News and Media: Disaster 4795

Large-scale wildfires dramatically alter the terrain and ground conditions. Normally, vegetation absorbs rainfall, reducing runoff. However, wildfires leave the ground charred, barren, and unable to absorb water, creating conditions ripe for flash flooding and mudflow.

Maybe you have already begun fixing-up the damage to your home in the wake of the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding, or maybe you have no idea where to begin.

Disaster Legal Services (DLS) is a free service, funded by FEMA and available to southern New Mexico residents impacted by the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding that began June 17 through Aug. 20. If you are in need of legal services and you live in Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba or San Juan Counties or the Mescalero Apache Reservation, DLS may be able to help.

After you apply for federal disaster assistance, it is important that FEMA be able to contact you. FEMA may need to call some New Mexicans in Lincoln, Otero, Rio Arriba, and San Juan counties, and the Mescalero Apache Reservation to continue processing their application for assistance after South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding.

As part of its commitment to helping make communities stronger and more resilient, FEMA provides assistance to eligible homeowners affected by the South Fork and Salt Fires and flooding to help repair or rebuild stronger, more durable homes.