National Risk Index Offers Unique Opportunity to Build More Resilient Communities

Michael M. Grimm, Assistant Administrator for Risk Management,
Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration, Resilience, shares
how the National Risk Index tool can help build�more resilient
communities.

The National Risk Index is an online mapping tool that analyzes
risk factors from 18 natural hazards. This free tool can help
anyone identify, assess and mitigate the risks pinpointed in their
community.

Natural hazards are environmental phenomena that impact
societies and the human environment. This includes avalanches,
droughts, earthquakes and more. Planning for these types of hazards
can help save lives, prevent property damage,  minimize financial
impacts, and reduce disaster suffering.

The index contains data from multiple federal partners and
includes input from more than 55 partners across the public and
private sectors. Data was collected from the best available
resources between 2014 and 2019 and will be updated in 2021.  The
use of data from a variety of partners makes the index a great
alternative for communities that do not have access to mapping
services.

The index’ unique data sets can be instrumental in the
development of robust FEMA-approved hazard mitigation plans. These
plans are part of the requirement for applying for FEMA’s
mitigation
grants, which help communities implement sustainable action
that reduces or eliminates long-term risk to people and property
from future disasters.

The National Risk Index also can be used to:

• Update emergency operations plans.
• Enhance hazard mitigation plans.
• Effectively prioritize and allocate resources.
• Identify the need for more refined risk assessments.
• Encourage community-level risk communication and
  engagement.
• Educate homeowners and renters.
• Support adoption of enhanced codes and standards.
• Inform long-term community recovery.

Data from the index is available for download. Visit FEMA’s
National Risk
Index webpage to learn more about the data and the natural
hazards that can affect your community.