Southeastern Pennsylvania’s Summer Disaster Declaration Amended

Release Date: November 10, 2004 Release Number: 1538-013

HARRISBURG, Pa. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has announced that it has amended the incident period for the major disaster declaration for severe storms and flooding last summer that affected homeowners, renters and businesses in Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties.

This decision was based on a review of damage information gathered by federal and state recovery officials and research data provided by the National Weather Service. Initially, those who suffered damage from storms between Aug. 1 and Aug. 25 were eligible to apply for assistance. Now, those who suffered damage beginning July 27 are eligible.

Individuals in Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties who suffered damages from the severe weather between July 27 and Aug. 25 but have not previously applied for federal and state disaster assistance can begin the registration process by calling toll-free 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). The TTY number for speech- and hearing-impaired applicants is 1-800-462-7585.

The telephone numbers are operational from 6 a.m. to midnight seven days a week. Individuals with Internet access now have the option to apply on line at www.fema.gov. The new application deadline for this disaster is Dec. 8.

Disaster assistance may include grants for temporary rental housing, essential repairs needed to make a residence safe, sanitary and functional; and for other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance or other programs. Homeowners, renters and businesses of all sizes may also be eligible for low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration.

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.