House Subcommittee Requests FEMA’s Hurricane Helene Preparedness Details
The chairman of a House Homeland Security subcommittee, Rep. Anthony D’Esposito, is seeking answers from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regarding its preparedness for Hurricane Helene. The devastating storm caused catastrophic flooding in several Southern states, claiming over 200 lives.
D’Esposito’s letter to FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell requested information on FEMA’s advanced forecasting models, resource pre-positioning, and coordination with partners. FEMA confirmed receipt of the letter and pledged to collaborate with Congress on Helene relief efforts.
While some officials criticized FEMA’s initial response, including delays in supplying water, homeland security adviser Liz Sherwood-Randall praised FEMA’s efforts in pre-positioning and post-landfall response. The agency has distributed millions of meals, water, generators, and tarps to aid recovery.
Although former President Donald Trump criticized FEMA, North Carolina Republicans like Sen. Thom Tillis and Rep. Chuck Edwards commended the agency’s response. Edwards highlighted the swift delivery of essential supplies in response to his demands for immediate assistance.
The ongoing FEMA efforts, totaling over $110 million in federal aid and involving thousands of personnel, aim to support survivors in their recovery from the disaster.
Author: Laura Strickler, Senior Investigative Producer and Reporter at NBC News