First Wave Of FEMA Disaster Workers Arrive In West Virginia
Release Date: November 30, 2003
Release Number: 1500-15
» More Information on West Virginia Severe Storms, Flooding, and Landslides
CHARLESTON, W. Va. -- The first wave of federal disaster workers arrived in West Virginia last weekend to provide assistance to victims of the November floods, according to officials from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Federal Coordinating Officer Michael Bolch said 145 FEMA workers have already arrived and others are on the way. Full staffing is projected at 170.
On Friday, November 21, President George W. Bush signed a major disaster declaration for six West Virginia counties. Subsequent amendments to the declaration bring the current total of counties eligible for disaster assistance to 23. Preliminary Damage Assessments are in progress across the state to determine infrastructure damage and damage to public facilities.
Since the disaster declaration more than 3000 West Virginia flood victims have registered for disaster assistance by calling FEMA’s toll-free registration number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 for the speech- or hearing-impaired. The teleregistration phone lines operate 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
“We will work with FEMA to make sure eligible residents receive assistance,” said State Coordinating Officer, Steven S. Kappa. “We urge flood victims to call so we can begin the recovery process.”
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, 01-Dec-2003 08:25:36