President Orders Disaster Aid For Micronesia Typhoon Recovery 

Release Date: December 19, 2003
Release Number: HQ-03-254

» More Information on Federated States of Micronesia Typhoon Lupit

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 declared a major disaster for the Federated States of Micronesia, opening the way for the use of federal funds to help the state of Yap recover from the effects of Typhoon Lupit.

Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Emergency Preparedness and Response, said the President took the action following a review of FEMA’s analysis of Micronesia’s request for federal aid.

Immediately after the declaration, Brown designated the state of Yap and affected municipal governments eligible for federal funding to pay 75 percent of the approved cost for repairing or replacing public facilities damaged by the storm that occurred over the period of November 22-26. Federal funds also will be available for Micronesia on a cost-shared basis for approved projects that reduce future disaster risks.

In addition, Brown said emergency food assistance will be provided for the islands of Eauripik, Elato, Fais, Faraulap, Ifalik, Lamotrek, Satawal, Ulithi and Woleai within the state of Yap. He indicated that damage surveys are continuing, and other areas and additional forms of assistance may be designated later based on the results of the assessments.

Michael Karl of FEMA was named by Brown to coordinate federal recovery operations in the affected area.

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: Monday, 22-Dec-2003 10:47:06