Tag

Disaster Response

All articles tagged with #disaster response

Panel Pushes Local-First, Private-Heavy Overhaul of FEMA
usnews16 days ago

Panel Pushes Local-First, Private-Heavy Overhaul of FEMA

A Trump-appointed council proposes transforming FEMA into a locally executed, federally supported agency with a lump-sum disaster funding model, higher thresholds for federal declarations, reduced federal environmental reviews, and a larger private-sector role in flood insurance, aiming for efficiency and accountability but drawing criticism for potentially weakening disaster preparedness as climate-driven disasters rise and local capacities remain uneven; many recommendations require new legislation.

Mullin Rebuilds FEMA: Reinstates whistleblowers and rolls back Noem-era cuts
politics25 days ago

Mullin Rebuilds FEMA: Reinstates whistleblowers and rolls back Noem-era cuts

FEMA is reversing several Noem-era changes as DHS secretary Markwayne Mullin works to stabilize the agency ahead of hurricane season: reinstating whistleblowers and senior staff, reversing hiring freezes and a $100,000 spending cap, extending contracts, and planning to hire more disaster workers. While the move aims to speed aid and improve readiness, officials warn staffing losses and training disruptions continue to threaten disaster response capability.

Cebu landfill collapse kills 11, prompts waste-management reform push
world4 months ago

Cebu landfill collapse kills 11, prompts waste-management reform push

Eleven people died and more than 20 remain missing after a landslide at Cebu City's Binaliw landfill trapped workers; over 100 were on site. Rescuers have recovered some injured, authorities suspended the operator and ordered a 90-day compliance plan while investigations begin. Lawmakers and officials are calling for a full review of waste-management practices and working conditions amid preliminary findings that heavy rainfall and other engineering factors contributed to the collapse.

Hurricane Melissa Devastates Jamaica, Causing Massive Damage and Loss of Life
world6 months ago

Hurricane Melissa Devastates Jamaica, Causing Massive Damage and Loss of Life

Hurricane Melissa, the strongest storm to hit Jamaica, caused damages estimated at 28-32% of the country's GDP, leading to significant economic and infrastructural setbacks, with regional impacts across the Caribbean and a death toll of at least 75. The prime minister emphasized the need for climate-resilient rebuilding and international support, highlighting the increasing severity of storms due to climate change.

Hurricane Melissa Devastates Caribbean, Jamaica's Preparedness Put to the Test
world6 months ago

Hurricane Melissa Devastates Caribbean, Jamaica's Preparedness Put to the Test

Hurricane Melissa, a powerful category five storm, has caused at least 19 deaths in Jamaica and 30 in Haiti, with widespread destruction and aid delivery challenges. While Cuba reports no fatalities, many communities are cut off due to flooding. International aid and rescue efforts are underway, with countries pledging support and deploying resources to assist the affected nations.