AUSTIN, Texas — As a potential cyclone develops in the Gulf of Mexico, the National Preparedness Month campaign reminds us the most important thing to protect in a disaster is your life and the lives of those around you.  A trough of low pressure currently in the western Gulf of Mexico has a 50 percent chance of developing into a cyclone, the National Hurricane Center estimated today. The weather system is expected to reach the western Gulf coast tomorrow morning. Regardless of how the system develops, heavy rain and gusty winds...

AUSTIN, Texas — Disasters don't plan ahead, but you can. Get yourself and your family ready for the unexpected during National Preparedness Month this September. This year’s theme for National Preparedness Month is: “Disasters Happen. Prepare Now. Learn How.” This message recognizes that community members often will be the first ones to take action after a disaster strikes and before first responders arrive, so it is important to prepare in advance. All Americans are encouraged to take time this month to learn lifesaving skills, such as CPR and first aid; check your insurance...

Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Donald J. Trump's disaster declaration issued for the state of Iowa.Assistance for State and Affected Local Governments Can Include as Required:Payment of not less than 75 percent of the eligible costs for emergency protective measures taken to save lives and protect property and public health.  Emergency protective measures assistance is available to state and eligible local governments on a cost-sharing basis. (Source: FEMA funded, state administered)Payment of not less than...

Official website of the Department of Homeland SecurityOriginal linkOriginal author: asia.scoggins

The date for registering for federal disaster assistance has passed, but that doesn’t mean FEMA and its partners are done helping. There is still a lot of work to be done. Survivors still have resources they can rely on to continue rebuilding their homes and lives. The steps survivors take to stay on the road to recovery are very important.   Survivors can: Stay in Touch with FEMA — If you registered for disaster assistance following the severe storms and flooding, stay in touch with FEMA. The easiest way to update your application,...