Recovery

The state is asking the federal government to assume 90 percent of the expected $1 billion-plus in recovery costs after a second storm ravaged Hawaii. The scale of destruction is shaping the governor's approach for funds.

The city is increasing efforts to repair homes damaged in a 2025 tornado, but currently only working on those that need smaller fixes. Full-scale rebuilds won't start until next year, and residents are losing patience.

The state Department of Transportation’s Highways Division estimates the most costly damage was to Oahu and Maui in last weekend's storm. Another, weaker Kona low is expected to arrive later this week.

Washington, D.C., government shifted to operate with modifications, to ensure essential services remained available during the January snow event. IT played a supportive role behind the scenes.

The state’s new Infrastructure Planning and Development Division has adopted cloud technology to help community governments navigate matching requirements, compliance and project delivery.

Providers in St. Louis were awarded the money through the Missouri Department of Health’s Crisis Counseling Program, which has for decades been funded by FEMA to help build hope and resiliency in disaster survivors.

Plus, Arkansas is offering technology training to residents, North Carolina is investing in recovering broadband infrastructure after Hurricane Helene, rural broadband legislation has been introduced, and more.

The funding comes after Gov. Mike Dunleavy requested a federal disaster declaration last week, although the total cost of recovery from Typhoon Halong could greatly exceed $25 million.

The origins of the agreement with technology and services firm CGI stretch back to 2012, when the state was recovering from Hurricane Sandy. CGI has helped it distribute and track more than $7 billion in assistance.

The ruling stops the federal government from spending the funds originally earmarked for FEMA's Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities program for other purposes until the court issues a final judgment.

Gov. Andy Beshear submitted an expedited major disaster declaration to the Trump administration after tornadoes in the southern part of the state killed 19. It is unclear when federal officials will respond.

The funding would go toward a relief fund for northern Michigan to address the effects of the area's historic ice storm in late March. The state has also requested a federal disaster declaration for additional support.

In response to widespread flooding last month, FEMA has approved Individual Assistance funding for residents in six West Virginia counties. Some victims may also now be eligible for food assistance from the USDA.

SB 2069 would establish a position on the state's Disaster Preparedness Commission to assist New Yorkers in navigating the insurance process after an emergency event. Gov. Kathy Hochul vetoed the same bill last year.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency announced plans to hire for 26 roles like disaster field training operations, hazard mitigation and IT, among others, in the Eaton and Palisades disaster areas.

Gov. Brian Kemp signed the state's $40.5 billion budget this week, a portion of which will go toward recovery from Hurricane Helene, including rebuilding roads and structures and grants that can be used to repair homes.

County officials report $250 million in federal funds are on the way to help communities recover from hurricanes Milton and Helene. That's not enough, they say, as requests to fund efforts total nearly $1 billion.

County officials are leading the local government’s recovery from a tornado in May that damaged 1,200 homes and destroyed 300. Among the tech endeavors under consideration are high-speed Internet, and a resource app connecting residents to disaster recovery assistance.