FEMA Press Release

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Shelby County, Texas

June 11, 2025 – Preliminary flood risk information and updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review in Shelby County, Texas. Residents and business owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

FEMA Grant is Solely for Disaster Expenses; Use It Well and Wisely

September 23, 2024 - Disaster recovery officials remind survivors who may have received FEMA disaster funds that it’s important to use the money for the intended purpose. FEMA will mail a letter explaining exactly how the disaster funds are to be used or not used.

How do I know what that purpose is?

Some examples include:

Preliminary Flood Maps for Shelby County, Texas, Ready for Public View

August 27, 2024 – Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) are available for review by residents and business owners in all communities and incorporated areas of Shelby County, Texas.

Property owners are encouraged to review the latest information to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. Community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and participate in the appeal and comment periods for the maps.

FEMA Advises Be Alert to Fraud After a Disaster

July 15, 2024 – Texans should be aware that con artists and criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft after Hurricane Beryl. In some cases, thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from survivors.

FEMA Urges Preparedness Ahead of Hurricane Beryl

July 6, 2024 - FEMA is monitoring Hurricane Beryl, which is likely to affect portions of Texas this week with dangerous storm surge and flash flooding. FEMA is coordinating closely with our state, local and tribal partners. At this time, there are no unmet needs.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA’s) National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center is warning of a risk for damaging hurricane-force winds and life-threatening storm surge along portions of the lower and middle Texas coast starting Sunday.

Texas Offers April Sales Tax Holiday for Emergency Supplies

April 25, 2025 – FEMA Region 6 encourages Texans to stock up on emergency supplies during this year’s tax-free weekend starting April 27.

Residents can buy supplies and equipment to use in emergencies or natural disasters during the Texas Comptroller’s 2024 Emergency Preparation Sales Tax Holiday. No sales tax will be collected for eligible purchases made from 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, April 27 to midnight on Monday, April 29.

Being #WinterReady Can Save Lives

January 10, 2024 – Nearly three years ago, a severe winter storm brought hazardous conditions to millions of people across Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas, causing widespread disruptions such as frozen pipes, impassable roads, and power outages.

It marked the coldest winter storm in Texas since 1989, catching many residents off guard. Because areas in these southern states are not accustomed to these long-lasting severe winter events, many residents did not know how to stay warm and safe during severe winter weather.

Take Charge of Your Family’s Safety This Hurricane Season

June 2, 2022 – The days are long, the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean are warming, and hurricane season is here once again. Just hearing this news could bring about significant stress, especially if you’ve been through a previous disaster. To combat stress, take action now. Each positive action you take can help you feel better and more in control.

Look for steps you and your family can take to prepare ahead of time for any disaster-related needs. It’s time to make a plan today.

Latest FEMA Facts, Info, Statewide Statistics

April 23, 2016 - Latest FEMA Facts, Info, Statewide Statistics

Low-interest Disaster Loans Help Fuel Texas Disaster Recovery

FEMA Aid Recipients Cautioned on Using Funds for Intended Purpose

April 23, 2016 AUSTIN, Texas – Recovery officials are cautioning Texans who have received disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to use the funds for their intended purpose and to keep disaster spending receipts for three years.

Disaster assistance is to help residents meet basic disaster-related needs and funds are distributed via check or direct deposit. A letter explaining what the payment is to be used for arrives within a day or two of the check or direct deposit payment.

Shelby County Today

Menu