FEMA is expanding their presence in southern Kentucky following last weekend’s federal disaster declaration.
Three disaster recovery centers are now open in the region, including in Laurel, Pulaski and Russell Counties.
Tornados killed at least 19 in the towns of London and Somerset earlier this month. The agency has also opened mobile registration intake centers, which are vans or trucks that operate similarly to a full site. They’re around the London-Corbin Airport and Wyan Pine Grove Elementary School.
“It's like a DRC, a disaster recovery center, on wheels,” FEMA spokesperson Danny Bernardy said. “So it's something that we can move around the community and respond to where the need is in the community.”
Bernardy says to watch out for fraud as inspectors visit the sites affected. FEMA agents are required to wear identification.
“FEMA will never ask for payment, and in Laurel County, specifically, if an inspector comes out, we will give a call first,” he said.
Victims can also apply for assistance online, through the FEMA helpline at 800-621-3362 or downloading the FEMA app.
