FEMA Re-Examines Derecho Damage in WV - Beckley, Bluefield & Lewisburg News, Weather, Sports

FEMA Re-Examines Derecho Damage in WV

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CHARLESTON -

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is giving West Virginia a second look.

The agency is reviewing property damage around the state after much public outcry. FEMA recently announced that it would deny individuals in West Virginia federal assistance for damages caused by the June 29 derecho.

After several politicians requested that FEMA re-examine the damages, the agency sent crews to six counties Friday.

A FEMA representative told WOWK that crews will gather as much information as possible before speaking with Governor Earl Ray Tomblin.

The governor then will then decide based upon the reporters whether he will appeal FEMA's decision.

"If you had damages don't presume anything," said Frank Blake, a FEMA representative."Call your county emergency manager right away."

Blake added that FEMA needs homeowners' help to know where to assess the worst damage.

Norma Hodgins of Big Chimney is one of those homeowners.

The windstorm destroyed her chimney and roof. She said she cannot fix these damages by herself; Hodgins currently suffers from a broken hip and other injuries.

"I wanted to see if I could get help," Hodgins said. "I can't put the top back on the chimney or anything. Especially after my husband passed away. I don't have anyone to do things for me."

A FEMA crew visited Hodges today in Big Chimney to see the extent of the damages. The same crew also visited houses in Clendenin, Elkview, and the greater Charleston area.

But Blake said the crews sometimes face challenges when assessing the properties. He mentioned that so much time has passed since the storm, damages are hard to find.

"In many cases things have been repaired," Blake said.

He added that crews will work indefinitely until they can compile an informed report.