As Tropical Storm Debby continues to impact communities across the Northeast, President Biden has approved an emergency declaration for Vermont. This authorization enables FEMA to provide federal assistance to save lives, protect property, and ensure public health and safety. While Debby has been downgraded to a tropical depression, the storm remains a significant threat, with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding expected to affect New York, Vermont, and other areas in the Northeast.
As the storm progresses, it is crucial for residents to stay informed by continuously monitoring weather updates from trusted sources and following guidance from local officials. FEMA emphasizes the importance of not underestimating the dangers associated with this storm, as the increased rainfall could produce flash flooding. To prepare for the storm, residents should secure their property by anchoring outdoor furniture and other loose items, prepare for potential power outages with emergency supplies like flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food, and be aware of flood-prone areas. Having an evacuation plan in place and avoiding unnecessary travel, particularly on roads that may become flooded or damaged, are also important safety measures.
In preparation for potential impacts in the coming days, FEMA and partners organizations are actively conducting preparatory activities and coordinating efforts across the affected regions. This includes pre-positioning five Swiftwater Rescue teams and staging Urban Search and Rescue to support if needed.
FEMA remains committed to supporting all affected areas and prioritizing the safety and wellbeing of everyone in the storm’s path.
People experiencing impacts from Debby should take action to stay safe
Stay safe and be aware of flood risks. Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood water as it may be contaminated and contain dangerous debris. Additionally, underground or downed power lines can electrically charge the water. Turn Around, Don’t Drown! Remember, just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. Stay off bridges over fast-moving water and never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
Be ready to evacuate. Excessive rainfall may cause waters to rise rapidly, so you may need to evacuate with little notice. Residents and visitors should pay attention to local officials and heed any guidance, warnings, or instructions as risk of flooding continues over the coming days. To find an open shelter, you can text the word SHELTER and your zip code to 43362 to search for shelters near you, and for Spanish speakers, text REFUGIO and your zip code to 43362.
Use generators safely. Always use them outdoors and at least 20 feet from windows, doors, and attached garages. Make sure to keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding.
Flooding can affect power systems, as utility companies may shut down portions of the electrical grid. If the power goes out, use only flashlights or battery-powered lanterns for emergency lighting. Never use candles during a blackout or power outage due to extreme risk of fire.
Stay away from power and communication lines. Communication lines carry vital messages including 911 and emergency services and provide access to the internet. Call your utility providers directly to report down or cut lines and stay clear of the area.
Stay off the roads. This will help first responders and utility companies get help to those who need it most. If you evacuated, do not return home until local officials say it is safe to do so.
Document any property damage. If you’re able to safely do so, take photos and contact your insurance company right away for assistance and next steps.
If flooded, contact your insurance provider immediately. Homeowners and renters whose properties have been damaged by the storm should contact their insurance providers immediately. For those with flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), FEMA has established hotlines to expedite claims processing and provide guidance on next steps. For more information about flood insurance claims, visit www.floodsmart.gov or call the NFIP Helpline at 1-800-427-4661.
Use caution when cleaning up. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants, work gloves, and sturdy thick-soled shoes. Do not try to remove heavy debris by yourself. Use an appropriate mask if cleaning mold or other debris. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
You can find more information on how to prepare for the incoming storm and how to stay safe at Ready.gov or Listo.gov in Spanish language. You can also download the free FEMA App to locate open shelters and receive alerts for up to five areas.
Contact Us
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA’s Office of External Affairs:
- Congressional Affairs at (202) 646-4500 or at FEMA-Congressional-Affairs@fema.dhs.gov
- Intergovernmental Affairs at (202) 646-3444 or at FEMA-IGA@fema.dhs.gov
- Tribal Affairs at (202) 646-3444 or at FEMA-Tribal@fema.dhs.gov
- Private Sector Engagement at (202) 646-3444 or at FEMA-Private-Sector@fema.dhs.gov
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Follow FEMA on social media at: FEMA Blog on fema.gov, @FEMA or @FEMAEspanol on Twitter, FEMA or FEMA Espanol on Facebook, @FEMA on Instagram, and via FEMA YouTube channel.
Also, follow Administrator Deanne Criswell on Twitter @FEMA_Deanne.
FEMA Mission
Helping people before, during, and after disasters.
