Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has warned that FEMA lacks sufficient funding for the remainder of the hurricane season, following the widespread destruction caused by Hurricane Helene. The storm has resulted in significant fatalities and left many without basic resources. FEMA is currently extending assistance but is cautioning about future funding challenges as recovery efforts continue.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has issued a warning regarding the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) dwindling funds as the hurricane season continues. The devastation left in the wake of Hurricane Helene, which has affected six southeastern states, is estimated to total tens of billions of dollars, presenting a formidable challenge for recovery efforts. Tragically, the storm claimed at least 215 lives and resulted in catastrophic flooding across both coastal and inland regions, according to reports from the Associated Press. As part of its ongoing response, FEMA is providing essential resources such as food, water, generators, and monetary assistance, and has already disbursed over $20 million in individual aid to those affected. However, Secretary Mayorkas specified to reporters on Wednesday that “we are meeting the immediate needs with the money that we have,” underscoring the critical financial shortfall faced by FEMA. He further asserted, “we do not have the funds, FEMA does not have the funds, to make it through the season,” setting the stage for potential repercussions should further hurricanes occur. FEMA’s Director of Individual Assistance, Frank Matranga, acknowledged the importance of funding while maintaining a focus on supporting individual communities. He remarked that “the needs right now are big and still not fully stabilized,” and assured that FEMA will keep Congress informed about its financial status as recovery efforts progress. The impact of Hurricane Helene was significant, with initial reports indicating that at the peak of the storm, 4.6 million customers were without power. Although power restoration efforts have improved, leaving around 1 million customers still affected across several states, the extent of the destruction in certain areas could require extensive rebuilding efforts. “Many are being targeted to be restored by the end of this week,” stated Ken Buell, the Deputy Director for Response and Restoration at the Department of Energy. However, he cautioned that some hard-hit regions might experience extended delays in power restoration.
The discussion surrounding FEMA’s funding comes amidst the growing challenges posed by natural disasters intensified by climate change. With an increase in the frequency and severity of these events, the financial strain on FEMA’s disaster relief funds has become increasingly apparent. Secretary Mayorkas’s warning highlights the urgent need for reliable funding sources to ensure that timely assistance is available to communities in distress during the hurricane season.
The situation illustrates a pressing funding dilemma for FEMA amid an exceptionally destructive hurricane season characterized by devastating loss of life and infrastructure. As communities continue to reconstruct and recover from Hurricane Helene’s aftermath, there is an urgent necessity for reliable financial support to address the needs generated by current and future natural disasters. The federal government’s response will play a crucial role in the overall recovery process.
Original Source: www.axios.com
