Disaster Funds Authorized For Puerto Rico Tropical Storm Response
Release Date: September 18, 2004
Release Number: HQ-04-180
» More Information on Puerto Rico Tropical Storm Jeanne and Resulting Landslides and Mudslides
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that President Bush has authorized the release of federal disaster funds for Puerto Rico to help support immediate response efforts for Tropical Storm Jeanne.
Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Emergency Preparedness and Response, said the President took the action under a major disaster declaration issued for the effects of landslides and mudslides caused by the storm that began affecting the commonwealth on September 14.
Under the declaration, Brown said the commonwealth and all affected municipalities are eligible to apply for federal funds to pay 100 percent of the approved costs for debris removal and emergency services related to the storm, including requested emergency work undertaken by the federal government, for a period of up to 72 hours.
Brown said federal funding also will be available to the commonwealth on a cost-shared basis for approved projects that reduce future disaster risks. He indicated that additional forms of assistance may be designated later as conditions allow damage to be assessed in the stricken area.
Peter Martinasco of FEMA was named by Brown to coordinate the federal relief effort.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA’s continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Saturday, 18-Sep-2004 12:21:08