FEMA News

Two Weeks Left for Tennesseans to Apply for FEMA Assistance

Middle and Western Tennesseans who have been affected by the April 2-24 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding have two weeks left to apply for FEMA assistance. The application deadline is Aug. 19.

Money is available for survivors who need help covering uninsured costs for things like rental expenses, home repairs, vehicle damage, medical expenses, moving and storage, and reimbursement for temporary housing. Homeowners, renters, students, self-employed, ranchers and farmers in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Dyer, Hardeman, McNairy, Montgomery, Obion and Wilson counties can apply for FEMA assistance.

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance

Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. In-person help is available at any Disaster Recovery Center for submitting applications, getting updates and asking questions. Find a center here: DRC Locator (fema.gov).

Video: What to Expect Before Applying for FEMA Assistance | ASL | Spanish

Video: Next Steps After Applying for FEMA Assistance  | ASL | Spanish

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are also available. To learn more or apply, visit sba.gov/disaster or call 800-659-2955.

Disaster Recovery Centers

Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Friday; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday; Closed Sunday

• Hardeman County: Safehaven Storm Shelter, 530 Madison Ave W., Grand Junction, TN 38039
• Obion County: Obion County Library, 1221 E. Reelfoot Ave., Union City, TN 38261

FEMA is committed to providing equal access to federal assistance for Tennesseans who were affected by the April 2-24 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding. Anyone with an accessibility need who is applying for FEMA assistance should let FEMA know by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

kwei.nwaogu Fri, 08/01/2025 - 13:51

Flood Survivors in Four More Counties May Apply for Federal Assistance

AUSTIN, Texas – Homeowners and renters in Guadalupe, Kimble, McCulloch and Menard counties are now eligible to apply for federal disaster assistance if you were affected by the Central Texas flooding in July.

FEMA, the State of Texas and the U.S. Small Business Administration may be able to help with serious disaster-related needs, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss and disaster loans. Previously, Burnet, Kerr, San Saba, Tom Green, Travis and Williamson counties were designated for FEMA assistance, meaning survivors with losses in those counties could apply even if they do not live in the county or in Texas.

A total of 10 counties are now designated for federal assistance under the major presidential disaster declaration for the July 2-18 severe storms and flooding in Central Texas.

Survivors with homeowners’, renters’ and flood insurance are encouraged to file a claim with their insurance carrier as soon as possible. By law, FEMA cannot provide funding for losses covered by your insurance. If your policy does not cover all disaster expenses, you may be eligible for federal assistance.

FEMA works closely with the Small Business Administration, which provides low-interest disaster loans for homeowners, renters, nonprofit organizations and businesses of all sizes.

You have until Thursday, Sept. 4, to apply for FEMA disaster assistance, which is not the same as reporting your damage to the state. Reporting disaster damage to the Texas Division of Emergency Management at damage.tdem.texas.gov helps officials connect you with resources and services.

The fastest way to apply to FEMA is online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You may also use the FEMA mobile app or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. Lines are open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. CT daily. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, you can give FEMA your number for that service. Helpline specialists speak many languages. Press 2 for Spanish.

To apply online or to download an SBA application, go to SBA.gov/disaster. You may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email DisasterCustomerService@sba.gov. 

The deadline to apply for an SBA physical disaster loan is also Thursday, Sept. 4. The last day to apply for an SBA economic injury loan is April 6, 2026.

You may also visit any Disaster Recovery Center to receive in-person assistance. To find one close to you, use your ZIP code to search FEMA.gov/DRC.

To view an accessible video, visit What You Need to Know Before Applying for FEMA Assistance.

For the latest information about the Texas recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4879. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook.com/FEMARegion6

toan.nguyen Thu, 07/31/2025 - 15:35

Crockett, Henderson, Humphreys, Lewis, Montgomery and Shelby Counties Eligible for FEMA Public Assistance

Local governments and certain nonprofit organizations in Crockett, Henderson, Humphreys, Lewis, Montgomery and Shelby counties are now eligible for FEMA Public Assistance grants for debris removal, emergency protective measures and permanent work to repair public facilities that were damaged by the April 2-24 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding. 

These counties join Carroll, Cheatham, Davidson, Decatur, Dyer, Fayette, Gibson, Grundy, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Henry, Hickman, Houston, Lauderdale, Madison, McNairy, Obion, Perry, Stewart, Wayne and Tipton counties which were all previously approved for FEMA Public Assistance. 

FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides reimbursement to local and state government agencies for the costs of emergency response, debris removal and restoration of disaster damaged public facilities and infrastructure. Houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations may also be eligible for FEMA Public Assistance.

kwei.nwaogu Thu, 07/31/2025 - 12:12

FEMA Announces Billions in Federal Funds to Empower States to Prepare for Disasters

FEMA Issues Seven Notices of Funding Opportunity—With More on the Way 

WASHINGTON -- Over the coming weeks, FEMA is marking billions of dollars in federal funding available for state, local, tribal and territorial partners. This includes seven Notices of Funding Opportunity that FEMA published yesterday. These funds help states manage their response to disasters like fires, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes and even terrorist attacks. 

This announcement comes after a critical evaluation of all grant programs and recipients to root out waste, fraud and abuse and deliver accountability for the American taxpayer. Unlike the previous administration, recipients of grants will no longer be permitted to use federal funds to house illegal immigrants at luxury hotels, fund climate change pet projects or empower radical organizations with unseemly ties that don’t serve the interest of the American people. 

“President Trump has been clear: States will be empowered and responsible for managing disaster response and protecting their communities,” said Senior Official Performing the Duties of the FEMA Administrator David Richardson. “That’s why FEMA is focused on equipping states with the resources they need to take charge of their own emergency preparedness, including through federal grant programs. We are making money available to state and local governments, helping them get the equipment, training and personnel they need to face destructive storms and other disasters.” 

Funding opportunities published include: 

• The Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) Program, which makes money available to state, local, tribal and territorial governments. In years past, recipients have used the funds to hire and train more staff, buy critical equipment like generators and mobile command vehicles and establish interoperable communications systems to help first responders connect during disasters.
• The Urban Search & Rescue (USAR) Response System, which provides funding to ensure the 28 national task forces can conduct around-the-clock search-and-rescue operations following a major disaster like a hurricane, wildfire or terrorist attack. These task forces support state, local, tribal and territorial emergency responders on the ground.
• The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP), which provides money to help faith-based institutions and nonprofit organizations to strengthen their defenses against the many threats they face, including targeted attacks and acts of terrorism. This money can be used to purchase security cameras, additional warning and alert systems, gates and lighting, access control systems and training programs for staff.
• The Homeland Security Grant Program (HSGP), which makes funding available to help state, local and tribal partners to prevent, prepare for and respond to acts of terrorism. This money must be used for projects that align with specific homeland security goals like improving coordination among law enforcement agencies, enhancing cybersecurity of critical infrastructure, strengthening security of crowded spaces like concerts or parades and securing the border.
• FEMA’s Homeland Security National Training Program (HSNTP) National Domestic Preparedness Consortium, which funds specialized training for state, local, tribal and territorial law enforcement and first responders to prepare for high-consequence threats like a coordinated cyber-attack, biological weapon or a nuclear explosive. 

FEMA also released Notices of Funding Opportunity for the National Dam Safety Program and the National Incident Management System. States and other eligible applicants should carefully review each Notice of Funding Opportunity on https://grants.gov to learn eligibility requirements, evaluation criteria and applications periods. 

FEMA is committed to using these federal funds to empower states to take charge of their own disaster preparedness, response and recovery. This will strengthen the security and resilience of the entire nation. 

amy.ashbridge Tue, 07/29/2025 - 20:40

What to Expect After You Apply for FEMA Assistance

SANTA FE, New Mexico – If you live in Lincoln County and were affected by the severe storms, flooding and landslides that began June 23, 2025, you may be eligible for FEMA assistance for losses not covered by insurance.

If you have already applied, here’s what to expect next. 

Home Inspections

Within 10 days after applying, a FEMA inspector may contact you to schedule an appointment. To be prepared for the visit, please have the following available:

• Photo identification
• Proof that you owned or occupied the house at the time of the disaster
• Receipts for home repairs or replacement of damaged items
• Pictures of any damage that may now be repaired

For an accessible video on FEMA home inspections, go to FEMA Accessible: Home Inspections.

Your FEMA Letter

Within 10 days after the inspector’s visit, you will receive a letter in the mail or via email explaining your application status and how to respond. The letter will explain whether FEMA has approved you for assistance, how much, and how the assistance must be used.

If you are not approved for FEMA assistance, your letter will explain what to do if you disagree with FEMA’s decision.

You may need to submit additional information or supporting documentation. The letter will explain how to appeal the decision if you do not agree with it. For an overview of the appeal process, visit How Do I Appeal the Final Decision? | FEMA.gov

Digital Payment

FEMA is partnering with the U.S. Treasury to provide new options for New Mexicans to receive their disaster assistance money more quickly through digital payments. When applying for FEMA assistance New Mexicans can select which method they prefer to receive their funds.

Payment can be issued through:

• A direct deposit into your bank account
• A credit to your Visa or Mastercard debit card
• Your U.S. debit card used to receive other federal benefits
• An electronic check sent to a pre-paid debit card sent by FEMA
• PayPal account

Digital payments can provide money to eligible New Mexicans on the same day in most cases.

How To Apply for FEMA Assistance

• There are several ways to apply for FEMA disaster assistance. The fastest way to apply is at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• In-person assistance is available at the State Disaster Resource Center located at Eastern New Mexico University – Ruidoso Annex, 709 Mechem Dr., Ruidoso, NM 88345. The center is open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
• You can also use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. MT. If you use a relay service, captioned telephone or other service, you can give FEMA your number for that service. Helpline specialists speak many languages. Press 2 for Spanish. 

To view an accessible video on how to apply, visit Three Ways to Apply for FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube.

For more information, visit fema.gov/disaster/4886. Follow FEMA Region 6 on Facebook at facebook.com/femaregion6 and on X at x.com/FEMARegion6

toan.nguyen Tue, 07/29/2025 - 18:57

Continued Temporary Housing Assistance Available

ST. LOUIS – If you don’t have a safe place to live or if continued temporary housing is still needed because of recent disasters in Missouri, you can contact FEMA to request assistance. 

Get help with rent

To request assistance to help with rent, homeowners and renters need to contact FEMA and let them know. This can be done by:

• First applying for FEMA Assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. For locations, visit: FEMA.gov/DRC.
• Calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as VRS, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Sending your request in writing to FEMA: P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055.

FEMA will do a home inspection to verify damage reported on your application. 

If approved, you will receive an initial rental award of up to two months of rent. Rental Assistance may help cover your monthly rent amount, which may include a security deposit. It might not cover all rental expenses.

Continued Temporary Housing Assistance

If you received rental assistance from FEMA and require further rental assistance while working toward your permanent housing plan, we encourage you to stay in touch with FEMA. Continued Temporary Housing Assistance (CTHA) may be available for those who qualify. 

Impacted residents can apply for CTHA based on three months of their actual monthly costs for rent and utilities or the Fair Market Rent, whichever is less.

Continued Temporary Housing Assistance eligibility requirements:

• Be awarded initial Rental Assistance and show you used this money to pay for temporary housing.
• Are unable to return to your pre-disaster residence because it is not safe to live in or is no longer available because of the disaster.
• Demonstrate a continued disaster-caused financial need.
• Show that you are working toward a permanent housing plan.

What Are Eligible Expenses?

• CTHA is intended to cover the monthly rent amount (including lot rent, if applicable).
• Essential utilities (gas, propane, electric, water, oil, trash, sewer due to disaster-caused displacement)
  • This does not include telephone, cable TV, or internet service for the housing unit.

If you were initially approved for Rental Assistance, an application for CTHA will be mailed to you 15 days after the grant is approved. If you do not receive one, please contact FEMA by calling 1-800-621-3362.

Request Continued Temporary Housing Assistance

The CTHA request form and supporting documents should be returned to FEMA by:

• Visiting a Disaster Recovery Center. For locations, visit: FEMA.gov/DRC.
• Calling the FEMA Helpline at 1-800-621-3362. If you use a relay service such as VRS, give FEMA your number for that service.
• Sending your request in writing to FEMA: P.O. Box 10055, Hyattsville, MD 20782-8055.

Visit a Disaster Recovery CenterLOCATIONSHOURS OF OPERATIONUnion Tabernacle M.B. Church
626 N. Newstead Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63108

 

 

Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. 
Sunday: Closed

 

Urban League Entrepreneurship and 
Women’s Business Center
4401 Natural Bridge Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63115Sumner High School — Parking Lot
4248 Cottage Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63113March 14-15 Missouri Disaster

Homeowners and renters affected by the March 14-15 disaster in Bollinger, Butler, Camden, Carter, Franklin, Howell, Iron, Jefferson, Oregon, Ozark, Perry, Phelps, Reynolds, Ripley, St. Louis, Wayne, Webster and Wright counties may be eligible for Rental Assistance and/or CTHA. 

May 16 Missouri Disaster 

Homeowners and renters affected by the May 16 disaster in St. Louis City, St. Louis County and Scott County may also be eligible for Rental Assistance and/or CTHA. The deadline to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance is August 11, 2025.

You can still ask for additional assistance, as long as you submit an initial application before the deadline.

sara.zuckerman Tue, 07/29/2025 - 13:36

Disaster Recovery Centers Closing in Dyer, McNairy and Montgomery Counties

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers in Dyer, McNairy and Montgomery counties are closing permanently Friday, Aug. 1. Homeowners and renters in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Dyer, Hardeman, McNairy, Montgomery, Obion and Wilson counties have until Aug. 19 to apply for FEMA assistance.

Disaster Recovery Centers Closing at 6 p.m. Friday, Aug. 1:

• Dyer County: Bogota Community Center, 78 Sandy Lane, Bogota, TN 38007
• McNairy County: Latta Theatre, 205 W. Court Ave., Selmer, TN 38375
• Montgomery County: Montgomery County Library, 350 Pageant Lane, Clarksville, TN 37040

Open Recovery Centers

• Hardeman County: Safehaven Storm Shelter, 530 Madison Ave W., Grand Junction, TN 38039
• Obion County: Obion County Library, 1221 E. Reelfoot Ave., Union City, TN 38261

Hours: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday – Friday; 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday; Closed Sunday

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance

Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. In-person help is available at any Disaster Recovery Center for submitting applications, getting updates and asking questions. Find a center here: DRC Locator (fema.gov).

Video: What to Expect Before Applying for FEMA Assistance | ASL | Spanish

Video: Next Steps After Applying for FEMA Assistance  | ASL | Spanish

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are also available. To learn more or apply, visit sba.gov/disaster or call 800-659-2955.

FEMA is committed to providing equal access to federal assistance for Tennesseans who were affected by the April 2-24 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding. Anyone with an accessibility need who is applying for FEMA assistance should let FEMA know by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 07/29/2025 - 13:29

FEMA Assistance Won’t Affect Social Security, Other Federal Benefits Tennesseans May Receive

FEMA disaster assistance does not affect other federal benefits that Tennesseans may receive. Survivors who had uninsured damage to homes or property from the April 2-24 severe storms may apply. 

Accepting FEMA money will not affect your eligibility for Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits and other federal programs. In addition, any assistance you receive from FEMA is not considered taxable income.

Residents in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Dyer, Hardeman, McNairy, Montgomery, Obion and Wilson counties are eligible to apply for FEMA disaster assistance from the April 2-24 severe storms. The application deadline is August 19.

Disaster grants help you pay for temporary housing, essential home repairs, essential personal property replacement and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance or other sources.

• Housing Assistance covers repairs to structural parts of your primary residence. This includes windows, doors, floors, walls, ceilings, cabinets, heating, ventilation, air-conditioning systems (HVACs), utilities (electrical, plumbing and gas systems) and entrance/exit ways. FEMA may also reimburse you for repairing or replacing your furnace, well and septic system.
• Other Needs Assistance may reimburse both homeowners and renters for uninsured out-of-pocket expenses, such as:
  • Medical and dental expenses; funeral and burial costs; cleaning, or replacement of clothing, household furniture and appliances; specialized tools used for your occupation; childcare, educational materials, moving, storage and other necessary expenses related to the storms.
  • Your personally owned and registered disaster-damaged cars and trucks may also be eligible for repair or replacement by FEMA.

The first step to see if you are eligible for any federal assistance is to apply.

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance

Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. In-person help is available at any Disaster Recovery Center for submitting applications, getting updates and asking questions. Find a center here: DRC Locator (fema.gov).

Video: What to Expect Before Applying for FEMA Assistance | ASL | Spanish

Video: Next Steps After Applying for FEMA Assistance  | ASL | Spanish

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are also available. To learn more or apply, visit sba.gov/disaster or call 800-659-2955.

FEMA is committed to providing equal access to federal assistance for Tennesseans who were affected by the April 2-24 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding. Anyone with an accessibility need who is applying for FEMA assistance should let FEMA know by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

kwei.nwaogu Tue, 07/29/2025 - 13:26

Douglas County Residents Invited to Review Flood Maps

CHICAGO - Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in Douglas County and Incorporated Areas. Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the 90-day appeal and comment period.

The 90-day appeal period will begin on August 1, 2025. The preliminary maps and changes from current maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state, and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments. Contact your local floodplain administrator to do so. 

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

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

For more information about the flood maps: 

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

Most homeowner’s, renter’s and business insurance policies do not cover flood damage to a building and its contents. More than 40% of National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) claims are from outside high-risk flood zones. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting www.FloodSmart.gov.

For more information, contact the FEMA Mapping Team at FEMA-R5-MAP@fema.dhs.gov. 

kimberly.keblish Mon, 07/28/2025 - 20:28

Flood Survivors Can Get Crisis Counseling, Disaster Unemployment Benefits

AUSTIN, Texas – If you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed by the July storms and flooding that swept through Central Texas, you can get confidential crisis counseling and unemployment assistance to support you during this challenging time. 

FEMA funds the crisis counseling program, which is managed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and provides counseling to residents of Burnet, Kerr, San Saba, Tom Green, Travis and Williamson counties.

The Disaster Distress Helpline, a toll-free, national crisis support service, is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can call or text 800-985-5990 to speak to trained staff who can provide you with confidential counseling and other support services. The staff can also connect you with professionals at the nearest participating crisis-counseling center if you need additional support.

Access to counselors is available in more than 100 languages via third-party interpretation services. Spanish speakers can press 2. A videophone option for American Sign Language users is also available by calling 800-985-5990 from a videophone-enabled device. For more information, visit samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline. 

FEMA also funds the Disaster Unemployment Assistance program managed by the Texas Workforce Commission. If you find yourself without a job or you lost income as a direct result of the July 2—18 flooding, you may be eligible for financial assistance. 

Unemployment benefits may be available if you lived, worked or were scheduled to work in the six counties designated for assistance. You may also be eligible for unemployment assistance if you lost your job as a direct result of the flooding or if you are not eligible for state unemployment benefits. Disaster Unemployment Assistance is also available to business owners and those who are self-employed.

You have until Thursday, Sept. 4, to apply online at the Unemployment Benefit Services portal at https://apps.twc.texas.gov/UBS/security/logon.do You may also apply at 800-939-6631.

For more information, visit the Texas Workforce Commission webpage: twc.texas.gov

For the latest information about the Texas recovery, visit fema.gov/disaster/4879. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook.com/FEMARegion6

toan.nguyen Mon, 07/28/2025 - 18:44

Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Essex County, New York

Essex County, N.Y. - FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Essex County, New York. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period. 

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

The 90-day appeal period will begin August 2, 2025. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

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

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

Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv.

For more information about the flood maps:

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

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

Essex County, NY Flood Mapping Milestones

• July 17, 2024 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
• December 18, 2024 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
• January 14, 2025 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
• January 14-15, 2025 — Open House Meetings with public to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map.
• August 2, 2025 — Appeal Period starts.
• Winter 2026 - Early 2027* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 2 Office of External Affairs at (212) 680-3699 or at FEMA-R2-ExternalAffairs@fema.dhs.gov . 

kate.macedo Mon, 07/28/2025 - 13:59

Understanding Your FEMA Letter

Residents who applied for FEMA disaster assistance after the April 2-24 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding will receive a letter from FEMA by mail or e-mail. The letter may ask you to submit more information or supporting documents that are needed to continue processing your application. 

It is important to read the letter carefully. It will include the amount of assistance FEMA may provide and information on how you can use your disaster assistance funds. The letter will also explain your application status and it will give you information about how to appeal the decision.

You may be asked to provide one or more of the following:

• Proof of insurance coverage
• Settlement of insurance claims or denial letter from insurance provider
• Proof of identity
• Proof of occupancy  
• Proof of ownership
• Proof that the damaged property was your primary residence at the time of the disaster

If you have questions about your letter, call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

Homeowners and renters in Cheatham, Davidson, Dickson, Dyer, Hardeman, McNairy, Montgomery, Obion and Wilson counties can apply for federal assistance until the Aug. 19 application deadline.

How to Apply for FEMA Assistance

Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, use the FEMA App for mobile devices or call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362. In-person help is available at any Disaster Recovery Center for submitting applications, getting updates and asking questions. Find a center here: DRC Locator (fema.gov).

Video: What to Expect Before Applying for FEMA Assistance | ASL | Spanish

Video: Next Steps After Applying for FEMA Assistance  | ASL | Spanish

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are also available. To learn more or apply, visit sba.gov/disaster or call 800-659-2955.

FEMA is committed to providing equal access to federal assistance for Tennesseans who were affected by the April 2-24 severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding. Anyone with an accessibility need who is applying for FEMA assistance should let FEMA know by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.

kwei.nwaogu Mon, 07/28/2025 - 11:13