FEMA News

Two Disaster Recovery Centers Set to Open April 1; Two Others to Close March 30

LANSING, Mich. – Two more Disaster Recovery Centers are scheduled to open at 1 p.m., Monday, April 1, in 

Ingham and Wayne (Detroit) counties to help residents in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties continue their recovery after the Aug. 24-26, 2023, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding.

The deadline to apply for assistance is Wednesday, May 8, 2024.

The two recovery centers opening at 1 p.m., April 1, are at these locations:

Ingham County:

Northeast Ingham Emergency Services Authority

1296 W. Grand River Ave.

Williamston, MI 48895

Wayne (Detroit) County: 

Samaritan Center

5555 Conner St. 

Detroit, MI 48213

This center will be closed Wednesday, April 3. It will reopen at 1 p.m., Thursday, April 4.

Two recovery centers in Kent and Wayne (South East) counties will close permanently at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, March 30. 

The centers closing March 30 are at these locations:

Kent County:

Henze Community Center 

in the Alpine Twp. Fire Station #1

1100 Henze St. NW 

Comstock Park, MI 49321

Wayne (Southeast) County:

Gibraltar City Hall​

29450 Munro St.

Gibraltar, MI 48173

To find locations of all open recovery centers, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. You may visit any center for assistance.

Effective Monday, April 1, regular operating hours for the recovery centers are 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday, except for the Wayne County (South East) center in Taylor, which closes at 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday. All centers are closed Sundays. 

You don’t need to visit a recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance or to check on the status of your application. The easiest way to reach FEMA is to call the toll-free Helpline at 800-621-3362. Specialists are available 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. to help you apply, answer your questions and provide referrals to resources. Language translation is available. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. You also may go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA App.

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

kirsten.chambers Fri, 03/29/2024 - 18:24

SBA Low-Interest Disaster Loans Critical Part of Flood Recovery

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) officials are urging disaster relief applicants to complete and return the loan application forms from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).

Completing the loan application is a critical part of the disaster assistance process. It can keep the door open to all federal assistance, including possible additional grants, from FEMA. 

Assistance from FEMA may not cover all damage or property loss. The SBA loan application, however, may make FEMA assistance available to replace essential household items, replace or repair a damaged vehicle, or pay storage costs. It is critical that the SBA loan application be completed and returned before further FEMA assistance may be considered. 

Many West Virginians who register for disaster assistance through FEMA may receive an automated call from SBA with information on how to complete the loan application process. Completing and submitting the SBA loan application is a required step in obtaining some forms of disaster assistance. Survivors are not required to accept the loan if approved through SBA but they should apply to ensure all available federal funds are explored, etc.

SBA provides low-interest loans to businesses of all sizes (including landlords) and to homeowners, renters and eligible private nonprofit organizations that sustained disaster damage or losses during the severe storms and floods of Aug. 28-30, 2023. There is no cost to apply for a loan. 

Storm-impacted homeowners, renters and businesses in Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison and Kanawha counties should apply by April 1, 2024.

SBA has staff at all state and FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) to assist businesses, homeowners and renters in completing their loan applications. Additionally, SBA Business Recovery Centers (BRCs) are now up and running to help businesses get back on their feet from damage they sustained during the storms. The BRCs in Clay, Harrison and Kanawha counties are a resource where businesses and residents can meet face-to-face with SBA representatives through Friday, March 29, to learn how a low-interest disaster loan can help them recover. The centers are located at:

1. Clay County Disaster Recovery Center

223 Main Street Clay, WV 25043

Hours of operation:

Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

 

1. Harrison County Disaster Recovery Center

Harrison County Courthouse

301 W. Main Street, Clarksburg, WV 26301

Hours of operation:

Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

 

1. Kanawha County Disaster Recovery Center (Belle)

Belle Town Hall

1100 E. Dupont Ave. Belle, WV 25015

Hours of operation:

Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

 

1. Kanawha County Disaster Recovery Center (Penn VA)

Penn VA Coal Carbon Center

13905 MacCorkle Ave, Charleston, WV 25301

Hours of operation:

Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

For more information about SBA loans, visit a Disaster Recovery Center through Friday, March 29, or call SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955, email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or visit http://www.sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also apply online via SBA’s secure website at http://www.sba.gov/disaster or in person at the nearest Disaster Recovery Center. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

For video on the SBA loans and how to apply for assistance go to https://youtu.be/UFFISn1D4E8?si=VJ8t6LlFWATurvs7

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, 03/29/2024 - 16:33

Mora Claims Office to Open Expanded Facility for Those Affected by Fire, Flood

SANTA FE, N.M. — The FEMA Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office in Mora is growing. The new facility with expanded operations will open to the public Monday, April 1. 

The new space consists of two accessible buildings and a parking lot, all located behind the Mora County Courthouse, 1 Courthouse Dr., Mora, NM.

“We’re excited to finally see the expansion of the Mora HPCC Claims Office,” said Mora County Commissioner Veronica Serna. “With the increased filing of fire/flood claims, the desperately needed extra space and additional claims staff are greatly appreciated.”

Those affected by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding can visit the Claims Office to speak with Navigators and Claims Reviewers, pick up or submit Notices of Loss, Proofs of Loss, and other forms, ask about the claims process, or make an appointment to meet with staff.

Mora Claims Office Hours:

Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday — 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tuesday — 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Saturday — 9 a.m. to Noon

Anyone impacted by the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding is welcome to visit any one of our three Claims Offices. Visit fema.gov/disaster/current/hermits-peak/contact-us for locations and hours. The Claims Office Helpline is staffed Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 505-995-7133 for answers and solutions to your questions. Spanish-speaking operators are available.

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 current about the claims process, important deadlines, and other program announcements.

erika.suzuki Fri, 03/29/2024 - 16:26

Don’t Delay: Only Three Days Left to Apply for FEMA Assistance

CHARLESTON, W.Va. –West Virginia homeowners and renters in Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison and Kanawha counties who were affected by the Aug. 28-30, 2023, severe storms and floods HAVE JUST THREE DAYS LEFT TO APPLY FOR FEMA ASSISTANCE. The deadline to apply is Monday, April 1 by 11:59 p.m. More than $2 million has already been approved to help survivors recover. 

Apply one of four ways:

• Visit a Disaster Recovery Center. The centers serve as one-stop shops for survivors who need one-on-one help. Survivors can visit any center for assistance. To find center locations and current hours, visit www.FEMA.gov/DRC.  Note that Friday is the last day to visit a Disaster Recovery Center. All centers will close permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29. The West Virginia Disaster Recovery Centers and their hours are as follow:

1. Clay County Disaster Recovery Center

223 Main Street Clay, WV 25043

Hours of operation:

Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

 

1. Harrison County Disaster Recovery Center

Harrison County Courthouse

301 W. Main Street, Clarksburg, WV 26301

Hours of operation:

Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

 

1. Kanawha County Disaster Recovery Center (Belle)

Belle Town Hall

1100 E. Dupont Ave. Belle, WV 25015

Hours of operation:

Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

 

1. Kanawha County Disaster Recovery Center (Penn VA)

Penn VA Coal Carbon Center

13905 MacCorkle Ave, Charleston, WV 25301

Hours of operation:

Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

• After the Disaster Recovery Centers close, you can still get the help you need with a phone call to 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.
• Use the FEMA mobile app: https://www.fema.gov/about/news-multimedia/mobile-products
• Residents of Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison and Kanawha counties can also register with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov through Monday, April 1, 2024. As long as you are registered by Monday, April 1, 2024, you can continue to work with FEMA and the Small Business Administration (SBA) to share additional documents, submit appeals, and check on the status of your application after the April 1 deadline – BUT YOU MUST REGISTER FIRST.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to https://youtu.be/8-vWgNL1Crc?si=vTqhSV5xFqG66cVF

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, 03/29/2024 - 15:11

Wrangell Cooperative Association and FEMA Announce FEMA Assistance Now Available for Landslide Survivors

Anchorage, Alaska – FEMA Individual Assistance is now available for residents of the City and Borough of Wrangell affected by the landslides that occurred on November 20, 2023. Assistance may include grants for home repairs, temporary rental assistance, damaged vehicles and essential personal property, loss of subsistence items, as well as medical, dental, and funeral expenses caused by the disaster.

FEMA assistance is unable to duplicate benefits offered through insurance, state programs, or other programs. But if your losses or damage go beyond disaster assistance available from other sources – or include items or categories not covered by other assistance – you may be eligible for additional funds from FEMA. Even if you have already registered for the State of Alaska's disaster assistance program, you must also register with FEMA to determine if you may be eligible to receive additional funds through FEMA. 

• Residents are encouraged to apply for FEMA assistance by calling the Alaska Helpline at 1-866-342-1699 between 9:30 AM and 5:30 PM AKT, Monday through Friday. The Helpline has staff trained to answer Alaska-specific questions. You can also apply by visiting disasterassistance.gov or using the FEMA mobile app.
• If a reasonable accommodation -- such as language translation or interpretation, mobility assistance, or sign language interpretation is needed – email FEMA-language-access-request@fema.dhs.gov. You can also notify FEMA staff in the field.

The U.S. Small Business Administration also offers long-term disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, as well as homeowners and renters to pay for repair or replacement costs not fully compensated by insurance or other assistance. For more information, go to: www.sba.gov/disaster or call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955, or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services. 

In addition to Individual Assistance, the Wrangell Cooperative Association has also been approved for Public Assistance which will reimburse the tribal government, on a cost-share basis, for emergency protective measures taken in response to the disaster. The Wrangell Cooperative Association has also been approved for additional funding, on a cost-share basis, for hazard mitigation measures.

Additional designations may be made at a later date. 

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FEMA is committed to providing equal access to our programs and services without discrimination. If you require a reasonable accommodation, email FEMA-language-access-request@fema.dhs.gov. You can also let staff in the field know you require an accommodation such as spoken language resources, mobility assistance, or sign language interpreting services. If you feel you have experienced discrimination, call the FEMA Civil Rights Resource line at 833-285-7448 or 800-462-7585 (TTY/TDD) or email FEMA-CivilRightsOffice@fema.dhs.gov.

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

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

mary.j.edmon Thu, 03/28/2024 - 19:32

Application Deadline for FEMA Assistance Extended to May 8

LANSING, Mich. – At the request of the state of Michigan, FEMA has extended the deadline to apply for federal assistance. Homeowners and renters in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties who were affected by the Aug. 24-26, 2023, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding now have until May 8, 2024, to apply. 

The deadline to apply with FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration is now Wednesday, May 8, 2024.

There are several ways to apply for FEMA assistance:

Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. 

Use the FEMA mobile app. 

Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. Multilingual operators are available. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, go online to fema.gov/drc.

For needs not covered by insurance or other sources, FEMA may be able to provide Individual Assistance grant money that does not have to be repaid for:

• Rental assistance if you need to relocate because of storm damage
• Personal property that was damaged or destroyed by the storms
• Lodging reimbursement if you had to stay in a hotel temporarily
• Basic home repairs for homeowners whose primary residence was damaged by the storms
• Other serious needs caused by the storms

In addition to the assistance listed, survivors should be aware:

• Only one application per household
• FEMA does not pay for lost or spoiled food
• By law, FEMA is not allowed to duplicate insurance payments or assistance provided by other sources

When you apply with FEMA, have the following information ready:

• Phone number where you can be contacted
• Address at the time of the disaster
• Address where you are staying now
• Social Security Number of one member of the household
• Basic list of damage and losses
• Bank information if you choose direct deposit for FEMA money
• Insurance Information: if you have insurance, including the policy number

If you have homeowners’ or renter’s insurance, you should file a claim as soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by insurance. If your policy does not cover all your damage expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

Remember to keep receipts from all your purchases related to the cleanup and repair.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to youtube.com/watch?v=WZGpWI2RCNw.

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

kirsten.chambers Thu, 03/28/2024 - 13:11

Craighead County, Arkansas, Flood Maps Become Final

DENTON, Texas – New flood maps have been finalized and will become effective on Sept. 26, 2024, for Craighead County, Arkansas. 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, 03/27/2024 - 16:14

FEMA Region IV Administrator Delivers Remarks Before the 20th Anniversary of Florida’s Historic Storm Season

WASHINGTON -- FEMA and the National Hurricane Center are joining more than 2,000 emergency managers, volunteer partners and private sector organizations for this year’s National Hurricane Conference in Orlando, Florida.

The conference is being held in the state where 20 years ago, four major hurricanes -- Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne -- hit within a six-week time frame and affected nearly every part of the state, damaging at least 20% of the state’s housing stock and killing more than 100 residents. Each storm brought new lessons about the threats of storm surge, inland flooding and compounding hazards.   

FEMA Region 4 Regional Administrator Robert Samaan, who spoke in the general session, referenced 2024 being the agency’s year of resilience and said past storms are one of the main reasons why the agency is investing record amounts of money into helping local communities build infrastructure stronger. 

“Looking back at the 2004 hurricanes and the nearly $3.7 billion FEMA spent rebuilding lives and communities, we are working now on allocating an unprecedented amount of pre-disaster mitigation funds to make communities safer before the storm,” said Regional Administrator Samaan. “Smart spending can help reduce future costs, particularly in repetitive flood loss.”

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Regional Administrator Robert Samaan speaks alongside the National Hurricane Center Director Michael Brennan (right) and Florida Division of Emergency Management Director Kevin Guthrie (left) during a press conference at the National Hurricane Conference. (FEMA photo)

National Hurricane Center Director Mike Brennan opened the conference's general session highlighting statistics from 2017 to 2023, when 20 hurricanes made landfall in the United States, with nine of them being major storms, in addition to 20 tropical systems making landfall. Brennan spoke about important forecast changes coming in 2024, and his advice for local meteorologists.

Anticipating a highly active 2024 hurricane season, FEMA and the National Hurricane Center meteorologists urge people in hurricane-prone areas to prepare themselves, their families and their homes for potentially devastating storms: know your risks; make a plan; pay attention to alerts and local officials; and evacuate immediately if told to do so.

Most importantly, individuals can take the following steps to help be more prepared ahead of the start of hurricane season: 

• Sign up for local alerts, monitor local news and weather reports and download the free FEMA App. The app allows you to receive real-time weather alerts for up to five different locations nationwide and receive preparedness tips. 
• Make sure everyone in your household knows and understands what to do in case of an emergency. Begin filling out your emergency plan today by visiting Ready.gov’s online “Make a Plan” fillable form. The plan allows you to store all your important emergency information in a digital file on your phone, or email to other family members. 
• If you don’t have one, begin building an emergency kit of supplies you and your family may need in case of an emergency. Your kit should include supplies you may need at home, as well as items you may need if you must evacuate quickly to a safer location, and include items each member of your family may need, for several days. 
• Additional information on preparing ahead of the season is available in several different languages at Hurricanes | Ready.gov.

luther.wills-dudich Wed, 03/27/2024 - 14:39

Don’t Let Spring Flooding Catch You Unprepared: Take Control and Prepare in 3 Easy Steps

PHILADELPHIA- As the weather turns warmer, FEMA Region 3 encourages residents to think about if they’re prepared should spring storms impact their community. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States and can occur anywhere at any time. Rainfall is only one of the many reasons flooding can disrupt a community. Other causes include melting snow, coastal storms, storm surges, and overflows of dams and other water systems. 

That’s why FEMA Region 3 is kicking off a new campaign with a focus on 3 important steps people can take now to minimize storm's impacts and protect their families.

Take Control and Prepare in 3 Easy Steps

1. Get advance notice of expected flooding. Sign up for alerts.
2. Know what to do. Practice protective measures. 
3. Know you’re protected. Talk to your insurance agent. 

Sign up for Alerts 

The FEMA app is your personalized disaster resource. Within the app, you can receive real-time weather and emergency alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations across the country. It can also help you find a nearby shelter if you need to evacuate. It is available on iOS or Android. 

Did you know some states also have their own emergency alert system? 

Delaware: The Delaware Emergency Notification System (DENS)  

District of Columbia: Alert DC

Maryland: MD Ready 

Pennsylvania: Alert PA

Virginia: Check with your local officials for county-specific alerting systems.

West Virginia: Check with your local officials for county-specific warning systems.

Practice Protective Measures

Flash flooding can happen quickly and without warning. If you encounter flash flooding, remember “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” Moving water has tremendous power. Just six inches of moving water has the potential to knock you off your feet and a foot of water can sweep a vehicle off the road. 

If your vehicle is trapped in rapidly moving water and water is rapidly rising inside the vehicle: exit immediately, seek refuge on the roof and signal for help. If trapped in a building or a home, get to the highest level and call for help. 

Talk to your Insurance Agent

Anywhere it can rain, it can flood. That is why spring is a great time to consider flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Just one inch of water in your home can cause $25,000 in damage and flooding is typically not covered by homeowners’ or renters’ insurance. Call your insurance agent to get a quote in just a few minutes. Having a policy in place can provide financial peace of mind before the next storm hits. 

“While springtime brings the promise of longer and warmer days, it can also bring dangerous weather” said FEMA Region 3 Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “Taking these three steps now can make a huge difference should our region be impacted by spring weather.”

In support of this campaign, FEMA Region 3 created a public service announcement to promote spring weather safety and flood insurance. Watch the video here and help us spread the word to your friends, families, and neighbors about what everyone can do to be prepared this spring season.

For more information on the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), visit floodsmart.gov and to find information on preparing for a storm, visit ready.gov.

To schedule an interview, reach out to the FEMA R3 News Desk at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.

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

Follow us on “X” at twitter.com/femaregion3 and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/femaregion3

amanda.hancher Wed, 03/27/2024 - 14:25

Understanding Your FEMA Letter

Spokane, Wash.  -  If you applied for FEMA assistance for the Gray and Oregon Wildfires, you’ll receive a letter from FEMA. It will explain what assistance you are eligible to receive. If the letter states you are ineligible for assistance, you can appeal the decision.

Common Reasons for Ineligibility

First, read your letter carefully to determine why FEMA couldn’t process your application. Some of the most common reasons are:

• Missing documents. In many cases, ineligibility occurs when vital documents are missing. If these documents are received within 60 days of the letter, the application process could continue. 

  Make sure your application includes copies of:

  • Insurance documents: proof that the property was covered by insurance, and that the coverage or settlement was not enough to complete essential repairs.
  • Proof of identity: Accepted documents include your passport, Social Security card, federal or state I.D., military I.D., or a payroll stub that shows all or part of your Social Security number.
  • For a complete list of documents that can prove identity, visit Options to Verify Your Identity with FEMA | FEMA.gov.
     
• Damage was covered by insurance: FEMA cannot duplicate benefits, which means the agency can’t pay for damage covered by another source. However, unmet needs not covered by any other source of recovery assistance could still be addressed by FEMA.
• Damage did not make your home unsafe to live in. FEMA assistance will cover the cost of making your home habitable but can’t cover repairing or replacing non-essential items.
• Proof of occupancy (homeowners and renters): lease, utility bills, driver’s license, letter from a mobile home park manager or public official, or other document that shows the damaged home was your primary residence when the disaster occurred.
• Proof of ownership (homeowners only): deed, mortgage statement, property tax bill, letter from a mobile home park manager, or other document that shows you own your home.
• For a complete list of documents that can prove ownership or occupancy, visit Verifying Home Ownership or Occupancy | FEMA.gov.

How to Appeal

Within 60 days of the date on FEMA’s letter, gather any documents or information requested. Then write a letter to explain why you’re appealing. Make sure to include:

• Applicant’s full name and signature
• FEMA disaster number: for this disaster, “FEMA DR 4759 WA
• The date
• 9-digit application number on all documents

Submit your letter, supporting documents and the cover page from FEMA’s letter in one of these ways:

• Mail to: FEMA National Processing Service Center, P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-7055
• Fax to 800-827-8112 (Attention: FEMA)
• Upload to your account on DisasterAssistance.gov

Once FEMA receives your appeal, they may contact you by phone or mail to ask for more information or schedule another home inspection. You will receive a decision letter within 90 days.

To watch an accessible video about how to appeal, go to FEMA Accessible: Understanding Your Letter - YouTube.

For help with any step of the appeal process, visit DisasterAssistance.gov, download the FEMA App, or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (if you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS) or captioned telephone service, give FEMA your number for that service when you call). To get help in person, visit a Disaster Recovery Center – locations and hours are listed at fema.gov/drc. 

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they are the victim of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.

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

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

mary.j.edmon Tue, 03/26/2024 - 20:21

Claims Filed for Fire-Related Losses May Be Appealed if Claimant Disagrees with Compensation Amount

Santa Fe, N.M. – People who filed a claim seeking compensation for injury and losses resulting from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire and subsequent flooding may file an appeal if they disagree with the compensation amount identified in their final Letter of Determination (LOD).

The LOD provides compensation amounts for losses claimed on the Proof of Loss. Claimants may work with their Navigator for a further explanation of the offer. 

Claimants have 120 days from the date on the final LOD to accept thedetermination by submitting a signed Release and Certification (R&C) form. 

If the claimant does not agree with the offer amount, they may dispute the determination by submitting a written Notice of Appeal (NOA) within 120 days from the date on the final LOD. Claimants may appeal all or certain line items on their LOD. The NOA should identify the rejected line items to be appealed and a detailed statement explaining why the offer amount is incorrect. 

If they do not submit a signed R&C form by the 120-day deadline, the Claims Office will assume they have accepted the determination. After the 120-day deadline, claimants may appeal if they demonstrate good cause for an extension. 

Claimants may not appeal payment amounts for which they have already signed an R&C form.

Claimants may request an appeal in writing through the following options: 

• In-person at the Claims Office through their Navigator. 
• By email: fema-hermits-peak-appeals@fema.dhs.gov.
• By mail: Appeals Docket, FEMA Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office, P.O. Box 1329, Santa Fe, NM 87504.

Claimants are encouraged to reach out to their Navigators with questions regarding the appeals process, or call the Helpline, 505-995-7133.

For information and updates regarding the Claims Office, please 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.

amy.ashbridge Tue, 03/26/2024 - 18:31

Deadline to Apply for Assistance from December Storm is April 1 - Remaining Recovery Centers to Close

Individuals in Androscoggin, Franklin, Kennebec, Oxford and Somerset counties who experienced loss or damage from the December 17-21, 2023, severe storm and flooding have until April 1, to apply for FEMA assistance.

Also, the two remaining Disaster Recovery Centers in Maine will close permanently April 1. You can visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents needed for your application and get answers to questions in person. Centers have representatives available from FEMA, the state of Maine and the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Hours for the centers are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

• Manchester Fire Department, 37 Readfield Rd., Manchester, ME 04321
• Rumford Municipal Building, 150 River St., Rumford, ME 04276

To apply for FEMA assistance without visiting a center, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Help is available in most languages. The Helpline is available daily from 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. ET. You can also go online to DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish) or download the FEMA mobile app (also in Spanish), available at Google Play or the Apple App Store.

adrien.urbani Tue, 03/26/2024 - 18:29

FEMA Seeking Local Hires to Help Maine Recover

Join team FEMA and help your community recover from the December 17-21 severe storm and flooding. FEMA is looking for Local Hires in South Portland with experience in customer service, logistics, environmental protection, engineering, or emergency management.

Specific positions include:

• Operations Task Force Lead - USAJOBS - Job Announcement 
• Hazard Mitigation and Environmental and Historical Preservation, Emergency Management Specialist 3 - USAJOBS - Job Announcement
• IA Voluntary Liaison Specialist - USAJOBS - Job Announcement
• Public Assistance Program Delivery Manager- USAJOBS - Job Announcement
• Public Assistance Site Inspector Specialist - USAJOBS - Job Announcement

These are full-time, 120-day positions that may be extended based on operational needs.

You can find more information on open positions and how to apply at USAjobs. gov.

adrien.urbani Tue, 03/26/2024 - 17:52

West Virginians Have One Week Left to Apply for Federal Disaster Assistance

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – West Virginians affected by the severe storms and floods that took place Aug. 28-30, 2023, have until MONDAY, APRIL 1 to apply for federal disaster assistance. FEMA assistance can provide grants for home repair and other essential disaster-related expenses.

Residents of Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison and Kanawha counties who would like to apply in person can visit the Disaster Recovery Centers through Friday, March 29, to assist survivors. The centers and their hours are as follow:

1. Clay County Disaster Recovery Center

223 Main Street Clay, WV 25043

Hours of operation:

Wednesday, March 27 – Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

 

1. Harrison County Disaster Recovery Center

Harrison County Courthouse

301 W. Main Street, Clarksburg, WV 26301

Hours of operation:

Monday, March 25 – Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

 

1. Kanawha County Disaster Recovery Center (Belle)

Belle Town Hall

1100 E. Dupont Ave. Belle, WV 25015

Hours of operation:

Monday, March 25 – Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

 

1. Kanawha County Disaster Recovery Center (Penn VA)

Penn VA Coal Carbon Center

13905 MacCorkle Ave, Charleston, WV 25301

Hours of operation:

Monday, March 25 – Friday, March 29, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Closing permanently at 5 p.m., Friday, March 29, 2024

 

Even after the Disaster Recovery Centers close, you can still get the help you need with a phone call to 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.

Residents of Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison and Kanawha counties can also register with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov through Monday, April 1, 2024. As long as you are registered by Monday, April 1, 2024, you can continue to work with FEMA and Small Business Administration (SBA) to share additional documents, submit appeals, and check on the status of your application after the April 1 deadline – BUT YOU MUST REGISTER FIRST.

FEMA may refer you to the SBA for a long-term, low-interest disaster loan. SBA disaster loans are the largest source of federal disaster recovery funds for survivors. SBA provides these disaster loans to businesses, private nonprofits, homeowners and renters to help them recover. If you are referred to SBA, you are not required to take out a loan, but if you don’t fill out the application by April 1, 2024, you may not be eligible for certain FEMA grants. 

For more information about SBA loans, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955, email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or visit http://www.sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also apply online via SBA’s secure website at http://www.sba.gov/disaster or in person at the nearest Disaster Recovery Center. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

For an accessible video on how to apply for assistance go to https://youtu.be/8-vWgNL1Crc?si=vTqhSV5xFqG66cVF

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 Mon, 03/25/2024 - 20:43

Disaster Assistance Tops $2 Million for West Virginia Survivors

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Eight weeks after a major disaster was declared for West Virginia, more than $2 million has been approved for homeowners and renters affected by the severe storms and flooding of Aug. 28-30, 2023.   

More than 600 households and businesses have registered with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to date. 

“Exceeding $2 million in disaster assistance for the West Virginia Survivors of the August 2023 flooding is a testament to the whole community approach of recovery,” said FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer Jeff Jones. “Our state partner, West Virginia Emergency Management Division, with the full support of the Governor’s Office, has clearly demonstrated their commitment to the citizens of West Virginia by leading the charge for survivors to receive badly needed FEMA funding,” he said. 

“The Small Business Administration has supported the effort through processing over 60 application packages,” Jones continued. “The local emergency managers, town and city officials, county health departments, police departments, and numerous private non-profit agencies have worked together to make sure survivors were aware of possible federal assistance. This tireless effort defines West Virginia and we are proud to be here.”

Disaster assistance may include grants to help homeowners and renters pay for essential home repairs, personal property replacement, and serious disaster-related needs. Sixteen housing inspectors have completed more than 500 inspections of disaster-damaged properties to verify damage.

Federal disaster assistance is available to residents of five counties: Boone, Calhoun, Clay, Harrison and Kanawha.

FEMA encourages all survivors who sustained disaster-related damage or losses to apply for assistance at their nearest Disaster Recovery Center. Residents can find a center by calling 800-621-3362 or going online to www.fema.gov/drc.

Survivors can also call 800-621-3362 (voice, 711 or video relay services) or 800-462-7585 for TTY users or go online to www.DisasterAssistance.gov.

In February, FEMA deployed three Disaster Survivor Assistance teams to visit storm-damaged homes to register people and answer their questions about disaster assistance. Thirty-one members visited a total of 2,800 houses and 89 community contacts, including faith-based organizations and private sector groups.

Other help is available to individuals:

• Free disaster legal assistance is available to West Virginia storm survivors. This service offers counseling on insurance claims, landlord-tenant issues, home-repair contracts, the replacement of legal documents destroyed by the storm and other legal matters. Call the legal hotline 866-255-4370.

Disaster assistance grants from FEMA are not taxable income and will not affect eligibility for Social Security, Medicaid, welfare assistance, food stamps and several other programs. Disaster grants are just that — grants that do not have to be paid back to the government.

One of FEMA’s federal partners in disaster recovery, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), offers low-interest disaster loans for businesses of all sizes, homeowners, renters and private non-profit organizations. SBA disaster loans may cover repairs, rebuilding, as well as the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged real estate and personal property. 

For more information about SBA loans, call SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955, email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov or visit http://www.sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also apply online via SBA’s secure website at http://www.sba.gov/disaster or in person at the nearest Disaster Recovery Center. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

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 Mon, 03/25/2024 - 20:25

Free Legal Help Available for Washington Wildfires Survivors

Spokane, Wash.  – A free legal help hotline is now available for Washington Wildfires survivors. The hotline is available to connect survivors to free legal services in qualifying counties who cannot afford an attorney. Survivors can call (509) 557-0301. Wildfire survivors may get help with legal issues like:

• FEMA and Small Business Administration (SBA) financial benefits
• Home repair contracts and property insurance claims
• Re-doing wills and other important legal documents destroyed in the disaster
• Price gouging, scams, or identity theft 
• Landlord or tenant problems, or threats of foreclosure
• Disability-related access to federal, state, and local disaster programs

The hotline is available from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. PST, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

Disaster Legal Services program partners cannot help in all cases. For example, they cannot take cases where a settlement could include legal fees or an award. But they can refer those cases to other legal help.

The Disaster Legal Services (DLS) program works with state and local partners to provide free legal help for low-income disaster survivors. The service is a partnership between the American Bar Association Young Lawyers Division, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Spokane Volunteer Lawyers Program, Washington Pro Bono Council, and Northwest Justice Project.

FEMA is committed to ensuring disaster assistance is accomplished equitably, without discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. Any disaster survivor or member of the public may contact the FEMA Civil Rights Office if they feel that they are the victim of discrimination. FEMA’s Civil Rights Office can be contacted at 833-285-7448. Multilingual operators are available.

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Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

mary.j.edmon Mon, 03/25/2024 - 17:51

Disaster Recovery Center Reopening in Manchester

The former center at the Manchester Fire Department, 37 Readfield Rd., Manchester, ME, will reopen March 22, and will be open through April 1. The hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily except Sundays.

If you live in Androscoggin, Franklin, Kennebec, Oxford or Somerset counties and were affected by the severe storms and flooding from December 17-21, 2023, you can visit a center to apply for FEMA assistance, upload documents needed for your application and get answers to questions in person. Centers have representatives available from FEMA, the state of Maine and the U.S. Small Business Administration. 

There are several other ways to register:

• 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. ET.
• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov (also in Spanish).
• Download the FEMA mobile app (also in Spanish), available on Google Play or the Apple App Store.

Assistance from FEMA may include funds for temporary housing while you are unable to live in your home, such as rental assistance or reimbursement for hotel costs; funds to support the repair or replacement of owner-occupied homes that serve as the household’s primary residence, including privately-owned access routes, such as driveways, roads, or bridges; and funds for disaster-caused expenses and serious needs, such as repair or replacement of personal property and vehicles, funds for moving and storage, medical, dental, child care and other miscellaneous items.

Applicants for disaster assistance should have the following information prior to registration: Social Security number; address of the damaged primary residence; insurance coverage information; current telephone number and mailing address; and bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds.

Survivors should keep their contact information updated with FEMA because they may need to reach them to perform a home inspection or get additional information. For faster reimbursement, FEMA encourages survivors to request direct deposits of disaster assistance to their financial institution. Survivors should let FEMA know as soon as possible of any changes to their mailing or banking information.

Disaster assistance is not a substitute for insurance and cannot compensate for all losses caused by a disaster. The assistance is intended to meet basic needs and supplement disaster recovery efforts.

adrien.urbani Mon, 03/25/2024 - 17:46

FEMA Awards Over $74.4 Million to PREPA for Repairs to the Aguirre Transmission Center

Guaynabo, Puerto Rico – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded over $74.4 million to the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) to undertake the second phase of repairs at the Aguirre Transmission Center in Salinas. 

Part of the work in this second phase includes building high-voltage electrical interconnectivity zones to connect renewable energy projects. 

“This obligation is an important step for renewing Puerto Rico's electric grid into a robust, reliable and resilient system. The Aguirre Transmission Center is one of the country’s main power generation centers and these funds will help modernize it and increase its energy production,” said FEMA’s Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator José G. Baquero.

The second phase of repairs also includes upgrades to the power protection, control and monitoring systems, the acquisition of one emergency generator and the replacement of several transformers. In 2022, FEMA allocated over $35 million to start the first phase of repairs to increase the capacity and operational stability of the complex. 

The Aguirre Transmission Center is one of the four most important plants in Puerto Rico’s power generation network, with a maximum generating capacity of 1,500 megawatts.

The funds to the Aguirre Power Plant are part of nearly $9.5 billion under FEMA’s Accelerated Award Strategy, known as FAASt, approved in September 2020 to repair the island's electric power generation, transmission and distribution system.

The executive director of the Central Office of Recovery, Reconstruction and Resiliency (COR3), Manuel A. Laboy Rivera, said that “as part of the transformation of the electrical grid, this obligation for the execution of the second phase of the work at the Aguirre Power Plant in Salinas will integrate new energy technologies, which supports the transition necessary to comply with Act 17-2019 created by the Government of Puerto Rico, with the purpose of increasing the Renewable Energy Portfolio to reach 100% by 2050.”

To date, the federal agency has awarded $9.9 billion to PREPA for permanent projects to repair damage caused by Hurricane María; and nearly $8.8 million for permanent projects that will address the reconstruction following the 2020 Earthquakes.

For more information about Puerto Rico’s recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339, fema.gov/disaster/4473 and recovery.pr. Follow us on our social media at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and Twitter @COR3pr.

Aguirre Transmission Center, Salinas, PR

SALINAS, Puerto Rico (March 3, 2023) – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded over $74.4 million to the Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority (PREPA) to undertake the second phase of repairs at the Aguirre Transmission Center in Salinas. Part of the work in this second phase includes building high-voltage electrical interconnectivity zones to connect renewable energy projects. Photo FEMA

frances.acevedo-pico Mon, 03/25/2024 - 14:58

Two Weeks Left to Apply: Deadline is April 8

LANSING, Mich. – Survivors of the Aug. 24-26, 2023, severe storms, tornadoes and flooding in Eaton, Ingham, Ionia, Kent, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland and Wayne counties have just two weeks left to apply for federal assistance. 

The deadline to apply with FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration is Monday, April 8, 2024.

Apply one of four ways:

Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. 

Use the FEMA mobile app. 

Call the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. Multilingual operators are available. If you use video relay service, captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. 

• Visit any Disaster Recovery Center. For locations and hours, go online to fema.gov/drc.

Disaster Recovery Centers are currently open from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday (closed Sundays).

Macomb County: Chesterfield Township Fire Department Central Station, 33991 23 Mile Road, Chesterfield, MI 48047.

Wayne County (South East): Wayne County Community College Downriver Campus​, 21000 Northline Road, Taylor, MI 48180. This center closes at 5 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

Kent County:   Henze Community Center in the Alpine Twp. Fire Station #1, 1100 Henze St. NW, Comstock Park, MI 49321.

Wayne County (Detroit): Kemeny Recreation Center, 2260 S. Fort St., Detroit, MI 48217.

Wayne County (South East): Gibraltar City Hall, 29450 Munro St., Gibraltar, MI 48173.

Wayne County (Detroit): Butzel Family Recreation Center, 7737 Kercheval Ave., Detroit, MI 48214.

FEMA and the SBA specialists at the recovery centers can help you upload documents, answer questions and provide information on available resources. The centers serve as one-stop shops for survivors who need one-on-one help. Survivors can visit any center for assistance. 

Residents affected by the August storms with uninsured or under-insured losses are encouraged to apply for federal assistance before the April 8 deadline, if they haven’t done so already. 

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

kirsten.chambers Mon, 03/25/2024 - 14:19

Two Disaster Recovery Centers Set to Open at 8 a.m., March 25

LANSING, Mich. – Two Disaster Recovery Centers in Comstock Park and Detroit are set to open at 8 a.m., Monday, March 25, 2024, at the following locations:

Kent County:

Henze Community Center in the Alpine Twp. Fire Station #1

1100 Henze St. NW 

Comstock Park, MI 49321

 

Wayne County (Detroit):

Butzel Family Recreation Center

7737 Kercheval Ave.

Detroit, MI 48214

 

Regular operating hours for the recovery centers are 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday to Saturday. All centers are closed Sundays. 

To find locations of all open recovery centers, visit FEMA.gov/DRC. You may visit any center for assistance.

You don’t need to visit a recovery center to apply for FEMA assistance or to check on the status of your application. The easiest way to reach FEMA is to call the toll-free Helpline at 800-621-3362. Specialists are available 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. to help you apply, answer your questions and provide referrals to resources. Language translation is available. If you use a relay service such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service when you apply. You also may go online to DisasterAssistance.gov or download the FEMA App.

The deadline to apply for disaster assistance is April 8, 2024.

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

kirsten.chambers Mon, 03/25/2024 - 13:50