Hurricane Guide: Recovery Support, Loans & Essential Resources
- thaisflorena
- Oct 20, 2024
- 5 min read
As hurricanes impact much of Florida, it's vital for Miami residents to stay prepared and aware of the resources available before, during, and after a storm.
Miami Living has created this comprehensive guide to help you navigate every step of the process, from ensuring your home and family are ready to weather the storm to accessing emergency assistance and recovery aid. Whether you're seeking info on evacuation routes, applying for FEMA assistance, or finding mental health support, this guide provides the essential tools and tips to keep you safe and informed throughout hurricane events.
Photo credit: NOAA/AP
Safety First
During the Hurricane: Preparing Your Home and Family
Evacuation Orders: Always follow local authorities if mandatory evacuations are ordered. Evacuate as soon as possible if you’re in a flood zone or vulnerable area.
Check evacuation routes: Florida’s Evacuation Zones
Emergency Kit: Have a well-stocked emergency kit with food, water, medications, flashlights, batteries, first-aid supplies, and important documents (insurance policies, ID).
Secure Your Home:
Board up windows.
Bring loose outdoor items like patio furniture indoors to prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles.
Turn off gas and electricity if recommended by local authorities.
During the Storm
Stay Indoors: Do not leave your shelter until authorities say it's safe. Even if it seems calm, the eye of the hurricane may pass over, and strong winds could resume.
Stay Away from Windows: Seek shelter in an interior room, closet, or bathroom on the lowest floor.
Monitor Alerts: Use a battery-powered radio or phone for updates from local authorities on storm progression and safety guidance.
Flood Safety
Avoid Floodwaters: Do not drive, walk, or swim through floodwaters. Just 12 inches (30 cm) of water can float most cars, and 6 inches (15 cm) can knock a person off their feet.
Turn around, don’t drown
The U.S. Department of Transportation is warning the public about the dangers of driving through floodwaters. According to the department, just 12 inches (30 cm) of water can cause most vehicles to float and possibly be swept away by fast-moving currents, a risk heightened as Hurricane Milton approaches Florida.
Their key message is clear: "Turn around, don’t drown."
The department also emphasizes that walking or swimming through floodwaters is highly dangerous and should be avoided.
After the Hurricane
Emergency Assistance and Resources
Once the storm passes, the focus shifts to safety, damage assessment, and applying for aid. Here's how to access assistance and support:
Image courtesy of FEMA
1 - FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) Assistance:
FEMA is the primary source of federal aid after a disaster. If Milton causes significant damage, impacted areas in Florida may be declared federal disaster zones, allowing residents to apply for FEMA assistance.
Types of FEMA Assistance:
Grants for temporary housing.
Assistance with home repairs for primary residences.
Financial aid for personal property losses, medical, funeral, and other disaster-related expenses.
How to Apply:
Online: Visit DisasterAssistance.gov.
Phone: Call FEMA’s helpline at 1-800-621-3362 (TTY 1-800-462-7585).
FEMA App: Download the FEMA app to apply, check application status, and get updates.
Documents Needed:
Social Security number.
Insurance details.
Proof of identity and home ownership or rental agreement.
Documentation of damages (photos, estimates).
Image: WUSF Public Media
2 - Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs):
FEMA often sets up DRCs in heavily impacted areas after a storm where you can apply for assistance in person, get answers to questions, and access additional resources.
3 - Financial Assistance and Loans
Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Loans:
The SBA provides low-interest loans to help homeowners, renters, and businesses recover from hurricane-related damages.
Image courtesy of SBA
Types of SBA Loans:
Home and Property Loans: For homeowners or renters to repair or replace damaged property.
Business Physical Disaster Loans: For businesses of all sizes to repair or replace property and inventory.
Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL): Helps small businesses meet financial obligations they can’t cover because of the disaster.
How to Apply:
Online: Visit the SBA Disaster Loan Assistance website.
In-Person: At Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) that FEMA establishes.
Loan Terms:
Up to 30 years, with interest rates as low as 1.5% for homeowners and 3% for businesses, depending on your ability to repay.
4 - State and Local Assistance Programs
Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO)
Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA): If you’re unable to work due to the hurricane, you may qualify for unemployment assistance.
Apply through FloridaJobs.org.
Florida Disaster Fund
The state’s official private fund, managed by Volunteer Florida, supports recovery efforts. Donations are used to rebuild homes and provide relief for communities.
Visit Volunteer Florida to apply for aid or donate.
Local Shelters and Resources
Santa Rosa County Emergency Management: Provides critical updates on shelters, food distribution points, and recovery services.
Visit their website for updates: Santa Rosa County Emergency Management.
5. Insurance Claims
Contact Your Insurance Company: Immediately report any damages and begin the claim process. Document damages with photos and written notes.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): If you have flood insurance through NFIP, reach out to your insurer or FEMA to begin your claim. Flood damage is not typically covered by standard homeowner’s insurance policies.
Image courtesy of Unplash
6. Food, Water, and Basic Necessities
Florida 211:
Dial 211 for assistance with finding food, water, and other essentials in your area. This free service connects you to local organizations providing disaster relief.
Food and Water Distribution Points:
After the storm, local authorities and charities, such as the American Red Cross, will set up distribution points for food, water, and supplies. Check local news or the Santa Rosa County Emergency Management website for details.
Image courtesy of Red Cross
American Red Cross:
Provides emergency shelters, meals, and supplies. You can call 1-800-RED-CROSS for assistance or visit their website.
7. Mental Health and Crisis Counseling
Recovering from a hurricane can be emotionally and mentally challenging. Resources are available to help you cope:
Disaster Distress Helpline
A 24/7 crisis counseling service available to those affected by natural disasters.
Call 1-800-985-5990 or text TalkWithUs to 66746 to speak with a counselor.
Local Mental Health Support
Many local agencies offer mental health services to hurricane survivors. Dial 211 to find mental health resources in your community.
8. Volunteering and Donations
For those who wish to help others after Hurricane Milton, there are numerous ways to contribute:
Volunteer Florida: Sign up to volunteer for hurricane recovery efforts or donate to the Florida Disaster Fund through Volunteer Florida.
Local Charities and Food Banks: Local charities and food banks will need donations and volunteers to assist with distributing food, water, and other essentials.
Image by Greyson Joralemon/Unsplash
9. Long-Term Recovery and Rebuilding
After the initial response, rebuilding and recovery will take time. Here’s how you can access long-term recovery assistance:
FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grants: These grants help fund rebuilding projects that make homes and infrastructure more resilient to future disasters. You can apply through FEMA or at Disaster Recovery Centers.
Habitat for Humanity: Offers assistance with rebuilding homes for low-income families. Visit Habitat for Humanity to learn how to apply for help or volunteer.
Hurricanes pose serious threats to Florida, but by following safety precautions and knowing where to seek help, you can protect yourself and begin the recovery process after the storm. Remember to stay informed through local authorities, apply for assistance early, and take advantage of the various state, federal, and nonprofit resources available.