FEMA Rep Describes Role in Joplin Tornado Response

摘要

After the EF-5 tornado lifted, first responders in Joplin, Mo., called on local mutual-aid pacts to begin the grueling task of looking for survivors and clearing debris. To help manage outside resources, the city also brought in FEMA Region VII coordinators. FEMA public-information specialist Carolyn Stonner said that within hours of the tornado striking Joplin, FEMA submitted a disaster declaration for immediate federal assistance. Within 12 hours, FEMA incident-management teams and eight mobile communication units were stationed in the city helping local responders, she said.