KENTUCKY (WOWK) — In Kentucky, flood recovery efforts are still in full swing, serving as a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared for such events ahead of Severe Weather Awareness Week.
Governor Andy Beshear announced Thursday that people who receive snap benefits in 22 counties across the Commonwealth can now purchase hot meals under the program. That includes the 11 counties that have been approved for expedited assistance and the 11 adjacent counties.
Residents in can apply for FEMA assistance by heading to any of the registration intake centers at the Belfry Senior Center, the Vesta Robers Johnson Memorial Library and the Mountain Arts Center.
These facilities gather information from flood victims, which then helps them apply for resources at disaster recovery centers. Beshear shared some tips Thursday for those who need help.
“So a couple tips. When applying, Kentuckians should make sure that, number one, they have uploaded their documents online via the FEMA app or by visiting disasterassistance.gov. You’re gonna have to get those documents uploaded,” Beshear said. “Number two, your damaged home has to be your primary residence, and you’re gonna have to have documentation of that. Number three, you’re gonna have to show you haven’t received assistance for the same losses from another source. What that means is if you have flood insurance, you’re gonna have to pursue it first. I know it is far too expensive and far too few people have it. And finally, when you apply, you put your phone number or your email down, you gotta answer that phone, and you gotta check that email.”
Beshear also announced Thursday that he has signed a proclamation to designate the first week of March as Severe Weather Awareness Week. It will begin Saturday, March 1, and continue through Friday, March 7.
“We have certainly had our fair share of severe weather events, so we know better than anyone how important it is to be aware and prepared for whatever comes our way,” Beshear said. “That is why I signed a proclamation to recognize Severe Weather Awareness Week, which starts Saturday, March 1, and goes through March 7.”
There will also be an annual tornado drill in Kentucky on at 10:07 a.m. Wednesday, March 5. For more information, folks can contact their local emergency management agency.
