Disasters can happen quickly, with or without warning. Each year, millions of Americans are affected by emergencies ranging from natural disasters to hazardous materials spills and acts of terrorism. The South Dakota Office of Emergency Management provides tools for local emergency managers to restore and revitalize their communities. But unlike a fast-striking emergency, recovering from a disaster is a gradual process. We assist individuals and businesses with disaster recovery to get back to their regular-life activities as soon as possible.
Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and physical well-being. If assistance is available, knowing how to access it can make the process faster and less stressful.
The South Dakota Office of Emergency Management offers access to public assistance programs, the individual assistance program and small business disaster assistance.
Beyond resources and financial aid, counseling services and support groups can also help in coping with the aftermath of a disaster or state of emergency. Visit the Department of Social Services website for help in finding the right counseling resources for you.
National Disaster Recovery Framework
For responders and emergency managers, the National Disaster Recovery Framework (NDRF) enables disaster recovery managers to operate in a unified and collaborative manner to support disaster-impacted states, tribes, territorial, and local jurisdictions. It also focuses on how best to restore, redevelop, and revitalize the health, social, economic, natural, and environmental fabric of the community. Review the NDRF Recovery support functions.
After the Flood
Between 1993 and 2020, there have been 1,302 floods in South Dakota. This is an averages of 62.3 floods per year! Because many communities in South Dakota are affected by floods, the South Dakota Office of Emergency Management has provided an “After the Flood” resource guide for residents. The guide provides contacts to local businesses and resources that can be useful for South Dakotans. Please note: this is not a complete list of resources; nor does it imply endorsement by the State of South Dakota.
Please contact your local officials to find specific community information about what to do after a flood.