FEMA National Flood Insurance Program Reauthorized for 60 Days

FEMA National Flood Insurance Program Reauthorized for 60 Days 

Congressional Action Extends the NFIP Until July 31, 2012

Release Date: June 1, 2012
Release Number: HQ-12-040

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congress passed and the President signed legislation to extend the National Flood Insurance Program for an additional 60 days, assuring FEMA has the legal authority to continue to sell, renew or modify flood insurance policies until July 31, 2012. This short-term extension allows consumers critical time to renew and purchase their flood insurance policies, and complete new mortgage and loan transactions where flood insurance is required.

“This short-term extension of the National Flood Insurance program provides property owners, renters and businesses critical time to renew, purchase, or modify insurance policies to protect themselves against the devastating effects of flooding,” said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate.

Under the NFIP, federally backed flood insurance is made available to homeowners, renters and business owners in communities that adopt and enforce floodplain management ordinances designed to reduce future flood losses by regulating new construction. The NFIP identifies areas of flood risk, encourages communities to implement measures to mitigate against the risk of flood loss, provides financial assistance to help individuals recover rapidly from flooding disasters, and lessens the financial impact of flood disasters on individuals, businesses, and all levels of government.

The start of the 2012 Atlantic Hurricane season today provides an important reminder that flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster to affect every state across the country. Homeowner policies do not typically cover flood insurance and most everyone can purchase flood insurance – including renters, business owners and homeowners. Generally, NFIP policies take 30 days to become effective; therefore, FEMA is urging residents to purchase flood insurance now.

Learn more about your flood risk, flood insurance and hurricane preparedness at www.floodsmart.gov and www.ready.gov/hurricanes.

Follow FEMA online at www.twitter.com/fema, www.facebook.com/fema, and www.youtube.com/fema. Also, follow Administrator Craig Fugate’s activities at www.twitter.com/craigatfema. The social media links provided are for reference only. FEMA does not endorse any non-government websites, companies or applications.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Last Modified: Friday, 01-Jun-2012 11:53:39

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FEMA National Flood Insurance Program Reauthorized for 60 Days

FEMA Urges Preparedness for Hurricanes and Severe Weather

FEMA Urges Preparedness for Hurricanes and Severe Weather 

Mobile wireless emergency alerting capabilities will be available nationwide through participating carriers

Release Date: May 24, 2012
Release Number: HQ-12-038

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Hurricane Season begins June 1, 2012, FEMA is providing additional tools for federal, state, local, tribal and territorial officials to alert and warn the public about severe weather. Using the Commercial Mobile Alert System, or CMAS, which is a part of FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, this structure will be used to deliver Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) to wireless carriers for distribution to the public.

The CMAS system will allow the National Weather Service to soon begin issuing WEAs for the most dangerous weather through participating wireless carriers directly to cell phones. The alerts will be broadcast by cell towers much like an AM/FM radio station, and cell phones within range will immediately pick up the signal, provided they are capable of receiving these alerts. The availability of WEA alerts will be dependent on the network status of the wireless carriers and handset availability, since not all cell phones can receive WEAs. People should check with their cellular carriers to see if WEA alerts are available in their area.

“The wireless emergency alert capability provides an additional opportunity for the public to receive life-saving information needed to get out of harm’s way when a threat exists,” said Timothy Manning, FEMA deputy administrator for protection and national preparedness. “The public also has a critical role in their personal preparedness. There are a few simple steps that everyone can take to be prepared, like knowing which risks exist in your area and making a family emergency plan. Information and resources to help individuals and families prepare can be found at ready.gov.”

WEAs will look like a text message, and will automatically appear on the mobile device screen showing the type and time of alert along with any action that should be taken. The message will be no more than 90 characters, and will have a unique tone and vibration, indicating a WEA has been received. If an alert is received, citizens should follow the instructions and seek additional information from radio, television, NOAA Weather Radio, and other official sources for emergency information. Citizens should only call 911 in a life threatening situation.

Only authorized federal, state, local, tribal or territorial officials can send WEA alerts to the public. As with all new cellular services, it will take time for upgrades in infrastructure, coverage, and handset technology to allow WEA alerts to reach all cellular customers.

FEMA urges individuals and businesses to take action to prepare themselves in advance of severe weather and hurricanes such as taking the pledge to prepare at www.ready.gov/pledge. This is the first step in making sure you and your family are ready for an emergency This includes filling out your family communications plan that you can email to yourself, assembling an emergency kit , keeping important papers and valuables in a safe place, and getting involved.

With the start of hurricanes season it is even more important to know your risk, take action, and be an example. While hurricanes often offer some warning that a threat is approaching, severe weather can occur at anytime and in any place, including high winds, inland flooding, severe storms and tornadoes.

For more on family preparedness, visit www.ready.gov/hurricanes for more planning information and safety tips.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Last Modified: Thursday, 24-May-2012 13:35:51

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FEMA Urges Preparedness for Hurricanes and Severe Weather

New Flood Maps Show Current Risks In East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana

New Flood Maps Show Current Risks In East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana 

Release Date: May 24, 2012
Release Number: R6-12-094

» 2012 Region VI News Releases

DENTON, Texas — East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana homeowners, business and residential renters, and business owners who do not have flood insurance are encouraged to buy coverage now to get the best possible premiums before new flood insurance rate maps go into effect.

The new East Baton Rouge Parish flood maps which cover portions of Zachary, Central City and the unified city and parish of East Baton Rouge become effective on Tuesday, June 19 giving those who haven’t purchased flood insurance yet, time to get the best possible premiums to protect their property from potential flooding.

“While many people are required by mortgage and lending companies to have flood insurance, FEMA and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) strongly recommend that everyone have flood insurance,” said Acting Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson. “The reason is simple: You don’t have to be in a mapped floodplain to flood.”

Current policy holders and those planning to purchase NFIP protection are strongly encouraged to contact their insurance agent or company to ensure that they have adequate coverage for building and contents that accounts for new flood risk data.

Those who purchase flood insurance prior to June 19 may be able to grandfather the current flood zone, saving money on flood insurance. For more information on estimated rates for flood insurance, whether you are eligible for grandfathering, and the Preferred Risk Policy extension, or to locate an agent in your area, visit www.floodsmart.gov.

Anyone who hasn’t had a chance to participate in local flood insurance meetings or to review the new flood maps is encouraged to contact their floodplain administrator who is most likely located at the Parish Government Office.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Last Modified: Thursday, 24-May-2012 08:51:26

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New Flood Maps Show Current Risks In East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana

FEMA Deputy Administrator Praises Emergency Medical Services

FEMA Deputy Administrator Praises Emergency Medical Services 

Release Date: May 23, 2012
Release Number: HQ-12-036

WASHINGTON, D.C. — National Emergency Medical Services Week is May 20-26, and is an opportunity to recognize medical personnel for their dedication and service to the community. As part of this important week, FEMA Deputy Administrator Richard Serino praised EMS professionals nationwide, and emphasized the important role they play in their communities – especially during times of disaster.

On May 23, Serino spoke at the Alameda County Emergency Services Conference in California, where he thanked those in the EMS profession for their hard work and dedication. He recognized that medical personnel are an important part of the emergency management team, operating at the intersection of public health and public safety.

“In a time of crisis, it is the EMS professionals who are the first on the scene,” said Serino. “They are the first to offer care and comfort, and they are the first to offer that immediate assistance when we are most vulnerable and hurting.”

Serino previously served as the Chief of Boston EMS and the Assistant Director of the Boston Public Health Commission, and has been in the EMS community for more than 35 years.

“Over the years, I have watched how technology and new innovations have changed the EMS profession. While the tools that we use have changed over the years, one thing hasn’t: the selfless commitment and dedication that EMS professionals bring to their jobs each and every day,” said Serino.

“I am very proud and honored to not only be part of the EMS community, but also to salute my fellow EMS professionals for the great work they do to save lives, while sometimes putting their own lives at risk.”

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Last Modified: Wednesday, 23-May-2012 16:43:58

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FEMA Deputy Administrator Praises Emergency Medical Services

New Flood Maps Show Current Risks In Madison Parish, Louisiana

New Flood Maps Show Current Risks In Madison Parish, Louisiana 

Release Date: May 23, 2012
Release Number: R6-12-095

» 2012 Region VI News Releases

DENTON, Texas — Madison Parish, Louisiana homeowners, business and residential renters, and business owners who do not have flood insurance are encouraged to buy coverage now to get the best possible premiums before new flood insurance rate maps go into effect.

The new Madison Parish flood maps become effective on Tuesday, June 19 giving those who haven’t purchased flood insurance yet, time to get the best possible premiums to protect their property from potential flooding.

“While many people are required by mortgage and lending companies to have flood insurance, FEMA and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) strongly recommend that everyone have flood insurance,” said Acting Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson. “The reason is simple: You don’t have to be in a mapped floodplain to flood.”

Current policy holders and those planning to purchase NFIP protection are strongly encouraged to contact their insurance agent or company to ensure that they have adequate coverage for building and contents that accounts for new flood risk data.

Those who purchase flood insurance prior to June 19 may be able to grandfather the current flood zone, saving money on flood insurance. For more information on estimated rates for flood insurance, whether you are eligible for grandfathering, and the Preferred Risk Policy extension, or to locate an agent in your area, visit www.floodsmart.gov.

Anyone who hasn’t had a chance to participate in local flood insurance meetings to review the new flood maps is encouraged to contact their floodplain administrator who is most likely located at the Parish Office Building.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Last Modified: Wednesday, 23-May-2012 15:31:39

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New Flood Maps Show Current Risks In Madison Parish, Louisiana

State, FEMA Seek Public Input On Waterbury Office Rebuild Plan

State, FEMA Seek Public Input On Waterbury Office Rebuild Plan 

Release Date: May 22, 2012
Release Number: 4022-081

» More Information on Vermont Tropical Storm Irene

ESSEX JUNCTION, Vt. — Governor Peter Shumlin and Vermont lawmakers have weighed in, and now state and federal officials want to hear the public’s thoughts on plans to rebuild the flood-damaged state office complex in Waterbury.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency and State of Vermont will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, May 30, 2012, in Waterbury seeking public input on the state’s proposal to re-occupy the Waterbury State Office Complex as well as add new buildings at the site.

“We’re asking for feedback on the potential effects of the proposed work on historic and environmental resources, including the planned demolition of some buildings and some new construction,” said Federal Coordinating Officer James N. (Nick) Russo, the head of FEMA’s operations in Vermont.

The hearing, which will take place at 7:00 p.m. in Thatcher Brook Primary School cafeteria on Stowe Street, will be preceded by an open house starting at 6:30 p.m. where the public will have the opportunity to view general information and talk directly to federal and state representatives.

“We are proposing to remove some buildings and take other steps to reduce future flooding and restore the floodplain,” said Rob Evans, River Corridor and Floodplain Manager with the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources. “We’re hoping to hear the public’s thoughts on the impact to the historic campus, as well as on the floodplain.”

Public comments are being sought as part of FEMA’s development of an Environmental Assessment as part of the review process required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).

A preliminary copy of the Draft Environmental Assessment is available at the Waterbury Municipal Offices, 43 South Main Street from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, and the Waterbury Public Library, 28 North Main Street from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Saturday.

After the meeting, public comments will continue to be accepted until 4 p.m. on June 15, 2012, and can be mailed to Peter Thomas, FEMA Essex Junction Joint Field Office, 30 Allen Martin Drive, Essex Junction, Vermont, 05452.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders and to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 22-May-2012 09:41:16

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State, FEMA Seek Public Input On Waterbury Office Rebuild Plan

New Flood Maps Show Current Risks in Tom Green County, Texas

New Flood Maps Show Current Risks in Tom Green County, Texas 

Release Date: May 17, 2012
Release Number: R6-12-090

» 2012 Region VI News Releases

DENTON, Texas — Tom Green County, Texas homeowners, business and residential renters, and business owners who do not have flood insurance are encouraged to buy coverage now to get the best possible premiums before new flood insurance rate maps go into effect.

The new Tom Green County flood maps become effective on Tuesday, June 19 giving those who haven’t purchased flood insurance yet, time to get the best possible premiums to protect their property from potential flooding.

“While many people are required by mortgage and lending companies to have flood insurance, FEMA and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) strongly recommend that everyone have flood insurance,” said Acting Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson. “The reason is simple: You don’t have to be in a mapped floodplain to flood.”

Current policy holders and those planning to purchase NFIP protection are strongly encouraged to contact their insurance agent or company to ensure that they have adequate coverage for building and contents that accounts for new flood risk data.

Those who purchase flood insurance prior to June 19 may be able to grandfather the current flood zone, saving money on flood insurance. For more information on estimated rates for flood insurance, whether you are eligible for grandfathering and the Preferred Risk Policy extension, or to locate an agent in your area, visit www.floodsmart.gov.

Anyone who hasn’t had a chance to participate in local flood insurance meetings to review the new flood maps is encouraged to contact their floodplain administrator who is most likely located at City Hall or the local courthouse.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Last Modified: Thursday, 17-May-2012 11:49:00

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New Flood Maps Show Current Risks in Tom Green County, Texas

New Flood Maps Show Current Risks in Caldwell County, Texas

New Flood Maps Show Current Risks in Caldwell County, Texas 

Release Date: May 17, 2012
Release Number: R6-12-089

» 2012 Region VI News Releases

DENTON, Texas — Caldwell County, Texas homeowners, business and residential renters, and business owners who do not have flood insurance are encouraged to buy coverage now to get the best possible premiums before new flood insurance rate maps go into effect.

The new Caldwell County flood maps become effective on Tuesday, June 19 giving those who haven’t purchased flood insurance yet, time to get the best possible premiums to protect their property from potential flooding.

“While many people are required by mortgage and lending companies to have flood insurance, FEMA and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) strongly recommend that everyone have flood insurance,” said Acting Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson. “The reason is simple: You don’t have to be in a mapped floodplain to flood.”

Current policy holders and those planning to purchase NFIP protection are strongly encouraged to contact their insurance agent or company to ensure that they have adequate coverage for building and contents that accounts for new flood risk data.

Those who purchase flood insurance prior to June 19 may be able to grandfather the current flood zone, saving money on flood insurance. For more information on estimated rates for flood insurance, whether you are eligible for grandfathering and the Preferred Risk Policy extension, or to locate an agent in your area, visit www.floodsmart.gov.

Anyone who hasn’t had a chance to participate in local flood insurance meetings to review the new flood maps is encouraged to contact their floodplain administrator who is most likely located at City Hall or the local courthouse.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Last Modified: Thursday, 17-May-2012 11:46:55

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New Flood Maps Show Current Risks in Caldwell County, Texas

New Flood Maps Show Current Risks in Benton County, Arkansas

New Flood Maps Show Current Risks in Benton County, Arkansas 

Release Date: May 17, 2012
Release Number: R6-12-088

» 2012 Region VI News Releases

DENTON, Texas — Benton County, Arkansas homeowners, business and residential renters, and business owners who do not have flood insurance are encouraged to buy coverage now to get the best possible premiums before new flood insurance rate maps go into effect.

A revision of the flood maps for Benton County, including Avoca, Bentonville, Cave Springs, Centerton, Highfill, Little Flock, Lowell, Pea Ridge, Rogers and Springtown becomes effective on Tuesday, June 5 giving those who haven’t purchased flood insurance yet, time to get the best possible premiums to protect their property from potential flooding.

“While many people are required by mortgage and lending companies to have flood insurance, FEMA and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) strongly recommend that everyone have flood insurance,” said Acting Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson. “The reason is simple: You don’t have to be in a mapped floodplain to flood.”

Current policy holders and those planning to purchase NFIP protection are strongly encouraged to contact their insurance agent or company to ensure that they have adequate coverage for building and contents that accounts for new flood risk data.

Those who purchase flood insurance prior to June 5 may be able to grandfather the current flood zone, saving money on flood insurance. For more information on estimated rates for flood insurance, whether you are eligible for grandfathering and the Preferred Risk Policy extension, or to locate an agent in your area, visit www.floodsmart.gov.

Anyone who hasn’t had a chance to participate in local flood insurance meetings or to review the new flood maps is encouraged to contact their floodplain administrator who is most likely located at City Hall or the local courthouse.

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

Last Modified: Thursday, 17-May-2012 09:05:40

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New Flood Maps Show Current Risks in Benton County, Arkansas

New Flood Maps Show Current Risks in Desha County, Arkansas

New Flood Maps Show Current Risks in Desha County, Arkansas 

Release Date: May 16, 2012
Release Number: R6-12-086

» 2012 Region VI News Releases

DENTON, Texas — Desha County, Arkansas homeowners, business and residential renters, and business owners who do not have flood insurance are encouraged to buy coverage now to get the best possible premiums before new flood insurance rate maps go into effect.

The new Desha County flood maps become effective on Tuesday, June 19 giving those who haven’t purchased flood insurance yet, time to get the best possible premiums to protect their property from potential flooding.

“While many people are required by mortgage and lending companies to have flood insurance, FEMA and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) strongly recommend that everyone have flood insurance,” said Acting Region 6 Administrator Tony Robinson. “The reason is simple: You don’t have to be in a mapped floodplain to flood.”

Current policy holders and those planning to purchase NFIP protection are strongly encouraged to contact their insurance agent or company to ensure that they have adequate coverage for building and contents that accounts for new flood risk data.

Those who purchase flood insurance prior to June 19 may be able to grandfather the current flood zone, saving money on flood insurance. For more information on estimated rates for flood insurance, whether you are eligible for grandfathering, and the Preferred Risk Policy extension, or to locate an agent in your area, visit www.floodsmart.gov.

Anyone who hasn’t had a chance to participate in local flood insurance meetings or to review the new flood maps is encouraged to contact their floodplain administrator who is most likely located at City Hall or the local courthouse.    

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards. 

Last Modified: Wednesday, 16-May-2012 16:54:32

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New Flood Maps Show Current Risks in Desha County, Arkansas

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