Governor Dunleavy’s Request for Extension of FEMA Earthquake Assistance Approved

Governor Michael Dunleavy’s request to extend the disaster assistance registration period for individuals or households impacted by the November 30th Cook Inlet Earthquake has been approved by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The extension means suvivors now have until May 31, 2019 to submit their application to FEMA or the Small Business Administration. The initial registration period would have ended on April 1, 2019.

“The spring thaw may uncover earthquake damage to southcentral homes that had previously gone undetected, or will be exacerbated by thawing ground,” said Governor Dunleavy. “The extension gives property owners time to look for new or hidden damage, apply for federal disaster assistance, make the necessary repairs and get their lives back in order. I also want to thank FEMA officials for understanding Alaska’s arctic conditions and for approving my request within a matter of days.”

President Donald Trump declared this event a major disaster on January 31, 2019, authorizing Individual Assistance for the Municipality of Anchorage, Matanuska-Susitna Borough and Kenai Peninsula Borough.

The State Individual Assistance Program has received 14,594 applications. The federal program has received 6,653 registrations. Alaska emergency officials have been working side-by-side with federal responders to make sure survivors understand the importance of registering for federal assistance. This extension allows people more time to take this important step in the recovery process. 

“I also want to take this opportunity to thank the staff at the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management and FEMA for their successful partnership following the earthquake to help the survivors and assess the damage from the 7.1 magnitude earthquake. There is more work to do, but I am confident these dedicated professionals will get the job done for Alaska.” said Governor Dunleavy. 

Anyone impacted by the earthquake may register at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or online at www.disasterassistance.org