FEMA to extend disaster relief funding in northeast Oklahoma

NORTHEAST OKLAHOMA — The deadline for the Oklahoma residents affected by the spring storms to apply for FEMA disaster relief assistance has been extended to July 31.

In May, an Oklahoma storm supercell spawned 11 tornados in northeast Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas. The one long-track supercell moved eastward across Tulsa, Rogers, Mayes, Delaware, and Benton and Carroll Arkansas counties.

The EF-3 tornado peaked at 155 mph and injuring two people and destroying several homes, outbuildings and uprooted trees in its 3,200-yard path. Utility poles were snapped in two, leaving the Colcord and its 750-person community without power and water for several days.

Disaster relief assistance may help pay for temporary housing, home repairs, lifesaving and life-sustaining items, and other needs caused by the disaster.

FEMA has approved $1,624,811 in assistance for residents in the northeast Oklahoma counties of Delaware, Mayes and Rogers counties impacted by the May storms and $7.6 million for eligible residents of Craig, Nowata, and Ottawa counties who suffered tornado damage in May and June.

The $1.6 million in assistance includes $862,807 in housing assistance and $762,004 in other needs assistance. The $7.6 million funding includes more than $4.71 million in housing assistance and $2.88 million in other needs assistance.

To be eligible for FEMA assistance, individuals must apply directly with FEMA. Registering with state, religious, or other organizations does not register a person with FEMA.

In addition, the U.S. Small Business Administration is offering low-interest disaster loans.

There are four ways to apply for assistance:

• Visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA App.
• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362.
• You can apply in person at the Disaster Recovery Center at the Rogers County Health Department, located at 2664 N. Highway 88 in Claremore.

Beware of Fraud

• FEMA and U.S. Small Business Administration representatives never charge for disaster assistance, inspections or help filling out applications.
• FEMA staff and inspectors carry a photo ID badge and will never ask for money.
• If you aren’t sure if someone works for FEMA, call our helpline at 800-621-3362.

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