Blog
Every year, people around the world take part in the Great ShakeOut Earthquake Drills, an event designed to teach and test critical earthquake safety practices. The Great ShakeOut is an annual earthquake drill where participants practice how to Drop, Cover and Hold On.
The celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15 honors the rich cultural contributions and impact of Hispanic and Latino Americans in the United States. FEMA joins this celebration as a reminder that the fabric of our nation is strengthened by its diversity. The enduring legacy and ongoing contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of their cultural heritage and enhances our mission to help and serve all communities.
As disasters become more frequent, severe and complex, the demands placed on emergency managers continue to increase. It is important for FEMA to understand the changing needs of local, state, territorial and Tribal Nation emergency managers so they can continue to help people before, during and after disasters. To further enable emergency managers and build capacity, FEMA created the Emergency Manager Exchange Program.
Hurricanes are one of nature’s most powerful storms characterized by strong winds, storm surge, extreme rainfall and tornadoes. Hurricanes form over warm ocean water and can grow into massive systems that span hundreds of miles. These storms can affect areas far inland from where they make landfall, causing significant impacts to life and property. While a hurricane may only last a day or two, their effects can be felt for years.
Are you looking to enhance your community's disaster resilience and preparedness? Securing funding and resources from FEMA can be an essential step in building and maintaining critical infrastructure to withstand natural disasters. Here are three FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs focused on building community resilience.
A tornado tore through Jacksonville, Arkansas, in 2023, destroying the church Pastor Eddie Miller founded. Miller applied for FEMA assistance to rebuild the church.
Gymnasiums are much more than venues for sports games and physical training. They are shared spaces that bring people together and give communities the opportunity to gather.
Everyone has unique needs that require personal planning before disasters. For people with disabilities and those with caregivers, it is crucial to consider everyday needs and individual circumstances that will require heightened attention during disasters. Here are eight recommended actions that you and other individuals with disabilities can take to prepare for emergencies and disasters.
In today’s world, infrastructure is the foundation to much of our daily life, providing essential services and support to communities. Among these structures are dams, which play a critical role in offering water supplies, flood control and sometimes even hydroelectric power. The safety of these dams is crucial, as any failure can lead to catastrophic consequences.
FEMA-Funded Residential Property Voluntary Flood Buyouts give communities and individuals a way to increase their resilience. The mission of the program aligns with FEMA’s Year of Resilience, with a focus on building local capacity to withstand tomorrow’s hazards.