December 13, 2021

FEMA: Response to Torando-Damage Areas Continues and Kentucky Received Major Disaster Declaration Approval

President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. approved Kentucky’s request for an expedited major disaster declaration Sunday night. The declaration authorizes federal assistance for disaster survivors in Caldwell, Fulton, Graves, Hopkins, Marshall, Muhlenberg, Taylor and Warren counties.

The declaration was granted after FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and DHS Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas visited affected areas of Kentucky Sunday to see tornado destruction firsthand and meet with first responders and emergency management officials conducting operations throughout the state.

“To all of the people of Kentucky, my heart goes out to each and every one of you who have experienced the tragic events from these tornadoes. I want you to know that the nation, your country, is praying with you,” said Administrator Criswell following the visit. Criswell said it was important for her and the secretary to see the damaged areas firsthand “so we can make sure that we’re providing the right level of assistance to help with your response and your ongoing recovery.”

FEMA, Federal and Voluntary Agency Partner Response Actions

FEMA’s priorities are to support lifesaving and life-sustaining actions. The agency continues working with federal, state, local, tribal and non-governmental partners to support the needs of areas affected by the tornado outbreak.

How to Help

After a disaster, people want to help. To make the most of your contributions, it’s important to follow guidelines for donating and volunteering responsibly.

Staying Safe During Clean Up

Following any emergency, always follow the instructions given by state, local or tribal emergency management officials. And before you begin cleaning up, take photos and make a list of your damaged property.

Survivors who cannot stay in their homes can locate emergency shelters options by zip code by visiting the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, or by texting SHELTER and your zip code (for example, “SHELTER 01234”) to 4FEMA (43362). For Spanish text REFUGIO and your zip code. (Standard text message rates apply.)  You can also download the FEMA mobile app to find open shelters. 

Additional safety tips include:

Avoid Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

If you lost power, avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and fires.

This post was originally published here.