Milwaukee County officials urging patience as FEMA crews begin flood assessments

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) - According to a FEMA representative, crews are in SE Wisconsin and starting to assess flood damage throughout the region.

According to the Milwaukee County Emergency Management Director Cassandra Libal, there are 40 to 60 FEMA personnel in the area.

“FEMA’s visit is not a distribution of funds, they are not coming to provide money to homeowners,” Libel said. “They will be coming to make their assessments.”

FEMA crews are expected to begin interviewing homeowners on Thursday and are expected to do so through the weekend.

Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley is urging people to keep any receipts and invoices for damages, along with any pictures and videos of damage.

“We’re doing everything we can to not only provide support but to provide resources,” Crowley said.

If FEMA determines that there is enough damage, there will be a federal review followed by a presidential disaster declaration.

Next, federal funding would be provided.

“I think it’s a good first step,” West Allis resident Amanda Loomis said. “I know there’s a lot going on in our country and they have to be everywhere but any help they can give us we appreciate.”