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Response and Recovery Efforts Continue After Hurricane Sally
jessica.geraci
Fri, 09/18/2020 – 15:58
Hurricane Sally made landfall on Tuesday near Gulf Shores, Alabama, as a category 2 hurricane, causing widespread flooding and leaving behind a trail of destruction. As conditions calm and the damage becomes clear, recovery efforts continue along the Gulf Coast.
Over the last week, President Trump has approved Emergency Declarations for affected areas in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi. These declarations allow states to receive federal assistance and coordinate all disaster relief efforts in response to Hurricane Sally.
FEMA continues to have supplies available nearby, with shuttle drivers and trailers ready to move these assets out to fulfill state requests. Supplies include over 4 million liters of bottled water, 3.2 million meals, 289,000 blankets, 117,000 tarps, 6,500 cots and 23 generators. As of Friday, six shelters are open with a population of 366 in affected areas throughout the Gulf Coast.
Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the need to protect the safety and health of all Americans, FEMA will conduct remote home inspections to expedite the delivery of recovery assistance to applicants based on their eligibility.
As survivors return home, document damages and begin cleaning up debris from Hurricane Sally, it is important to contact your local emergency management or public works agencies to get information about sorting guidelines and pickup schedules. Follow these guidelines when clearing debris:
- Wear safety gloves and glasses when cleaning up.
- Wear sturdy shoes or boots when walking on, or near, debris. Wear long sleeves and gloves when handling debris.
- Don’t drive or walk through flood waters. Be aware of downed power lines, standing water and other hidden hazards.
- When clearing debris from a property, make sure you know the location of all utilities, both underground and overhead to prevent personal injury.
As you clean-up, you may see neighbors clearing debris as well. While recovery is a whole community effort and it is important to check on neighbors, use caution when doing so. Continue to wear masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
While you may want to help other survivors, do not put your life at risk by self-deploying to affected areas. Instead, find trusted organizations that are operating in the affected area. They will know where volunteers are needed and can ensure appropriate volunteer safety, training and housing. Financial contributions to recognized disaster relief organizations are the fastest, most flexible and most effective method of helping.
FEMA will remain engaged in response and recovery efforts and partner with states, local governments, tribes and community organizations to make sure help arrives in the areas where it is needed most.
To find out how you can help, visit FEMA.gov.
Related LocationsPosted: September 18, 2020, 7:58 pmResponse and Recovery Efforts Continue After Hurricane Sally
jessica.geraci
Fri, 09/18/2020 – 15:58Hurricane Sally made landfall on Tuesday near Gulf Shores, Alabama, as a category 2 hurricane, causing widespread flooding and leaving behind a trail of destruction. As conditions calm and the damage becomes clear, recovery efforts continue along the Gulf Coast.
Over the last week, President Trump has approved Emergency Declarations for affected areas in Alabama, Florida, Louisiana and Mississippi. These declarations allow states to receive federal assistance and coordinate all disaster relief efforts in response to Hurricane Sally.
FEMA continues to have supplies available nearby, with shuttle drivers and trailers ready to move these assets out to fulfill state requests. Supplies include over 4 million liters of bottled water, 3.2 million meals, 289,000 blankets, 117,000 tarps, 6,500 cots and 23 generators. As of Friday, six shelters are open with a population of 366 in affected areas throughout the Gulf Coast.
Due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the need to protect the safety and health of all Americans, FEMA will conduct remote home inspections to expedite the delivery of recovery assistance to applicants based on their eligibility.
As survivors return home, document damages and begin cleaning up debris from Hurricane Sally, it is important to contact your local emergency management or public works agencies to get information about sorting guidelines and pickup schedules. Follow these guidelines when clearing debris:
- Wear safety gloves and glasses when cleaning up.
- Wear sturdy shoes or boots when walking on, or near, debris. Wear long sleeves and gloves when handling debris.
- Don’t drive or walk through flood waters. Be aware of downed power lines, standing water and other hidden hazards.
- When clearing debris from a property, make sure you know the location of all utilities, both underground and overhead to prevent personal injury.
As you clean-up, you may see neighbors clearing debris as well. While recovery is a whole community effort and it is important to check on neighbors, use caution when doing so. Continue to wear masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
While you may want to help other survivors, do not put your life at risk by self-deploying to affected areas. Instead, find trusted organizations that are operating in the affected area. They will know where volunteers are needed and can ensure appropriate volunteer safety, training and housing. Financial contributions to recognized disaster relief organizations are the fastest, most flexible and most effective method of helping.
FEMA will remain engaged in response and recovery efforts and partner with states, local governments, tribes and community organizations to make sure help arrives in the areas where it is needed most.
To find out how you can help, visit FEMA.gov.
Related LocationsPosted: September 18, 2020, 7:58 pmFEMA Response Efforts Continue for Western Wildfires, Begin for Hurricane Sally
jessica.geraci
Mon, 09/14/2020 – 20:29
FEMA is continuing to mobilize teams and supplies to respond to impacts from Hurricane Sally in the Gulf and wildfires out west. Federal, state, local, tribal and territorial partners are working with FEMA to make sure needs are met.
“It’s a true team effort,” Administrator Gaynor said in a briefing to President Trump Monday. “The disaster declarations and Fire Management Assistant Grants have allowed the Governor to exercise all the resources the federal government has to respond and protect life. That’s the number one priority.”
Hurricane conditions begin today on the Gulf Coast where Hurricane Sally is expected to make landfall Tuesday. President Trump approved emergency declarations for Louisiana and Mississippi Monday afternoon. These declarations authorize FEMA to provide assistance, including direct federal assistance, for emergency protective measures for 30 parishes in Louisiana and 24 counties in Mississippi.
FEMA teams are already on the ground, including recovery teams that were supporting Hurricane Laura. Teams are ready to support state and local officials with ongoing response and recovery efforts across the Gulf Coast.
A storm surge warning is in effect from Port Fourchon, Louisiana, to the Okaloosa/Walton County Line in the Florida Panhandle. Severe inland flooding is also expected to impact areas far from the coast due to the storms slow movement. If you are in the path of Hurricane Sally, it is important to remember the following about storm surge:
- Storm surge is water that is pushed onto shore by a hurricane. It can rise as rapidly as several feet in just a few moments.
- This wind-driven water has tremendous power. One-foot deep storm surge can sweep your car off the road. A 6-inch surge is difficult to stand in.
- The water is also dangerous because of the large amount of floating debris that typically accompanies the surge. Don’t drive or walk through flood waters. Be aware of downed power lines, standing water, and other hidden hazards.
- Residents in Louisiana should call 2-1-1 evacuation, sheltering and resources for immediate needs.
Recovery and response efforts are also continuing in the west. There are over 100 large fires throughout the Western U.S. that have burned over 5 million acres across California, Colorado, Oregon and Washington.
President Trump approved a major disaster for California on Aug. 22. Residents and business owners in nine counties who have disaster-caused damage can apply for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA app. The declaration also authorizes reimbursement to state, local and tribal agencies, and certain private non-profit organizations, for emergency work and repair or reconstruction of damaged infrastructure and facilities.
The President has approved an emergency declaration for Oregon on Sept. 10 for the 12 active wildfires impacting the state. Under the Emergency Declaration, Federal funding is available to the state, eligible local and tribal governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures (Category B), including direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program at 75 percent federal funding.
In support of state and local response, FEMA has deployed four Urban Search and Rescue teams to Oregon, including an incident support team to support state search and recovery needs. Additionally, FEMA has meals, water, cots and blankets staged in Salem, Oregon, with additional quantities of each along with hygiene kits, commonly used shelter items and generators in transit to a staging area at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington.
In addition, fourteen Fire Management Assistance Grants approved in California, three approved in Colorado, 16 approved in Oregon and eight approved in Washington.
If you are in an evacuation zone, heed warnings, and follow local official recommendations without delay. In Oregon:
- Know your evacuation levels! Level 1 – Be Ready. Level 2 – Be Set. Level 3 – Leave Immediately. DO NOT return the fire area until officials give the OK.
- If you already have an N95 mask, use this to protect yourself from smoke inhalation.
- An Oregon Wildfire Resource Website has been created to help Oregonians stay informed at wildfire.oregon.gov.
For more information on how to prepare for disasters, visit Ready.gov.
Related LocationsPosted: September 15, 2020, 12:29 amFEMA Response Efforts Continue for Western Wildfires, Begin for Hurricane Sally
jessica.geraci
Mon, 09/14/2020 – 20:29FEMA is continuing to mobilize teams and supplies to respond to impacts from Hurricane Sally in the Gulf and wildfires out west. Federal, state, local, tribal and territorial partners are working with FEMA to make sure needs are met.
“It’s a true team effort,” Administrator Gaynor said in a briefing to President Trump Monday. “The disaster declarations and Fire Management Assistant Grants have allowed the Governor to exercise all the resources the federal government has to respond and protect life. That’s the number one priority.”
Hurricane conditions begin today on the Gulf Coast where Hurricane Sally is expected to make landfall Tuesday. President Trump approved emergency declarations for Louisiana and Mississippi Monday afternoon. These declarations authorize FEMA to provide assistance, including direct federal assistance, for emergency protective measures for 30 parishes in Louisiana and 24 counties in Mississippi.
FEMA teams are already on the ground, including recovery teams that were supporting Hurricane Laura. Teams are ready to support state and local officials with ongoing response and recovery efforts across the Gulf Coast.
A storm surge warning is in effect from Port Fourchon, Louisiana, to the Okaloosa/Walton County Line in the Florida Panhandle. Severe inland flooding is also expected to impact areas far from the coast due to the storms slow movement. If you are in the path of Hurricane Sally, it is important to remember the following about storm surge:
- Storm surge is water that is pushed onto shore by a hurricane. It can rise as rapidly as several feet in just a few moments.
- This wind-driven water has tremendous power. One-foot deep storm surge can sweep your car off the road. A 6-inch surge is difficult to stand in.
- The water is also dangerous because of the large amount of floating debris that typically accompanies the surge. Don’t drive or walk through flood waters. Be aware of downed power lines, standing water, and other hidden hazards.
- Residents in Louisiana should call 2-1-1 evacuation, sheltering and resources for immediate needs.
Recovery and response efforts are also continuing in the west. There are over 100 large fires throughout the Western U.S. that have burned over 5 million acres across California, Colorado, Oregon and Washington.
President Trump approved a major disaster for California on Aug. 22. Residents and business owners in nine counties who have disaster-caused damage can apply for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or via the FEMA app. The declaration also authorizes reimbursement to state, local and tribal agencies, and certain private non-profit organizations, for emergency work and repair or reconstruction of damaged infrastructure and facilities.
The President has approved an emergency declaration for Oregon on Sept. 10 for the 12 active wildfires impacting the state. Under the Emergency Declaration, Federal funding is available to the state, eligible local and tribal governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency protective measures (Category B), including direct federal assistance, under the Public Assistance program at 75 percent federal funding.
In support of state and local response, FEMA has deployed four Urban Search and Rescue teams to Oregon, including an incident support team to support state search and recovery needs. Additionally, FEMA has meals, water, cots and blankets staged in Salem, Oregon, with additional quantities of each along with hygiene kits, commonly used shelter items and generators in transit to a staging area at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington.
In addition, fourteen Fire Management Assistance Grants approved in California, three approved in Colorado, 16 approved in Oregon and eight approved in Washington.
If you are in an evacuation zone, heed warnings, and follow local official recommendations without delay. In Oregon:
- Know your evacuation levels! Level 1 – Be Ready. Level 2 – Be Set. Level 3 – Leave Immediately. DO NOT return the fire area until officials give the OK.
- If you already have an N95 mask, use this to protect yourself from smoke inhalation.
- An Oregon Wildfire Resource Website has been created to help Oregonians stay informed at wildfire.oregon.gov.
For more information on how to prepare for disasters, visit Ready.gov.
Related LocationsPosted: September 15, 2020, 12:29 amFacts About the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Flood Insurance
jessica.geraci
Mon, 09/14/2020 – 13:09
Retired Navy veteran Marty Severson never expected a summer rain to submerge his Sparta, Wisconsin, home in seven feet of water. Marty lost almost everything he owned. Fortunately, his home was covered by flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) so he was able to avoid financial ruin.
National Preparedness Month is a time set aside to encourage families and communities to plan and prepare for disasters. Preparing for the unexpected is vital. For Marty, it made all the difference in his recovery. During this month of preparedness efforts, we wanted to share answers to five of the most commonly asked questions about the NFIP – to help you weather any storm that’s headed your way.
1. Do I need flood insurance?
Every property is vulnerable to flooding. Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States. In fact, between 2015 and 2019, policyholders outside of high-risk areas filed more than 40% of all NFIP flood insurance claims.
Marty lived outside a high-risk area, but still decided to purchase a flood insurance policy. It’s a good thing he did – with flood insurance Marty was able to file a claim and receive an advanced payment, which helped him recover quickly.
Many people may think a homeowners insurance policy is enough, however, it doesn’t cover the cost of flood damage. Only a specific flood insurance policy does.
2. What factors go into determining my rate?
Your agent can give you specific information about your rate and coverage options, however, some factors may include:
- Your property’s flood risk (e.g., your mapped flood zone);
- The type or amount of coverage purchased (e.g. building and contents coverage are purchased separately, it’s important to make sure to have both for complete coverage);
- The design and age of your structure; and
- The location of your structure’s contents (e.g. elevated utilities may bring the rate down).
3. How do I get a flood insurance policy?
Your insurance company or agent can give you more information about the right coverage for you. If you need help finding an insurance provider, go to FloodSmart.gov or call the NFIP at 877-336-2627.
4. How do I start a claim after experiencing a flood?
Follow these steps to report a claim:
- If you are an NFIP policyholder and experience a flood, report your loss immediately to your insurance agent or carrier. If possible, take photos of any damage to the interior and exterior of your home. And be sure to ask about advance payments to jump start your recovery.
- Make an appointment with an insurance adjuster. In response to COVID-19, a remote inspection is an option FEMA is offering to policyholders who have experienced a flood.
- The adjuster will assess the damage to your home, either in person or remotely, to determine the amount of the claim, and answer any questions you may have about the process and what’s covered under your policy. For more information on starting a claim or the inspection process, visit FloodSmart.gov/start.
- If you need help finding your insurance agent or carrier, call the NFIP at 877-336-2627.
5. What is a mandatory purchase requirement?
If you own a property in a high-risk flood area, you may be required to have flood insurance. Homes and businesses in high-risk flood areas with government-backed mortgages are required to have flood insurance.
Even if you live outside the high-risk flood area and you aren’t federally required to have flood insurance, your lender may still require you to purchase a flood insurance policy.
Where it can rain, it can flood. You never know when rainfall may lead to a major flood. National Preparedness Month is a great time to make sure your home and belongings are prepared for the unexpected. Visit FloodSmart.gov for more information.
Related LocationsPosted: September 14, 2020, 5:09 pmFacts About the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Flood Insurance
jessica.geraci
Mon, 09/14/2020 – 13:09Retired Navy veteran Marty Severson never expected a summer rain to submerge his Sparta, Wisconsin, home in seven feet of water. Marty lost almost everything he owned. Fortunately, his home was covered by flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) so he was able to avoid financial ruin.
National Preparedness Month is a time set aside to encourage families and communities to plan and prepare for disasters. Preparing for the unexpected is vital. For Marty, it made all the difference in his recovery. During this month of preparedness efforts, we wanted to share answers to five of the most commonly asked questions about the NFIP – to help you weather any storm that’s headed your way.
1. Do I need flood insurance?
Every property is vulnerable to flooding. Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States. In fact, between 2015 and 2019, policyholders outside of high-risk areas filed more than 40% of all NFIP flood insurance claims.
Marty lived outside a high-risk area, but still decided to purchase a flood insurance policy. It’s a good thing he did – with flood insurance Marty was able to file a claim and receive an advanced payment, which helped him recover quickly.
Many people may think a homeowners insurance policy is enough, however, it doesn’t cover the cost of flood damage. Only a specific flood insurance policy does.
2. What factors go into determining my rate?
Your agent can give you specific information about your rate and coverage options, however, some factors may include:
- Your property’s flood risk (e.g., your mapped flood zone);
- The type or amount of coverage purchased (e.g. building and contents coverage are purchased separately, it’s important to make sure to have both for complete coverage);
- The design and age of your structure; and
- The location of your structure’s contents (e.g. elevated utilities may bring the rate down).
3. How do I get a flood insurance policy?
Your insurance company or agent can give you more information about the right coverage for you. If you need help finding an insurance provider, go to FloodSmart.gov or call the NFIP at 877-336-2627.
4. How do I start a claim after experiencing a flood?
Follow these steps to report a claim:
- If you are an NFIP policyholder and experience a flood, report your loss immediately to your insurance agent or carrier. If possible, take photos of any damage to the interior and exterior of your home. And be sure to ask about advance payments to jump start your recovery.
- Make an appointment with an insurance adjuster. In response to COVID-19, a remote inspection is an option FEMA is offering to policyholders who have experienced a flood.
- The adjuster will assess the damage to your home, either in person or remotely, to determine the amount of the claim, and answer any questions you may have about the process and what’s covered under your policy. For more information on starting a claim or the inspection process, visit FloodSmart.gov/start.
- If you need help finding your insurance agent or carrier, call the NFIP at 877-336-2627.
5. What is a mandatory purchase requirement?
If you own a property in a high-risk flood area, you may be required to have flood insurance. Homes and businesses in high-risk flood areas with government-backed mortgages are required to have flood insurance.
Even if you live outside the high-risk flood area and you aren’t federally required to have flood insurance, your lender may still require you to purchase a flood insurance policy.
Where it can rain, it can flood. You never know when rainfall may lead to a major flood. National Preparedness Month is a great time to make sure your home and belongings are prepared for the unexpected. Visit FloodSmart.gov for more information.
Related LocationsPosted: September 14, 2020, 5:09 pmSeptember is National Preparedness Month
jessica.geraci
Wed, 09/09/2020 – 10:39
Each September, National Preparedness Month reminds us how important it is to prepare for disasters. This year, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic puts into perspective just how unpredictable disasters are and how far-reaching their impact can be.
“Disasters don’t wait. Make your plan today” is a fitting theme for 2020’s National Preparedness Month. The COVID-19 pandemic highlights the need for us to be ready for the impact disasters of all types can have on our lives. Our nation must be ready for disasters on a national, community and family level.
For four-weeks, National Preparedness Month is highlighting easy-to-follow steps that your family can take to improve preparedness at home.
This year’s weekly themes include:
Week 1 September 1-5: Make A Plan: Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during and after a disaster. Make sure to update your plan based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations due to the coronavirus.
Week 2 September 6-12: Build A Kit: Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home. Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each member of your household (including your pets) may have in case you have to evacuate quickly. Update your kits and supplies based on recommendations by the CDC.
Week 3 September 13-19: Prepare for Disasters: Limit the impacts that disasters have on you and your family. Know the risk of disasters in your area and check your insurance coverage. Learn how to make your home stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards and act fast if you receive a local warning or alert.
Week 4 September 20-26: Teach Youth About Preparedness: Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them that they have a role to play in being ready for disaster by providing information about how they can get involved.
Everyone has a role to play to ensure that their community is ready for disasters. For more resources, visit Ready.gov.
Related LocationsPosted: September 9, 2020, 2:39 pmSeptember is National Preparedness Month
jessica.geraci
Wed, 09/09/2020 – 10:39Each September, National Preparedness Month reminds us how important it is to prepare for disasters. This year, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic puts into perspective just how unpredictable disasters are and how far-reaching their impact can be.
“Disasters don’t wait. Make your plan today” is a fitting theme for 2020’s National Preparedness Month. The COVID-19 pandemic highlights the need for us to be ready for the impact disasters of all types can have on our lives. Our nation must be ready for disasters on a national, community and family level.
For four-weeks, National Preparedness Month is highlighting easy-to-follow steps that your family can take to improve preparedness at home.
This year’s weekly themes include:
Week 1 September 1-5: Make A Plan: Talk to your friends and family about how you will communicate before, during and after a disaster. Make sure to update your plan based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations due to the coronavirus.
Week 2 September 6-12: Build A Kit: Gather supplies that will last for several days after a disaster for everyone living in your home. Don’t forget to consider the unique needs each member of your household (including your pets) may have in case you have to evacuate quickly. Update your kits and supplies based on recommendations by the CDC.
Week 3 September 13-19: Prepare for Disasters: Limit the impacts that disasters have on you and your family. Know the risk of disasters in your area and check your insurance coverage. Learn how to make your home stronger in the face of storms and other common hazards and act fast if you receive a local warning or alert.
Week 4 September 20-26: Teach Youth About Preparedness: Talk to your kids about preparing for emergencies and what to do in case you are separated. Reassure them that they have a role to play in being ready for disaster by providing information about how they can get involved.
Everyone has a role to play to ensure that their community is ready for disasters. For more resources, visit Ready.gov.
Related LocationsPosted: September 9, 2020, 2:39 pmWe Are FEMA: Meet Kristin Duquette
zella.campbell
Wed, 09/09/2020 – 10:01
As a kid, Kristin Duquette dreamed of being an Olympic swimmer. “There’s nothing like representing your country on an international stage,” Kristin says. To this day, she still finds comfort and joy swimming, though her experience and drive has taken her impact well beyond the pool.
Kristin has competed on and led Team USA, spoken at the United Nations, served as confidential assistant to the Chief of Staff for the National Endowment for the Arts under the Obama Administration and is a selected U.S. representative and expert on various human rights topics on international platforms.
These accomplishments merely scratch the surface of her character and accomplishments. Today, the five-time American Paralympic swimming record holder and a renowned advocate for disability rights has led her to a career in public service.
“After retiring from swimming,” Kristen said. “I transitioned my passion to represent the U.S. to serving our country, particularly during times most in need of comfort and protection.”
At FEMA, Kristin serves as a preparedness officer for the Transportation Security Grant Program. The work she does helps to protect public transportation agencies, critical transportation infrastructure and the traveling public from acts of terrorism. She is also in the Homeland Defense and Security Master’s Program at the Naval Postgraduate School as part of her efforts to do the most she can in her field. Additionally, Kristin formerly served as director of diversity and inclusion for FEMA’s Women’s Leadership Forum. Her commitment to FEMA’s core values of compassion, fairness, integrity and respect shine through in her work.
Kristin says, “My passion for working at FEMA derives from my interest in securing our nation, particularly vulnerable groups, against foreign and homegrown terrorism, and the fluid environment of homeland security.”
The We Are FEMA campaign highlights employees like Kristin, who are committed to serving our country before, during and after disasters. It takes a deeper look at the employees who work to make our nation safer, stronger and more prepared. The campaign allows others to learn more about the mission-driven work and the who, what and why behind the FEMA mission. The faces of FEMA are diverse, but they share the same goal: to help people before, during and after disaster.
To join our team, visit FEMA.gov/careers to see the latest job openings.
Related LocationsPosted: September 9, 2020, 2:01 pmFEMA Prepares for Hurricane Laura, California Wildfires
jessica.geraci
Tue, 08/25/2020 – 12:10Author(s):As Hurricane Laura approaches and wildfires continue to burn in the west, it is more important than ever to be prepared. As you make necessary preparations for your family and your home, FEMA is preparing too. The agency is working with federal, state, local, tribal and territorial partners to make sure the nation is ready for these tropical systems and wildfires.
One of the primary actions FEMA is taking is to strategically move resources into place. Having supplies and people in the quantity and location they need to be helps FEMA and our partners respond rapidly and efficiently.
In states that the storms threaten, there are FEMA personnel on the ground, including teams that help to coordinate federal support, provide mobile telecommunications, operational support, life support and provide power generation.
There are also teams in place in Louisiana and Texas state operations centers. The region is working to move 500,000 meals and 800,000 liters of water into Roseland Staging Area and Camp Beauregard in Louisiana. Additionally, FEMA is placing another 250,000 meals and 400,000 liters of water on standby at its distribution center in Fort Worth, Texas that can be pushed to either Texas or Louisiana after the storms make landfall.
FEMA, other federal agencies and the American Red Cross have also spent the last couple of months preparing to face additional challenges that the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic presents. They have modified policies and planning and have taken actions to ensure the federal government can respond to any disaster during the continued COVID-19 response efforts. Actions such as safe distancing in shelters have been taken into consideration when preparing shelter locations. You can read more about how to prepare for disaster during COVID-19 by visiting the Ready.gov website.
Emergency declarations have also been approved for Louisiana, Mississippi, Texas and Puerto Rico. These declarations help FEMA to rapidly and efficiently respond when states and individuals need aid after a disaster. They authorize FEMA to provide assistance, including reimbursement for mass care, evacuation and shelter support.
Additionally, President Trump approved a major disaster declaration for California. The declaration includes grants to individuals and households, and emergency work in eight counties impacted by wildfires. All areas in the state are also eligible for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
To further make sure employees and disaster survivors stay safe from COVID-19, FEMA has added virtual options for meeting needs after disasters. These methods include virtual damage assessments and inspections for FEMA Individual Assistance and Public Assistance programs, as well as for National Flood Insurance Program claims.
While FEMA makes preparations for the tropical storms and wildfire response, you can also stay prepared by downloading the FEMA app to receive emergency alerts and information. Visit Ready.gov to read more about what you and your loved ones might need to know before, during and after disasters.
Related LocationsPosted: August 25, 2020, 4:10 pm
