Continuation of essential services: FEMA emergency response operations, Coast Guard rescues, and volunteer aid will remain operational during a shutdown, ensuring critical assistance during disasters. Concerns over FEMA's reduced workforce: The downsizing of FEMA staff prior to the shutdown has raised concerns about the agency's ability to effectively respond to disasters with fewer personnel and resources. Disaster Relief Fund (DRF) availability: Despite the shutdown, the DRF remains active to cover immediate needs like debris removal and temporary housing, but concerns about its adequacy persist.
"Building financial resiliency is a crucial part in preparing for climate disasters," said Theodora Makris, senior program manager at the Center for NYC Neighborhoods (CNYCN). Makris explains that getting flood insurance, which you can read more about here, and creating an emergency fund ahead of the next big storm is the best way to protect your home from a severe weather event. And New Yorkers are no strangers to harsh storms.
Rodriguez said she initially felt anxious about her performance after responding to a fatal fire, but was reassured by the Red Cross mental health team's support.
"Our entire island chain is surrounded by water. We have more water than we do land mass. Being uniquely situated between the two large bodies of water makes us very vulnerable."
