August 2007

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FEMA: Press Releases and
Federal Disaster Declarations
August 2007

$27.9 Million in State and Federal Assistance Helps Mend Hospital, Communities Damaged By March Tornadoes

ATLANTA, Ga. — Six months have passed since Sumter Regional Hospital in Americus became the major casualty of a tornado and severe storms that struck Georgia in March. The good news is that the hospital is well on the mend with more than $9 million in FEMA Public Assistance grants approved thus far to build an interim hospital complex slated to open late this year. [more]
New Disaster Recovery Center Locations Announced

ROCHESTER, Minn. — Some mobile Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) serving Minnesota residents affected by recent severe storms and flooding will soon relocate and additional ones will open, according to officials from Minnesota Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) and the U.S Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). [more]
September is National Preparedness Month

FEMA's Community Preparedness Division is teaming up with the Department of Homeland Security's (DHS) Ready Campaign and its partner, the Ad Council, to sponsor the fourth annual National Preparedness Month in September. National Preparedness Month is a nationwide effort meant to encourage Americans to take simple steps to prepare for emergencies. Throughout September, DHS is working with over 1,000 organizations to highlight these issues and promote events throughout the United States. [more]
President Declares Major Disaster For New York

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for the state of New York to help people and communities recover from the effects of severe storms, flooding, and tornado on August 8, 2007. [more]
Statement of FEMA Administrator David Paulison on the Resignation of Robert Flowers

I regret to announce the resignation of Robert Flowers, Administrator of Region VIII. Bob has been a tremendous contributor to the agency and a steady hand in FEMA Region VIII. Although we will miss his expertise in FEMA, I am pleased to know that he will continue contributing to the emergency management community in his new post as the Emergency Management Chief of Salt Lake County, Utah. We look forward to working with Bob as he brings his experience in emergency management and preparedness as a front-line emergency manager. [more]
At Six Months, Federal Aid after Alabama Tornadoes Nears $25 Million

ATLANTA, Ga. — Six months later, things are back to a semblance of normal for high-school students in Enterprise, Ala. [more]
Federal Aid Programs For Oklahoma Disaster Recovery

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Bush's major disaster declaration for Oklahoma. [more]
President Declares Major Disaster For Oklahoma

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for the state of Oklahoma to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms, flooding, and tornadoes during the period of May 24 to June 1, 2007. [more]
Federal Aid Programs For New York Disaster Recovery

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Bush's major disaster declaration. [more]
FEMA Mitigation Experts Coming to Starr County

WACO, Texas — Rebuilding or repairing a home after flooding can be a daunting task. But with the right information, homeowners can build back in a way that reduces the likelihood of future damage. Experts from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are coming to a local building supply store in Starr County to provide information about disaster-resistant building practices. Information provided by FEMA's mitigation experts will include: [more]
Two Months In, Texans Receive More Than $37 Million In Federal Disaster Aid

WACO, Texas — Two months after the Presidential disaster declaration, the Governor's Division of Emergency Management (GDEM), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) continue to demonstrate its commitment to Texas residents and businesses affected by June 16-August 3 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding. As of August 30, FEMA and the SBA have approved more than $37,656,796 million in disaster aid. [more]
Plans, Priorities Pave Way to Mississippi Recovery

BILOXI, Miss. — Two years ago it would have been difficult to find a Gulf Coast resident who could visualize anything positive emerging from Hurricane Katrina?s destruction. Today, residents and leaders are facing brighter prospects. Reconstruction and economic plans are materializing, steadily making a Pilgrim?s Progress from those dark days of destruction to a shining, more promising future. [more]
FEMA Notifies Shady Cove of Impending NFIP Probation

SALEM, Ore. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has notified the City of Shady Cove of impending probation from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), effective November 1, 2007. According to FEMA officials, the probationary action is the result of deficiencies in the city's floodplain management program. [more]
FEMA Authorizes Funds For East Zone And Cascade Complex Fires

BOISE, Idaho — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to help fight the East Zone Complex Fire and the Cascade Complex Fire burning in Valley County, Idaho. Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAG) were requested by the State of Idaho and approved Thursday night, 30 August at 9:30 pm EDT. [more]
Federal Aid Programs For Illinois Disaster Recovery

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Bush?s major disaster declaration. [more]
FEMA Authorizes Funds for Castle Rock Wildland Fire

SEATTLE, Wash. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to help the State of Idaho fight the Castle Rock Fire, burning near Sun Valley in Blaine County. [more]
FEMA Ice Disposition Update

Based on preliminary predictions of an active 2006 hurricane season, FEMA decided to retain and store ice remaining from the 2005 season in preparation for the 2006 hurricane season and for possible future responses. However, the predicted hurricane activity for 2006 did not materialize, so the ice was not used and remained in storage. While there is no official published shelf-life for ice, the industry standard assumes a shelf life of up to one year. After two years, the agency had to consider the health risks that might evolve from use of the stored ice. The agency was unable to confirm that the ice was safe for human consumption and didn't want to risk distribution that could potentially cause health issues. [more]
Ascension Parish Receives Over $1 Million in Funding to Acquire Properties

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently approved funding to acquire five properties, including three severe repetitive loss properties, located in the cities of Prairieville, St. Amant and Gonzales. [more]
Two Years of Rebuilding and Recovery in Alabama: FEMA Aid at $946 Million

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Nearly two years after Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast with powerful winds and record storm surges, the state of Alabama continues to rebuild along with its coastal neighbors. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Alabama Emergency Management Agency (AEMA) have coordinated efforts to reclaim Alabama from the wrath of Katrina, and the federal and state disaster assistance stands as a testament to this monumental undertaking. Officials announced today that federal and state disaster assistance totals have reached a cumulative total of $946.2 million just days before the two year mark of Katrina. [more]
Alabama's Disaster Recovery Operation Two Years Later: By the Numbers

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Hurricane Katrina battered the Gulf Coast region almost two years ago. Today local, state and federal agencies are still working together to provide Alabama residents resources to rebuild their lives. As the recovery process continues, here is a look back to see how far Alabama has come. [more]
FEMA Launches Unique Communications Tool

Montgomery, Ala. — Officials of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announce a unique, new Web site devoted solely to matters of recovery from hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The FEMA Gulf Coast Recovery Web site will be an essential resource for anyone interested in FEMA's involvement and the progress being made following the devastation of the 2005 hurricanes. [more]
Federal Aid Programs for Ohio Disaster Recovery

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Bush?s major disaster declaration. [more]
FEMA Mitigation Experts Coming To Smith County

WACO, Texas — Rebuilding or repairing a home after flooding can be a daunting task. But with the right information, homeowners can build back in a way that reduces the likelihood of future damage. Experts from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are coming to a local building supply store in Smith County to provide information about disaster-resistant building practices. Information provided by FEMA?s mitigation experts will include: [more]
President Declares Major Disaster for Ohio

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for the state of Ohio to help people and communities recover from the effects of severe storms, flooding, and tornadoes beginning on August 20, 2007, and continuing. [more]
Fast and Effective Federal Response to Multiple Disasters

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Powerful storms brought heavy rains, flooding and tornadoes to communities across the Midwest and Upper Midwest over the past week, as federal officials continued to work with state and local emergency managers to respond. [more]
FEMA Funds Relocation Of Displaced Residents

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today a reimbursement program that will provide relocation assistance to disaster victims displaced by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The damage and destruction caused by the hurricanes resulted in temporary relocation of many of Louisiana?s residents to various locations within and outside the state of Louisiana. [more]
FEMA Funds Relocation of Displaced Residents

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today a reimbursement program that will provide relocation assistance to disaster victims displaced by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The damage and destruction caused by the hurricanes resulted in temporary relocation of many of Louisiana's residents to various locations within and outside the state of Louisiana. [more]
Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Coming to Nueces County

WACO, Texas — A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center (MDRC) is coming to Nueces County to offer assistance to residents affected by the June 16 ? August 3 severe storms and flooding, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today. Recovery specialists will be available to answer questions residents may have about the disaster aid process. The MDRC will open in Corpus Christi on Wednesday, August 29 and operate daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through Wednesday, September 12. The MDRC will be closed on Sundays. It will be located at: [more]
$27.7 Million in Disaster Aid to Oklahomans

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Disaster assistance of $27.7 million has been approved for Oklahomans affected by the severe storms, flooding, and tornadoes which hit the state prior to July 25, according to officials with the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). [more]
FEMA Approves $3 Million For Henrico County Debris Removal

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that more than $3 million was approved for Henrico County, Virginia. [more]
Federal Aid Programs For Oklahoma Disaster Recovery

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Bush?s major disaster declaration. [more]
President Declares Major Disaster For Oklahoma

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for the state of Oklahoma to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding beginning on August 18, 2007, and continuing. [more]
Disaster Aid Expanded To Caledonia and Orleans Counties

BERLIN, Vt. - Two additional counties affected by the severe storms and flooding of July 9-11 are now eligible for disaster Public Assistance, announced officials from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Vermont Emergency Management. Caledonia and Orleans counties have been added to the major disaster declaration providing federal funding to help communities recover in Orange, Washington and Windsor counties that was authorized by President Bush on August 7. [more]
Not A U.S. Citizen? You May Be Eligible For Disaster Assistance

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — People who are not U.S. citizens may be eligible for disaster assistance for damage from the severe storms, flooding, and tornadoes that occurred prior to July 25th. [more]
Chena Goldstream Fire Department To Receive $97,228 In Funding Through FEMA's Assistance To Firefighters Grant Program

SEATTLE, Wash. — Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded $97,228 in an Assistance-to-Firefighters Grant (AFG) to the Chena-Goldstream Fire & Rescue Department in Alaska for the department's Operations and Safety initiatives. Nationally, the fiscal year (FY) 2007 AFG awards, which will be distributed in phases, will ultimately provide over $490 million to fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations throughout the country. [more]
Washington Fire Departments To Receive $160,137 In Funding Through FEMA's Assistance To Firefighters Grant Program

SEATTLE, Wash. — Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded $160,137 in Assistance-to-Firefighters Grants (AFG) to fire departments in Washington, for Operations and Safety initiatives. Nationally, the fiscal year (FY) 2007 AFG awards, which will be distributed in phases, will ultimately provide over $490 million to fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations throughout the country. [more]
Idaho Fire Departments To Receive $92,696 In Funding Through FEMA's Assistance To Firefighters Grant Program

SEATTLE, Wash. — Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded $92,696 in Assistance-to-Firefighters Grants (AFG) to fire departments in Idaho for those department's Operations and Safety initiatives. Nationally, the fiscal year (FY) 2007 AFG awards, which will be distributed in phases, will ultimately provide over $490 million to fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations throughout the country. [more]
'No Sale' Letters For Some Travel Trailer Occupants

BILOXI, Miss. — Families who expressed interest in purchasing their travel trailer or park model units will receive letters from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) informing them the units are no longer for sale. [more]
President Declares Major Disaster For Minnesota

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for the state of Minnesota to help people and communities recover from the effects of severe storms and flooding that began on August 18, 2007, and continuing. [more]
Federal Aid Programs For Minnesota Disaster Recovery

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Bush?s major disaster declaration. [more]
FEMA Administrator To Tour Midwest Floods

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator David Paulison and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Michael Chertoff began a tour of the flood-ravaged communities in Ohio and Minnesota today. Paulison will continue his assessment of the Midwest tomorrow by visiting additional areas in Minnesota and Wisconsin. [more]
FEMA Aid To Texans Nears $20 Million

WACO, Texas — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Governor's Division of Emergency Management (GDEM) are working in partnership to help Texas residents recover from the recent flooding that occurred from June 16 to August 3. The following is a summary of ongoing response and recovery efforts: [more]
FEMA And States Work Together To Assess Recent Flooding

WASHINGTON, D.C. — While many Americans heave a sigh of relief that Hurricane Dean veered away from our coastline, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continues to work hand-in-hand with states affected by recent flooding and other disaster situations throughout the country. [more]
Resources Available For Elderly And Disabled

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — Many resources are available to assist Oklahoma elderly, special needs individuals, residents, and business owners who are still recovering from the severe storms, flooding and tornadoes which occurred prior to July 25. The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) reminds residents that getting help begins by filing an application for disaster assistance with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Other assistance is available through a number of private, state and federal agencies. [more]
Two Weeks To Go To Register For Disaster Assistance

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — With just two weeks to go before the September 5 deadline to register for federal disaster assistance, officials of the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) urge Oklahomans affected by the severe storms, flooding and tornadoes that occurred prior to July 25 to make sure they have applied for all the federal assistance for which they may be eligible. [more]
Federal Responders Continue to Monitor And Plan for Hurricane Dean?s Impact

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The federal government continues to calibrate its response to Hurricane Dean as the storm tracks south of the United States and into the Gulf of Mexico. Federal responders maintained coordination with state and local partners to assess the storm’s projected impact and adapt the efforts already undertaken to determine best use of assets in place. [more]
FEMA Aid Registration Deadline Extended To October 29

WACO, Texas — FEMA and the State of Texas are committed to helping all affected residents recover from recent flooding. To do this, FEMA has approved Texas’ request to extend the deadline by which individuals affected by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding between June 16 and August 3 can register for disaster aid to October 29. [more]
$1.6 Million Fema Grant Will Pump Up Seabrook Island Wastewater Plant$1.6 Million Fema Grant Will Pump Up Seabrook Island Wastewater Plant

ATLANTA, Ga. — Some things don?t work well under water ? or at all. When it?s a wastewater facility inundated by storm surge, things could get messy. [more]
FEMA Authorizes Funds To Help Fight Ford Road Fire In Montana

DENVER, Colo. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Ford Road Fire burning near Billings, Mont. This is the third Montana wildfire in the last month to qualify for FEMA firefighting funds. [more]
Feds Gear Up To Support Texas In Advance Of Hurricane Dean

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As Hurricane Dean sets its course through the Western Caribbean, the federal government has geared up operations in response to the dangerous Category 4 hurricane before it makes its entry to the Gulf of Mexico. [more]
President Declares State Of Emergency For The State Of Texas

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The President today declared an emergency exists in the State of Texas and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from Hurricane Dean beginning on August 17, 2007, and continuing. [more]
FEMA Mitigation Experts Coming To Fort Worth

WACO, Texas — Rebuilding or repairing a home after flooding can be a daunting task. But with the right information, homeowners can build back in a way that reduces the likelihood of future damage. Experts from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are coming to a local building supply store in Fort Worth to provide information about disaster-resistant building practices. Information provided by FEMA?s mitigation experts will include: [more]
FEMA Funds Mitigation Measures in St. Helena Parish

NEW ORLEANS, La. — A recently approved grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has designated funds to upgrade or harden three critical facilities in St. Helena Parish to reduce their vulnerability to natural hazards, particularly hurricanes. [more]
Washington Fire Departments Receive $331,903 Through FEMA?s Assistance To Firefighters Grant Program

SEATTLE, Wash. — Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded $331,903 in Assistance-to-Firefighters Grant (AFG) to local fire departments and emergency medical services organizations in the state of Washington. Nationally, the fiscal year (FY) 2007 AFG awards, which will be distributed in phases, will ultimately provide over $490 million to fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations throughout the country. [more]
Idaho Fire Department Receives $89,799 Through FEMA?s Assistance To Firefighters Grant Program

SEATTLE, Wash. — Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded $89,799 in an Assistance-to-Firefighters Grant (AFG) to Rock Creek Rural Fire Department in Kimberly, Idaho for that department’s operations and safety programs. Nationally, the fiscal year (FY) 2007 AFG awards, which will be distributed in phases, will ultimately provide over $490 million to fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations throughout the country. [more]
Coburg, Oregon Fire Department Receives $43,386 Through FEMA?s Assistance To Firefighters Grant Program

SEATTLE, Wash. — Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded $43,386 in an Assistance-to-Firefighters Grant (AFG) to the Coburg Rural Fire Protection District in Oregon, for that department’s Operations and Safety programs. Nationally, the fiscal year (FY) 2007 AFG awards, which will be distributed in phases, will ultimately provide over $490 million to fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations throughout the country. [more]
Alaska Fire Departments Receive $405,481 Through FEMA?s Assistance To Firefighters Grant Program

SEATTLE, Wash. — Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded $405,481 in Assistance-to-Firefighters Grants (AFG) to local fire departments and emergency medical services organizations in the state of Alaska. Nationally, the fiscal year (FY) 2007 AFG awards, which will be distributed in phases, will ultimately provide over $490 million to fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations throughout the country. [more]
Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Coming To Guadalupe County

WACO, Texas — A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center (MDRC) is coming to Guadalupe County to offer assistance to residents affected by the severe storms and flooding in the region, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today. Recovery specialists will be available to answer questions residents may have about the disaster aid process. The MDRC will open in Seguin on Sunday, August 19 and operate daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Wednesday, August 22. It will be located at: [more]
Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Coming to Hood County

WACO, Texas — A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center (MDRC) is coming to Hood County to offer assistance to residents affected by the severe storms and flooding in the region, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today. Recovery specialists will be available to answer questions residents may have about the disaster aid process. The MDRC will open in Granbury on Sunday, August 19 and operate daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Thursday, August 23. It will be located at: [more]
FEMA Aid To Texans Tops $18 Million

WACO, Texas — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Governor's Division of Emergency Management (GDEM) are working in partnership to help Texas residents recover from the recent flooding that occurred from June 16th to August 3. The following is a summary of ongoing response and recovery efforts: [more]
FEMA Is Supported By Regions In Hurricane Response

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) coordinates federal government activities in support of state and local emergency management and is bolstered in this mission by its Regional Offices. As the near triple threat of Hurricane Flossie, Tropical Storms Dean and Erin emerged this week, FEMA was ready and prepared to offer assistance to the effected states and territories. Much of this initial outreach and deployment of assets to the states was done by the Regional Offices. [more]
FIRSTeam Atlanta Heads for Puerto Rico to Meet Hurricane Dean

ATLANTA, Ga. — Exemplifying the new FEMA leaning forward, five Atlanta-based FEMA specialists have ramped up to meet the storm in Puerto Rico. [more]
FEMA Contacting 1.2 Million Disaster Applicants In Florida About Court Order To Release Personal Information

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is in the process of making telephone calls and sending letters to up to 1.2 million Florida applicants for disaster assistance to inform them that a recent court order has directed the agency to send the addresses of their disaster-damaged homes to certain newspapers in Florida that sued FEMA to get the information. [more]
FEMA Authorizes Funds to Help Fight Black Cat Fire in Montana

DENVER, Colo. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Black Cat Fire burning near Missoula, Mont. [more]
Disaster Recovery Centers Transition To SBA Loan Centers

WACO, Texas ? FEMA's Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) serving Grayson and Cooke counties will transition to U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loan Outreach Centers (DLOCs). These centers will provide long-term loan information to residents and businesses who suffered damage as a result of the severe storms, tornadoes and floods occurring from June 16 through August 3. The Loan Outreach Centers will be located as follows: [more]
Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Coming to Walker County

WACO, Texas — A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center (MDRC) is coming to Walker County to offer assistance to residents affected by the severe storms and flooding in the region, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today. Recovery specialists will be available to answer questions residents may have about the disaster aid process. The MDRC will open in Huntsville on Friday, August 17 and operate daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through Monday, August 20. It will be located at: [more]
FEMA Coordinating Federal Response To Hurricane Flossie

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As Hurricane Flossie continues on its path in the Pacific, the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency is accelerating coordination and deployment of federal assets to Hawaii to support state officials. FEMA Region IX has activated its Regional Response Coordination Center (RRCC) in Oakland, CA and begins 24 hour operations today. The FEMA Pacific area office on the island of Hawaii is providing 24 hour support to the state Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and a FEMA liaison is staffed at the state EOC. [more]
Ready For the Next New England Hurricane?

Hurricanes are born and bred in the tropics. Every so often, one of these storms reaches New England's corner of the world. We call them low-frequency, high-impact events. Hurricanes don't visit us often, but when they do, it's usually memorable. [more]
New Hampshire Lakes Region CERT Helps Communities Prepare and Respond

When the April nor'easter hit New Hampshire, a new Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) had just completed training. "Seven members of the team responded when we called on them to help manage traffic," said Laconia fire chief and emergency manager Ken Erickson. "They came out in the nasty weather and assisted our first responders by diverting traffic and giving directions as two major roads were closed." [more]
211 Turns Two

Vermont's 2-1-1 health and human services helpline recently celebrated its 2nd anniversary with a significant change in operations: service is now available around the clock. Vermont 2-1-1 was launched in February of 2005 to help people with health and human services needs connect with private, local, state and national agencies that help meet those needs. [more]
FEMA Region I Hosts Conference on Disaster Debris Removal Planning

While major hurricanes have struck along the Gulf Coast and East Coast with increased frequency in recent years, it has been 16 years since Hurricane Bob struck New England. However, the threat of a hurricane is real and representatives from the six New England states came together discussing planning for one of the biggest problems associated with those events - debris management. [more]
Harvard University Earns Stormready® Distinction

Harvard University was recently recognized as a StormReady® community - the fifth in Massachusetts to do so. It is the first university in New England and first of the Ivy League schools to attain this certification. This designation indicates that Harvard has fulfilled its emergency communications capabilities and preparedness in the event of a natural disaster. [more]
Art's Message

The Patriots' Day Nor'easter was an unprecedented event in New England. It resulted in disaster declarations in all six states for Public Assistance with three of those states also receiving Individual Assistance. [more]
Governor Rell Supports Volunteer Efforts of State Employees

After Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans, people all over the United States wanted to rush to the aide of their fellow Americans. During that time, the newly formed Connecticut Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS) worked closely with the Office of Governor M. Jodi Rell to mobilize Connecticut's State Employees. [more]
A Park of Their Own: The Return of Rudy Moran Complex

BILOXI, Miss. — Even in the mind-numbing heat that defines summers in Mississippi, boys and girls still eagerly take to the field to play America's pastime. A softball field at the Rudy Moran Sports Complex in D'Iberville, named in honor of a former county employee, will be open for business within a week and local high school softball teams can hardly wait. [more]
Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Coming To Brown County

WACO, Texas — A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center (MDRC) is coming to Brown County to offer assistance to residents affected by the severe storms and flooding in the region, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today. Recovery specialists will be available to answer questions residents may have about the disaster aid process. The MDRC will open in Brownwood on Wednesday, August 15 and operate daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. through Friday, August 17. It will be located at: [more]
$56 Thousand* in Federal Disaster Aid for Rhode Island

WINDSOR, Conn. — More than $56 thousand in federal aid is obligated to help Rhode Island communities recover from damage and destruction caused by severe storms and flooding in April, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). [more]
FEMA Authorizes Funds to Help Fight Little Goose Fire in Wyoming

DENVER, Colo. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Little Goose Fire burning near West Bighorn, Wyo. [more]
Free Legal Services Available for Disaster Victims

WACO, Texas — Through an agreement with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the American Bar Association's Young Lawyer Division and the State Bar of Texas, free legal services are available to low-income disaster victims who have insufficient resources to secure adequate legal services. [more]
President Declares Major Disaster For Maine

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for the state of Maine to supplement state and local recovery efforts in the area struck by severe storms and flooding during the period of July 11-12, 2007. [more]
Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Will Open in Henderson County

WACO, Texas — A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center is coming to Henderson County to offer assistance to residents affected by storms and flooding from June 16 through Aug. 3. The MDRC will open in Athens on Sunday, August 12 and operate daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Wednesday, August 15 . It will be located at: [more]
Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Will Open In Webb County

WACO, Texas — A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center is returning to Webb County to offer assistance to residents affected by storms and flooding from June 16 through Aug. 3. The MDRC will open in Laredo on Sunday, August 12 and operate daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Thursday, August 16. It will be located at: [more]
Federal Aid Programs For Maine Disaster Recovery

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Bush's major disaster declaration for Maine. [more]
FEMA Public Assistance To New York's Schoharie County Tops $425,000

ALBANY, N.Y. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has obligated more than $425,000 in Public Assistance (PA) funds to help New York's Schoharie County repair flood damage and rebuild infrastructure damaged or destroyed in the April nor'easter. [more]
Mississippi Fishermen Get, Give Help To Stay Afloat

BILOXI, Miss. — Cars, roof tops, an old rifle or two, family photos and tons of rotting vegetative matter make up the catch for some Mississippi shrimpers these days. It’s grueling work lifting Hurricane Katrina’s debris from Biloxi Back Bay and adjacent waterways. In the wake of the storm’s effects on fishing and with the onset of unrelated harsh economic realties, some fishermen consider it a welcome task. [more]
FEMA Contributes to Rebuilding Campus of Port Sulphur High School

NEW ORLEANS, La. — Hurricane Katrina destroyed the Port Sulphur High School campus, but the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is helping make sure students will once again be educated in a permanent structure on the premise. [more]
Almost 96,000 California Applicants For Disaster Assistance Are Affected By Court Ruling On Release Of Personal Information

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is launching an effort to contact 95,840 applicants for federal disaster assistance in California to inform them that a federal court has directed it to release certain personally identifiable information on them. The order covers people who applied for assistance following the 2003 fires in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego and Ventura counties, and in connection with the 1998 storms and flooding that affected 41 counties across the state. Personally identifiable information normally is protected under the Privacy Act and the exemption for personal privacy under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). [more]
More Than 156,000 North Carolina Applicants for Disaster Assistance are Affected by Court Ruling on Release of Personal Information

WASHINGTON. D.C. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has launched an effort to contact 156,236 North Carolina applicants for federal disaster assistance to inform them that a federal court has directed it to release certain personally identifiable information on them. The order covers applicants for assistance after hurricanes Floyd, Isabel, Ivan, Bonnie and Tropical Storm Frances in the state. The information normally is protected under the Privacy Act and the exemption for personal privacy under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). [more]
Damages Incurred June 16 - Aug. 3 Eligible for FEMA Aid

WACO, Texas — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) closed the incident period for damages incurred during recent storms, tornadoes and flooding across Texas at midnight Friday, August 3, 2007. Residents who suffered damages between June 16 and August 3, 2007 are eligible to apply for disaster assistance, according to officials with FEMA and the Governor's Division of Emergency Management (GDEM). [more]
Mobile Disaster Recovery Center Will Open in Llano County

WACO, Texas — A Mobile Disaster Recovery Center is coming to Llano County to offer assistance to residents affected by the June 16 through Aug. 3 storms and flooding. The mobile center will open in Kingsland at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 11 and operate through Monday, August 13 as follows: [more]
Breaking The Repetitive Disaster Damage Scenario

ALBANY, N.Y. — Of the $12 million the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved to reimburse New York communities for April nor'easter damage repairs, about $2.4 million of that is to rebuild infrastructure to a higher standard. [more]
Less Than One Week until Disaster Assistance Deadline

Windsor, Conn. — Individuals who had, or may yet have, financial costs as a result of storms and flooding last April have less than one week remaining to register for assistance, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency. [more]
Northwest Florida Water Management District Gets $1.44 Million FEMA Grant to Update Flood Maps

ATLANTA, Ga. — The Northwest Florida Water Management District will receive more than $1.44 million from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for floodplain mapping projects. [more]
Individual Assistance Now Available In 33 Texas Counties

WACO, Texas — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that residents in six additional Texas counties are now eligible for individual assistance to help homeowners, renters and businesses recover from the effects of severe storms, flooding and tornadoes beginning June 16. [more]
Don?t Delay - One Week Remains To Register for Assistance

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Only one week remains for people impacted by the severe storms and flooding that occurred May 5 – 18, 2007, to register for disaster assistance, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Missouri’s State Emergency Management Agency remind residents. [more]
FEMA Mitigation Experts Coming To Sherman

WACO, Texas — Rebuilding or repairing a home after flooding can be a daunting task. But with the right information, homeowners can build back in a way that reduces the likelihood of future damage. Experts from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are coming to a local building supply store in Sherman to provide information about disaster-resistant building practices. Information provided by FEMA’s mitigation experts will include: [more]
FEMA Aid To Texans Tops $14.3 Million

WACO, Texas — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Governor’s Division of Emergency Management (GDEM) are working in partnership to help Texas residents recover from the recent flooding that occurred June 16th and continuing. The following is a summary of ongoing response and recovery efforts: [more]
Preserving New Hampshire History In Disaster Recovery

PORTSMOUTH, N.H. - State and local officials must look to the past as well as to the future when using federal disaster funds to help in recovery and rebuilding after April's flooding. [more]
New Hampshire Fire Departments Receive More Than $124,000 Through FEMA?s FY 2007 Assistance To Firefighters Grant Program

Boston, MA - Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded $124,134 in Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) to local fire departments and emergency medical services organizations in the state of New Hampshire. Nationally, the fiscal year (FY) 2007 AFG awards, which will be distributed in phases, will ultimately provide over $490 million to fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations throughout the country. [more]
Protecting our past and our future

Augusta, Maine - After a disaster, local officials face challenges in coordinating recovery efforts. In addition to helping citizens with basic needs, communities must comply with federal, state and local laws that regulate environmental and historic preservation when rebuilding. When needed, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has a team of specialists that provide consultation, and work with Public Assistance personnel in the rebuilding process. [more]
FEMA Approves $2.3 Million for Mobile Park Acquisition

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today the approval of a grant totaling more than $2.3 million to acquire and demolish the Northwood Mobile Home Park in Greene Township, Pennsylvania. [more]
Maine Fire Departments Receive More Than $254,900 Through FEMA?s FY 2007 Assistance To Firefighters Grant Program

Boston, MA - Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded $254,957.00 in Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) to local fire departments and emergency medical services organizations in the state of Maine. Nationally, the fiscal year (FY) 2007 AFG awards, which will be distributed in phases, will ultimately provide over $490 million to fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations throughout the country. [more]
Connecticut Fire Departments Receive More Than $660,000 Through FEMA?s FY 2007 Assistance To Firefighters Grant Program

Boston, MA - Today, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security?s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) awarded $660,033 in Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) to local fire departments and emergency medical services organizations in the state of Connecticut. Nationally, the fiscal year (FY) 2007 AFG awards, which will be distributed in phases, will ultimately provide over $490 million to fire departments and nonaffiliated emergency medical service organizations throughout the country. [more]
Recovery By Design, Gulfport Style

BILOXI, Miss. — All the ingredients are falling into place for Gulfport's ambitious recovery from Hurricane Katrina: a comprehensive master plan, a newly created economic development office, a growing population, federal assistance and private investment. [more]
FEMA Approves $1.3 Million Grant for Christiana Hospital to Minimize Flood Damage

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that more than $1.3 million was approved for Christiana Hospital in Newark, Delaware. [more]
FEMA Funds Two Mitigation Projects In Plaquemines Parish

NEW ORLEANS, La. — The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recently approved funding for two projects in Plaquemines Parish. Funding is allocated to rebuild one residential property and elevate another structure in the parish. The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funding provides mitigation alternatives to reduce or eliminate long-term risks for properties affected by hurricanes Katrina and Rita. [more]
Lummi Nation Is First In Nation In Hazard Mitigation

Seattle, Wash. — Officials from the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have approved the update to the Lummi Nation Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. [more]
At Six Months, Federal Aid After Florida Tornadoes Nears $40 Million

ATLANTA, Ga. — Six months after tornadoes struck Central Florida, federal disaster assistance to impacted people and communities has passed $39.1 million. [more]
FEMA Grants $9.27 Million For Interim Sumter Regional Medical Complex

ATLANTA, Ga. — On March 1, a tornado tore a one-mile wide, six-mile long swath across the community of Americus, Ga. It zeroed in on Sumter Regional Hospital, the area's largest medical facility and major employer. Dawn's light found the 143-bed hospital severely damaged, the adjacent HealthPlex destroyed, 70 patients safely evacuated and some 700 personnel temporarily displaced. [more]

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