During the past couple of weeks the U.S. has experienced several devastating natural disasters: wildfires in Colorado, tropical storms in Florida, and violent storms resembling hurricanes in the eastern U.S.

Emergencies were declared in Colorado, Florida, Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio, the District of Columbia and Virginia, leaving 3 million without power during a heat wave.

This week we have collected important resources to help you before, during, and after a natural disaster:

• Are you prepared? Be informed! Know what to do before, during and after a natural disaster.
                   –  http://www.ready.gov/

• Are you still experiencing severe weather? Visit Fema.gov to see how the government is working closely with the states, and check in on friends, family, neighbors, and continue to listen to local officials.
                   -   http://www.fema.gov/

• Are you a disaster survivor? Find disaster assistance that meets your personal needs and locate over 60 forms of assistance from 17 Federal agencies
                   -   http://www.disasterassistance.gov/

• Are you in need of assistance to help repair damages done to your home? For a Presidentially declared disaster, FHA activates a mortgagee letter making a variety of insured loan programs available for disaster victims and putting into play use of special loan servicing and underwriting requirements. Find out more.                 
                   -   http://www.hud.gov/info/disasterresources_dev.cfm

• The effects that natural and man-made disasters have on the environment directly and indirectly can be harmful to you. It’s important for you to educate yourself about the environmental risks caused by weather emergencies and disasters. www.epa.gov