Federal Agencies Fully Engaged In Minnesota Flood Fight
Release Date: April 1, 2009
Release Number: 3304-001
» More Information on Minnesota Severe Storms and Flooding
ST. PAUL, Minn. -- The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continues to coordinate the operational activities of numerous federal agencies in response to flooding in Minnesota.
FEMA and its federal partners are working closely with tribal, state and local governments to support those areas still fighting the floods along the Red River.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
- On March 26, 2009, FEMA was authorized to provide emergency protective measures, including direct federal assistance, under the public assistance program for the seven affected Minnesota counties of Clay, Kittson, Marshall, Norman, Polk, Traverse and Wilkin.
- A joint team of federal, state and local officials began damage assessments for all categories of Public Assistance in the designated counties.
- FEMA's Region V logistics team has established a staging base prepared to disseminate commodities to affected areas, including 40,320 meals, 72,288 liters of water, 4,400 cots, 4,412 blankets and 50 generators.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has provided more than 5.6 million sandbags, 2,158 rolls of polyethylene, and 27 de-watering pumps to communities throughout Minnesota.
- Since March 19, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has overseen the construction of several miles of emergency levees in communities throughout Minnesota to hold back the Red River's record-breaking spring flooding.
American Red Cross
- In Minnesota, the Red Cross reported:
- One shelter opened at the Moorhead High School with nearly 500 overnight stays to date
- More than 13,600 meals served to date.
The U.S. National Guard
- More than 540 National Guard members continue to support activities in Minnesota.
- Becker County sheriff requested a crew track vehicle to assist in health and welfare checks in the Detroit Lakes area.
The U.S. Coast Guard
- The U.S. Coast Guard has established a temporary safety zone along the Red River from Cass and Clay counties to the Canadian border. River traffic is limited to emergency personnel only.
- Three airboats staged in Moorhead working with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) in conducting search and rescue and family wellness checks.
For more information on how you can prepare for all hazards, please visit www.fema.gov and www.ready.gov.
FEMA leads and supports the nation in a risk-based, comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery, and mitigation, to reduce the loss of life and property and protect the nation from all hazards including natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and other man-made disasters.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 01-Apr-2009 15:34:14