Residents of Jefferson and Shelby counties affected by severe storms and flash flooding, which occurred between Oct. 6-7 of this year, are now able to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance, according to the Birmingham Mayor’s Office.
The deadly October storms inundated much of Birmingham’s metro area, including Pelham and Hoover, both of which were significantly affected by heavy rain and flash floods. In Shelby County, a man and woman were killed in their car after being swept away in the floods, according to the Washington Post.
On Dec. 21., U.S President Joe Biden approved a major disaster declaration for Jefferson and Shelby counties due to damages brought to residents by the storms, allowing qualified residents to apply online for federal assistance.
In a statement Thursday, the Mayor’s office encouraged residents to document damages and make repairs to prevent further damages.
“Remember to keep receipts from all purchases related to the cleanup and repair,” the Mayor’s office wrote. “Disaster assistance may include financial help with temporary lodging and home repairs, along with other programs to assist those recovering from the storms.”
According to the Mayor’s office, Qualified applicants must provide…
- A current phone number
- The address at the time of the disaster as well as a current address
- Social Security Number
- A general list of damage and losses
- Banking information if you choose direct deposit
- If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name.
Residents of Jefferson and Shelby counties are able to apply for FEMA Individual Assistance at their website, by calling the hotline: 800-621-3362, or via the FEMA mobile app.