Category: Hurricane

NOAA predicts a near-normal 2023 Atlantic hurricane season

NOAA forecasters with the Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service, predict near-normal hurricane activity in the Atlantic this year. NOAA’s outlook for the 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, which goes from June 1 to November 30, predicts a 40% chance of a near-normal season, a 30% chance of an above-normal season and a 30% chance of a below-normal season.

NOAA is forecasting a range of 12 to 17 total named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher). Of those, 5 to 9 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 1 to 4 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). NOAA has a 70% confidence in these ranges.

A summary infographic showing hurricane season probability and numbers of named storms predicted from NOAA's 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook. 
A summary infographic showing hurricane season probability and numbers of named storms predicted from NOAA’s 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook.  (Image credit: NOAA)

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“Thanks to the Commerce Department and NOAA’s critical investments this year in scientific and technological advancements in hurricane modeling, NOAA will be able to deliver even more accurate forecasts, helping ensure communities have the information they need to prepare for and respond to the destructive economic and ecological impacts of Atlantic hurricanes,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo.

A summary graphic showing an alphabetical list of the 2023 Atlantic tropical cyclone names as selected by the World Meteorological Organization. The official start of the Atlantic hurricane season is June 1 and runs through November 30. 
A summary graphic showing an alphabetical list of the 2023 Atlantic tropical cyclone names as selected by the World Meteorological Organization. The official start of the Atlantic hurricane season is June 1 and runs through November 30.  (Image credit: NOAA)

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The upcoming Atlantic hurricane season is expected to be less active than recent years, due to competing factors — some that suppress storm development and some that fuel it — driving this year’s overall forecast for a near-normal season.

After three hurricane seasons with La Nina present, NOAA scientists predict a high potential for El Nino to develop this summer, which can suppress Atlantic hurricane activity. El Nino’s potential influence on storm development could be offset by favorable conditions local to the tropical Atlantic Basin. Those conditions include the potential for an above-normal west African monsoon, which produces African easterly waves and seeds some of the stronger and longer-lived Atlantic storms, and warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures in the tropical Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea which creates more energy to fuel storm development. These factors are part of the longer term variability in Atlantic atmospheric and oceanic conditions that are conducive to hurricane development — known as the high-activity era for Atlantic hurricanes — which have been producing more active Atlantic hurricane seasons since 1995.

“With a changing climate, the data and expertise NOAA provides to emergency managers and partners to support decision-making before, during and after a hurricane has never been more crucial,” said NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D. “To that end, this year we are operationalizing a new hurricane forecast model and extending the tropical cyclone outlook graphic from five to seven days, which will provide emergency managers and communities with more time to prepare for storms.”

This summer, NOAA will implement a series of upgrades and improvements. NOAA will expand the capacity of its operational supercomputing system by 20%. This increase in computing capability will enable NOAA to improve and run more complex forecast models, including significant model upgrades this hurricane season:

  • In late June, the Hurricane Analysis and Forecast System (HAFS) will become operational. HAFS will run this season in tandem with the currently operational Hurricane Weather Research and Forecast Model System and Hurricanes in a Multi-scale Ocean-coupled Non-hydrostatic model, but eventually will become NOAA’s primary hurricane model. Retrospective analysis of tropical storms and hurricanes from the 2020-2022 seasons show that this model has a 10-15% improvement in track forecasts over existing operational models. This new model was jointly created by NOAA’s Atlantic Oceanographic & Meteorological Laboratory Hurricane Modeling and Prediction Program and NOAA’s National Weather Service Environmental Modeling Center.
  • The Probabilistic Storm Surge model upgrade on May 2, advances storm surge forecasting for the contiguous U.S. and new forecasts for surge, tide and waves for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Forecasters now have the ability to run the model for two storms simultaneously. This model provides forecasters with the likelihood, or probability, of various flooding scenarios including a near worst-case scenario to help communities prepare for all potential outcomes.

Additional upgrades or new tools for hurricane analysis and forecasting include:

  • The National Hurricane Center’s Tropical Weather Outlook graphic, which shows tropical cyclone formation potential, has expanded the forecast range from five to seven days.
  • Over the last 10 years, flooding from tropical storm rainfall was the single deadliest hazard. To give communities more time to prepare, the Weather Prediction Center is extending the Excessive Rainfall Outlook an additional two days, now providing forecasts up to five days in advance. The outlook shows general areas at risk for flash flooding due to excessive rainfall.
  • The National Weather Service will unveil a new generation of forecast flood inundation mapping for portions of Texas and portions of the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast in September 2023. These forecast maps will extend to the rest of the U.S. by 2026. Forecast flood inundation maps will show the extent of flooding at the street level.

NOAA will continue improving new and current observing systems critical in understanding and forecasting hurricanes. Two projects underway this season include:

“As we saw with Hurricane Ian, it only takes one hurricane to cause widespread devastation and upend lives. So regardless of the number of storms predicted this season, it is critical that everyone understand their risk and heed the warnings of state and local officials. Whether you live on the coast or further inland, hurricanes can cause serious impacts to everybody in their path,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “Visit ready.gov or listo.gov for readiness resources, and get real time emergency alerts by downloading the FEMA App. Actions taken today can save your life when disaster strikes. The time to prepare is now.”

NOAA’s outlook is for overall seasonal activity and is not a landfall forecast. In addition to the Atlantic seasonal outlook, NOAA also issues seasonal hurricane outlooks for the eastern Pacific and central Pacific hurricane basins. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center will update the 2023 Atlantic seasonal outlook in early August, just prior to the historical peak of the season.

 

Article: https://www.noaa.gov/news-release/2023-atlantic-hurricane-season-outlook

Media contact

Allison Santorelli, (301) 427-9000

Preparing to Apply: Disaster/Hurricane Assistance

Monday, August 15th

5:30 pm -7:30 pm CST

Monroe Civic Center

401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expy.

Monroe, LA 71201

To register :

Preparing to Apply: Disaster/Hurricane Assistance (lsbdc.org)

FREE and OPEN to the Public

 

TOPIC: DISASTER MITIGATION

As Hurricane Season approaches, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) continues to prioritize equitably supporting impacted communities through disaster assistance, mitigation, and business preparedness efforts. It is more important than ever for residents and small businesses to remember that the best course of action to limit damage from natural disasters is preparing before the disaster hits.

Topics Include:

* Setting up login.gov for SBA portal

* eligibility requirements for assistance

* required documents

* best practices for approval

* roles for SBA and FEMA

FEMA Updates Digital Preparedness Tools

Release Date:
August 1, 2022
FEMA has two new ways to help people in Louisiana be better prepared for severe weather and hurricanes: 1) the redesigned FEMA app for smartphones and 2) the updated text-to-shelter service.

Smartphone App
FEMA recently released a redesigned smartphone app that gives users more personalized options. Downloading the app and then setting preferences is a simple way for Louisianans to be better prepared as we enter peak hurricane season. Users can enter their location and the app will show them the information they need. Users also can enter up to four other locations, so they can get information relevant for family and friends or to their workplace.

The Recover section opens with the basics about federal disaster declarations and continues with frequently asked questions about applying for assistance. The Preparedness section has been re-worked, with topics listed under Latest and A-Z sections. And popular features such as weather alerts, emergency shelter locations and disaster recovery center information have been revamped to be more user-friendly.

The app has a Spanish language option. It’s available for free download on iOS or Android. Current users will need to update their app but they do not need to re-download.

Shelter Locator Texting
While the FEMA App has a lot to offer, disasters can disrupt communications systems, and mobile internet service may not be reliable. However, texting capabilities often remain unaffected. Plus, not everyone has a smartphone. That’s why the Text to Shelter service exists and was updated earlier this year.

Anyone needing shelter in a disaster can simply text “shelter” and their ZIP code to 43362 and they will get a list of nearby shelter locations. With the update, they will get a list of shelter addresses within 200 miles of the entered ZIP code, not only those shelters within that ZIP code.

The shelters identified through the text feature are pulled from data managed by the American Red Cross (FEMA’s partner for this service). FEMA does not run shelters. In a disaster situation follow the instructions of state and local officials, as they may be able to point survivors to additional shelters and resources not included in the text feature.

St. Charles Parish officials hope new weather tech will help in storm response and recovery

ST. CHARLES PARISH (WVUE) – It’s been nearly one year since Hurricane Ida made landfall and many are still trying to rebuild. In St. Charles Parish, officials are preparing ahead of the next big storm. They say a new interactive weather station will not only help parish officials with response, but help residents in recovery.

“This is one of 20 weather stations we’ve put out throughout the parish we use internally to help us make decisions when we have severe weather,” said St. Charles Parish President Matthew Jewell. “So whether that’s being able to monitor rain rates and rain accumulations and being able to use that information when we’re engaging our pumping stations or whether we’re in extreme heat advisories and we need to make sure our employees are aware who are working out in the field.”

Jewell said the new weather station technology by WeatherSTEM was installed at the parish’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC), thanks to a grant from the Department of Homeland Security – State Homeland Security Program (SHSP), “which provides funding that supports the implementation of instrumentation dedicated to enhancing resilience against manmade and natural disaster threats.”

He said it will not only help parish officials in making real-time decisions but it’s also public facing, meaning residents will have access to the technology as well.

“One of the big things we saw last year during Hurricane Ida is these insurance companies telling our residents that the weather never got as bad as it did or the wind didn’t get above 80 or 90 mph which simply wasn’t true,” said Jewell.

The new weather station will also store data from past weather events that officials and residents can access.

“This weather station here is ready for 180 mph winds, we have backup generation on it so we know we will be able to collect data from this weather station, we know it’s not going to go down and we know we can give residents the information they need to help fight these insurance companies who are really trying to work over some of these residents.”

When it comes to recovery in St. Charles Parish, Jewell said it’s a long process.

About 80 percent of it got done pretty quickly, and I feel like we’re in that last 20 percent, which is just a day-to-day battle,” he said. “Whether you’re battling with your insurance company or a contractor, or if you didn’t get enough from your insurance company, now it’s not enough to cover materials under this inflation. It’s a constant battle and I think this last 20 percent is going to take a while but we’re taking it one day at a time and that’s just how you gotta get through it.”

In addition to the new weather system, Jewell said the parish is working to repair and enhance all of its technologies and response tools ahead of any major storm that might arise this hurricane season.

“We’re trying to beef up all of our repairs so that they can withstand a Hurricane Ida type of event and we’re also working on a lot of resiliency and redundancy in our critical infrastructure to make sure that when I storm hits, those critical infrastructures don’t go down and we can remain more resilient during the future.”

The weather station offers free weather education for those interested in learning about meteorology and weather events. Click here for more.

By Olivia Vidal, Fox 8 New Orleans 
Published: Jul. 16, 2022 

Review and Update Insurance Coverage

As we continue through this hurricane season, it is never too late to review your insurance policy, especially if there are any changes to your underwriter.  It is useful to remember that there are two important entities that support the Louisiana Insurance consumers.  The Louisiana Guaranty Association (LIGA) was designed to create a safety net for insurance consumers if the insurance company becomes insolvent. The Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corporation is a nonprofit organization created to provide insurance products for residential and commercial property applicants who are in good faith entitled, but unable, to procure insurance through the voluntary insurance marketplace.

Both organizations provide a vital service to consumers. Please take a few moments to review and become familiar with their sites and the services they provide.

https://www.laiga.org/history/covered-by-liga/

https://www.lacitizens.com/

Stay safe partners.

FEMA Administrator Criswell Announces National Building Codes Initiative with White House

Release Date:
June 1, 2022

WASHINGTON — June 1 officially marks the beginning of the Atlantic hurricane season, and according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s 2022 outlook it will be another active season.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell stressed the importance of taking preparedness measures early while at the National Hurricane Center in Miami earlier today.

“While it is FEMA’s goal to lead the nation, to set the example for the level readiness and preparedness we need to see for this hurricane season — we can’t do this without you. Please don’t wait — act now. Visit Ready.gov to make your emergency plan today,” said Administrator Criswell.

Criswell emphasized that now is the time to prepare your home and your family, because it only takes one storm to devastate a community. Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem and can affect inland communities.

Consider these actions to start your preparedness today:

  • Visit Ready.gov to learn about how to prepare for disasters that might happen where you live, work or visit. You’ll get information for individuals, individuals with disabilities, families, kids, pets and businesses on how to prepare for or what to do in case of a severe storm this hurricane season.
  • Build an emergency kit. If you live in Hawai’i, Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, consider having supplies to last at least 10 days.
  • You can also download the free FEMA App to receive weather alerts and warnings for up to five different locations in the United States.
  • Visit Ready.gov/hurricanes for the latest information on being prepared for this hurricane season.
  • FEMA recently updated the agency’s text to shelter feature. In the event of an evacuation, you can text 43362 to research emergency shelters in your location.

Following her visit to the National Hurricane Center, Criswell visited Florida International University’s Wall of Wind to announce the Biden-Harris Administration’s National Initiative to Advance Building Codes. The national initiative will help ensure that federally funded structures whether new or rehabilitated, are strong enough to withstand the frequency, strength and severity of extreme weather events.

“The National Institute of Building Sciences reports that the adoption of hazard resistant building codes saves communities $11 per every $1 invested,” Criswell said. “By modernizing building codes, we will not only save money by protecting people’s property and lowering energy costs, but we will also protect people’s lives by making our infrastructure more resilient to severe weather and the impacts of climate change. This critical initiative underscores the Biden-Harris Administration’s commitment to achieving these objectives by bolstering the adoption of the latest, current building codes and standards across this nation.”

In April, FEMA released the agency’s “Building Codes Strategy” to organize and prioritize FEMA activities to advance the adoption and enforcement of hazard-resist building codes and standards for agency programs.

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell conducts media interviews at the National Hurricane Center to promote hurricane readiness. The Administrator stressed the importance of taking preparedness measures early.

 

MIAMI — FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell conducts media interviews at the National Hurricane Center to promote hurricane readiness. The Administrator stressed the importance of taking preparedness measures early. (FEMA photo by Graham Haynes)

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell speaks at the National Hurricane Center to promote hurricane readiness. The Administrator stressed the importance of taking preparedness measures early.

MIAMI — FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell speaks at the National Hurricane Center to promote hurricane readiness. The Administrator stressed the importance of taking preparedness measures early. (FEMA photo by Graham Haynes)

Hurricane Season Begins Today

Prep for #HurricaneSeason2022

1. Register for the LABEOC Business Network – https://wordpress.com/view/labeoc.org

2. Download the Hurricane Toolkit for Business – https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2020-04/ready_business_hurricane-toolkit.pdf

3. Visit http://getagameplan.org

NOAA Predicts Above-Normal 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season

Ongoing La Niña, above-average Atlantic temperatures set the stage for busy season ahead

2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season Outlook
Forecasters at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service, are predicting above-average hurricane activity this year — which would make it the seventh consecutive above-average hurricane season. NOAA’s outlook for the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season, which extends from June 1 to November 30, predicts a 65% chance of an above-normal season, a 25% chance of a near-normal season and a 10% chance of a below-normal season.
For the 2022 hurricane season, NOAA is forecasting a likely range of 14 to 21 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3 to 6 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). NOAA provides these ranges with 70% confidence.
“Early preparation and understanding your risk is key to being hurricane resilient and climate-ready,” said Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo. “Throughout the hurricane season, NOAA experts will work around the clock to provide early and accurate forecasts and warnings that communities in the path of storms can depend on to stay informed.”  
The increased activity anticipated this hurricane season is attributed to several climate factors, including the ongoing La Niña that is likely to persist throughout the hurricane season, warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea, weaker tropical Atlantic trade winds and an enhanced west African monsoon. An enhanced west African monsoon supports stronger African Easterly Waves, which seed many of the strongest and longest lived hurricanes during most seasons. The way in which climate change impacts the strength and frequency of tropical cyclones is a continuous area of study for NOAA scientists.
“As we reflect on another potentially busy hurricane season, past storms — such as Superstorm Sandy, which devastated the New York metro area ten years ago —remind us that the impact of one storm can be felt for years,” said NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D. “Since Sandy, NOAA’s forecasting accuracy has continued to improve, allowing us to better predict the impacts of major hurricanes to lives and livelihoods.”
Additionally, NOAA has enhanced the following products and services this hurricane season:

“Hurricane Ida spanned nine states, demonstrating that anyone can be in the direct path of a hurricane and in danger from the remnants of a storm system,” said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. “It’s important for everyone to understand their risk and take proactive steps to get ready now by visiting Ready.gov and Listo.gov for preparedness tips, and by downloading the FEMA App to make sure you are receiving emergency alerts in real-time.”

NOAA’s outlook is for overall seasonal activity and is not a landfall forecast. In addition to the Atlantic seasonal outlook, NOAA has also issued seasonal hurricane outlooks for the eastern Pacific and central Pacific hurricane basins. NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center will update the 2022 Atlantic seasonal outlook in early August, just prior to the historical peak of the season.

Greater Lafourche Port Commission plans Hurricane Readiness Meeting for Port and Airport Tenants

SAVE THE DATE!

The Greater Lafourche Port Commission is holding its annual

HURRICANE READINESS MEETING

FOR

PORT AND AIRPORT TENANTS

Wednesday, June 1, 2022

10:00 a.m.

at the

Greater Lafourche Port Commission’s

Wilbert Collins, Sr. Operations Center

180 A.O. Rappelet Road

Port Fourchon, LA 70357

(Agenda and RSVP information to follow)

Port Fourchon

Operations Center
180 A.O. Rappelet RoadPort Fourchon, LA 70357
Phone: (985) 396-2750

Greater Lafourche Port Commission

Administration Office16829 East Main StreetCut Off, LA 70345Phone: (985) 632-6701Fax: (985) 632-6703Email: glpc@portfourchon.com

GAO – South Lafourche

Leonard Miller, Jr. Airport149 King Air DriveGalliano, LA 70354Phone: (985) 475-6701
Stay connected: portfourchon.com  | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | RSS 

Hurricane Prep Week is May 1-7

Check out the Ready.gov Business Hurricane Toolkit –ready_business_hurricane-toolkit

Policyholder Bill of Rights

From our friends in the Louisiana Department of Insurance.

The Office of Consumer Advocacy, within the Department of Insurance, is charged with informing, educating, assisting, and inspiring citizens to become more aware of the important role insurance plays their lives. We exist to serve the citizens of Louisiana.

With yet another storm season approaching, the time for citizens to prepare is now. Given the increase in frequency and strength of storms, we recognized the need for a more aggressive, proactive approach to reach as many people as possible. There is a real need to explain how components of an insurance policy, like coverages and limits or exclusions and deductibles, work and why they are critical to protecting their dearest asset. We cover practical ways to minimize or avoid risk. Perhaps most enlightening, we take the mystery out of the claims process and show policyholders what they can do in advance to ensure they are well prepared to navigate it safely, and with less stress. We deliver this service through in-person meetings, multimedia presentations, and virtual events as we continue to explore other channels. We want our citizens to know we are here to help and protect them through the “Policyholders Bill of Rights”.

We have helped thousands of citizens with their post disaster issues. Through our formal complaint process, we have the regulatory power to ensure agents, adjusters, and insurance companies perform ethically under the Louisiana Insurance Code. Our work has been well received and our sessions have provided real, measurable help to citizens.

For more information see link below.

 

Louisiana Department of Insurance

 

Spend FEMA Grants Only on Hurricane Recovery

This holiday season, as Louisiana homeowners and renters continue to receive disaster funds, FEMA wants to remind you that federal grant money may only be used for disaster-related expenses.

Receiving Grant Money
Once an application is complete, it only takes FEMA a few days to deposit the money into the bank account you provided. It will appear in your account under a banking code that may not say the word FEMA. You will also receive a letter or email telling you the amount you are receiving and explaining how you can spend the money.

Spend Grants Wisely
Disaster grants are not for regular living expenses. Some examples of allowed expenses include:
▪ Home repairs (e.g., structure, water, septic and sewage systems)
▪ Rental assistance for rent and/or deposit
▪ Repair or replacement of an essential vehicle
▪ Medical or dental care for an uninsured injury caused by the disaster
▪ Necessary educational materials (e.g., computers, schoolbooks, supplies)
▪ Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster
▪ Replacement of essential personal property such as appliances or a bed from an occupied bedroom
▪ Increased childcare expenses

Risks of Not Using Money as Intended
Read your determination letter carefully. You will need to keep receipts for all expenses for at least three years, as disaster funding may be subject to review. If you have spent the payment on anything other than its intended purpose, you may be denied disaster assistance in the future. In some cases, FEMA will ask that the money be
returned.

Keep in touch with FEMA
Be sure FEMA has your most up-to-date contact information, including addresses, phone numbers and bank accounts. If FEMA does not have the correct contact information, survivors may miss letters or phone calls about their application for assistance or payment status.

For any questions, call the FEMA Helpline, 800-621-3362. Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

Hurricane Ida Survivors Must Apply with FEMA – Just Once – for Housing Eligibility

Hurricane Ida survivors who have applied with FEMA for disaster assistance may be
considered for FEMA’s direct temporary housing.

There is no need to apply more than once, and no additional application is required to be considered for housing.
Once a survivor has applied, FEMA will call eligible applicants whose homes were destroyed or are unlivable to
discuss housing needs and to determine the next steps.

Survivors who have not applied for disaster assistance previously can do so online, by phone or at a Disaster
Recovery Center.

▪ Visit http://www.DisasterAssistance.gov or use the FEMA Mobile App
▪ Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585)
▪ Find a DRC closest you at http://www.FEMA.gov/DRC

Those who use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA
the number for that service. Multilingual operators are available.

FEMA has approved direct temporary housing assistance for 10 parishes: Jefferson, Lafourche, Livingston,
Plaquemines, St. Charles, St. Helena, St. James, St. John the Baptist, Tangipahoa and Terrebonne. This program
makes several direct temporary housing options available to eligible Louisiana survivors.
Implementing FEMA’s direct temporary housing program may take months to complete. Site and floodplain
assessments, utility installation and construction, among other things, are required before the units can be
available.

Louisiana’s Hurricane Ida Sheltering Program

Louisiana’s Hurricane Ida Sheltering Program is a state-managed program, which may offer an interim solution
towards Ida survivors’ recovery. The state’s program provides temporary non-congregate sheltering for individuals
and families.

The program focuses on homeowners and renters in the hardest-hit parishes whose homes are unlivable or
destroyed due to disaster damage. Louisiana residents can register for the state program by visiting
Idashelteringla.com or calling (844) 268-0301. A resident is not required to apply for FEMA assistance, but it is
highly recommended.

For the latest information on Hurricane Ida visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow us on Twitter at
twitter.com/FEMARegion6 and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

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FEMA: Disaster Assistance Still Available as Deadline Approaches

BATON ROUGE, La. – As Louisiana continues to recover from Hurricane Ida, FEMA encourages survivors to apply for
disaster assistance before it’s too late. The deadline to apply is Monday, Nov. 29.

Many times, homeowners don’t apply because they believe the damage to their home is insufficient, but later
discover hidden disaster-related damage. Survivors whose homes were damaged or who lost personal property
during Hurricane Ida must apply before Nov. 29 to participate in FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program.

FEMA has several Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) located throughout the state. However, you do not have to visit
a DRC in person to apply with FEMA. The fastest ways to apply for assistance are:
▪ Online at DisasterAssistance.gov.
▪ By phone at 800-621-3362 or (TTY) 800-462-7585. Those who use a relay service such as video relay service
(VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.
▪ Download FEMA’s mobile app. Select Disaster Resources and click on Apply for Assistance Online.

DRCs are staffed by representatives from FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and sometimes other
federal and local agencies and non-governmental resources. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit
http://www.FEMA.gov/DRC. All centers follow COVID-19 precautions. Masks are required for both FEMA specialists and
survivors.

Anyone requiring a reasonable accommodation (ASL interpreting, Braille, large print, etc.) may call 800-621-3362 to
request assistance in advance or ask the recovery staff at the center for assistance.

For the latest information on Hurricane Ida, visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account
at twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

# # #

FEMA Assistance May be Available for Reburials in Louisiana

FEMA Fact Sheet: Oct. 14, 2021
DR-4611-LA FS 027
October 2021

Financial assistance for reburials may be available to Louisiana survivors after Hurricane
Ida caused damage to cemeteries.

Who is Eligible and What is Covered?

Survivors may be eligible for reburial assistance from FEMA, if:
o The damage to the grave site or above-ground vault occurred as a result of Hurricane Ida.
o The damage took place in one of the 25 designated parishes: Ascension, Assumption, East Baton Rouge,
East Feliciana, Iberia, Iberville, Jefferson, Lafourche, Livingston, Orleans, Plaquemines, Pointe Coupee, St.
Bernard, St. Charles, St. Helena, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Martin, St. Mary, St. Tammany,
Tangipahoa, Terrebonne, Washington, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana.
o The grave or vault was in a privately owned, licensed cemetery or burial facility and the reburial costs are the
legal responsibility of an individual and not the cemetery.

Assistance for reburial may include:

o Transfer of remains, including locating, gathering, and identifying displaced caskets
o Caskets, containers, vaults, or urns that were damaged
o Burial plot
o Markers or headstones that were damaged due to unearthed remains
o Necessary costs related to identifying remains
o Gravesite – necessary work to rebury
Individual Assistance vs Public Assistance; Private and Public Cemeteries
FEMA’s Individual Assistance (IA) program is available for survivors whose relatives were laid to rest in either publicly
or privately owned cemeteries. FEMA recommends this as the best approach for survivors who need help with
reburials.

▪ A public cemetery is defined as a facility that is owned and operated by an eligible government entity.
Abandoned private cemeteries may be considered public if a government entity assumes permanent legal
responsibility for the cemetery, including its operation and maintenance.
While publicly-owned cemeteries can be reimbursed through FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) program, this alternative
is only available when no family member can be found who could claim responsibility for the deceased.

PA assistance for publicly owned cemeteries is limited to reducing immediate threats to public safety.
For More Information or to Apply for Assistance

For additional information on reburial assistance in publicly owned cemeteries, contact the Louisiana Statewide
Cemetery Response Task Force at 225-326-6056 or via email at cemeterytaskforce@ag.louisiana.gov.

The fastest and easiest way to apply is by visiting Disasterassistance.gov.

▪ If it is not possible to apply online, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free telephone lines
operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you use a relay service, such as video relay service (VRS),
captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA the number for that service.

FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers have opened in several hurricane-affected parishes. Check the FEMA App or
visit the FEMA DRC Locator to find a location near you and the hours of operation.
For the latest information on Hurricane Ida visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow us on Twitter at
twitter.com/FEMARegion6 and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.
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FEMA Home Inspections: What to Expect

FEMA Fact Sheet: October 15, 2021
DR-4611-LA FS 028
October 2021

If you applied with FEMA and you cannot live in your home because of damage caused by
Hurricane Ida, a FEMA inspector will contact you to set up either a remote or in-person,
exterior-only home inspection.

FEMA home inspections help determine whether a home is safe, sanitary and livable. To determine whether an
an applicant is eligible for assistance, FEMA considers the home’s interior and exterior structural soundness; whether
the electrical, gas, heat, plumbing and sewer or septic systems are functional; and whether the home is livable and
can be entered and exited safely.

At times there can be language or other barriers to completing the inspection. If you need accommodations for
language or a disability, call 800-621-3362 (TTY 800-462-7585) in advance of the inspection and let FEMA know
your needs.

The first step for a home inspection starts with a phone call, text message or email from a FEMA inspector to the
applicant to schedule an appointment for an inspection. More than likely, the phone call to schedule an inspection
will be from out of state. An inspector will attempt to make contact with the survivor up to three times over three
different days. If inspectors cannot reach the applicant after the three attempts, their case will be closed until the
applicant contacts FEMA again.

There are two ways your home may be inspected:

1. Remote inspection: FEMA calls you and schedules a phone/remote/virtual inspection. This inspection is done
entirely over the phone. Most often, the survivor answers questions that will help detail the extent of their
damage.

2. In-person, exterior-only inspection: FEMA calls you to schedule a time for an inspector to visit your home. Taking
COVID-19 protocols into consideration, the inspector will not enter the building, just the property, and will inspect
from outside.

o The inspector who arrives for the appointment will have an official FEMA badge. If you don’t see an I.D.
badge, ask to see their FEMA identification before proceeding. The inspector will ask you for a photo ID to
confirm you are the applicant.

The inspection process, remote or in-person, usually takes 30 to 40 minutes. If you were able to take photos or
video of interior or exterior damage to the home, show them to the inspector.
Survivors who are unable to meet with the FEMA inspector for an in-person inspection or are unable to complete a
remote inspection themselves with an inspector can have a friend or relative act on their behalf to meet with the inspector.

But first, they must submit to FEMA a written and signed request for third-party, which is a legal document,
authorizing another person who is at least 18 years of age to meet with the inspector and to provide and receive
information from FEMA on their behalf.

What Else You Need to Know

 The inspector will not be collecting any documentation and will never ask for personal information like a Social
Security number.

▪ FEMA never charges for an inspection.

▪ If a FEMA inspector comes to your home and you did not submit a FEMA application, your information may have
been used without your knowledge to create a FEMA application; if so, please inform the inspector that you did
not apply for FEMA assistance so they can submit a request to stop all further processing on the application.

 A fraudulent application could be a sign of identity theft. For information on what to do if you suspect identity
theft, please visit Identity Theft | FTC Consumer Information or IdentityTheft.gov. For Spanish, Robo de Identidad
| FTC Información para consumidores or RobodeIdentidad.gov.

▪ If you wish to apply for FEMA assistance after stopping an application made in your name without your
knowledge, the FEMA Helpline will need to assist you in creating a new application. Call 800-621-3362.
For more information on Hurricane Ida recovery in Louisiana, visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow us on Twitter at
twitter.com/FEMARegion6 and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

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Port Fourchon: Final Update for Storm Recovery

GLPC STORM RECOVERY PHASE – FINAL UPDATE

Hurricane Ida

UPDATE #25

October 14, 2021

11:00 a.m.

Port Fourchon is ending all GLPC Storm Phases for Hurricane Ida.

FINAL IDA RECOVERY INFORMATION:

  • DEBRIS REMOVAL: The one-time pickup of large-scale debris for Port Fourchon facilities is underway. Contractors are loading stacked and separated storm debris piles along public rights-of-way or near facility entrances. After this one approved pass, the remainder of any facility’s debris is thereafter the responsibility of the tenant business.
  • POWER AT PORT: Power restoration is nearly complete in Port Fourchon.
  • ROADWAYS: Roadways are clear to and within Port Fourchon.
  • PORT WATERWAYS: Port Fourchon waterways are open for 24/7 operations.
  • BAYOU LAFOURCHE: The Bayou Lafourche channel is open to vessel traffic from Larose to Fourchon. Mariners are advised to remain cautious and follow Coast Guard guidelines post-storm.
  • EMERGENCY STORM HARBOR MARINA: The Emergency Storm Harbor Marina has been deactivated and is now closed.
  • WATER: The Lafourche Parish Water District has restored water supply to Port Fourchon. A boil water advisory remains in place for all areas south of the Golden Meadow floodgates.
  • COMMUNICATIONS: Most cell service has been restored in Port Fourchon.
  • EMERGENCY SERVICES: Operational in Port Fourchon.
  • TENANT FACILITIES: Roughly 75% of port tenants are back to full operations in Port Fourchon.
  • COMMERCIAL FUEL: Available at multiple operational tenant sites in Fourchon, including Stone Fuel, C-Port Stone, Martin 16, and Harvey Fuel.
  • FOOD, GAS, & SUPPLIES: Food, gas and supplies are coming back online in Port Fourchon.
  • GREATER LAFOURCHE PORT COMMISSION ADMINISTRATION OFFICE: We’ve moved! Temporarily. Due to storm damage to our GLPC Admin office building at 16829 East Main Street, we have relocated to the newly acquired building directly behind GLPC Admin. Our temporary physical address is 131 East 91st Street, Cut Off, LA 70345. Our phone numbers remain the same.

Thank you for staying informed with us through Hurricane Ida and her aftermath, and thank you for your support in getting us back to business safely in Port Fourchon.

USACE’s mobile Blue Roof sign-up vehicles in Tangipahoa, St. Charles, St. Helena, Livingston, St. John the Baptist, and Lafourche Parishes

BATON ROUGE, La. — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is announcing the latest mobile locations for its Blue Roofprogram sign-up as of Oct. 6.

The three Mobile Communication Vehicles will be in place from 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily to assist residents with
Hurricane Ida structural roof damage to apply for the Federal Emergency Management Agency assigned USACE
managed Blue Roof program.

Location in Tangipahoa Parish:
– Hammond Library/FEMA DRC, 314 E Thomas St., Hammond, LA 70401 (Oct. 4-6)

Location in St. Charles Parish:
– Alan Artebury Building/FEMA DRC, 14564 River Road, New Sarpey, LA 70078 (Oct. 4-6)

NEW Location in St. Helena Parish:
– UPDATED: Fifth Ward Recreation District, 31676 Highway 16 Amite City, LA 70422 (Oct. 7-8)

Location in Livingston Parish:
– Carters Supermarket, 31459 LA-22, Springfield, LA 70462 (Oct. 9-10)

Location in St. John the Baptist Parish:
– Juan Anthony Joseph Memorial Park, 3445 Hwy. 18, Edgard, LA 70049 (Oct. 8-10)

Locations in Lafourche Parish:
– Walmart Neighborhood Market, 224 W. Main St., Thibodaux, LA 70301 (Oct. 5-7)
– Walmart Supercenter #502, 16759 Hwy. 3235, Galliano, LA 70345 (Oct. 7-9)

Note: Locations are subject to change.

USACE aims to provide homeowners in disaster areas with fiber-reinforced sheeting to cover their damaged roofs until
permanent repairs are made through the Operation Blue Roof program. This program is a free service to homeowners
and protects property, reduces temporary housing costs, and allows residents to remain in their homes while recovering
from a storm. The deadline to apply for this service is Oct. 15.

This program is for primary residences or a permanently occupied rental property with less than 50 percent structural
damage. Vacation rental properties are not eligible for this program. Flat roofs or roofs made of clay, slate or asbestos
tile do not qualify. All storm debris must be removed for the roof to qualify.

Homeowners can visit Blueroof.us to apply. Here, homeowners can sign up for Blue Roof assistance using a Right of
Entry form, which gathers information about your residence. The ROE form is a legal document that allows USACE
workers to access your property and assess your home’s damage. The ROE also allows contracted crews to work on your
roof. To cancel your ROE, residents must send an email to roe-cancel@usace.army.mil, call 888-Roof BLU (888-766-
3258) or visit Blueroof.us

Residents can call toll free 1-888-ROOF-BLU (1-888-766-3258) for more information regarding this program.

Social Media Facebook Twitter
USACE Headquarters https://www.facebook.com/USACEHQ https://twitter.com/USACEHQ
USACE Mississippi Valley Division https://www.facebook.com/mississippivalleydivision https://twitter.com/MVD_USACE
USACE New Orleans District https://www.facebook.com/usacenola/ https://twitter.com/TeamNewOrleans
USACE Memphis https://www.facebook.com/MemphisUSACE/ https://twitter.com/MemphisDistrict

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Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Luling

BATON ROUGE, La. – A Disaster Recovery Center is now open in Luling in St. Charles Parish, at the Edward Dufresne
Community Center.

Survivors can get assistance with their FEMA applications, upload documents and get questions answered about
federal disaster assistance. Representatives from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are also on hand to
provide program information and explain how to apply for SBA’s low-interest disaster loans for businesses, private
nonprofits, homeowners and renters.

The center is located at:
Edward Dufresne Community Center (parking lot)
274 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway
Luling, LA 70070
Hours of operation are Monday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For other details, check the FEMA app (under Disaster Resources, select Talk to FEMA in Person) or visit the FEMA
DRC Locator for a complete list of DRCs currently open in Louisiana. All centers will follow COVID-19 precautions.

Masks will be required by both FEMA specialists and survivors.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at
twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

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Disaster Recovery Center in Boutte to Close Oct. 6

BATON ROUGE, La. – The temporary disaster recovery center at River Parishes Community College, United Way of St.
Charles Campus, in Boutte, will close Wednesday, Oct. 6, at 6 p.m. The center served survivors of Hurricane Ida for
two weeks.

The following center will close:
River Parishes Community College, United Way of St. Charles Campus
13145 US Hwy 90
Boutte, LA 70039

Residents of all parishes affected by Hurricane Ida can continue to visit a number of other centers open in
Louisiana. To locate a center, check the FEMA app or visit the FEMA DRC Locator.

For the latest information visit fema.gov/disaster/4611. Follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at
twitter.com/FEMARegion6 or on Facebook at facebook.com/FEMARegion6/.

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