FEMA reimburses state $1.3M for debris removal

This storm devastated many towns in Kentucky

(Story Courtesy Of Kentucky Today)

FRANKFORT, Ky. (KT) – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved more than $1.3 million to reimburse the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet for debris removal in four counties, following the deadly tornado outbreak in December 2021.

On Dec. 10 and 11, severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, and tornadoes tossed debris throughout Caldwell, Christian, Hopkins and Muhlenberg counties. FEMA says this created an immediate threat to property and the public’s health and safety.

Broken tree limbs and other trash were hauled to four temporary debris staging and reduction sites and were later routed to five final disposal locations. The state was able to quickly utilize staff, equipment and contract services to clear the storm debris because it had chosen to participate in FEMA’s Public Assistance Alternative Procedures Program, also known as PAAP.

PAAP was created due to legislation enacted by Congress following Superstorm Sandy, which killed 233 people and caused more than $70 billion in damages from the Caribbean to Canada, including much of the U.S. East Coast.

FEMA Public Assistance is a cost-sharing program.  However, due to the magnitude of damage caused by this storm and a request by Gov. Andy Beshear, President Biden authorized a reimbursement of 100% federal funding for the project.

All work and costs due to the clean-up took place between Dec. 27, 2021, to Jan. 25, 2022.

At least 74 people were killed during the tornado outbreak in Kentucky, while an additional 672 people were injured.