The Virginia Department of Emergency Management protects the lives and property of Virginia's citizens from emergencies and disasters by coordinating the state's emergency preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery efforts.
CHANGING WEATHER MAY REVEAL EARTHQUAKE CHIMNEY DAMAGE - Virginia Earthquake

Virginia Earthquake

CHANGING WEATHER MAY REVEAL EARTHQUAKE CHIMNEY DAMAGE

Masonry chimneys and fireplaces are especially vulnerable to earthquake damage, and many Virginia residents experienced such damage firsthand. The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) inspectors have visually inspected nearly 4400 homes and in nearly 30% of those visits, inspectors suspected chimney damage.
Chimney damage can be deadly and may continue to lurk in the homes of unsuspecting Virginians. Do not take a chance with the health of your household, and find a licensed inspector to assure the safety of your home.

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01/24/12

Accent theme by Handsome Code

Summary: United States Geological Survey reports 5.8 magnitude earthquake impacted Virginia at 1351. Epicenter was located approximately 4 miles south-southeast of Louisa, VA; 4 miles southwest of Mineral, VA; 41 miles northwest of Richmond, VA; and 83 miles southwest of Washington, DC. Depth of earthquake is report at approximately .6 mile.

FEMA has approved federal disaster assistance for individuals, renters and business owners in Louisa County who experienced damage as a result of a 5.8-magnitude earthquake that struck Virginia on Aug. 23 and caused more than 40 aftershocks. The governor appealed FEMA’s initial decision to deny federal disaster aid to Louisa County.

Since the original request was made Sept. 20, officials have found more extensive damage than what was originally reported in more than 1,400 homes. Some damage that was first categorized as minor has become worse as a result of more than 40 aftershocks. The appeal included a letter from Virginia’s entire congressional delegation supporting the request.

Individuals and families in need of earthquake recovery aid can register immediately by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) Monday –Friday from 6 a.m. – midnight Central time, 7 a.m. – 1 a.m. Eastern time, and Saturday and Sunday from 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. Eastern time. People also can register online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov . Those with smart phones or other mobile devices also can register at m.fema.gov.

Get current information on Hurricane Irene in the Disaster Blog .

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