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

Originally posted here:

FEMA Urges Preparedness for Hurricanes and Severe Weather

Federal Aid Programs for State of Kansas Disaster Recovery

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Federal Aid Programs for State of Kansas Disaster Recovery

President Declares Disaster for Kansas

President Declares Disaster for Kansas 

Release Date: May 24, 2012
Release Number: HQ-12-037

» More Information on Kansas Severe Storms, Tornadoes, Straight-line Winds, and Flooding

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced that federal aid has been made available for the state of Kansas and ordered and ordered Federal aid to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area affected by severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding during the period of April 14-15, 2012.

Federal funding is available to state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair or replacement of facilities damaged by the severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds, and flooding in the counties of Edwards, Ellsworth, Harper, Hodgeman, Jewell, Kiowa, Mitchell, Osborne, Rice, Rush, Russell, Sedgwick, Stafford, and Sumner.

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

Stephen R. Thompson has been named Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Thompson said additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

Follow FEMA online at blog.fema.gov, 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: Thursday, 24-May-2012 12:54:30

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President Declares Disaster for Kansas

FEMA Approves Additional $5.5 Million for Property Acquisitions

FEMA Approves Additional $5.5 Million for Property Acquisitions 

Approvals Top $10.7 Million in Last Three Weeks

Release Date: May 24, 2012
Release Number: 4025-141

» More Information on Pennsylvania Tropical Storm Lee
» More Information on Pennsylvania Hurricane Irene

HARRISBURG, Pa. — More than $5.5 million in additional federal funding has been approved for property acquisitions that will permanently remove flood-prone properties from harm’s way. Additional projects continue to be approved as the application process moves ahead and program requirements are met.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announcement, the funds are being obligated through its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). Sixty substantially damaged structures located within FEMA’s Special Flood Hazard Areas in three Counties will be torn down and demolished as a result of this program. Property owner participation in the program is voluntary with sponsorship through their local municipality.

A summary of the approved projects and the federal cost share includes:

  • Columbia County: $2,838,070
    • Bloomsburg – $1,259,318 – 11 properties
    • Fernville, Hemlock Township -$1,578,752 – 23 properties
  • Lycoming county: $1,325,419
    • Lewis Township – 2 properties
    • Plunketts Creek Townships – 8 properties
  • Wyoming County: $1,368,921
    • Exeter Township – 14 properties
    • Falls Townships- 2 properties

HMGP funding is made available to encourage states and municipalities to take steps that will reduce the impact of future disasters. The funding represents 15 percent of the total federal cost of the response and recovery. An estimated $66 million is expected to be available to Pennsylvania for the property acquisition program as a result of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee.

An application for a buyout is prepared by local officials with input from the community. The state receives and reviews applications to ensure they meet the acquisition requirements prior to submitting them to FEMA for approval. FEMA then reviews the applications to ensure they are eligible under the program, are environmentally sound, and are a cost-effective use of funds.

Once FEMA gives its approval, the acquisition process begins. The communities purchase the homes, the buildings are removed or destroyed, and the land is cleared. The site is then preserved as open space with no permanent structures in perpetuity.

The project is funded 75 percent by FEMA, with an additional 22 percent from the Commonwealth and the balance from other non-federal sources.

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 10:51:28

Originally posted here: 

FEMA Approves Additional $5.5 Million for Property Acquisitions

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

Source – 

New Flood Maps Show Current Risks In East Baton Rouge 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

More – 

State, FEMA Seek Public Input On Waterbury Office Rebuild Plan

FEMA Awards $656,625 Grant to the Village of Addison

Link – 

FEMA Awards $656,625 Grant to the Village of Addison

FEMA Approves $1.1 Million for Commonwealth Property Acquisitions

FEMA Approves $1.1 Million for Commonwealth Property Acquisitions 

Release Date: May 16, 2012
Release Number: 4025-140

» More Information on Pennsylvania Tropical Storm Lee
» More Information on Pennsylvania Hurricane Irene

HARRISBURG, Pa. — More than $1.1 million in federal funding has been approved for property acquisitions that will permanently remove flood-prone properties from harm’s way. Additional projects will be approved as the application process continues and program requirements met.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced the funds were being obligated through its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). Fourteen properties in one Pennsylvania County will be demolished from this program. Property owner participation in the program is voluntary with sponsorship through their local municipality.

A summary of the projects and the federal cost share follows:

  • Wyoming County: $1,187,000
    Tunkhannock Township, 6 properties
    Tunkhannock Borough, 5 properties
    Meshoppen Township, 3 properties

HMGP funding is made available to encourage states and municipalities to take steps that will reduce the impact of future disasters. The funding represents 15 percent of the total federal cost of the response and recovery. An estimated $66 million is expected to be available to Pennsylvania for the property acquisition program as a result of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee.

“Typically, the funding for home buyouts doesn’t become available until at least 18 months after a major disaster declaration, which in this case, would be around March 2013,” said FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer Thomas J. McCool, “but after Irene and Lee, it was obvious many homeowners needed a permanent solution to repeated flooding as quickly as possible.”

“Getting to the point when funding is initially obligated typically takes a great deal longer than the eight months it has this time.” said Commonwealth Coordinating Office John Forr. “Buyouts involve not just the homeowners, but local, state, and federal officials as well. Everyone sensed the urgency and did their part.”

Forr said county and municipal officials involved in this effort should be commended for their timely efforts to have hazard mitigation plans approved and adopted, which helped move the process along that much faster.

An application for a buyout is prepared by local officials with input from the community. The state receives and reviews applications to ensure they meet the acquisition requirements prior to submitting them to FEMA for approval. FEMA then reviews the applications to ensure they are eligible under the program, are environmentally sound, and are a cost-effective use of funds.

Once FEMA gives its approval, the acquisition process begins. The communities purchase the homes, the buildings are removed or destroyed, and the land is cleared. The site is then preserved as open space with no permanent structures in perpetuity.

“The process saves taxpayers the continuing costs associated with repetitive flooding,” McCool said, “and it saves homeowners a lot of heartache.”

The project is funded 75 percent by FEMA, with an additional 22 percent from the Commonwealth and the balance from other non-federal sources.

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, 18-May-2012 14:25:25

This article – 

FEMA Approves $1.1 Million for Commonwealth Property Acquisitions

FEMA Registration Deadline Is May 21

FEMA Registration Deadline Is May 21 

Release Date: May 15, 2012
Release Number: 4061-067

» More Information on West Virginia Severe Storms, Flooding, Mudslides, And Landslides

CHARLESTON, W. Va. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency is reminding those affected by the recent floods in Lincoln, Logan and Mingo counties they have until May 21 to register for possible assistance.

Help might be available for homeowners, renters and businesses of any size. The loss or damages must be a direct result of the flash floods of March 15 through March 31.

People seeking assistance need only phone FEMA’s toll-free Help Line at 800-621-3362 to speak to a representative and supply some basic information. Operators are standing by from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time seven days a week. If you are unsure if you qualify, the first step is to register, FEMA officials said.

Registrations can also be made online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov. From a Web-enabled cell phone or other PDA, the address is m.fema.gov. Those with hearing or speech disabilities can use the TTY number, 800-462-7585. For those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362.

Applicants should be ready to supply FEMA with current contact information (mailing address, phone number and e-mail address or those of a friend or relative who is in touch with the applicant), a Social Security number of any household member, the address of the damaged property, a brief description of the problems and, if appropriate, any information about insurance coverage one might or might not have.

The FEMA representative may ask for some other data, like the number of people residing in the property and the family’s gross annual income. All this information is critical to the process and will be kept in strict confidence by FEMA, officials said.

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: Tuesday, 15-May-2012 18:08:27

Continued here – 

FEMA Registration Deadline Is May 21

Deadlines for FEMA Registration Near

Deadlines for FEMA Registration Near 

Release Date: May 9, 2012
Release Number: 4059-065

» More Information on West Virginia Severe Storms, Flooding, Mudslides, And Landslides
» More Information on West Virginia Severe Storms, Tornadoes, Flooding, Mudslides, And Landslides

CHARLESTON, W. Va. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency is reminding those affected by the recent storms and floods they have only a short time left to register for possible assistance.

For residents in Lincoln, Marion, Harrison, Preston, Taylor and Wayne counties affected by the storms and flooding of February 29 through March 5, the deadline is May 15. For those in Lincoln, Logan and Mingo counties who sustained damage in the floods of March 15 through March 31, the deadline is May 21. Help is available for homeowners, renters and businesses of any size.

To find out if you are eligible for assistance and to register with FEMA, call the FEMA Help Line at 800-621-3362. You can also register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov. With a Web-enabled mobile device, log onto m.fema.gov.

For individuals with hearing or speech impairments, FEMA has a TTY line at 800-462-7585.

The phone lines are open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time seven days a week.

For more information and guidance in navigating the disaster-assistance process, a state and federal Disaster Recovery Center remains open until noon, Friday, May 11. The center is at 2270 Mud Fork Road in Logan and operates from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day until May 11.

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, 09-May-2012 10:54:33

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Deadlines for FEMA Registration Near

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