Over 535,000 cubic yards of debris have been collected throughout the state following the severe storms and tornadoes that tore through Mississippi communities in late March.
It’s been a little over one month since seven tornadoes traveled through 12 counties on March 24, resulting in a range of damage to nearly 2,000 houses. So far, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration have provided tornado survivors with $17.5 million in federal disaster assistance.
One of the first steps in recovery is debris removal. Our local governments have removed over 535,000 cubic yards of debris statewide, and more is being moved each day. It’s a long road to recovery but the strength and perseverance of these communities are evident. pic.twitter.com/3wGBNgJqnu
— msema (@MSEMA) April 25, 2023
“Our communities have made great strides in this response and recovery process,” State Coordinating Officer Todd Demuth began. “We couldn’t do this without the help of our local, state, and federal partners. Our faith-based organizations and volunteers have made a significant difference in the recovery process as well. While it may be a long road to recovery, Mississippians prove time and again that we will persevere, and the state will be there every step of the way.”
Throughout the past month, FEMA has approved $4.1 million to help homeowners and renters with temporary housing in Carroll, Humphreys, Monroe, Montgomery, Panola, and Sharkey counties following the severe storms.
“We are committed to helping people get a safe roof over their heads as quickly as possible,” said Federal Coordinating Officer John F. Boyle. “We are working with the state to provide immediate temporary solutions – including hotels, rental assistance, and other tools. Our focus is to meet the immediate sheltering need, give survivors a jumpstart on their recovery, and to bridge the gap between today and the long-term solutions.”
FEMA has also provided $3 million to help survivors with storm-related necessities like childcare, storage, disaster medical and dental expenses, and cleaning supplies.
