President Donald J. Trump Approves Emergency Declaration for Tennessee

WASHINGTON - FEMA announced federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Tennessee to supplement the state’s response efforts in the area affected by an explosion on Dec. 25.

The President's action authorizes FEMA to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures, authorized under Title V of the Stafford Act, to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety, or to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in the designated areas.

FEMA’s Public Assistance program, (Category B) emergency protective measures, limited to direct federal assistance, will be provided at 75% federal funding.

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

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 01/05/2021 - 18:26

FEMA Announces Reinsurance Program to Manage Future Flood Risk in 2021

WASHINGTON -- FEMA has announced its 2021 traditional reinsurance placement for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), continuing its risk management practice against catastrophic flood losses.  

Reinsurance is a financial risk management tool used by private insurance companies and public entities to protect themselves from large financial losses. If a qualifying catastrophic flood event occurs, reinsurance companies cover a portion of the NFIP’s losses to enhance FEMA’s ability to pay flood insurance claims without borrowing from the U.S. Treasury. FEMA transferred an additional $1.153 billion of the NFIP’s financial risk to the private reinsurance market. This annual reinsurance agreement is effective throughout 2021 with 32 private reinsurance companies. 

The 2021 reinsurance placement covers portions of NFIP losses above $4 billion arising from a single flooding event. FEMA paid a total premium of $195.8 million for the coverage. 

The agreement is structured to cover:  

• 9.43% of losses between $4 billion and $6 billion.  
• 28.084% of losses between $6 billion and $8 billion.  
• 20.168% of losses between $8 billion and $10 billion. 

“We value the role of private insurance companies and investors in assuming a portion of the NFIP’s flood-risk exposure from catastrophic flood events, which improves long-term financial outcomes for FEMA, the U.S. Treasury and federal taxpayers,” said David Maurstad, FEMA’s senior executive of the National Flood Insurance Program.  

“The NFIP Reinsurance Program helps the NFIP to better prepare financially for potential losses from significant flooding events similar in size to hurricanes Harvey (2017), Sandy (2012) and Katrina (2005), bolsters our claims paying capacity and reduces the reliance on the need to borrow from the U.S, Treasury.” 

Combined with the three capital markets reinsurance placements in 2018-20, FEMA has transferred $2.35 billion of the NFIP’s flood risk to the private sector.  

If a named storm flood event is large enough to trigger all reinsurance agreements, FEMA will receive qualifying payments. For named storms resulting in NFIP claims exceeding $10 billion, FEMA will receive the full $2.35 billion of reinsurance coverage from the private markets. 

FEMA contracted with Guy Carpenter and Company, a subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Companies and Aon Reinsurance Solutions, to provide broker services to assist in securing the reinsurance placement.

FEMA received authority to secure reinsurance through the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 and the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act of 2014. FEMA’s 2021 reinsurance placement builds upon its previous reinsurance placements as further development toward a stronger financial framework.

mayshaunt.gary Tue, 01/05/2021 - 16:19

FEMA approves $13.5 million for Hurricane Michael Recovery

PANAMA CITY, Fla -- FEMA has approved three projects totaling more than $13.5 million for the state of Florida to reimburse Bay District Schools, Washington County and Springfield Baptist Church in Panama City for Hurricane Michael recovery work.

The projects are:

• Bay District Schools: $2.1 million to lease 156 temporary classroom modules and 11 temporary restroom modules from Nov. 25, 2018 until April 11, 2020 to provide space for education of students. Previously, $6 million was awarded for temporary facilities.
• Springfield Baptist Church, Panama City: $3.18 million for repairs to the two-story structure. Certain nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, are eligible for FEMA disaster funding.
• Washington County: $8.29 million for costs of tracking, charging and accounting for disaster recovery projects.

These grants are funded by FEMA’s Public Assistance program, 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 implemented new procedures 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… Tue, 01/05/2021 - 14:56

FEMA Modifies Order on Scarce Health and Medical Resources Exports

WASHINGTON – FEMA published an updated rule in the Federal Register on Dec. 31 to help ensure that critical health and medical resources remain accessible to the American public during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This rule modifies an allocation order of health and medical resources that was published in the spring and updated in the summer to reflect changing circumstances of supply and demand. The rule has modified the list of Personnel Protective Equipment and other scarce and critical health and medical resources that FEMA will review and may hold for domestic use prior to export. This rule has been extended to remain in effect until June 30, 2021.

The following health and medical resources are now subject to the modified rule:

• Surgical N95 respirators.
• Surgical masks, specifically PPE surgical masks that meet fluid barrier protection standards pursuant to specific industry standards.
• Nitrile gloves and exam gloves.
• Surgical gowns and surgical isolation gowns.
• Syringes and hypodermic needles (due to increased need for the COVID-19 vaccine) include:
  • Piston syringes; or                               
  • Hypodermic single lumen needles with a safety feature.

FEMA, along with Customs and Border Protection, the Department of State, the Department of Commerce, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Food and Drug Administration, will review export shipments regularly, and continue to evaluate the list of health and medical resources covered under the allocation rule to see if supply and/or demand has changed.

For more information, please review the rule published in the Federal Register or go to the FEMA Fact Sheet.

zella.campbell Tue, 01/05/2021 - 13:58

Salt Lake County Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance Funding for Magna Earthquake

SALT LAKE CITY – On Dec. 31, 2020 President Trump announced additional disaster assistance is available for Salt Lake County. The aid comes in the form FEMA Public Assistance funding to supplement state and local efforts to recover from the Magna Quake and aftershocks between March 18 and April 17, 2020.

Assistance covers eligible disaster-related debris removal, emergency protective measures, and the repair or rebuilding of public facilities such as roads, bridges, water control facilities, buildings, equipment, public utilities, parks and recreational facilities.

Public Assistance reimbursements are made on a cost-sharing basis to counties, municipalities, state, tribes and certain private nonprofit organizations for emergency work and restoration of infrastructure. The federal cost share is no less that 75 percent, with the state and local applicant responsible for remaining costs.

The Utah Division of Emergency Management will be providing information directly to the eligible applicants on how to apply for assistance.

For more information on Utah’s recovery from the Magna Quake, visit, www.fema.gov/disaster/4548, or https://earthquakes.utah.gov/magna-quake/. 

Brian.Hvinden Tue, 01/05/2021 - 11:20

FEMA Approves Funding for Sioux Valley Southwestern Electric

SIOUX FALLS, SD – FEMA has approved $3.64 million to reimburse Sioux Valley Southwestern Electric Cooperative for repairs in the wake of a severe winter storm in 2019. High winds and heavy icing caused widespread damage to the electric cooperative’s equipment leaving nearly 10,000 customers in Lake, Minnehaha and Moody counties without power and damaging hundreds of poles, power lines, and other equipment.

The $3.64 million from FEMA represents a 75 percent federal cost-share for permanent repairs that include replacing 890 power poles, four transformers and where feasible burying power lines to make them less susceptible to future storm damage. The State of South Dakota will provide an additional $485,936 in funding for the project with the cooperative responsible for the remaining costs.

FEMA previously announced an additional $1.2 million in grant funds to Sioux Valley Southwest Electric for temporary power restoration work.

The federal funding is provided through FEMA’s Public Assistance Grant Program, which reimburses state, tribal, local and certain non-profit agencies for a portion of the repair and rebuilding of public infrastructure damaged as a result of a presidentially-declared disaster.

FEMA has currently obligated a total of more than $45.1 million in Public Assistance grant funds to South Dakota as a result of the winter storms and spring flooding. This was one of four federal disaster declarations for South Dakota in 2019.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.

minh.phan Tue, 01/05/2021 - 10:39

Hurricane Zeta Survivors in George, Greene, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, and Stone Counties Can Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance

ATLANTA – Homeowners and renters who suffered damage from Hurricane Zeta in George, Greene, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson and Stone counties can apply to FEMA for federal disaster assistance. Survivors may be eligible to receive assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and losses resulting from the hurricane.

The counties were designated eligible for FEMA’s Individual Assistance program under the Major Disaster Declaration signed by President Trump on Dec. 31, 2020, for damage and losses from Hurricane Zeta that occurred Oct. 28-29, 2020.

If you have a homeowner’s insurance policy, file your insurance claim immediately. The faster you file, the faster your recovery can begin. 

You can register for FEMA disaster assistance online by visiting DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 800-621-3362. Persons who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability and use a TTY may call 800-462-7585. Multilingual operators are available. Lines are open daily from 6 a.m. to midnight Central Time.

You will need to have the following available:

• A current phone number where you can be contacted;
• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are now staying;
• Your Social Security number, if available;
• A general list of damages and losses; and
• If insured, the insurance policy number, or the agent and company name.

If you cannot return to your home, or you are unable to live in your home, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, or call 800-621-3362 (800-462-7585 TTY) to determine what federal, state, local, or voluntary agency assistance may be available to you. 

If you can return to your home and it is safe, has working power, water, and sewer or septic service, visit DisasterAssistance.gov to determine if state, voluntary and local organizations in your community can address any unmet needs.

Disaster assistance may provide temporary help and a place to stay while you build your own recovery plan. Although the federal government cannot make you whole, it may be able to help your recovery move forward by providing grants for basic repairs to make your home safe, accessible and secure. FEMA is unable to duplicate insurance payments. However, those without insurance, or those who may be underinsured, may still receive help after their insurance claims have been settled.

Long-term, low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses and non-profit organizations from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources.

If referred, applicants may apply online using the Electronic Loan Application (ELA) via the SBA’s secure website at DisasterLoan.sba.gov or by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 (800-877-8339 TTY) or by sending an e-mail to disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.

Federal funding is also available to state, tribal and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Hurricane Zeta in George, Greene, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, Perry, Stone and Wayne counties. 

neily.chapman Mon, 01/04/2021 - 16:21

FEMA Provides an Additional $8.6 Million for North Dakota COVID-19 Response

DENVER – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has provided $8.6 million in additional Public Assistance funding for the COVID-19 response in North Dakota. The assistance was made available under the major disaster declaration issued April 1, 2020 by President Trump.

During the declaration period, a combined $8.6 million in federal funds were provided to the North Dakota Department of Health and the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services for emergency protective measures related to COVID-19. Some measures include labor, materials, rental equipment and contracts to provide management, control, and reduction of immediate threats to public health and safety from COVID-19, N95 mask disinfection for health and medical institutions, dissemination of public information, staff enhanced medical facilities, and State community-based testing activities. Funding for these emergency protective measures is in addition to previously awarded federal funding.

To date, FEMA has provided more than $31.2 million in Public Assistance funding for COVID-19 response efforts in North Dakota. FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding for emergency actions undertaken by communities to protect public safety, providing at least a 75-percent funding share for eligible costs. Remaining costs are the responsibility of the state and local applicants for assistance.

For the COVID-19 response, FEMA 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 can 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.

 

minh.phan Mon, 01/04/2021 - 11:28

Pope County Residents Invited to Attend Flood Map Information Virtual Open House

CHICAGO — Representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will host a Flood Map Information Virtual Open House for Pope County online from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Jan. 6, 2021. The virtual open house will provide county residents with an opportunity to review a recently completed Preliminary Flood Insurance Study (FIS) and its accompanying Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs).

The FIS and the FIRMs provide base flood (also known as the 1-percent-annual-chance event) information, designate areas that are subject to significant flood hazards, and offer information that public officials may use when permitting development in the floodplain.

The virtual open house will be staffed with representatives from state and federal agencies who will provide the most current information about flood risk, flood insurance, floodplain development regulations, and the process for floodplain mapping within Pope County. Once the maps become effective, they will be used as the basis for flood insurance policy writing as well as local flood protection regulations adopted under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FEMA also intends that they be used by local officials in emergency management to assist planning processes and outreach efforts to increase resiliency in response to flood and storm events. Details for the Pope County meeting are as follows:

WHAT:              Pope County Flood Map Information Virtual Open House WHEN:             January 6, 2021 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. WHERE:           Virtual Zoom Meeting: visit the Pope County Website (https://www.co.pope.mn.us/events/6980/) for the link

Property owners, realtors, lenders, and insurance agents are urged to attend and take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about flood risk and hazard mitigation within their community. Digital files of the Preliminary FIRMs and FIS report can be downloaded at: https://hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/prelimdownload/.

For more information, contact FEMA at FEMA-R5-news-desk@fema.dhs.gov or (312) 408-4455.

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troy.christensen Mon, 01/04/2021 - 09:44

It’s Important to Submit an SBA Disaster Loan Application

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – After you apply for disaster assistance from FEMA, you may be referred to the U.S. Small Business Administration. If you are referred to SBA, you should submit an SBA disaster loan application.

If your application is approved, you are not obligated to accept an SBA disaster loan but failure to submit the application may disqualify you from other possible FEMA assistance, such as disaster-related car repairs, essential household items and other expenses.

SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors.  In planning your recovery, give yourself the widest possible set of options. Submitting the application makes it possible for homeowners and renters to be considered for additional FEMA grants.

Applicants may apply online using SBA’s secure website at DisasterLoan.sba.gov or they may email FOCE-Help@SBA.gov for more information on SBA’s disaster assistance program.

Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard‑of‑hearing may call 800-877-8339.

Businesses may borrow up to $2 million for any combination of property damage or working capital. Homeowners may borrow up to $200,000 from SBA to repair or replace their primary residence. Homeowners and renters may borrow up to $40,000 to repair or replace personal property.

The filing deadline to return applications for property damage is Feb. 8, 2021. The deadline to return working capital applications is Sept. 10, 2021.

For more information about Hurricane Zeta recovery in Alabama, visit https://www.fema.gov/disaster/4573.

felicia.jordan Mon, 01/04/2021 - 08:52

FEMA's Commitment Remains Strong One Year After the Earthquakes

To date, the agency has awarded over $313 million

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico — One year after several earthquakes shook municipalities in central, southern and western Puerto Rico, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved nearly $313.5 million for emergency measures, rebuilding public facilities and to provide assistance to thousands of survivors.

This includes nearly $71.5 million in Individual Assistance approved for over 14,000 survivors across 34 municipalities who lost their homes or whose homes suffered structural damage and needed immediate repairs. This also includes $10.2 million for rental assistance to relocate families.

“Our team has worked tirelessly during this challenging year to help those in greatest need. The earthquakes defined the history of all Puerto Ricans and our efforts in this recovery will be just as significant,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, José Baquero Tirado.

Part of the funds allocated under the Individual Assistance program include over $3 million earmarked to help survivors in Yauco. The mayor of this municipality, Angel L. Torres Ortiz, said these funds were allocated to the communities in most need.  “It was a process of cooperation, a job that entailed over six months of recovery work. The experience of living through Hurricane María helped us to be more effective in our coordinated work with FEMA and all other agencies,” said the mayor.

Some families were able to keep their homes, but they required repairs to make them suitable to live in. This is the case of Rubén Sánchez Lugo and Ada Rodríguez Caraballo, residents of the Alturas del Cafetal neighborhood in Yauco. The couple, married for 48 years and with three children, received a grant that allowed them to repair their home after living at the temporary shelter that housed them after the earthquakes.

“Structurally, the house practically collapsed. If this tremor lasted two more seconds, the whole house would have fallen. FEMA's contribution was the most important thing because without that our situation wouldn’t have changed,” said Sanchez Lugo, who received $26,000 in assistance which enabled them to reinforce and repair the columns of his house.

On the other hand, Ottmar Chávez, Executive Director for COR3, said that one year after the earthquakes in Puerto Rico, FEMA is committed to helping the island continue its path to recovery. “Knowing that there is still work to be completed, we remain focused on helping applicants so that reimbursements are handled in a fast and responsible manner.  We are grateful to the team that has been with us and has contributed to the goals we have accomplished,” he said.

The earthquakes caused unprecedented damage to public buildings in the municipalities. More than $242 million in Public Assistance was approved for municipalities, government agencies and nonprofit organizations for emergency and restoration measures, such as demolishing unsafe structures and for the architectural and engineering design phase of several facilities, respectively. For example, reconstruction already began at the Agripina Seda Middle School, in Guánica, which will benefit over 400 students.

Also, part of these funds was awarded to the initial design phase, as in Ponce Municipality, which was obligated nearly $73,000 for the architectural and engineering design costs of several facilities. Among these are the Juan "Pachín" Vicens auditorium, the official home of the Leones de Ponce basketball team; Villa Pesquera in the Playa neighborhood; Carlos Garay public transportation terminal, which provides SITRAS bus service throughout the city for the benefit of 91,000 residents; and the Moscoso Building, a historically valuable structure in the city of Ponce that is part of the City Hall.

Similarly, over 1,800 people who live in Barrio Caña in Guánica will benefit from repairs to the potable water distribution system, thanks to an obligation to the Puerto Rico Aqueduct and Sewer Authority.

“We understand the stress and anxiety that a disaster of this magnitude may cause. This is why, in addition to the aforementioned assistance, our grant programs include funding for crisis counseling until May 2021. This assistance is available through the Pas Hotline (Línea Pas) at 1-800-981-0023. The assistance is free, confidential and is available 24 hours a day,” concluded Baquero Tirado.

For more information on Puerto Rico's recovery from the earthquakes, visit fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on social networks at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and on Twitter @COR3pr.

 

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 01/04/2021 - 07:56

President Donald J. Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration for Mississippi

WASHINGTON -- FEMA announced federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Mississippi to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the areas affected by Hurricane Zeta from Oct. 28-29.  

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in George, Greene, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson and Stone counties. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover.

Federal funding is available to the state and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by Hurricane Zeta in George, Greene, Hancock, Harrison, Jackson, Perry, Stone and Wayne counties.

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

Brett H. Howard has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal response operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further evaluation.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated area can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 or 1-800-462-7585 TTY.

zella.campbell Fri, 01/01/2021 - 20:56

FEMA Reimburses nearly $7 million to Massachusetts for COVID-19 Food Security Response

REGION 1 – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded $6,993,801 to Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) to reimburse eligible expenses for the delivery of food boxes to hundreds of thousands of residents in response to food insecurity caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. MEMA, along with the assistance of the Salvation Army, and a network of food banks and food pantries throughout Massachusetts coordinated and distributed 275,808 food boxes to eligible participants.

“We are pleased to provide this significant grant to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to help manage the financial demands associated with providing food for its citizens needing assistance during COVID-19,” said Regional Administrator and Federal Coordinating Officer Capt. Russ Webster.  “The partnership FEMA has with the Commonwealth allows us to jointly provide assistance throughout Massachusetts to help lessen the stress of COVID-19.”

The Public Assistance Program provides grants at a 75/25 percent cost share to eligible applicants including state and local governments, federally recognized tribal nations, U.S. territories, and certain private non-profit organizations. 

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

Grant applications are submitted by the Commonwealth, which coordinates the process with local governments.  FEMA obligated the funding for this project directly to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Additional information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at:

https://www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit

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

adrien.urbani Thu, 12/31/2020 - 12:15

FEMA Begins Construction of Temporary Housing Site for Linn and Marion Wildfire Survivors

SALEM, Ore. – FEMA has begun the construction of a site where the agency will provide temporary housing units to qualified survivor families from Linn and Marion counties. Once completed, the new site in Mill City is expected to hold up to 16 temporary housing units.

In addition to Linn and Marion counties, FEMA’s Direct Housing mission is in the process of providing transportable temporary housing to qualified disaster survivors in Jackson and Lincoln counties. To date, 47 Jackson County families have been placed in temporary housing units in commercial parks and at one group site – similar to the one now under construction in Mill City in Linn and Marion counties.

Currently, 250 survivor families are approved to receive FEMA Direct Temporary Housing in the four counties. The number of qualified families has decreased over time as many households have located alternate temporary or permanent housing on their own.

To the degree possible, FEMA works to keep survivors as close as possible to their communities, schools and places of worship. Direct Temporary Housing is provided to survivors for up to 18 months from the date of the disaster declaration (until March 2022).

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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.

 

issa.mansaray Wed, 12/30/2020 - 16:29

Understanding Your FEMA Letter

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Alabama residents who applied for assistance from FEMA after sustaining damage from Hurricane Zeta Oct. 28-29 will receive a letter from FEMA in the mail or via email.

The letter will explain your application status and how to respond. It is important to read the letter carefully. If you are eligible, the letter states the dollar amount of your grant and how the funds should be used. If ineligible, the letter explains why and tells you how you can appeal that decision.

Applicants may need to submit additional information to FEMA. Examples of missing documentation may include: proof of insurance coverage, settlement of insurance claims, proof of identity, proof of occupancy, proof of ownership and/or proof that the damaged property was the applicant’s primary residence when Hurricane Zeta struck.

An easy way to provide any additional information needed is by setting up an online account and uploading documents there.

To set up a disaster assistance account:

• Go to https://www.disasterassistance.gov/.
• Select the Create Account button at the bottom of the page and follow instructions.
• A PIN will be sent to the email address on file. Then log into the account.
• You can then upload your important documents in the Upload Center. (This page takes you to the login if you are returning to add more documents: https://go.usa.gov/xUPX5.)

Those who have questions about their letters may call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585. Press 2 for a Spanish-speaking operator. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Central Standard Time daily.

Those who disagree with FEMA’s decision on whether they are eligible for assistance, or the amount of assistance, may submit an appeal letter and documents supporting their claim, such as a contractor’s estimate for home repairs.

FEMA cannot duplicate assistance provided by another source such as insurance settlements.

Those who are underinsured may receive further assistance after insurance claims have been settled by submitting insurance settlement documents to FEMA.

Appeals must be in a signed and dated letter, explaining the reason(s) for the appeal. It should also include: applicant’s full name, disaster number (4573 in Alabama), the address of the pre-disaster primary residence and the applicant’s current phone number and address. A FEMA Helpline specialist can provide additional details.

Letters must be postmarked within 60 days of the date on the determination letter. Appeal letters and supporting documents may be submitted to FEMA by fax or mail or via a FEMA online account.

Mail:

FEMA National Processing Service Center

P.O. Box 10055

Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055

Fax:

800-827-8112

Attention: FEMA

For more information on Alabama’s disaster recovery, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4573 and Facebook: www.facebook.com/fema.

felicia.jordan Wed, 12/30/2020 - 08:10

Additional Parishes Designated for Assistance for Hurricane Delta

BATON ROUGE, La. – On Dec. 23, two parishes were added to the disaster declaration for Hurricane Delta. Survivors in Allen and Iberia parishes are now eligible for federal disaster assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and losses resulting from Hurricane Delta.

To be eligible for federal disaster aid, storm damage and losses from the hurricane and flooding must have occurred as a result of Hurricane Delta from Oct. 6 to Oct. 10. Registration for Hurricane Delta for Allen and Iberia parishes has been approved for 60 days beginning Dec. 23 under FEMA’s late registration process.

Survivors will not have to provide additional documentation and will not receive a late-application letter. Those who previously registered for Hurricane Delta (not Hurricane Laura) assistance from those two parishes do not have to re-register. Their registrations, which were held, will now be processed.  

Allen Parish residents who previously registered for Hurricane Laura must register again to qualify for damage caused by Hurricane Delta. When there are two or more disasters declared for the same parish, FEMA works to ensure applicants receive all eligible help while preventing duplication of federal benefits.

Those with cell phones or Internet access may register with FEMA by:

• Going online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Downloading the FEMA app
• Calling 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585

Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should alert FEMA as to the specific number assigned to that service.

The following parishes were approved for Direct Temporary Housing assistance under Hurricane Delta: Acadia, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis, St. Landry, St. Martin and Vermilion.  Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis and Rapides were previously approved for Direct Temporary Housing assistance under Hurricane Laura.

The following parishes are approved by FEMA for Public Assistance:

• Caldwell, Beauregard, East Baton Rouge, Point Coupee, St. Mary, West Baton Rouge and Winn parishes are approved for debris removal.
• Beauregard, East Baton Rouge, Point Coupee, St Mary, West Baton Rouge, Winn, Calcasieu, Lafayette, Rapides, St. Landry, St Martin, Vermilion, Allen, Iberia and Grant parishes are approved for permanent work assistance to repair damages to public facilities, such as roads, bridges and public buildings.

For the latest information on information on Hurricane Delta, visit fema.gov/disaster/4570. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.

U.S. Small Business Administration low-interest disaster loans are available for Louisiana disaster survivors. Businesses of any size and certain nonprofits can apply for loans as well.

Apply online at sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance. For questions and assistance completing an application, call 800-659-2955 or email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov.

scott.reuter Tue, 12/29/2020 - 17:15

Look Out for Disaster Fraud, Scams

MONTGOMERY, Ala. – When disasters occur, it is common for some people to try to take advantage of survivors by posing as official disaster aid workers trying to obtain personally identifiable information.

Federal and state workers never ask for, or accept, money and always carry identification badges. No fee is required to apply for, or to receive, federal disaster assistance. There is never a fee for FEMA home inspections.

Owners/applicants may be especially vulnerable to phony housing inspectors claiming to represent FEMA. Ask to see the inspector’s identification badge. Housing inspectors have each applicant’s nine-digit registration number. Inspectors will call you on the telephone to make an appointment.

There may be occasions when a FEMA representative must contact you to verify personal data. You should request a FEMA identification number from the caller.  If you are unsure of the caller’s identification or you are suspicious of someone claiming to be a housing inspector sent by FEMA, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585.

Criminals exploit survivors by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating phony websites designed to solicit contributions. Inspectors will not contact you via email. A list of reputable charities that are approved by the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance is available at Give.Org.

During each disaster, it’s important to stay tuned to local media and trusted local, state and federal social media for current updates about ongoing disasters and tips on disaster fraud prevention.

Scam attempts can be made over the phone, by mail or email, text or in person. Alabama survivors of Hurricane Zeta should be aware of fraud and scams and report suspicious activity or potential fraud from scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals to FEMA.

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585.
• Email the FEMA tip line: StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov.
• Email the National Center for Disaster Fraud: Disaster@Leo.gov.
• Call your local police or sheriff’s department.

FEMA also recommends you monitor your credit report for any accounts or changes you do not recognize. If you discover someone is using your information, you will need to take additional steps, including filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission through its website IdentityTheft.gov.

If you believe you or a loved one has become a victim of a scam or identity theft, report it immediately to your local police or sheriff’s department, or contact the office of the Alabama Attorney General:

• Office Main Number: 334-242-7300
• Consumer Protection Hotline: 800-392-5658
• Office of Victim Assistance: 800-626-7676
• http://www.ago.state.al.us/Page-Consumer-Protection

For more information on Hurricane Zeta in Alabama, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4573.

 

felicia.jordan Mon, 12/28/2020 - 16:08

Flood Insurance Reduces Post-Wildfire Flood and Mudflow Losses

OAKLAND, Calif. – After another relentless wildfire season, thousands of property owners in burn scar areas now face increased risk of flooding and mudflows. Wildfires destroy the plants and root systems that stabilize hillsides. Without this vegetation, even small amounts of rain can trigger a flood or mudflow that can occur quickly and with little warning – an increased risk that can last for several years or until enough ground-stabilizing vegetation takes root.

Homeowners and renters do not have to bear the entire risk themselves since mudflow coverage is part of a standard policy from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). NFIP policies offer flood insurance coverage to property owners, renters and business owners. The maximum coverage for a residential building is $250,000, $100,000 for contents. Commercial structures are eligible for the maximum coverage of $500,000, $500,000 on contents.

Protect yourself today. Winter rains are just around the corner and the risk of flooding and mudflows is more pressing than ever. Not to mention, there is generally a 30-day waiting period before an NFIP policy becomes effective.

For more information on the NFIP or to locate an insurance agent, contact the help center at (877) 336-2627 or visit FloodSmart.gov.

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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 Mon, 12/28/2020 - 15:35

Awards for Permanent Work Increase in 2020

Ninety-seven percent of FEMA obligations during the year were for permanent work

GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico – In the face of the obstacles of 2020 – earthquakes, floods and a pandemic that slowed the island’s productive sector – FEMA ended the year with a record number of obligations. Nearly 400 project obligations per month paved the way for a total of $13.4 billion in recovery funds. To date, the Hurricane María recovery operations on the island have produced the largest amount of approved disaster funding for a disaster in FEMA’s history.

"This year's challenges further strengthened our commitment to the people of Puerto Rico. Our sense of duty and willingness is unstoppable, and we are proud to be able to help our island during this historic recovery,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, José Baquero Tirado.

Improved Infrastructure

In September, while commemorating the three-year mark for Hurricane María, the Agency awarded the two projects with the largest amount of funds in FEMA history. The nearly $9.5 billion obligation for the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority aims to move permanent work projects forward in several facilities that provide service to 1.5 million residential, commercial and industrial clients.

Likewise, over $2 billion was obligated for the Puerto Rico Department of Education to address damage in over 5,300 buildings, pavilions and recreational areas, among other sites, in over 1,100 schools.

For his part, the Director for the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resilience, Ottmar Chavez, said that the Government of Puerto Rico has adapted to address all the pressing situations that arose. “We are very pleased to have achieved the largest allocation in the history of FEMA for the reconstruction of the electrical system and the Department of Education. We have also achieved million-dollar allocations to address the crises of hurricanes Irma and María, the earthquakes and the COVID-19 pandemic. The work has been hard, but diligent,” he added.

Similarly, the municipalities will benefit from a $1.2 billion injection for 3,741 projects for roads, public buildings, parks, sports facilities, community centers and other essential facilities for residents. Many of these spaces are used for community activities and as distribution centers during emergencies.

Hazard Mitigation

Though natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes cannot be avoided, there are ways to take measures to minimize their effects. To date, nearly $240 million were awarded for this purpose.

In addition, about $53.4 million was obligated under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to strengthen facilities across the island, like at the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport. In the first phase of the project for the largest international travel hub in the Caribbean, designs are underway for an electrical system that will reduce the disruption of services if a failure occurs. Another $18 million was allocated to update and enforce building code guidelines and compliance.

Environmental and Historic Preservation

Another FEMA priority this year were projects that seek to preserve the island’s cultural heritage. The National Archives and the Cabezas de San Juan natural reserve in Fajardo, for example, were approved $7.4 million and $701,300, respectively.

The Agency reinforced its commitment to the environment by performing several assessments of the Camuy caves, a natural treasure of internationally recognized value. Experts will prepare a cost estimate and make other recommendations that will improve the infrastructure of the Espiral, Catedral and Clara caves. The goal is reopen this natural formation as it represents an important income for the Camuy, Lares and Hatillo municipalities.

“Over the past three years, we have obligated over $19.5 billion for costs related to hurricanes Irma and Maria under our Public Assistance program. We remain steadfast in our commitment to the island,” concluded Baquero Tirado.

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

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 12/28/2020 - 06:38

FEMA Direct Temporary Housing Program Continues to Ramp Up

SALEM, Ore – As families, communities and businesses continue to recover from September’s devastating wildfires, FEMA’s Direct Temporary Housing mission, providing temporary housing to qualified disaster survivors in Jackson, Lincoln, Linn and Marion Counties, moves steadily forward.

Thirty-three Jackson County families whose homes were severely damaged or destroyed by this year’s wildfires have been licensed-in to temporary housing units from FEMA. These units are placed in established RV parks in Central Point and Gold Hill. At the Gold Hill site, thirty-nine units are in various stages of installation and three families have already been licensed-in.

In Marion and Linn counties, two construction projects for temporary housing group sites are scheduled to begin in early January. In Lincoln County, FEMA is in the process of negotiating a lease for one site to place temporary housing for the approximately 20 eligible families in that county.

Beginning Christmas Eve, Jackson County survivor families will start licensing-in at FEMA’s first group site in White City. This site will hold 23 mobile homes, several of which have been built to meet the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standard for persons with disabilities or Access and Functional Needs.

Currently, some 220 qualified families are scheduled to receive FEMA Direct Temporary Housing in the four counties. The current number of qualified families has fallen as many households that qualified for this assistance have located alternate temporary or permanent housing on their own.

Direct Temporary Housing is provided to survivors for up to 18 months from the date of the disaster declaration (March 2022).

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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.

 

issa.mansaray Wed, 12/23/2020 - 18:11