South Fork and Salt Fires and Flooding: FEMA Extends Aid Deadline and Updates on Recovery Progress — August 20, 2024

Public Notice
Written By Ellen Barone

Published Monday through Friday by FEMA External Affairs at the JFO in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Key Messages

FEMA Application Deadline Extended to Oct. 19

Individuals and households affected by the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding now have until October 19 to apply for FEMA assistance. There are no costs involved in applying for or receiving FEMA assistance. Residents can apply in several ways:

  • Online: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov

  • Mobile App: Download the FEMA app at fema.gov/mobile-app

  • Phone: Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362, available between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. MT. Multilingual operators are available.

  • In-Person: Visit any Disaster Recovery Center. Locations and hours can be found online at fema.gov/drc.

For an American Sign Language (ASL) video on how to apply for assistance, visit youtube.com/watch=WZGpWI2RCNw.

Free Home Repair Workshops in Ruidoso Extended

FEMA has extended its partnership with Village Ace Hardware in Ruidoso to provide free information and tips on making homes stronger and safer after the disaster. Experts from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) are also available to answer flood insurance questions. These workshops will continue through August 24 at 2815 Sudderth Dr., Ruidoso, NM. The hours are today through Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Tips for Safely Returning to Fire- or Flood-Damaged Homes

Returning home after a disaster can be overwhelming, but it’s essential to proceed with caution. Homes may be weakened or contaminated with mold or sewage, posing health risks. FEMA advises homeowners to be aware of potential hazards and follow specific precautions when assessing damage. More information is available at fema-offers-tips-safely-returning.

Current Recovery Statistics

  • FEMA Assistance: More than $5.59 million has been approved in Housing Assistance and Other Needs Assistance for affected homeowners and renters.

  • Registrations: A total of 2,788 New Mexicans have applied for and registered for assistance.

  • Disaster Recovery Center Visits: More than 2,140 individuals have visited a Disaster Recovery Center.

  • SBA Loans: The Small Business Administration (SBA) has approved over $8.65 million in long-term, low-interest disaster loans.

Did You Know?

When appealing a FEMA decision, you only need to submit one contractor quote or estimate, even though it’s wise to get multiple estimates before hiring a contractor for repairs.

Resource Guide & Contact Information

For local and state resources related to the South Fork and Salt Fires and Flooding, visit the following:

Recent News Releases & Fact Sheets

  • National Flood Insurance Can Be a Valuable Asset in New Mexico

  • Transitional Sheltering Assistance Now Available in Rio Arriba and San Juan Counties

  • Appealing FEMA’s Decision on Your Application for Assistance

  • FEMA Calls May Come from Unknown Phone Numbers

  • U.S. Citizenship and FEMA Eligibility

For the latest updates, visit fema.gov/disaster/4795. Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x.com/FEMARegion6 and facebook.com/femaregion6. For concerns and allegations of discrimination, call the FEMA Office of Equal Rights at 202-212-3535 or email FEMA-Civil-Rights-Program-OER@fema.dhs.gov.

Ellen Barone

After 15 years in travel and tourism, I work remotely as an independent web designer/developer and content manager.

EllenBarone.com
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