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West Virginia: Queda menos de una semana para solicitar asistencia por desastre de FEMA
Los sobrevivientes pueden solicitar si viven en los condados de Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo o Wayne y sufrieron daños a causa de las tormentas del invierno pasado.
El programa de Asistencia Individual de la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés) podría ofrecer asistencia económica para sus necesidades por desastre, tales como el cuidado de niños, atención médica o dental y subvenciones para vivienda dañada o inhabitable. Los sobrevivientes no deben esperar que las subvenciones de FEMA restauren las viviendas dañadas por la tormenta a sus condiciones de antes del desastre. Las subvenciones ayudan a hacer que la vivienda sea segura, sanitaria y funcional.
"Ya que queda menos de una semana para solicitar, yo animo encarecidamente a las personas en los condados afectados a que soliciten la ayuda por desastre antes de que se termine el período de solicitud el día 19," dijo Jeff Jones, Oficial de Coordinación Federal de FEMA. "Además, si conocen a alguien que podría haber sufrido daños por esta inundación, cuida a su vecino y hágale saber que ayuda está disponible."
FEMA considerará las solicitudes si los residentes afectados no tienen seguro o tienen insuficiente cobertura para satisfacer las necesidades serias por el desastre. La asistencia podría incluir alquiler y subvenciones para reparaciones esenciales a la vivienda y pérdidas de propiedad personal, incluyendo los pozos privados, los puentes y las calderas.
- Llame al 800-621-FEMA (3362) o, para TTY, al 800-462-7585
- Por Internet en DisasterAssistance.gov/es
- Descargue la aplicación de FEMA
Llame a la Línea de Ayuda de FEMA al 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Hay operadores multilingües disponibles. Las líneas están abiertas todos los días de 7 a.m. a 10 p.m. Las personas que usan un servicio de retransmisión, tal como un videoteléfono, InnoCaption o CapTel, deben facilitar su número telefónico específico asignado para ese servicio a FEMA.
Además, para las personas que desean solicitar asistencia de FEMA, así como las personas que tienen preguntas sobre solicitudes existentes, se han programado los siguientes eventos de inscripción para esta semana en los condados de Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo y Wayne:
- de inscripción de Asistencia Individual
Departamento de bomberos voluntarios de Sissonville - Estación Johnson
martes 13 de julio
9 a.m. - mediodía
383 Call Road, Sissonville
Departamento de bomberos voluntarios de Tornado
martes 13 de julio
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
7826 Coal River Road, St Albans
Alcaldía de Palacios
martes 13 de julio
2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
103 First Street, Clendenin
Academia de bomberos de Tri-State
miércoles 14 de julio
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
4200 Ohio River Road, Huntington
Departamento de bomberos voluntarios de Delbarton
jueves 15 de julio
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
County Highway 65/12, Delbarton
Centro comunitario de Dunlow
viernes 16 de julio
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
1475 Left Fork Dunlow Bypass Road, Dunlow
Los residentes de los cuatro condados también tienen la opción de solicitar préstamos por desastre de la Agencia Federal para el Desarrollo de la Pequeña Empresa (SBA, por sus siglas en inglés).
Préstamos por desastre en cantidades de hasta $200,000 están disponibles para los propietarios de vivienda para reparar y remplazar propiedad inmueble dañada o destruida durante la tormenta. Los propietarios de vivienda e inquilinos son elegibles para recibir hasta $40,000 en préstamos para reparar o remplazar propiedad personal dañada por la tormenta o la inundación. Los negocios pueden obtener préstamos de hasta $2 millones para cualquier combinación de daños a la propiedad o capital operacional.
La fecha límite de SBA para presentar las solicitudes por daños a la propiedad es el 19 de julio de 2021. Para los negocios, la fecha límite para presentar las solicitudes de capital operacional es el 22 de febrero de 2022.
Para más información acerca de los préstamos de SBA, llame al Centro de Servicio al Cliente de SBA para Asistencia en Desastres al 800-659-2955, escriba por correo electrónico a FOCE-Help@sba.gov o visite https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov/es. Los usuarios de TTY deben llamar al 800-877-8339.
Para más información sobre la recuperación del desastre en West Virginia, visite fema.gov/es/disaster/4605. Aprenda más sobre la Asistencia por Desastre en www.disasterassistance.gov/es. Para una guía al proceso de solicitud de Asistencia por Desastre, visite www.fema.gov/es/assistance/individual/program#apply.
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La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres. La jurisdicción de la Región 3 de FEMA incluye: Delaware, el Distrito de Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia y West Virginia.
Síganos en Twitter en twitter.com/femaregion3 y en LinkedIn e
amanda.hancher Tue, 07/13/2021 - 14:09FEMA Awards $2.3 Million to St. Cloud for Ravine Stabilization Project
CHICAGO – Through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has released an initial $2,363,580 to the city of St. Cloud, Minnesota, for a ravine stabilization project. The project involves installation of a new storm sewer to reroute the current sewer built in the 1920s. The rerouting will establish a new water outlet to the Mississippi River and prevent excessive stormwater runoff from flowing to the ravine. This mitigation measure will significantly reduce erosion in the area and allow the original storm pipe to provide a habitable environment for bats to hibernate there.
“The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provides funding for communities to implement critical mitigation measures to reduce disaster losses,” said Kevin M. Sligh, acting regional administrator, FEMA Region 5. “This project will help restore the area’s natural infrastructure and reduce the damage that flooding could cause the community in the future.”
“This project will help prevent erosion and the damage it can cause, especially during heavy rain events,” HSEM Director Joe Kelly said. “We are grateful for these federal grants, which have helped communities across Minnesota reduce the risk of loss of life and property due to natural hazards.”
HMGP provides grants to state and local governments to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures following a disaster declaration. Through HMGP, FEMA will pay 75 percent of the $3,151,440 eligible project cost. The remaining 25 percent of the funds will be provided by the city of St. Cloud. FEMA will also provide an initial $78,786 in management costs for project implementation.
FEMA's mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
troy.christensen Tue, 07/13/2021 - 14:07West Virginia: Less than a week left to apply for FEMA disaster assistance
Survivors may apply if they live in Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo or Wayne counties and had damage from last winter’s storms.
FEMA’s Individual Assistance program may provide financial assistance for disaster-related needs such as childcare, medical or dental care and grants for damaged or uninhabitable housing. Survivors should not expect that FEMA grants will restore your storm-damaged home to pre-disaster condition. Grants help make the dwelling safe, sanitary and functional.
“With less than a week remaining to apply, I absolutely urge all those in the affected counties to apply for disaster aid before the application period ends on the 19th,” said Jeff Jones, FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer. “In addition, if you know someone who may have had damage from this flood, take care of you neighbor and let them know help is out there.”
FEMA will consider applications if affected residents have no insurance or insufficient coverage to meet serious disaster-related needs. Assistance may include rent and grants for essential home repairs and personal property losses, including private wells, bridges and furnaces.
- Call 800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 800-462-7585
- Online at DisasterAssistance.gov
- By downloading the FEMA app
Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585). Multilingual operators are available. Lines are open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with their specific phone number assigned to that service.
In addition, for those wanting to apply for FEMA assistance as well as those who may have questions about existing applications, there are registration events scheduled this week in Cabell, Kanawha, Mingo and Wayne counties:
- Assistance Registration Event
Sissonville Volunteer Fire Department – Johnson Station
Tuesday July 13
9 a.m. - noon
383 Call Road, Sissonville
Tornado Volunteer Fire Department
Tuesday July 13
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
7826 Coal River Road, St Albans
Clendenin City Hall
Tuesday July 13
2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
103 First Street, Clendenin
Tri-State Fire Academy
Wednesday July 14
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
4200 Ohio River Road, Huntington
Delbarton Volunteer Fire Department
Thursday July 15
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
County Highway 65/12, Delbarton
Dunlow Community Center
Friday July 16
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
1475 Left Fork Dunlow Bypass Road, Dunlow
Residents of the four counties also have the option to apply to the U.S. Small Business Administration for a disaster loan.
Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair and replace real estate that was damaged or destroyed in the storm. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 in loans to repair or replace storm- or flood-damaged personal property. Businesses may borrow up to $2 million for any combination of property damage or working capital.
The SBA filing deadline to return applications for property damage is also July 19, 2021. The deadline for businesses to return working capital applications is Feb. 22, 2022.
For more information about SBA loans, call SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955, email FOCE-Help@sba.gov or visit https://disasterloanassistance.sba.gov. TTY users can call 800-877-8339.
For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4605. Learn more about Disaster Assistance at www.disasterassistance.gov. For guidance about the Disaster Assistance application process, visit www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/program#apply.
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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 Tue, 07/13/2021 - 14:07FEMA Assigns Over $2.6 Million for the Patillas Dam
About 100,000 residents of the southeast area will benefit from the permanent repairs
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico — FEMA has allocated over $2.6 million for the first phase of a project that aims to strengthen the Patillas Dam in case of a seismic event. The total cost of the project is estimated to reach $558 million, financed mostly with FEMA funds.
This initial allocation will be for the design and engineering analysis of the project and is funded through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which is designed to help communities rebuild in a way that reduces future losses associated with natural events. During this phase, an engineering analysis will be performed, including a review of existing and previous studies. Likewise, soil samples will be analyzed and information on the topography of the area will be collected.
“The recovery from Hurricane Maria provides us with an opportunity to strengthen the island's critical facilities beyond what they were before the disaster. This project marks an unprecedented investment for the island with the goal of providing these communities with a reliable dam,” said FEMA Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José Baquero.
Likewise, the second stage of the project will consist of permitting to ensure that the project complies with all legal and environmental standards, as well as construction work. For this, a detailed scope of work and milestone timeline, among other elements necessary for construction to begin, must first be submitted. Similarly, a geotechnical report, design drawings and a detailed plan for the operation and maintenance of the facility will be required for the second phase to begin.
The dam, built over a century ago, is part of the assets of the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority and the construction of an embankment over the original base of the dam is planned.
For his part, Efran Paredes Maisonet, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, said that this preliminary allocation allows the Irrigation, Dams and Reservoirs Division of the Generation Directorate to work with FEMA and COR3 in order to proceed with the required studies, plans and geological and topographical analyses. "The objective is to mitigate the elements of structural vulnerability and give resilience to the dam built in 1913, to reestablish the operational levels of the reservoir, and in turn the necessary resources for power generation, agricultural irrigation and water supply for over 100,000 people in the southeastern part of the island," Paredes Maisonet said.
To date, FEMA has approved more than $87.7 million under its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
“The implementation of this important project will provide resiliency to the Patillas Dam, strengthen the economic development of the agricultural sector and stabilize water service, among other benefits for the citizens of the southeastern region of Puerto Rico. This funding obligation is the result of the teamwork of our Hazard Mitigation program group, along with FEMA and the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority. At COR3, we are committed to continue assisting in the necessary steps to achieve the development of all phases of this project. In the meantime, we continue to attend to hundreds of proposals from subrecipients in order to get FEMA to approve and obligate them on or before October 31. For these purposes, our island has an allocation of $4 billion, the largest in the United States, and we must make good use of this money through risk mitigation works, which will help us prevent major disasters in the future,” said Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, Executive Director of the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience.
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 Tue, 07/13/2021 - 11:14FEMA COVID-19 funeral assistance tops $600 million
WASHINGTON – FEMA has provided over $606 million to more than 91,000 people to assist with COVID-19-related funeral costs for deaths occurring on or after Jan. 20, 2020.
Nearly 2,500 dedicated personnel continue to work with applicants to manually review every application and determine eligibility each week. Eligibility determinations are not driven by state/location; instead, they are based on when the applicant submits all required documentation.
“Applications” in the below chart reflect the number of individuals who called to begin the process for assistance.
Please find below state-specific information:
Applications
Amount Approved
Number of Awards
ALABAMA
5,343
$14,959,099
2,153
ALASKA
115
$175,695
29
AMERICAN SAMOA
Less than 10
$0
0
ARIZONA
4,020
$8,056,001
1,540
ARKANSAS
2,258
$6,339,945
987
CALIFORNIA
25,339
$55,810,625
8,502
COLORADO
1,792
$3,242,587
567
COMMONWEALTH OF THE NORTHERN MARIANAS
Less than 10
$4,344
Less than 10
CONNECTICUT
2,933
$8,860,613
1,250
DELAWARE
745
$1,448,233
223
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
468
$1,013,505
149
FLORIDA
13,497
$26,183,554
4,562
GEORGIA
8,911
$23,518,729
3,385
GUAM
12
$29,436
Less than 10
HAWAII
229
$425,819
67
IDAHO
479
$964,769
171
ILLINOIS
10,087
$27,666,625
3,994
INDIANA
4,177
$11,422,202
1,618
IOWA
2,139
$6,910,892
941
KANSAS
1,967
$5,472,277
815
KENTUCKY
3,168
$10,046,623
1,401
LOUISIANA
4,385
$10,386,478
1,500
MAINE
307
$506,465
94
MARYLAND
4,746
$11,247,534
1,647
MASSACHUSETTS
4,876
$13,763,986
1,938
MICHIGAN
8,116
$20,343,570
3,356
MINNESOTA
2,305
$8,253,217
1,173
MISSISSIPPI
3,849
$9,942,050
1,455
MISSOURI
4,109
$12,516,073
1,949
MONTANA
415
$550,718
111
NEBRASKA
1,013
$2,727,320
373
NEVADA
2,022
$3,798,179
684
NEW HAMPSHIRE
577
$1,226,552
205
NEW JERSEY
10,219
$25,355,840
3,606
NEW MEXICO
1,312
$1,911,585
364
NEW YORK
22,117
$53,346,999
7,555
NORTH CAROLINA
7,017
$19,298,442
2,900
NORTH DAKOTA
584
$1,862,045
243
OHIO
8,224
$23,697,091
3,645
OKLAHOMA
3,304
$10,096,584
1,539
OREGON
698
$1,259,348
239
PENNSYLVANIA
10,961
$32,580,801
4,967
PUERTO RICO
1,004
$719,899
213
RHODE ISLAND
1,006
$2,646,590
372
SOUTH CAROLINA
4,886
$16,058,044
2,293
SOUTH DAKOTA
627
$1,992,174
266
TENNESSEE
5,823
$15,721,451
2,239
TEXAS
21,444
$58,392,722
8,821
UNITED STATES VIRGIN ISLANDS
22
$47,885
Less than 10
UTAH
891
$2,476,468
357
VERMONT
121
$321,583
52
VIRGINIA
5,200
$13,506,349
2,008
WASHINGTON
1,535
$2,618,268
465
WEST VIRGINIA
1,232
$2,904,566
424
WISCONSIN
3,845
$11,684,892
1,738
WYOMING
212
$546,678
96
* Funeral assistance data can/will change daily; the information reflects data as of 8 a.m. today.
Applicants may apply by calling 844-684-6333 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Multilingual services are available. Please note, phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number. Applicants who use a relay service, such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel, should provide FEMA with the specific number assigned to them for that service so that agency representatives are able to contact them.
Additional information about COVID-19 funeral assistance, including frequently asked questions, is available on FEMA.gov.
luther.wills-dudich Mon, 07/12/2021 - 22:48Bay County Approved for $2.4 Million in Hurricane Michael Recovery Expenses
PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved $2,404,834 to the state of Florida to reimburse Bay County for the costs to repair and replace roadways damaged during Hurricane Michael debris removal operations due to heavy equipment usage.
During debris removal operations, Bay County’s County Line Road and part of Steelfield Road were damaged by heavy truck traffic, including alligator cracks, potholes and edge damage. Funds will reimburse the county for the removal and replacement back to pre-disaster design, function and capacity.
- County Line Road: Remove and replace 1.96 miles long by 20 feet wide of open-graded asphalt mix, limerock base and graded aggregate sub-base and an additional 1.58 miles long by 20 feet wide of limerock/dirt.
- Steelfield Road (from SR-79 to Landfill): Remove and replace 4.04 miles long by 24 feet wide of asphalt surface.
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.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
barbara.murien… Mon, 07/12/2021 - 19:49First Baptist Church, Panama City Approved for $1.8 Million in Hurricane Michael Emergency Protective Measures
PENSACOLA, Fla -- FEMA has approved $1,876,750 to the state of Florida to reimburse First Baptist Church, Panama City for the costs of emergency protective measures taken following Hurricane Michael in 2018.
The funds will reimburse First Baptist Church for labor, materials and equipment which addressed the immediate threat to the health and safety of the general public in eight of the church's primary buildings to include mold remediation for high temperatures and water intrusion, tarping over roofs, boarding up windows, water removal and the use of dehumidifiers, fans, air conditioning units and multiple generator sets.
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.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
barbara.murien… Mon, 07/12/2021 - 18:42FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Bootleg Fire in Oregon
BOTHELL, Wash. - The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Bootleg Fire burning in Klamath County, Oregon.
FEMA Region 10 Acting Regional Administrator Vincent Maykovich determined that the fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. He approved the State of Oregon’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) on Saturday, July 10, 2021, at 5:22 p.m. PT. This is the second FMAG declared to help fight Oregon wildfires in 2021.
At the time of the State’s request, the fire was threatening homes in and around the communities of Sprague River, Bly, and Beatty. The fire also threatened roads, bridges, utilities, infrastructure, recreation and businesses in the area. Oregon continues to experience extreme heat conditions and has burn bans and red flag warnings in place.
FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials, and supplies. The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the State’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating, and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.
With this FMAG authorization, an additional $584,083 will be available to Oregon through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide HMGP Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.
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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 Mon, 07/12/2021 - 18:22FEMA Issues Public Notice for 5 Counties Added to Severe Winter Storms Disaster Declaration
PEARL, Miss. – A public notice is now available that addresses FEMA’s intention to reimburse eligible applicants in five additional counties in Mississippi for costs to repair or replace facilities damaged by the Feb. 11-19 severe winter storms.
The five counties added July 7 to the major disaster declaration are: Clay, Holmes, Quitman, Webster and Wilkinson. The additions bring to 36 the number of counties along with the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians designated as eligible to apply for FEMA’s Public Assistance program.
The notice is now posted on FEMA’s Mississippi disaster declaration website at https://www.fema.gov/disaster-federal-register-notice/dr-4598-ms-public-notice-002 and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency website at https://www.msema.org/news/.
On May 4, the president signed disaster declaration FEMA-4598-DR. The following areas were designated as eligible to apply for FEMA’s Public Assistance program: Adams, Attala, Choctaw, Claiborne, Copiah, Covington, Franklin, Grenada, Hinds, Jasper, Jefferson, Jefferson Davis, Kemper, Lafayette, Lauderdale, Lawrence, Leake, Lincoln, Neshoba, Newton, Noxubee, Pike, Rankin, Scott, Simpson, Smith, Tallahatchie, Walthall, Warren, Winston and Yazoo counties, and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.
The five counties designated in July have until Aug. 6, 2021, to apply for Public Assistance categories A, B, C, D, E, F and G. FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program will be available statewide. Additional designations may be made later if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.
The public notice describes proposed activities that may affect historic properties and activities and critical actions that may affect wetlands and floodplains.
For routine activities, this will be the only public notice provided. Interested persons may obtain information about these actions or a specific project by writing to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency – Region IV - EHP, 3005 Chamblee Tucker Rd, Atlanta, GA 3034. They may also email FEMA-R4EHP@fema.dhs.gov. Please include in the subject line of the email: "DR-4598-MS EHAD." Comments should be sent in writing at the above address within 15 days of the date of this notice.
FEMA is required by law to share this public notice of its intent to provide federal assistance and grant opportunities through its Public Assistance program and its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
felicia.jordan Fri, 07/09/2021 - 22:017 Florida Counties Added to Tropical Storm Elsa Emergency Declaration
ATLANTA - An additional seven Florida counties are designated for federal emergency aid to supplement state, local and tribal response efforts for areas affected by Tropical Storm Elsa beginning on July 4 and continuing.
Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Nassau, Putnam and Union counties have been added to the emergency declaration approved by the President on July 4, 2021.
Under the emergency declaration, FEMA is authorized to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency and, to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures authorized under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe.
Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the storm. Emergency protective measures limited to direct Federal assistance and reimbursement for mass care including evacuation and shelter support will be provided at 75% federal funding.
The complete list of counties included in the emergency declaration: Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, Duval, DeSoto, Dixie, Franklin, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lake, Lafayette, Lee, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Nassau, Pasco, Pinellas, Putnam, Sarasota, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor, Union and Wakulla.
felicia.jordan Fri, 07/09/2021 - 21:49Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Cumberland County, PA
- Borough of Camp Hill
- Borough of Lemoyne
- Borough of Newburg
- Borough of Shippensburg
- Borough of Shiremanstown
- Borough of Wormleysburg
- Township of Cooke
- Township of East Pennsboro
- Township of Hampden
- Township of Hopewell
- Township of Lower Allen
- Township of Lower Frankford
- Township of Lower Mifflin
- Township of North Newton
- Township of Penn
- Township of Shippensburg
- Township of South Newton
- Township of Southampton
- Township of Upper Allen
- Township of Upper Frankford
- Township of Upper Mifflin
- Township of West Pennsboro
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 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.
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.
- On or Around July 8, 2021 –Appeal Period starts.
- 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.
amanda.hancher Fri, 07/09/2021 - 20:34Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Fairfax City, VA
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 members can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.
The 90-day appeal period will begin on July 8, 2021. Residents, business owners and other community members are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Those who are interested may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is 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 the City’s floodplain administrator at: FloodplainRevision@fairfaxva.gov, or (717) 512-0632 . 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/1D8rvb.
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.
City of Fairfax Flood Mapping Milestones
- April 6, 2020 — Second Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
- Sept. 25, 2020 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
- Oct. 27, 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 8, 2021 –Appeal Period starts.
- 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.
amanda.hancher Fri, 07/09/2021 - 20:30Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Baltimore County, MD
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 8, 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: Terry W. Curtis, Jr., Engineer III, Baltimore County, tcurtis@baltimorecountymd.gov, (410) 887-3117. 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/Wvai90.
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.
Baltimore County Flood Mapping Milestones
- Nov. 22, 2019 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
- Aug. 12, 2020— Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
- Sept. 23, 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 8, 2021–Appeal Period starts.
- 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.
amanda.hancher Fri, 07/09/2021 - 20:16FEMA Awards Miami-Dade County $5.6 Million for Hurricane Irma Expenses
FEMA Public Assistance program funds will reimburse the county for emergency measures taken to protect life and property, including evacuations, maintaining power, security, shelter, traffic control, staffing the emergency operations center and debris removal from public roads, property and rights-of-way.
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.
barbara.murien… Fri, 07/09/2021 - 19:45How to Reduce Damage from Future Storms
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Many Tennesseans are in the process of repairing and rebuilding from damage caused by the severe storms and flooding that took place from March 25-April 3. FEMA mitigation experts encourage all who live in areas prone to high winds and flooding to make some fairly simple changes to their homes to reduce damage from future severe storms.
"It is safer, cheaper, and ultimately much easier to limit future destruction than to repair it afterward," said FEMA's Federal Coordinating Officer Myra M. Shird. "And, the rebuilding phase of a disaster is the ideal time to consider ways to strengthen your home to protect people and property.”
Some techniques require licensed building professionals to design and install. Others can be implemented by do-it-yourself methods and don’t require permits. Before undertaking improvements, homeowners are advised to check with their local building officials about their plans.
Protect against flood damage
Contact local emergency management officials to find out what is the hundred-year floodplain in your area and make changes that limit a flood’s ability to damage a home.
- Raise Electrical Boxes, Major Appliances, and HVAC components at least one-foot above the 100-year flood level.
- Circuit Breaker Boxes - Short circuits in flooded systems pose a significant fire danger. The likelihood of a flooded electrical system can be reduced by raising all electrical components.
- Appliances - Washers and dryers can be elevated with pressure-treated lumber, or moved to a higher floor; and
- HVAC - Exterior HVAC equipment should be elevated by a professional contractor.
- Anchor fuel tanks - When floodwaters move an unanchored tank, the supply line may tear. Additionally, filling and ventilation tubes need to be above flood level so that water cannot get inside the tank. Anchor inside and outside tanks with properly sized ground anchors.
For safety's sake, consult local officials and building professionals about the best methods for anchoring fuel tanks.
- Install sewer backflow valves - Flooding can cause sewer lines to back up into houses through drainpipes. Backflow valves are designed to block drainpipes temporarily and prevent flow into the house. Have a licensed plumber or contractor install the valves.
- Buy Flood Insurance: Understanding your flood risk allows you to make informed decisions about protecting your family and property. Flood damage is not usually covered in homeowner multi-peril insurance policies. The most common way to insure against flood damage to your home and contents is with a separate flood insurance policy. You can learn more about flood insurance coverage and costs at https://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program.
Reinforce Vulnerable Areas to Minimize Wind Damage
High winds are looking for cracks to penetrate a home, because once high winds get in even through what may seem to be small openings, they can do tremendous damage. Here are tips from FEMA experts on methods to limit high wind’s ability to trespass into a home.
- Strengthen Entry Doors and Windows - Install storm shutters over all exposed windows and glass surfaces. If replacing an entry door, use an approved, impact-tested door and install a dead bolt lock long enough to penetrate the 2X4 framing of the door. Also ensure the strike plate is installed with screws long enough to penetrate the door frame.
- Fortify garage doors – Once wind gets through a garage door it can do tremendous damage to the whole house. A garage door can be reinforced by adding braces across the back of the door and by strengthening the glider wheel tracks. Modifications should usually be made by a garage door expert. Consider purchasing a garage door built to withstand high winds.
- Brace Gable End Walls - Anchor and brace the bottom of the gable end's triangular wall to the ceiling joists or ceiling framing. Strengthen the gable end wall studs and brace the top of the gable end wall by tying it to the rafters or tops of the trusses.
- Keep Outdoor Gear from Becoming Windborne Missiles - Securely anchor all storage sheds and other outbuildings, either to a permanent foundation or with straps and ground anchors. Bolt outdoor furniture and barbecue grills to decks or patios, attach them to ground anchors with cables or chains. Secure trash cans with cables or chains attached to ground anchors or to wood posts firmly embedded in the ground.
- Trees and Landscaping Tips – It is estimated that three-quarters of the damage done by trees in high winds could be avoided if trees had been properly cared for starting with planting. Plant trees at the correct depth by making sure the roots are at the soil surface. Trees planted too deep could snap off at the stem-girdled point during forceful winds. Avoid wounding trees by banging them with a lawn mower or cutting them with a weed trimmer. Wounds lead to decay, a condition that leads to storm-damaged trees. Prune trees to correct defects such as multiple leaders and weak branch attachments.
For more about strengthening a home, view resources at www.fema.gov, www.ready.gov and the fact sheet, Mitigation for Homeowners (fema.gov).
For more information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit www.tn.gov/tema.html and www.fema.gov/disaster/4601. You may also follow FEMA on www.facebook.com/fema and Twitter @FEMARegion4.
felicia.jordan Fri, 07/09/2021 - 18:10FEMA Region 3 Updates Guidance on COVID-19 Funeral Expense Aid
PHILADELPHIA – The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on all Americans, especially those who suffered loss due to the virus. FEMA Region 3 remains committed to easing the financial burden on the thousands of families in the mid-Atlantic region who incurred funeral expenses due to the virus.
FEMA has amended the agency’s COVID-19 funeral assistance policy to assist with COVID-19 related fatalities that occurred in the early months of the pandemic. This policy change will allow applicants to submit a statement or letter from the death certificate’s certifying official, medical examiner, or coroner that attributes the death to COVID-19 fatalities that occurred between Jan. 20 and May 16, 2020.
A new video, available by clicking https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7jWCIQK7BQs, explains the changes.
“The Biden-Harris administration is committed to supporting those who suffered losses as a result of COVID-19,” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “FEMA and our partners are working together to make sure everyone who is eligible for funeral assistance can access and receive it.”
Applicants who incurred COVID-19-related funeral expenses between Jan. 20 and May 16, 2020, will be able to submit a death certificate that does not attribute the death to COVID-19 along with a signed statement from the certifying official listed on the death certificate, coroner, or medical examiner linking the death to COVID-19. The written statement must show an explanation linking the cause of death listed on the death certificate to the virus and should be submitted with the death certificate.
Applicants also retain the option of contacting the individual who certified the death to request a death certificate amendment if they can provide justification demonstrating the death should be attributed to COVID-19. The certifying individual’s name and address should be on the death certificate.
For deaths occurring after May 16, 2020, COVID-19 funeral assistance documentation must include a copy of a death certificate that attributes the death to COVID-19.
Individuals who would like to apply for assistance should call the COVID-19 Funeral Assistance Helpline tollfree, at 844-684-6333 | TTY: 800-462-7585 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. ET, Monday - Friday. Applicants who use a relay service, such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should provide FEMA with the specific number assigned to them for that service so agency representatives are able to contact them. Phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.
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For questions about FEMA, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.
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, 07/09/2021 - 17:0315 Florida Counties Added to Tropical Storm Elsa Emergency Declaration
ATLANTA - An additional 15 Florida counties are designated for federal emergency aid to supplement state, local and tribal response efforts for areas affected by Tropical Storm Elsa beginning on July 4 and continuing.
Alachua, Columbia, Dixie, Franklin, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lake, Lafayette, Madison, Marion, Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla counties have been added to the emergency declaration approved by the President on July 4, 2021.
Under the emergency declaration, FEMA is authorized to coordinate all disaster relief efforts which have the purpose of alleviating the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency and, to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures authorized under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe.
Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the storm. Emergency protective measures limited to direct Federal assistance and reimbursement for mass care including evacuation and shelter support will be provided at 75% federal funding.
The complete list of counties included in the emergency declaration: Alachua, Charlotte, Citrus, Collier, Columbia, DeSoto, Dixie, Franklin, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hardee, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lake, Lafayette, Lee, Levy, Madison, Manatee, Marion, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, and Sumter, Suwannee, Taylor and Wakulla.
neily.chapman Thu, 07/08/2021 - 21:17FEMA exhorta a los habitantes en la costa del Atlántico central a estar preparados para el clima severo durante el paso de la tormenta tropical Elsa
Contacto para la prensa: femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov
PHILADELPHIA – A medida que la tormenta tropical Elsa se acerca al Atlántico central, la Agencia Federal para el Manejo de Emergencias (FEMA, por sus siglas en inglés) exhorta a los residentes y propietarios de negocios con intereses en el Atlántico central a estar atentos a las condiciones meteorológicas y a prepararse para posibles peligros como inundaciones, tornados y apagones. Sólo hace falta una tormenta para cambiar su vida, y esa tormenta no tiene que ser necesariamente un huracán para causar daños.
"Las tormentas tropicales y los huracanes no son sólo una amenaza costera. Pueden causar fuertes lluvias, inundaciones y vientos dañinos lo suficientemente tierra adentro como para que todo el Atlántico central esté en riesgo de estos impactos", dijo la administradora de la Región 3 de FEMA, MaryAnn Tierney. "FEMA está preparada para responder y apoyar a las comunidades del Atlántico central. Usted debe tomar medidas para conocer su riesgo y prepararse para el clima severo. Puede comenzar descargando la aplicación móvil de FEMA en su teléfono para recibir alertas meteorológicas del Servicio Meteorológico Nacional y ver consejos de preparación y listas de cotejo", añadió.
Consejos de preparación
- Siga siempre las instrucciones de los funcionarios locales de seguridad pública durante las emergencias meteorológicas severas.
- Si se le indica que busque refugio o desaloje, hágalo sin demora. No permita que el miedo a COVID-19 le impida buscar refugio con otras personas si esa es su única opción.
- Tenga varias formas de recibir avisos y alertas del Servicio Meteorológico Nacional. No confíe en una sola fuente de información de alertas meteorológicas.
- Active las Alertas Inalámbricas de Emergencia (WEA, por sus siglas en inglés) en la configuración de su teléfono inteligente.
- Mantenga una radio del tiempo de NOAA sintonizada en su estación local de emergencias.
- Inscríbase en el sistema de alerta de su comunidad. Permanezca atento a la información más reciente. Siga las indicaciones de sus funcionarios locales y consulte los medios de comunicación y los informes meteorológicos a través de fuentes oficiales, incluidas las redes sociales.
- Al descargar la aplicación móvil de FEMA, podrá recibir alertas meteorológicas del Servicio Meteorológico Nacional para hasta cinco lugares diferentes en cualquier parte de los Estados Unidos.
- Acostúmbrese a verificar las condiciones del tiempo con regularidad. Pueden ser las noticias en la televisión, una aplicación meteorológica en su teléfono inteligente o un servicio meteorológico en línea. Al visitar www.weather.gov e introducir su código postal, siempre obtendrá un pronóstico preciso y le informará de cualquier peligro en su área.
- ¡Conozca su zona! Familiarícese con su zona de evacuación, la ruta de evacuación y los lugares de refugio.
- Tome medidas para protegerse a sí mismo y sus pertenencias:
- Reúna alimentos, agua y otros suministros de emergencia para cada miembro de su familia. No se olvide de los niños y las mascotas. Tenga en cuenta las necesidades específicas de cada persona, incluidos los medicamentos. Para obtener una lista completa de suministros de emergencia, visite www.ready.gov/es/kit.
- Guarde los documentos importantes en un lugar seguro o haga copias digitales protegidas por contraseña. Considere la posibilidad de utilizar un recipiente impermeable para guardar las copias.
- Despeje los desagües y drenajes para que el agua fluya. Instale válvulas de retención en las tuberías para evitar obstrucciones.
- Utilice un generador u otra maquinaria que funcione con gasolina SOLO en el exterior y lejos de las ventanas.
- Verifique que sus vecinos estén seguros y preparados.
- Documente su propiedad por adelantado, incluyendo fotografías, en caso de que tenga que hacer una reclamación al seguro.
- Cuando se refugie en su casa, busque una habitación interior en el nivel más bajo posible y lejos de las ventanas. Agáchese y cúbrase debajo o al lado de algún objeto resistente.
- Visite www.Listo.gov o hable con su funcionario local de manejo de emergencias si tiene preguntas o necesita ayuda para elaborar su plan de seguridad para condiciones de clima severo.
- Si usted es una persona con discapacidad, o con necesidades funcionales o de acceso, visite www.ready.gov/es/discapacidad para obtener consejos especializados de preparación y planificación.
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La misión de FEMA es ayudar a las personas antes, durante y después de los desastres. La jurisdicción de la Región 3 de FEMA incluye a Delaware, el Distrito de Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia y West Virginia.
Siga nuestra cuenta de Twitter en twitter.com/femaregion3 y de LinkedIn en linkedin.com/company/femaregion3.
gabriel.lugo Thu, 07/08/2021 - 15:57FEMA Urges Mid-Atlantic Residents to Prepare for Severe Weather as Tropical Storm Elsa Approaches
PHILADELPHIA – As Tropical Storm Elsa approaches the Mid-Atlantic, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is encouraging residents and business owners with interests in the Mid-Atlantic to stay aware of the weather and prepare for possible hazards such as flooding, tornadoes, and power outages. It only takes one storm to change your life, and that storm does not necessarily need to be a hurricane to cause damage.
“Tropical storms and hurricanes are not just a coastal threat. They can bring heavy rain, flooding, and damaging winds far enough inland that the entire Mid-Atlantic is at risk of these impacts,” said FEMA Region 3 Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “FEMA is prepared to respond and support Mid-Atlantic communities. You should take steps to know your risk and prepare for severe weather. You can get started by downloading the FEMA App to your phone to get weather alerts from the National Weather Service and view preparedness tips/checklists.”
Preparedness Tips
- Always follow instructions from your local public safety officials during severe weather emergencies.
- If told to seek shelter or evacuate, do so without delay. Do not allow a fear of COVID-19 to prevent you from seeking shelter with others if that is your only option.
- Have several ways to receive warnings/alerts from the National Weather Service. Do not rely on a single source of weather alert information.
- Turn ON Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) in your smartphone settings.
- Keep a NOAA Weather radio tuned to your local emergency station.
- Sign up for your community’s warning system. Stay tuned for the latest information. Follow the guidance of your local officials and check media and weather reports via official sources, including social media.
- By downloading the FEMA app, you can receive weather alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five different locations anywhere in the United States.
- Make a habit of checking the weather regularly. This could be TV news, a weather app on your smartphone, or an online weather service. Visiting www.weather.gov and entering your zip code will always give you an accurate forecast and inform you of any hazards in your area.
- Know Your Zone! Become familiar with your evacuation zone, the evacuation route and shelter locations.
- Take steps to protect yourself and your property:
- Gather food, water, and other emergency supplies for each member of your family. Don’t forget children and pets! Keep in mind each person’s specific needs, including medication. For a full list of emergency supplies, visit www.ready.gov/kit
- Keep important documents in a safe place or create password-protected digital copies. Consider using a waterproof container to store the copies.
- Declutter drains and gutters to allow water to flow. Install check valves in plumbing to prevent backups.
- Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery outdoors ONLY and away from windows.
- Check on your neighbors to make sure they are safe and prepared.
- Document your property in advance, including photographs, in case you need to make an insurance claim.
- When sheltering in your home, find an interior room on the lowest possible level and away from windows. Duck and cover under or next to a sturdy object.
- Visit www.ready.gov or talk to your local emergency manager if you have questions or need help making your severe weather safety plan.
- If you are an individual with a disability, access, or functional needs, please visit www.ready.gov/disability for specialized preparedness and planning tips.
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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 Thu, 07/08/2021 - 14:38Department of Transportation and Public Works to Rebuild the Island’s Roads with $299 Million from FEMA
The removal and replacement of signs on the island's public roads is progressing with over 3,000 signs installed
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico — To date, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has obligated nearly $299 million to the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTOP, by its Spanish acronym) to repair damage and optimize state roads and bridges. This includes nearly $92 million approved during 2021 to address infrastructure in nearly 30 municipalities.
The obligations represent permanent work projects to address over 250 damaged areas across the island’s roads and bridges.
“Together with the government of Puerto Rico, we are committed to helping repair, modernize and strengthen road safety on the island’s highway network. Each project that receives a funding obligation from our agency brings us closer to that goal,” said FEMA Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.
An element that deals with highway safety is the replacement and installation of thousands of road signs that were affected by Hurricane María. To that end, the Agency earmarked over $28.3 million for a project to replace signs on 238 highways in Puerto Rico, extending 496 miles from San Juan to Aguadilla.
DTOP reported that over 300 signs and poles have been removed, while the installation of signs and plaques exceeds 3,000 units. The installation of signs in the Ponce and Guayama regions will begin soon, while the manufacturing of signs for the Humacao region continues. The production of road signage represents a positive impact on the manufacturing sector, since some are made by contractors in Humacao, Guayama, Mayagüez and Ponce.
In addition, over $3.5 million was allocated to repair several roads in the central part of the island. This obligation includes $1.8 million to rebuild three segments of PR-612 in Utuado, including a three-span bridge that suffered severe damage and serves as the main road for residents of the Don Alonso and Caonillas Abajo neighborhoods. It also includes $1.6 million to repair nine segments of PR-531 in Jayuya.
For his part, community leader and president of COSSAO, Francisco "Tito" J. Valentín Soto, said that these awards will not only help the communities of the Don Alonso and Caonillas Abajo neighborhoods, but will also help the town's economy. “This bridge and the roads are on the way to a large sector that gives access to Dos Bocas Lake, including the tourist area. In this area there is a parador known as Casa Grande, plus a cabin project is underway, both of which are important for recreational and economic activity in the community,” added Valentín Soto.
Likewise, over $4.7 million was allocated to DTOP to repair several sections of PR-742 and PR-738 in Cayey. Furthermore, repairs will be completed on the PR-7731 Road in Cidra which provides access to main roads and businesses for about 9,000 residents of the Carite, Vegas, Montellano and Quebrada Arriba neighborhoods.
To prevent landslides due to excessive rainfall, the existing embankment fill on these roads will be replaced with gabion walls. The work also includes the construction of concrete curbs and gutters, the replacement of drainage pipes, and the installation of several segments of guardrails. An allocation of about $19,000 for mitigation works will allow for permanent solutions to be implemented and prevent similar damage.
“Commitment to the restoration of the main public roads is our north. Every day we face new challenges and we do not stop to achieve this and complete our established goals. We continue working tirelessly to provide thousands of drivers with safe roads in good condition, where they can reach their destinations without inconveniences,” said DTOP Secretary Eileen M. Velez Vega.
Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, Executive Director of the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), said that DTOP has approximately 21 auctions in process for the development of design phases, which represent an investment of $107 million in road infrastructure in various municipalities once construction begins. “The COR3 team will continue to work closely with DTOP staff to assist in the procedures related to these processes and ensure that the projects materialize,” Laboy Rivera said.
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 Thu, 07/08/2021 - 10:50