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Nabi recovery seen to top $1M
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Posted on Sep 08 2005
The preliminary damage assessment on the damage caused by Typhoon Nabi in the CNMI ended Wednesday, with recovery efforts expected to exceed $1 million, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
A joint team composed of FEMA representatives and local officials found that five homes received light damage, 10 with minor damage, six with major damage, and nine that were completely destroyed.
Damage must exceed the $1million mark for the local government to request federal assistance. Assessment reports from government agencies reveal that the initial estimate reached $1.6 million, but FEMA must verify these amounts. Their final report will be issued next week.
Governor’s Authorized Representative Virginia Villagomez and Emergency Management Office director Rudy Pua briefed Gov. Juan N. Babauta yesterday on the preliminary damage assessment findings.
Nabi battered the CNMI on Aug. 31, 2005.
In a letter to the governor, Villagomez explained that a declaration of a state of emergency is necessary to insure the safety and well being of the CNMI population.
It allows for:
* CUC line crews to go out and remove downed electrical poles and wires that pose a hazard to residents; cut trees that are a threat to main power lines; and restore power and water service to effected neighborhoods.
* DPW and the Mayor’s Office to cut and remove tree debris that posed hazards on main roads and thoroughfares; and to repair roads and establish collection points for typhoon debris.
* PSS staff to man designated typhoon shelters and bus drivers to transport people needing assistance to the typhoon shelters.
* DPS to ensure neighborhoods are safe emergency assistance is given to those in need.
* DCCA staff to man the long term shelters as necessary.
* Personnel for all government agencies to assist the Emergency Operations Center to coordinate the damage assessment and relief efforts.
Babauta had asked FEMA to conduct the joint Preliminary. Damage Assessment with local officials to assess damage and estimate the amount of supplemental assistance that will be needed.
