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FEMA Deployment Freeze Impacts Disaster Recovery Amid DHS Shutdown

KVIA•Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 7:00 PM•CNN Newsource

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The Trump administration has ordered FEMA to halt the deployment of disaster response workers during the ongoing shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This directive affects over 300 FEMA responders who were set to assist in areas recovering from disasters, despite the Disaster Relief Fund being unaffected by the shutdown. As of Wednesday, any travel for new deployments requires approval from DHS, complicating recovery efforts in states like Florida and North Carolina. While current responders can remain in the field, the freeze raises concerns about the efficiency of disaster recovery, particularly in light of recent catastrophic events.

Key Details: • DHS has directed FEMA to stop all travel for new disaster deployments as of Wednesday. • Over 300 FEMA responders are on standby, with some currently in training. • The Disaster Relief Fund has approximately $7 billion available, unaffected by the shutdown. • Current disaster recovery efforts in states like Florida and North Carolina may be hindered. • Approval from DHS is required for any travel to disaster areas.

dhs trump-administration fema disaster-relief shutdown

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Department of Homeland SecurityDonald TrumpKristi NoemFloridaNorth CarolinaWes MooreFEMAAlaskaPotomac RiverWashington state

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