Alabama National Guard changed approach to managing disasters days before April 2011 tornadoes
By Michael Tomberlin
April 25, 2021
Sgt. Fadra Brown, 31st Chemical Brigade, Northport, assists the Wooley family sorting through the remnants of their home in the Crescent Ridge area in Tuscaloosa. Their home was one of many throughout Alabama that was destroyed by the tornado that swept through April 27, 2011. (Spc. Katherine Dowd / 167th Theater Sustainment Command)
The Alabama National Guard had its largest mobilization for a domestic response when the April 2011 storms and tornadoes devastated the state.
The public saw and experienced that, as soldiers and airmen were visible bringing relief throughout the state.
Mike Wade from FEMA said assistance is still available for those who need it.
“FEMA’s goal is to provide assistance for immediate needs,” Wade said. “And our goal is to make your home safe, sanitary and functional so that you can make your long-term repairs.”
The deadline to apply for Hurricane Zeta FEMA assistance is this coming Monday, Feb. 8. Wade said to be eligible for assistance, the damage must have happened between Oct. 28 and 29 in the approved counties.
“First of all, if someone has sustained damage from Hurricane Zeta, if they have insurance, the first thing they should do is file with their insurance company, and then register with FEMA,” he said. “FEMA cannot duplicate any benefits that you’re entitled to from your insurance company.”
Alabama opens COVID-19 crisis management hotline Alabamians looking to navigate through the COVID-19 health pandemic now have access to additional resources. (Source: WAVE 3 News) By WSFA Staff | December 17, 2020 at 10:03 AM CST - Updated December 17 at 10:03 AM
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) - Alabamians looking to navigate through the COVID-19 health pandemic now have access to additional resources thanks to a partnership between the Alabama Department of Mental Health and Alabama Emergency Management Agency.
According to ADMH, the two organizations are partnering together to assist citizens by providing a statewide information line. State officials say when people call, they can be connected to programs and services in their area.