Eight PDA teams, comprised of representatives with FEMA, MSP/EMHSD, various state departments and local agencies, are in the field reviewing damage to public infrastructures and individual residences.  The teams will be reviewing local damage figures and ensuring that any eligible damaged facilities are not missed.  The PDA is expected to take a couple of days to complete.

Based on local damage reports, the State of Michigan requested FEMA to conduct PDAs in the most severely affected counties to help determine the magnitude and impact of the September flooding.

"We are grateful for FEMA's quick response in assisting our State and local jurisdictions thoroughly review the damaged areas," said Capt. W. Thomas Sands, commander of the MSP/EMHSD.  "Their support greatly enhances the state's capabilities to obtain a clear and accurate assessment, and determine the potential need for requesting federal assistance."

The MSP/EMHSD will use data collected by the PDA teams to determine whether the damage is beyond the combined capabilities of the State and local resources, and to verify the need to request federal assistance.

The Michigan State Police, Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division is responsible for coordinating state and federal resources to assist local government in response and relief activities in the event of an emergency or disaster, as well as coordinating homeland security initiatives and various federal grants.