FEMA News

Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Kennebec County

The State of Maine and FEMA has opened a Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) in Kennebec County. The DRC is a temporary facility established to help survivors recover from the severe storm and flooding from Dec. 17-21, 2023.

Kennebec County

Manchester Fire Department, 37 Readfield Rd., Manchester

This location will be open through March 4.

All centers operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week unless otherwise noted. Other DRC locations include:

Franklin County

University of Maine – Roberts Learning Center, 270 Main St., Farmington

Oxford County 

Rumford Municipal Building, 150 River St., Rumford

Somerset County

Somerset County Emergency Operations Center, 4 County Dr., Skowhegan

Androscoggin County

Lewiston Armory, 65 Central Ave., Lewiston

DRCs provide disaster survivors with information from Maine state agencies, FEMA, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Survivors can get help applying for federal assistance and disaster loans, update applications and learn about other resources available.

DRCs are accessible to people with disabilities. They have assistive technology equipment that allows disaster survivors to interact with staff. Video Remote Interpreting is available. The centers also have accessible parking, ramps and restrooms.

It is not necessary to visit a Disaster Recovery Center to apply. Survivors can go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA mobile app or call 800-621-3362. The line is open every day from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service. To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

adrien.urbani Wed, 02/21/2024 - 15:09

Beware of Fraud and Scams

LANSING, Mich. – Disasters bring out criminals looking to prey on survivors who appear to be easy targets for their scams.

Survivors of the August storms in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties should be aware that fraud and scams can occur anytime. FEMA encourages survivors to be alert and report any suspicious activity or potential fraud by scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals.

Anyone who suspects fraud or scams should call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 (TTY call 711). The toll-free number is open 24 hours a day.

Common tactics used by scam artists include phone calls from people claiming to work for FEMA. They caller may ask for the survivor’s Social Security number, income or banking information.

Survivors should never trust someone claiming to be a disaster assistance employee asking for money. FEMA does not endorse any commercial business, product or service, and local and federal disaster assistance workers do not solicit or accept money.

For more information about the disaster recovery operation in Michigan, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4757.

kirsten.chambers Wed, 02/21/2024 - 14:46

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

WASHINGTON-- FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Washington to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires from Aug. 18 – 25, 2023.

The President's action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in Spokane County. 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 from the effects of the disaster. 

Federal funding is also available to state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and debris removal in Spokane County. 

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

Lance E. Davis has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made at a later date if warranted by the results of damage assessments. 

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621- 3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 02/20/2024 - 20:11

Damaged Furnace, Well or Septic System? FEMA Can Help

If you lost access to water because a private well or septic system was damaged, or if your furnace or heating system was damaged by the severe storm and flooding on December 17-21, 2023, you may be eligible for financial assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. The five (5) counties designated for this assistance program are Androscoggin, Franklin, Kennebec, Oxford, and Somerset.

For private wells, heating systems, furnaces and septic systems, FEMA may provide assistance to help you cover the cost of a licensed contractor, or a professional and/or licensed technician to visit your home and prepare an estimate for necessary repairs or replacement of your disaster-damaged systems.

FEMA may also pay for the actual repair or replacement cost of your septic system or private well, which are not insurable items. At the time of your inspection, let the FEMA inspector know you have a private well and/or septic system that may have been damaged by the storm. If the damage is determined to be caused by the disaster, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance. 

If you have already had an inspection and damage to the well or septic system wasn’t reported, contact the FEMA Helpline to receive instructions about how to amend your application. 

If you have applied for FEMA assistance and have not had a home inspection, you should call FEMA at 1-800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Phone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week.

adrien.urbani Tue, 02/20/2024 - 17:57

Assistance Available for Vehicles Damaged by the Severe Storm and Flooding in Maine

If you have damage to a vehicle as a result of the severe storm and flooding that occurred Dec. 17 – 21, 2023, auto insurance and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are the primary resources available to help with your repairs. If you’re unable to receive help through insurance or SBA, you may qualify for assistance through FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance (ONA) program. Here’s how to find out if you qualify for vehicle repair or replacement assistance:

• First, file a claim with your insurance company if you have a comprehensive policy. Comprehensive policies usually pay for storm-related damage to a vehicle. Federal disaster assistance may help fill the gaps for those whose coverage does not pay for any or all storm-related damage costs.
• Return a completed U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) low-interest disaster-loan application. After registering with FEMA, you may be referred to the SBA to apply for a low-interest disaster loan application.
• Submit your application to SBA as soon as possible. Even if your insurance claim has not been settled, you can still submit an application.
• Homeowners and renters may be eligible to borrow up to $100,000 to repair or replace personal property, including automobiles damaged or destroyed in the disaster.
• If you qualify for an SBA low-interest loan, you don’t have to accept it. However, if you qualify and don’t accept the loan, you may not qualify for additional FEMA assistance.
• If SBA determines you cannot afford a loan, and you have registered with FEMA, you will automatically be referred to FEMA’s Other Needs Assistance (ONA) program.

To begin the process with ONA, you need to verify the following:

• Your vehicle was damaged during the storm and flooding. Damage can be recorded by the FEMA housing inspector, or you may refer to your FEMA eligibility letter for help on where to send documents. 
• Ownership of the vehicle with valid registration and title.
• A minimum of liability insurance that meets the State of Maine requirements for insurance at the time of the disaster-damage.
• You have no other usable vehicle, can confirm the vehicle was damaged within the disaster-designated area, and provide a mechanic’s statement listing the cause of damage, the cost of repair and whether the vehicle is repairable or totaled.
• FEMA accepts copies, so please keep all original documents for your own records.  

Other vehicle needs:

• If you have more than one storm-damaged vehicle, you will have to write a statement explaining why your household needs more than one working vehicle. Include the number of vehicles and an insurance settlement or statement for each vehicle.
• If your vehicle is farm equipment, such as a tractor, contact your local Farm Services Agency office to inquire about the USDA disaster assistance program or go to https://www.fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/disaster-assistance-program/index.

About the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)

SBA offers low-interest federal disaster loans for homeowners, renters, and businesses of all sizes. SBA is the federal government’s primary source of funds for the long-term rebuilding of disaster-damaged property. For more information about the SBA loan process call 800-659-2955, email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visit the SBA website at sba.gov/funding-programs/disaster-assistance. If you are deaf, hard-of-hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-877-8339.

Registering with FEMA

The registration process with FEMA is the first step in your recovery and requires information such as insurance policies and bank information for possible direct transfer of funds. If you have phone and/or internet access, you may register in one of the following ways:

• Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• By phone: 1-800-621-3362 from 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. ET. Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 
• Download the FEMA App.

FEMA grants do not have to be repaid. FEMA assistance is nontaxable and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid, or other federal benefits.

Register even if you have insurance. FEMA cannot duplicate insurance payments, but underinsured applicants may receive help after their claims have been settled.

adrien.urbani Tue, 02/20/2024 - 17:51

Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Boone County

Charleston, W.Va.– A state-federal Mobile Disaster Recovery Center is now open at 446 John Slack Circle in Racine to help West Virginia residents affected by the severe flooding that occurred Aug. 28-30, 2023. 

Residents can get help with their disaster assistance applications, upload documents, and get questions answered about federal disaster assistance.

Mobile Disaster Recovery Centers are outside and exposed to weather. The sites will have some heaters and space for visitors to get warm, but they should be prepared to be outside for short periods of time as they get assistance.

The center is located at:

Boone County

 

38 John Slack Circle, Racine, WV 26165 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m.to 6 p.m.

Other recovery experts from the U.S. Small Business Administration are available at the Disaster Recovery Center to address additional needs.

The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting disasterassistance.gov/.

If it is not possible to visit the Disaster Recovery Center or to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

1. For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4756  and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

tiana.suber Tue, 02/20/2024 - 16:39

Tennessee Disaster Recovery Centers to Close Feb. 26

NASHVILLE – Two Disaster Recovery Centers serving Tennesseans after the Dec. 9, 2023, storms and tornadoes are scheduled to cease operations Monday, Feb. 26.

Center locations:

• Davidson County: Nashville State Community College North Davidson Campus, 1520 Gallatin Pike North Madison, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, closed Saturday-Sunday, closes permanently 4:30 p.m. Feb. 26
• Montgomery County: Clarksville-Montgomery County Public Library, 350 Pageant Lane #501, Clarksville; 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday-Saturday, closes permanently 8 p.m. Feb. 26

Specialists from Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available to provide help to people with losses from the storms. Any resident of Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Montgomery, Stewart or Sumner County who had uninsured losses from the disaster can visit any operating center.

Since December, TEMA and FEMA have operated seven centers. After the centers close, residents who applied to FEMA can continue to receive information about their applications by calling 800-621-3362.

Two SBA Business Recovery Centers will cease operations Feb. 29. The centers are located at Clarksville-Montgomery County Regional Planning Commission and Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce.  

For information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4751. Follow FEMA on X, formerly Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema. Follow Tennessee Emergency Management Agency at facebook.com/TennesseeEMA. 

sandra.habib Tue, 02/20/2024 - 15:37

Coal County, Oklahoma, Flood Maps Become Final

DENTON, Texas – New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on July 31, 2024, for Coal County, Oklahoma. During the next six months, a FEMA compliance specialist will work with the community to update each floodplain ordinance and adopt these new flood maps. 

Residents are encouraged to examine the maps to determine if they are in a low-to-moderate or high-risk flood zone. The current and future Flood Insurance Rate Map can be viewed on FEMA’s Flood Map Changes Viewer at https://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.

By understanding flood risks, individuals can decide which insurance option is best for their situation. Community leaders can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards and development that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flooding event.

Anyone without flood insurance risks uninsured losses to their home, personal property and business. Flood insurance is available either through a private policy or through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for those in communities who participate in the NFIP. Residents with federally backed mortgages must have flood insurance if their structures are in the Special Flood Hazard Area.

Contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA) to review the new flood maps and learn more about your risk of flooding. A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify your community FPA and answer questions about the maps as well. Contact them by phone or online chat.

• To use the live chat service, visit floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• To contact a FEMA Map Specialist, call 877-FEMA MAP (877-336-2627) or send an email to FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting floodsmart.gov.

alexa.brown Tue, 02/20/2024 - 14:22

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

WASHINGTON --- FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of California to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by severe storms and flooding, January 21-23, 2024.

The President’s action makes federal funding available to affected individuals in San Diego County.

Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-interest loans to cover uninsured property losses and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

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

N. Allison Pfaendler has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery 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 assessments.

Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, by calling 1-800-621-3362 or by using the FEMA App. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

mashana.davis Tue, 02/20/2024 - 02:41

Mobile Disaster Recovery Center in Calhoun County will Close Early Today Feb. 17, 2024.

Charleston, W.Va.– A state-federal Mobile Disaster Recovery Center will be closing early on Saturday, Feb. 17, at 80 Spring Run Rd. in Arnoldsburg, WV due to inclement weather. 

The Mobile Disaster Recovery Center will reopen at 8 a.m. on Monday Feb. 19, 2024.

The center is located at:

Calhoun County

80 Spring Run Rd., Arnoldsburg, WV 25234 

Hours of operation:

Closing Today 

Reopening 8 a.m. Monday Feb 19, 2024

 

All other West Virginia centers will remain open until 6 p.m. today to assist survivors in Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison, and Kanawha counties. 

If it is not possible to visit the Disaster Recovery Center or to apply online, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone line operates from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

1. For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4756  and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

tiana.suber Sat, 02/17/2024 - 20:03

FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance Teams Going Door-to-Door to Support Maine Communities

Disaster Survivor Assistance (DSA) teams from FEMA are going door-to-door in Androscoggin, Franklin, Kennebec, Oxford, and Somerset counties, canvassing neighborhoods and helping disaster-impacted residents register for FEMA disaster assistance for the December 17-21, 2023 severe storm and flooding. 

Residents are encouraged to ask for identification before providing any personal information. DSA staff wear a FEMA identification badge with a photograph. Just wearing a FEMA shirt, vest or jacket is not proof of identity. Criminals and scammers can easily make official looking clothes.

DSA team members are visiting homes, schools, nonprofits and community gathering spots. They are also meeting with local officials and community leaders to identify disaster-related issues and unmet needs in the area.

DSA teams can help survivors register for assistance, update their information and assist with referrals to voluntary agency partners. DSA teams will never ask for or accept money. While helping someone register, DSA team members may ask for personal information, including social security number, annual income and bank information. 

If you are not comfortable speaking with a FEMA DSA team member, there are multiple ways to register for assistance:

Visit a Disaster Recover Center (DRC). To find a center close to you, go online to: DRC Locator, or text DRC along with your Zip Code to 43362 (Ex: DRC 04074). You can visit any DRC location and no appointment is necessary.

Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. The Helpline is available daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. EST.

Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish).

Download the FEMA mobile app (also in Spanish), available at Google Play or the Apple App Store.

adrien.urbani Fri, 02/16/2024 - 21:56

Holiday Hours for West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers

Charleston, W.Va. –Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC) in Calhoun and Kanawha counties in West Virginia will be open on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024, to help West Virginia residents in Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison, and Kanawha counties impacted by the Aug. 28-30, 2023, flooding. The DRC at the Harrison County Courthouse will be closed on Monday, Feb. 19, 2024, and will reopen at 8 a.m. on Tuesday Feb. 20, 2024.

Kanawha County

Open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Kanawha County

Open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Belle Town Hall

1100 E. Dupont Ave. Belle, WV 25015

 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Penn VA Coal Carbon Center

13905 MacCorkle Ave, Charleston, WV 25301

 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Calhoun County

Open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Harrison County

Closed Monday Feb. 19, 2024

Reopening Tuesday Feb. 20, 2024

80 Spring Run Rd., Arnoldsburg, WV 25234 

 

Hours of operation:

Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Harrison County Courthouse

301 W. Main Street, Clarksburg, WV 26301

 

Hours of operation:

Tuesday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For hours and other details, check the FEMA app (under Disaster Resources, select Talk to FEMA in Person) or visit the FEMA DRC Locator for more details on DRCs open in West Virginia.

1. For more information on West Virginia’s disaster recovery, visit emd.wv.gov, West Virginia Emergency Management Division Facebook page, www.fema.gov/disaster/4756  and www.facebook.com/FEMA.

tiana.suber Fri, 02/16/2024 - 21:35

FEMA Awards Floyd County More than $1.3 Million for Property Acquisitions

Frankfort, Ky. – FEMA has approved two projects totaling $1,306,373 in federal funding to Floyd County for the acquisition of properties affected by the July 2022 floods in Eastern Kentucky. 

Nine flood prone properties that were directly affected by the July 2022 flooding event will be acquired by the Floyd County Fiscal Court. This is in addition to the 11 properties that were approved July 2023.  Funds will be used to acquire these properties at pre-event fair market value, demolish the homes remove all debris and return the property to green space. The properties will be deed-restricted requiring the property be maintained as open space in perpetuity. Any future open space proposals are subject to pre-approval by FEMA.

The first project, for the acquisition of nine properties, totals $1,606,557. The federal share of 75% ($1,204,918) will be contributed by FEMA and the remaining non-federal share of 25% will be contributed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky. 

The second project provides funds totaling $101,455 for Floyd County to manage the acquisitions program. This award is pursuant to Section 1215 of the Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018, which amended Section 324 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Assistance Act, allowing Subrecipient Management Costs (SRMC) up to 5% of the total project cost, available to the subrecipient at a federal cost share of 100%. 

These projects will protect the community from the direct impact of severe storm events and provide a long-term solution to existing and future hazardous conditions. These acquisition and demolition projects will protect against future flooding events. Activities will be completed in strict compliance with federal, commonwealth and local rules and regulations. 

The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) is managed by the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management and the projects are administered by the local community. FEMA does not acquire properties directly from the property owners. Communities may offer homeowners who agree to participate in the property acquisition process the pre-flood fair market value of the property. A licensed appraiser determines the fair market value. This program is voluntary, and homeowners can withdraw from the program if they are no longer interested. 

For more information on Kentucky flood recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4)/Twitter and at facebook.com/fema. 

erika.suzuki Thu, 01/18/2024 - 15:12

FEMA Awards Knott County More than $1 Million for Property Acquisitions

Frankfort, Ky. – FEMA has approved two projects totaling $1,071,045 in federal funding to Knott County for the acquisition of properties affected by the July 2022 floods in Eastern Kentucky. 

Seven flood prone properties that were directly affected by the July 2022 flooding event will be acquired by the Knott County Fiscal Court. Funds will be used to acquire these properties at pre-event fair market value, demolish the homes, remove all debris, and return the property to green space. The properties will be deed-restricted requiring the property be maintained as open space in perpetuity. Any future open space proposals are subject to pre-approval by FEMA.

The first project, for the acquisition of seven properties, totals $1,338,807. The federal share of 75% ($1,004,105) will be contributed by FEMA and the remaining non-federal share of 25% will be contributed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky. 

The second project provides funds totaling $66,940 to Knott County to cover costs incurred in management of the acquisitions program. 

These projects will protect the community from the direct impact of severe storm events and provide a long-term solution to existing and future hazardous conditions. These acquisition and demolition projects will protect against future flooding events. Activities will be completed in strict compliance with federal, commonwealth, and local rules and regulations. 

The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) is managed by the Kentucky Division of Emergency Management and the projects are administered by the local community. FEMA does not acquire properties directly from the property owners. Communities may offer homeowners who agree to participate in the property acquisition process the pre-flood fair market value of the property. A licensed appraiser determines the fair market value. This program is voluntary, and homeowners can withdraw from the program if they are no longer interested. 

For more information on Kentucky flood recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4663. Follow FEMA on Twitter at FEMA Region 4 (@femaregion4)/Twitter and at facebook.com/fema. 

erika.suzuki Wed, 01/17/2024 - 23:30

Confidential Crisis Counseling Available to Maui Wildfire Survivors

HONOLULU – Are you feeling overwhelmed by emotions, stress or hopelessness? If you are, you’re not alone. Help is available if you’re experiencing emotional distress or mental health issues after the wildfires.

For free and confidential crisis support, call Hawaiʻi Cares at 800-753-6879. You may also call or text Hawaiʻi Cares at 988. Hawaiʻi Cares is available all day, every day.

Maui County residents may also get confidential crisis counseling services from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Friday by calling 808-446-6676. After 8 p.m., callers may leave a voicemail message and a crisis counselor will return your call the next business day. For non-urgent calls, an operator will introduce the caller to a crisis counselor before transferring the call.

Some common reactions to stress and loss include:

• Feeling tense or nervous, angry or irritable
• Crying often, feelings of persistent hopelessness
• Feeling numb
• Difficulty sleeping and/or being constantly tired
• Not feeling hungry or having stomach problems (such as nausea or cramps)
• Difficulty concentrating and/or making decisions.

Everyone has times when they feel hopelessness or stress. But when these types of feelings and experiences disrupt daily living activities, you are encouraged to seek help.

Helpline staff provide confidential counseling and other needed support services. They can also immediately connect you to trained professionals from the nearest participating crisis-counseling center.

For the latest information on the Maui wildfire recovery efforts, visit mauicounty.gov, mauirecovers.org, fema.gov/disaster/4724 and Hawaii Wildfires - YouTube. Follow FEMA on social media: @FEMARegion9 and facebook.com/fema. You may also get disaster assistance information and download applications at sba.gov/hawaii-wildfires. 

scott.reuter Wed, 01/17/2024 - 19:38

FEMA Begins Recovery Operation Transition in New Mexico

SANTA FE -- In the coming weeks, FEMA will begin the process of consolidating all recovery operations in New Mexico into a single unified operation, including the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office. This initiative is specifically designed to boost efficiency and streamline processes, ultimately benefiting impacted individuals and communities. 

As part of this process, current staff will be integrated into the new operational structure, and we will be establishing a Chief Operating Officer (COO) role to lead the on-the-ground long-term recovery efforts and to reflect the change in focus from development to effective delivery at the local level. For those with ongoing claims, rest assured – this transition won't have any adverse impact on your claim. 

Shortly after the passage of the Fire Assistance Act in 2022, Angela Gladwell was appointed to the director role and successfully built a compensation program from the ground up, assembling a team of locally hired staff with knowledge of New Mexico and the communities affected by the wildfires. As the program's focus transitions and a COO is established, Director Gladwell will transition to a new role within FEMA, maintaining her commitment to advancing the agency's mission. 

This week, the Claims Office will release a comprehensive Program and Policy Guide (PPG) with additional details about the types of claims that are being paid and helpful guidance on the documentation needed for payment. While there is much more work to do to support New Mexico, the release of the PPG marks a milestone in implementing compensation authorized by the Fire Assistance Act. Additionally, to simplify and expedite the process, the Claims Office will release checklists for the most common types of loss along with the documents needed for each of those losses. 

Individual renters or homeowners, regardless of whether they received or were denied FEMA assistance, can file a Notice of Loss with the Claims office. If you have not yet filed a Notice of Loss, you can find the form at fema.gov/hermits-peak or at one of our Claims Offices. Claims Navigators are readily available at the Claims Offices and are ready to help.

erika.suzuki Wed, 01/17/2024 - 18:05

Victoria County, Texas, Flood Maps Become Final

DENTON, Texas – New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on July 17, 2024, for Victoria County, Texas. During the next six months, a FEMA compliance specialist will work with the community to update each floodplain ordinance and adopt these new flood maps. 

Residents are encouraged to examine the maps to determine if they are in a low-to-moderate or high-risk flood zone. The current and future Flood Insurance Rate Map can be viewed on FEMA’s Flood Map Changes Viewer at https://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.

By understanding flood risks, individuals can decide which insurance option is best for their situation. Community leaders can use these maps to make informed decisions about building standards and development that will make the community more resilient and lessen the impacts of a flooding event.

Anyone without flood insurance risks uninsured losses to their home, personal property and business. Flood insurance is available either through a private policy or through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for those in communities who participate in the NFIP. Residents with federally backed mortgages must have flood insurance if their structures are in the Special Flood Hazard Area.

Contact your local floodplain administrator (FPA) to review the new flood maps and learn more about your risk of flooding. A FEMA Map Specialist can help identify your community FPA and answer questions about the maps as well. Contact them by phone or online chat.

• To use the live chat service, visit floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/fmx_main.html (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
• To contact a FEMA Map Specialist, call 877-FEMA MAP (877-336-2627) or send an email to FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.

There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent or visiting floodsmart.gov/.

alexa.brown Wed, 01/17/2024 - 15:39

Agencies Hold Resource Fairs Jan. 16 and 18

SANTA FE, NM –- The State of New Mexico Disaster Case Management team and United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Rural Partner Network will partner with the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office Advocate Team in Guadalupita and Rociada for two resource fairs. 

The Resource Fairs on Jan. 16 and 18 will provide information one-on-one to those who may have filed a claim or who hope to file a claim. These fairs are to meet with area residents affected by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding. These events make it convenient to learn about the claims process and get help from our state and federal partners all in one place. 

Here's what you can expect when visiting a resource fair:

• State Disaster Case Managers (DCMs) will be on hand to provide information on local, state and federal programs that are available to residents and how DCMs can support residents in choosing and applying to programs to support their recovery needs.
• Claims Office Advocates can provide potential problem-solving solutions, and an Advocate to act on your behalf.
• Rural Partners Network will be on hand to assist the HPCC Claims office in the recovery efforts by providing support to the residents with technical assistance, resources, including funding opportunities from across the federal government to improve access to programs and advance recovery projects.

The resource fairs are from 1 to 4 p.m. You don’t need to make an appointment. You can drop in anytime and do not have to stay the entire time.

Resource Fair Locations:

Tuesday, Jan. 16
Guadalupita Fire Station
1276 State Hwy 434
Guadalupita, NM 87722

 

Thursday, Jan. 18
Rociada Fire Station
278 State Road 105
Rociada, NM 87742

 

If you can’t come to one of the resource fairs or need to speak to a Claims Office Advocate before a fair is held in your area, you can email the Advocate team at FEMA-Hermits-Peak-Claims-Advocate@fema.dhs.gov or call 505-403-3373.

For information and updates regarding the Claims Office, visit the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office website at fema.gov/hermits-peak. For information in Spanish, visit fema.gov/es/hermits-peak. Follow our Facebook page at facebook.com/HermitsPeakCalfCanyonClaimsOffice/ and turn on notifications to stay up to date about the claims process, upcoming deadlines and other program announcements including future Advocate Connects sessions.

erika.suzuki Tue, 01/16/2024 - 20:26

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. Approves Emergency Declaration for Connecticut

WASHINGTON ­– FEMA announced today that federal disaster assistance has been made available to the state of Connecticut to supplement response efforts due to emergency conditions resulting from severe storms, flooding and a potential dam breach beginning Jan. 10 and continuing.

The President’s action authorizes FEMA to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to alleviate the hardship and suffering caused by the emergency on the local population and to provide appropriate assistance to save lives, to protect property, public health and safety and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. This assistance is for New London County, the Mohegan Tribe and Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation.

Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide, at its discretion, equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, under the public assistance program, will be provided at 75% federal funding.

Robert V. Fogel has been named the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area.

luther.wills-dudich Tue, 01/16/2024 - 16:05

One Month Remains to Apply for FEMA Assistance

NASHVILLE – One month after the federal disaster declaration for the December tornadoes and severe storms, FEMA has provided $1.9 million to more than 500 Tennessee households to help with their recovery. Survivors who still need to apply for FEMA assistance have until Feb. 12, 2024, to do so.

Homeowners and renters in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Gibson, Montgomery, Stewart and Sumner counties with uninsured losses from the storms may be eligible for financial assistance for temporary lodging, basic home repairs, personal property losses and other uninsured disaster-related expenses. Call toll-free 800-621-3362, go online to DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App or visit a Disaster Recovery Center. The phone line is open daily, and help is available in most languages. If you use a relay service such as VRS, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service.

Since the major disaster declaration Dec. 13, FEMA Disaster Survivor Assistance teams have visited more than 15,000 homes and public places to help people apply for assistance. Tennessee Emergency Management Agency and FEMA are operating six Disaster Recovery Centers to meet one-on-one with disaster survivors.

The U.S. Small Business Administration is operating Business Recovery Centers at Clarksville-Montgomery County Regional Planning Commission and Hendersonville Area Chamber of Commerce.  SBA offers low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, businesses and nonprofit organizations to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and other sources. Individuals and businesses can apply online at SBA.gov/disaster or call 800-659-2955 for information.

“In the month since tornadoes tested the resilience of our impacted communities, the collaborative efforts of our partners have made a difference in helping survivors access aid and begin recovering from this disaster,” said TEMA Director Patrick C. Sheehan. “TEMA’s priority continues to be supporting our communities and meeting survivors’ most immediate needs, to include ensuring that they are able to find programs they may be eligible for to help shorten what can be an all too long road to recovery.”

Federal Coordinating Officer Yolanda J. Jackson said FEMA wants to provide all the assistance possible to Tennesseans.  “We are committed to supporting TEMA, communities and households affected by the tornadoes,” she said. “It’s easy to apply, and it doesn’t cost anything. Contact us and let us see how we may be able to help.”

For information on Tennessee’s disaster recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4751. Follow FEMA on X, formerly Twitter, at twitter.com/femaregion4 and at facebook.com/fema. Follow Tennessee Emergency Management Agency at facebook.com/TennesseeEMA. 

sandra.habib Fri, 01/12/2024 - 18:36