If FEMA’s assistance doesn’t arrive on time, what should you do during hurricane season?

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) — Some Houston-area residents are still awaiting assistance after recent wild weather, despite being approved, as the state agency responsible has requested federal help.

Recent flooding, tornadoes, and wind events have significantly impacted many in southeast Texas. To assist, FEMA offered help. However, numerous residents reported delays, prompting to contact FEMA.

FEMA stated that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has taken over the process. An HHSC spokesperson sent a statement to:

“HHSC is working diligently to distribute funds to FEMA-approved disaster survivors. While we are answering calls as quickly and efficiently as possible, wait times may be higher than usual due to the increased volume of calls. FEMA has agreed to assist by answering HHSC inquiries on their hotline as we expand our hotline capacity.”

As efforts continue to aid recent disaster survivors, emergency leaders are preparing for future events.

“This is when we start seeing more tropical storms and tropical weather that can lead to hurricanes,” said Brent Taylor, spokesperson for the Houston Office of Emergency Management. Taylor advised having an emergency kit with essentials like water, food, medicine, and important documents such as homeowners insurance.

Typically, the agency would have five days to alert residents. However, with the warm gulf waters, conditions can change rapidly, as seen last year when a storm in Florida escalated from a tropical storm to a Category 5 hurricane in a day.

If you’re affected, here’s what FEMA advises: Inspectors may visit your home to verify damage. If your application isn’t approved, it may simply require more information. Both homeowners and renters are eligible for assistance. The National Weather Service predicts an above-average hurricane season with up to 25 named storms.

“I wouldn’t say they should be freaked out, but I would say they should be prepared,” Taylor said.

While there are some distribution issues, those in need of assistance should still reach out. FEMA noted that residents have about a month left to apply.