FEMA is re-opening a disaster recovery center in Lee County to help victims of February’s severe storms.
The agency says they’ve registered more than ninety-five-hundred Kentuckians for more than $30 million worth of assistance. Local officials are sending damage reports to FEMA to see if individual assistance for this month’s storms can also be authorized.
FEMA spokesperson Danny Bernardy says they’re waiting to see if President Trump approves a major disaster declaration request from Governor Beshear.
“If a major disaster declaration is authorized, and if it's authorized for individual assistance, then storm survivors from that storm will be eligible to apply for FEMA assistance to help with their recovery needs,” Bernardy said. “And if it's approved for public assistance, then FEMA may be able to help cover the cost to make repairs to public infrastructure like roads and bridges.”
Bernardy says evacuees should be careful returning home after the floods.
“Be aware of downed power lines,” Bernardy said. “You know, flood waters can be toxic. You know, there could be sharp objects hiding in there. There could be, you know, animals hiding in your home. So just be safe, follow the direction of your local emergency management.”
He says victims should file a claim with their home insurance provider if possible. For February storm victims, the deadline to apply for assistance is April 25.
Those affected can also apply for assistance by calling the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362, downloading the mobile app or applying online.
** WEKU is working hard to be a leading source for public service, and fact-based journalism. Monthly supporters are the top funding source for this growing nonprofit news organization. Please join others in your community who support WEKU by making your donation.
