforts to reduce the impacts of climate change. This new funding is a tangible solution that we can implement today to help prevent against future risk disasters. It will allow us to provide direct aid to states, tribes, and territories to complete mitigation projects, strengthen our infrastructure, identify long term solutions to these hazards and ultimately make a real difference in our communities,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell.

Communities across the country have been impacted by the enormous effects of hurricanes, floods, wildfires, earthquakes, and other events. The increasing duration, intensity, and severity of such disasters—which are exacerbated by climate change as well as changes in population, land use, and weather patterns—are alarming and devastating, especially for underserved populations.

For eligible mitigation projects, HMGP funding can cover 75% of total project costs and states or communities cover the remaining share. Preparing and mitigating for the impacts of climate change, which is one of the most important threats facing the United States, requires the full collaboration of the Federal Government to support state, local, tribal, and territorial governments.

The FEMA Mitigation Action Portfolio includes examples of innovative mitigation projects that address many types of natural hazards and emphasize the importance of collaboration between governments, private sector entities, and non-governmental organizations in order to achieve effective hazard mitigation and disaster resilience.  For example, mitigation projects can:

• Reduce risks associated with climate change, such as wildfires, drought, increased flooding, and coastal erosion, through the use of nature-based features, such as storm water parks, living shorelines, and land conservation.
• Address persistent residential vulnerabilities by mitigating repetitive loss structures affected by flooding.
• Help utilities or other critical facilities adapt to future conditions and reduce risks, through microgrids, seismic and wind retrofits, flood protection, and other infrastructure protection measures. 

This one-time investment represents a 23% increase in the funding made available for declared disasters since the program’s inception. Over the past 30 years, this program has made more than $15 billion available to states, tribes, and territories to make communities more resilient and reduce risks from future disasters.

 

zella.campbell Thu, 08/05/2021 - 19:31

Disagree with FEMA? Know Your Options to Appeal

CHICAGO – Michiganders who disagree with FEMA’s assistance decision have the option to submit an appeal and have their case reconsidered.

After registering for FEMA assistance, applicants will receive a letter explaining FEMA’s eligibility decision and the reason for that decision.  Read your letter carefully because it specifies why you are ineligible and recommends actions that may change the decision.

You may need to provide additional information or documents. For example, FEMA cannot duplicate benefits from other sources, including insurance. However, if your policy doesn’t cover all your essential needs, you may submit your insurance settlement documents for FEMA to review.

Examples of other missing documents may include proof of residence, proof of ownership of the damaged property, or proof that the damaged property was your primary residence at the time of the disaster. Additionally, if you told FEMA your home was safe to live in when you registered, but your situation has changed, you can contact the FEMA Helpline by calling 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) to have your property inspected and reconsidered for assistance.

Appealing a FEMA Decision

Everyone has the right to appeal a FEMA decision. An appeal must be filed in the form of a signed letter, by the applicant, within 60 days of the date on the decision letter. In the appeal, explain why you disagree with the decision. Include any requested information and supporting documentation. Be sure to include the following:

• Applicant’s full name, current address and phone number
• Address of the applicant’s pre-disaster primary residence
• Applicant’s signature and the date
• Applicant’s registration number (on every page)
• FEMA disaster declaration number – DR-4607 (on every page)

If the person writing the appeal letter is not the applicant or a member of the applicant’s household, a statement must be included granting the writer authorization to act on your behalf.

Appeal letters and supporting documentation can be uploaded quickly to your account on DisasterAssistance.gov or faxed to 800-827-8112. Please ensure all faxes include the cover sheet provided with your FEMA decision letter. Your appeal may also be submitted at a Disaster Recovery Center or Document Drop-off Center where staff are also available to assist you with ensuring all necessary documents are included. Individuals can find their nearest recovery or document drop-off center by visiting https://egateway.fema.gov/ESF6/DRCLocator. Appeals can also be mailed to:

FEMA National Processing Service Center

P.O. Box 10055

Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055

For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4607. FEMA assistance is currently available to residents in Washtenaw and Wayne counties. The deadline for individuals to apply for disaster assistance is Sept. 13, 2021.

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.

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

www.fema.gov/disaster/4607  https://twitter.com/femaregion5

troy.christensen Thu, 08/05/2021 - 15:40

FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the River Fire

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

On Aug. 4, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the River Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 2,200 homes in and around Colfax. The fire also threatened high voltage power lines, several schools, a United States Postal Service facility, and community center. Mandatory evacuations were in place for around 4,300, with 1,000 voluntary evacuations.

The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Aug. 4, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.

FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.

For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.

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

robert.barker Thu, 08/05/2021 - 14:23

COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Helps Ease Financial Stress for Families

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – The COVID-19 pandemic has brought overwhelming and unforeseen grief to many families. To that end, FEMA is helping to ease some of the financial stress and burden caused by the coronavirus disease.

Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, FEMA is providing financial assistance for COVID-19 related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020.

Those who had funeral expenses due to the coronavirus can apply for FEMA COVID-19 Funeral Assistance by calling 844-684-6333 (TTY: 800-462-7585) from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. EDT, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available.

After the initial call, FEMA will send the applicant a Request for Information (RFI) which outlines all the documentation needed to process the COVID-19 Funeral Assistance application. For further information, applicants can also visit the frequently asked questions section in FEMA’s website at Funeral Assistance FAQ | FEMA.gov .

To date, FEMA has received 17 applications for funeral expenses due to COVID-19 and has disbursed $44,066 for this assistance in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

FEMA will continue to partner with the government of the Virgin Islands and together we will ensure the equitable delivery of programs as it remains a top priority.

gina.callaghan Wed, 08/04/2021 - 17:51

Application Deadline Passes but FEMA is Still Here to Help

The deadline for registering with FEMA has passed, but that does not mean FEMA is leaving. FEMA continues working with the Louisiana Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) to help survivors and communities recover.

If you have registered for assistance, FEMA encourages you to keep in touch to track your case. You should also notify the agency of changes to your mailing or email addresses or phone numbers, and to report insurance settlements or additional damage you may have discovered since your home inspection.

Here’s how to reach FEMA:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.  
• Call the disaster assistance helpline at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585.  
• Download the FEMA Mobile App.

The application deadline for a U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest disaster loan also has passed. For information, call the SBA Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955, email disastercustomerservice@SBA.gov, or visit SBA’s website at sba.gov/disaster. If you are deaf, hard-of-hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-877-8339.

As of Wednesday, Aug. 4, 2021:

• More than $10 million had been approved for 6,414 households.  
• More than $17.6 million in SBA low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters and business owners had been approved.  
• More than 3,300 National Flood Insurance Program claims had been submitted.  
• An estimated $198 million had been paid on approved NFIP claims.

For the latest information on the May 17-21 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4606. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

tiana.suber Wed, 08/04/2021 - 17:23

FEMA Awards ODOT More Than $34 Million for Debris Removal in Wildfire Affected Counties

Salem, Ore. – FEMA has approved $34,488,250 for the State of Oregon to defray the costs of debris removal throughout Douglas, Jackson, Lane, Lincoln and Marion counties from 2020’s devastating wildfires under FEMA’s Public Assistance Program (PA).

FEMA funds will reimburse the Oregon Department of Transportation for the collection, removal and disposal of debris from destroyed structures throughout Douglas, Jackson, Lane, Lincoln and Marion counties following the September 2020 wildfires.

• Douglas County $2,036,091 in PA funds were obligated for contractors to gather and haul away an estimated 8,339 tons of mixed debris from approximately 65 private residential properties.
• Jackson County $10,274,429 in PA funds were obligated for contractors to gather and haul away an estimated 42,079 tons of mixed debris from approximately 328 private residential properties.
• Lane County $6,734,763 in PA funds were obligated for contractors to gather and haul away an estimated 27,582 tons of mixed debris from approximately 215 private residential properties.
• Lincoln County $3,508,341 in PA funds were obligated for contractors to gather and haul away an estimated 19,961 tons of mixed debris from approximately 112 private residential properties.
• Marion County $11,934,626 in PA funds were obligated for contractors to gather and haul away an estimated 48,878 tons of mixed debris from approximately 381 private residential properties.

Debris removed from these properties included: miscellaneous metals (excluding vehicles); burned debris and ash; contaminated soil; and vegetative debris (hazardous trees) that were determined to pose a threat to public health and safety from private property for disposal.

ODOT obtained the authority to remove debris on private property—not including commercial property— by signed right of entry agreements between the county and private property owners.

Funding for this Public Assistance (PA) project is authorized under Sections 403 of the Robert T. Stafford Act for Oregon to cover wildfire-related expenses, reimbursing eligible applicants for the cost of debris removal; life-saving emergency protective measures; and the repair, replacement or restoration of disaster-damaged facilities like buildings, roads and utilities.

FEMA’s PA grant program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Oregon Office of Emergency Management (OEM) works with FEMA during all phases of the PA program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop project worksheets and scopes of work. Following approvals by FEMA and OEM, FEMA obligates funding for the project.

FEMA’s PA program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain types of private non-profit organizations including some houses of worship, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

The federal share for PA projects is not less than 75% of the eligible cost. The state determines how the non-federal share of the cost of a project (up to 25%) is split with the sub-recipients like local and county governments.

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Those who use a Relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their assigned number for that service. They should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Multilingual operators are available. (Press 2 for Spanish)

Disaster survivors affected by the Oregon wildfires and straight-line winds can also get personalized mitigation advice to repair and rebuild safer and stronger from a FEMA Mitigation Specialist. For information on how to rebuild safer and stronger or to inquire as to your new flood risk following a fire near you, email FEMA-R10-MIT@fema.dhs.gov, a FEMA Hazard Mitigation specialist will respond survivor inquiries. When rebuilding check with your local building official and floodplain administrator for guidance.

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

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

hannah.weinstein Wed, 08/04/2021 - 17:11

Aubrey Dockins Selected for FEMA’s 2021-2022 National Youth Preparedness Council

ATLANTA - FEMA has selected Aubrey Dockins of Jacksonville, Fla., as one of 15 members for the 2020-2021 National Youth Preparedness Council (YPC).

The YPC was created by FEMA in 2012 to bring together diverse young leaders who are interested in disaster preparedness and making a difference in their communities. Members will learn from senior leaders in national preparedness and work with FEMA community preparedness staff, who will offer support and mentorship throughout their two-year term.

Aubrey will be a junior at Duncan U. Fletcher High School next year. She is passionate about helping underserved populations and is studying Spanish and American Sign Language to become more inclusive in her communications. Recently, for her Girl Scout Troop’s Bronze Award service project, Aubrey helped make a local rescued horse ranch more accessible to individuals with disabilities.

During her time on the council, Aubrey plans to work with the non-profit Gianna’s Path of Love organization to create a “sensory room” in special needs shelters in her state to help people with developmental disabilities stay calm and focused. During an evacuation, these shelters serve people who have a medical condition that requires professional oversight, but not hospitalization. 

To learn more about the FEMA Youth Preparedness Council, visit: www.ready.gov/youth-preparedness-council.

neily.chapman Wed, 08/04/2021 - 16:56

FEMA Approves Additional $1.2M for Tallahassee Hurricane Michael Recovery Expenses

PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved an additional $1,289,869 for the State of Florida to reimburse the City of Tallahassee for management costs following Hurricane Michael, bringing total reimbursement to date to $23,387,333 million.

The city was reimbursed for costs of tracking, charging and accounting for emergency and permanent work after the storm, including debris removal, city and police emergency protective measures, buildings and equipment to include fire department, utilities, parks and recreational, fleet and metro, municipal, and wastewater treatment facilities.     

FEMA’s Public Assistance program is an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) works with FEMA during all phases of the program and reviews projects prior to FEMA final approval.

Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to FDEM after final approval.

Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to finalize grants and begin making payments. FDEM has procedures in place designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

David.Mace Wed, 08/04/2021 - 15:30

Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Arlington County, Virginia

PHILADELPHIA - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Arlington County, Virginia. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.

The 90-day appeal period will begin on July 22, 2021. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

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

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

Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator. For more information on floodplain management in Arlington County, visit https://environment.arlingtonva.us/flood-insurance-rate-maps/ or contact Aileen Winquist at awinquist@arlingtonva.us. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer: https://arcg.is/1LG0C4. 

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

Arlington County Flood Mapping Milestones

• April 6, 2020 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• Sept. 18, 2020 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• Nov. 9, 2020 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
• July 22, 2021 –Appeal Period starts.
• Fall 2022* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.

 

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

 

amanda.hancher Wed, 08/04/2021 - 14:05

Learn Disaster Risk Reduction Tips at Hammer Time True Value Hardware

CHICAGO - As southeast Michigan survivors clean and repair damage to their homes caused by the severe storms and flooding that occurred June 25-26, 2021, FEMA has teamed up with Hammer Time True Value Hardware in Detroit to provide free information, tips and literature on making homes and businesses stronger and safer.

The FEMA Hazard Mitigation team will be at:

Hammer Time True Value Hardware

16380 E Warren Avenue

Detroit, MI 48224

From: Aug. 2, 2021 to Aug. 14, 2021

Hours: Mon. through Sat. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. ET and Sun. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. ET

Most of the information and the free publications provided are geared to do-it-yourself work and general contractors. Recovery topics covered include clean-up tips, flood insurance, elevating utilities and rebuilding flooded homes.

FEMA Hazard Mitigation specialists are also on hand at Disaster Recovery Centers to answer questions and offer floodproofing information, home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters. For more information about Michigan’s recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4607. FEMA assistance is currently available to residents in Washtenaw and Wayne counties. The deadline for individuals to apply for disaster assistance is Sept. 13, 2021.                        

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Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs. If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.

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

www.fema.gov/disaster/4607 https://twitter.com/femaregion5

troy.christensen Wed, 08/04/2021 - 13:05

FEMA Awards Lee County Electric Cooperative $27 Million for Hurricane Irma Expenses

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $27,075,628 for the State of Florida to help the Lee County Electric Cooperative (LCEC) defray the cost of repairs and equipment replacement for its utility distribution system after Hurricane Irma in 2017.

FEMA Public Assistance program funds will reimburse LCEC for extensive damage to its electrical transmission and distribution system including the replacement of 879 power meters, 1,107 concrete and wood poles, 376 streetlights and 659 transformers. In addition, the utility restored power to approximately 70 percent of its more than 200,000 customers in five Southwest Florida counties.  

The program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including some houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. The Florida Division of Emergency Management works with FEMA during all phases of the program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.

The federal share for Public Assistance projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the nonfederal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with subrecipients such as local and county governments.

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

 

Nadine.Jones Wed, 08/04/2021 - 12:38

Regional Airport Rehabilitation Is Underway with Million-dollar FEMA Allocation

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded over $1.7 million for the repair of regional airports throughout the Island. The funds are destined for permanent repairs in the airports of Aguadilla, Ceiba, Culebra, Mayagüez and San Juan (Isla Grande).

According to the Puerto Rico Ports Authority, passenger activity between all regional airports-including those in Ponce and Humacao- reached over 1.2 million travelers between 2018 and 2019, prior to the start of the flight restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. In comparison, from 2020 to 2021, over 863,000 visitors have been registered.

“This network is an essential part of Puerto Rico’s tourism industry and is our first impression for many travelers visiting the island, for example, from Aguadilla International Airport. That is why it is important that these facilities are in peak condition and to be more competitive as a tourist destination,” said Puerto Rico Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator, José G. Baquero.

The Agency allocated close to $164,00 to Rafael Hernández International Airport in Aguadilla for security work directed towards compliance with the Federal Aviation Administration Agency regulations, and close to $430,900 for the architectural and engineering studies that precedes construction and remodeling works.

Located on the previous facilities of the United States Airforce’s Ramey Airport, the regional airport of Aguadilla provides direct weekly flights in both directions to the Dominican Republic and the cities of Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, New York, Newark and Philadelphia. It is the regional airport with most passenger traffic, almost 130,000 people between 2020 and 2021, and has approximately 400 employees.

“Aguadilla’s Rafael Hernández International Airport is the second largest airport facility on the island in terms of passengers, with the longest runway in the Caribbean. FEMA funds allocated to this airport are extremely important for the safety of the thousands of passengers who use it and the hundreds of people who work here,” said José A. Riollano, director of the Ports Authority’s Aviation Bureau and airport manager.

Likewise, obligations approved for architectural and engineering studies at other regional airports include over $401,000 for the Fernando Ribas Dominicci Airport in Isla Grande, nearly $132,000 for the José Aponte de la Torre Airport in Ceiba, and over $88,000 for the Fernando Ribas Dominicci Regional Airport in Culebra.

On the other hand, $147,000 were approved for the Eugenio María de Hostos Airport in Mayagüez for works on the security of the perimeter that protect this important installation. Regional airports provide a network of air access that supports the local tourism industry between Mayagüez, Aguadilla, San Juan and the east coast of the island, including the island municipalities of Vieques and Culebra.

On his part, engineer Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, the Executive Director of the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction, and Resiliency (COR3), highlighted that infrastructure is the foundation for the economic development of Puerto Rico. “Currently, in COR3 we have disbursed approximately $4 million for these works and we will continue providing assistance in the formalities related associated with reconstruction through which the diverse economic sectors are strengthened”, Laboy Rivera added.

For more information on Puerto Rico's recovery from Hurricane María, please visit fema.gov/es/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow our social media pages at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

 

frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 08/04/2021 - 11:27

FEMA and Territorial Partners Conduct Community Points of Distribution Exercises

ST. CROIX, U.S. Virgin Islands – Last month, FEMA led classroom and field exercises for the territory’s points of distribution managers and U.S. Virgin Islands logistics staff. FEMA’s Logistics staff could be used to monitor distribution sites for future events.

During the territory’s Hurricane Response Initiative and Capstone this past spring, it was clear that new points of distribution managers in the U.S. Virgin Islands needed to be recruited and trained.

“Coordination during this year’s Capstone workshops between FEMA and our partners in the U.S. Virgin Islands led to Community Points of Distribution training last month. Points of distribution managers now have the ability to organize and distribute commodities to support Virgin Islanders for their greatest time of need,” said Mark A. Walters, Coordinator for FEMA’s U.S. Virgin Islands Caribbean Area Office. “Even as we work together improve our ability to respond to disasters, it is still very important for Virgin Islanders to prepare themselves and their families with at least 10 days of food, water and medicines to survive until Community Points of Distribution can be established.”  

Coordinated distribution of food, water, tarps, and blankets is critical to reduce human suffering and provide life-sustaining commodities for disaster survivors. Disasters including hurricanes and earthquakes often disrupt supply chains, close retail stores, and fill ports and roads with debris making access to food, water and other important supplies challenging.

The path to standing up Community Points of Distribution begins long before the onset of disasters. The responders who lead these critical operations must be trained and ready to help survivors when the moment arrives.

Region 2’s Incident Management Assistance Team supported the training for points of distribution managers at the request of the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency and the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services. The Virgin Islands National Guard provided personnel and vehicles for the field exercises.

“It is crucial for the U.S. Virgin Islands, and especially the Virgin Islands Department of Human Services to obtain the most up-to-date training in all areas of disaster preparedness and readiness, including the Community Points of Distribution,” said Kimberley Causey-Gomez, Commissioner of the Department of Human Services. “We are truly thankful for our federal and local partners, FEMA and VITEMA and other local Emergency Support Function 6 support agencies to ensure effective outcomes for all types and sizes of threats and hazards, thereby improving resiliency locally. Enhancing public trust in our responsiveness before, during and post disaster is also important. We encourage our community to be diligent in preparing themselves and continuing to stay safe during all hazards,” said Causey-Gomez.

The Virgin Islands Voluntary/Community Organizations Active in Disasters participated in the points of distribution training as well. A combined 56 students attended the training at St. Croix Educational Complex, Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School on St. Thomas and located at St. John Rescue.  

“Having trained individuals in the community with knowledge on how to properly manage a community distribution point is essential. These sites become a key location for distributing food and water and keeping calm in our community following a natural disaster, such as a hurricane,” said Daryl Jaschen, Director of VITEMA. “I am extremely pleased with the number of volunteers willing to participate and work together with VITEMA, National Guard, Department of Health, and FEMA to support such an endeavor, if ever the need arises,” said Jaschen.   

Even as FEMA and the GVI work to improve their ability respond to disasters, Virgin Islanders should prepare to be self-sufficient in the immediate aftermath of a hurricane and take steps to protect their property. Those with disabilities and others with access and functional needs may have additional considerations. Find more ways to prepare at http://vitema.vi.gov/ready/build-a-kit .

St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, July 19, 2021 -- Daryl Jaschen, Director of the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency, (center), meets with members of Region 2's Incident Management Assistance Team, FEMA U.S. Virgin Islands logistics staff and partners from the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Human Services and Love City Strong during a Community Points of Distribution field exercise in Gifft Hill. FEMA/Geri Purvis

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, July 13, 2021 – Members of Region 2's Incident Management Assistance Team, FEMA Virgin Islands logistics staff and territorial partners from the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency and U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Human Services conduct a Community Points of Distribution field exercise at Educational Complex. FEMA/Geri Purvis

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, July 15, 2021 -- Members of Region 2's Incident Management Assistance Team lead a class on Community Points of Distribution for FEMA's U.S. Virgin Islands logistics staff and territorial partners from the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency and the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Human Services at Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School. FEMA/Geri Purvis

gina.callaghan Tue, 08/03/2021 - 19:00

FEMA Extends Emergency Non-Congregate Sheltering Assistance for Displaced Disaster Survivors

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has extended funding for Emergency Non-Congregate Sheltering during the COVID-19 public health emergency until Nov. 30, 2021, as the agency continues to help protect people during their recovery from hurricanes and wildfires. Under this policy, FEMA reimburses state, tribal and territorial governments partial cost of providing non-congregate sheltering for people who must evacuate during a disaster.

Typically, displaced disaster survivors are sheltered in facilities with large open spaces, such as schools, churches, community centers or similar facilities, rather than in non-congregate environments, which are locations where each individual or household has living space that offers some level of privacy such as hotels, motels or dormitories.

We have made significant progress over the past six months in our fight against COVID-19. To date,164 million Americans are fully vaccinated, including 80% of seniors and more than 60% of all adults. But the Delta variant is different. It’s more contagious, with the variant spreading more than twice as easily from one person to another.

FEMA recognizes sheltering operations during the COVID-19 public health emergency may require states, tribes and territories to consider additional strategies to ensure survivors are sheltered in a manner that does not increase the risk of exposure to or further transmit the disease. After a Stafford Act declaration, states, tribes and territories may be eligible for reimbursement of costs associated with non-congregate sheltering.

At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, FEMA established a policy that allowed state, local, tribal and territorial governments to apply for reimbursement of costs associated with non-congregate sheltering of disaster survivors under FEMA’s Public Assistance program. Originally scheduled to end on Dec. 31, 2020, the policy was extended until July 31, 2021. Due to the continuing need to protect public safety during the COVID-19 pandemic, FEMA has further extended this policy until Nov. 30, 2021.

FEMA has extended the policy once again to ensure that survivors unable to return home can be safely sheltered after a disaster. Anyone interested in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine should visit vaccines.gov to find a location close to them and make an appointment. Individuals can also text their zip code to 438829 to receive a text with the closest COVID-19 vaccine location.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 08/03/2021 - 13:53

FEMA Awards Florida Keys Electric Cooperative $2.17 Million to Protect Transmission Poles

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $2,174,276 for the Florida Keys Electric Cooperative (FKEC) to upgrade 82 electrical transmission poles to protect them from high wind damage and substantially reduce the vulnerability of the utility’s electrical distribution system to future storms.

Funding from FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) was approved in response to a proposal by FKEC after Hurricane Irma in 2017. The grant will help pay for the conversion to stronger, stand-alone poles that can withstand winds of up to 210 miles per hour and provide natural corrosion resistance.

The HMGP is an important source of federal disaster assistance. Program funding may become available after the president declares a major disaster, with a goal of strengthening communities by improving buildings and critical infrastructure. A 2018 report by the National Institute of Building Sciences found that one dollar spent on hazard mitigation saves more than six dollars of recovery and rebuilding costs.

Generally, the HMGP may provide a state, tribe or territory with additional grants up to 15 percent of the total disaster grants awarded by FEMA for a federally declared disaster. States such as Florida that meet advanced mitigation planning criteria may qualify for a higher percentage.

Florida has a FEMA-approved Enhanced Mitigation Plan, making the state eligible for HMGP funding not to exceed 20 percent of the estimated total amount of grant money spent by FEMA in the Hurricane Irma disaster. From this amount, the HMGP reimburses the state up to 75 percent of eligible costs for hazard mitigation projects. The remaining amount comes from other sources such as state and local assets and a combination of cash and in-kind sources.

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

 

Nadine.Jones Tue, 08/03/2021 - 12:34