FEMA, tribes, states nearing funding disaster

Deanne Criswell, the administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency is sounding the alarm over funding shortfalls following multiple climate catastrophes exacerbated by human impacts. 

"82 Republicans Voted to Shut Down the Government During Hurricane Season. 21 of them are from Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas."

But some lawmakers from disaster-prone states — on both sides of the aisle — were aghast this week at the lack of additional dollars for FEMA’s already depleted disaster relief fund and other federal disaster programs. Many of them were incensed that the typically bipartisan priority had fallen victim to partisan squabbles at such a dire time. “The right-wingers here, the MAGA crowd, even after disasters happen, they have opposed disaster aid for communities in need,” said a frustrated Rep. Kathy Castor (D-Fla.). Republican Sen. Marco Rubio disagreed with his fellow Florida senator Wednesday, telling reporters that action to refill federal disaster coffers was long overdue. [Lawmakers stunned as disaster funds left out of stopgap bill]

Tribal communities are concerned, too.

Results suggest Northwest coastal Tribes face significant barriers and unmet needs in realizing their adaptation goals, despite being leaders in climate adaptation. Key barriers and needs focus around five key areas: funding; Tribal staff and workforce capacity; collaboration and partnerships; technical assistance and climate services; and communication, education and outreach. [Climate Impacts Group]

Oregon has nearly exhausted its disaster budget after spending some $250 million on wildfire suppression and remediation.

Phoenix recorded 117° on Saturday which is the hottest day in September in that city’s history and 15-20° above normal.

FEMA is scrambling to cover victims in South Dakota where the Republican governor failed a flood response there but Republican governors in Wyoming and Montana have failed on wildfire preparations, too.

Flooding in southeastern South Dakota was horrific for those facing the worst of it. Late June’s flooding resulted in one known fatality and several washed away homes and roads. Months later, citizens are still questioning local flood plans and the government response. [Months after flooding, some residents still caught in the mud]

Red flag warnings Sunday and Monday in overwhelmingly Republican counties in ranch country have welfare farmers and ranchers sweating the farm bill because it would provide relief for the voters who deny humanity’s role in climate calamities.

Learn more at the Daily Montanan.

All Tornado Warnings issued with #Helene pic.twitter.com/fIGzbyklHH

— Collin Gross (@CollinGrossWx) September 28, 2024