FEMA criticizes false claims about its Helene response

FEMA is criticizing false claims about its response to Hurricane Helene. In addition to coordinating hurricane assistance, FEMA has had to deal with debunking rumors and conspiracy theories about its funding and storm response. Administrator Deanne Criswell continues to strongly push back against false claims, pointing to thousands of search and rescue team members on the scene in North Carolina. She also says disaster survivors are receiving initial payments to cover immediate needs and that additional money will be made available for home repairs. Criswell says rumors to the contrary are “dangerous” and “demoralizing.”