FEMA Considers Cruise Ships for Temporary Housing

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is working to provide temporary housing for displaced victims of Hurricane Katrina. Among the options being considered is the use of cruise ships – two based in Galveston, one in Mobile, and possibly a fourth somewhere in the region. “FEMA is handling the Herculean task of coordinating the relocation of many thousands of individuals and families whose lives have been torn apart by Hurricane Katrina,” Brown said. “Every available alternative, including creative options for immediate housing, is on the table.” He reported today that cruise ships -- with lodging for about 8,000 persons -- are one of several options which will provide temporary housing and comfort for those whose have been disrupted by Hurricane Katrina. Two ships, with a capacity of about 2,600 passengers each, will be based in Galveston, Texas, tomorrow and begin boarding evacuees Tuesday. Evacuees are chosen by state and local authorities with priority given to the elderly and other people with special needs. No one should self-report to any ships, but work with local emergency officials if shelter is needed. A third ship is scheduled to arrive in Mobile, Ala. on Thursday, Sept. 8, to begin lodging about 1,800 displaced persons. Details about a fourth ship that will hold 1,000 occupants will be provided soon. Currently, it is preparing to move from Charleston, S.C., to head for the Gulf Coast. FEMA tasked the U.S. Military Sealift Command to charter four cruise ships. Contracts were awarded for three ships from Carnival Cruise Lines and one from Scotia Prince Lines. All four ships are under charter for six months.