Current emergencies

Here’s information and updates about natural disasters, man-made incidents, and public health emergencies that are happening now. Find more information on ongoing or past emergencies.

2018

Alaska earthquake

Secretary Azar used his authority in the Public Health Service Act to declare a public health emergency (PHE) in Alaska on December 3, 2018, giving us the flexibility to support our beneficiaries, effective November 30, 2018. 

• Alaska earthquake 1135 waiver

You can also see:

• Provider survey and certification frequently asked questions (FAQs) about declared public health emergencies 
• FAQs about the Medicare fee-for-service emergency-related policies and procedures that may be implemented without an 1135 waiver
• FAQs about the Medicare fee-for-service emergency-related policies and procedures that may be implemented only with an 1135 waiver
• Provider enrollment FAQs
• Guidance about Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies (DMEPOS) during an emergency or disaster
• More details about waivers and flexibilities

California wildfires

Secretary Azar used his authority in the Public Health Service Act to declare a public health emergency (PHE) in California on November 13, 2018, giving us the flexibility to support our beneficiaries, effective November 8, 2018. 

• California wildfires 1812(f) SNF waiver
  
• California wildfires 1135 waiver
• California wildfires Medicaid 1135 waiver letter

Read the blanket waivers for California wildfires 

You can also see:

• Our MLN Matters article, "Medicare Fee-for-Service (FFS) Response to the 2018 California Wildfires"

Typhoon Yutu

Find information about Typhoon Yutu on our Past Emergencies Hurricanes page.

Hurricane Michael

Find information about Hurricane Michael on our Past Emergencies Hurricanes page.

Hurricane Florence

Find information about Hurricane Florence on our Past Emergencies Hurricanes page.

2017

Hurricane Maria

Find information about Hurricane Maria on our Past Emergencies Hurricanes page.