FEMA Head Warns of Misinformation Impact on Hurricane Response Efforts

FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell voiced concern Tuesday over increasing misinformation surrounding Hurricane Helene, warning it is harming both responders and survivors. Criswell said false conspiracy theories are eroding trust in federal and state governments, discouraging survivors from seeking help, and lowering first responder morale.

FEMA maintains a rumor control page to counter disaster-related misinformation, but Criswell noted the scale this time is unprecedented. Much of the misinformation is tied to baseless claims by Donald Trump and his supporters, alleging disaster funds are being diverted to immigrants. Elon Musk has also amplified these false claims.

While some Republicans praise the federal response and urge reliance on official sources, Criswell compared the situation to the 2023 Maui wildfires, where foreign entities spread disinformation.

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