Disaster Readiness

Record-setting weather events devastated large parts of the United States in 2017 and early this year, including deadly wildfires that destroyed thousands of homes in California, ensuing mudslides and hurricanes that flooded the Southeast and obliterated communities in Puerto Rico. The disasters have severely strained the Federal Emergency Management Agency, prompting questions about whether the government is equipped to deal with natural disasters that scientists say are becoming more frequent and severe because of climate change. Some experts argue FEMA needs more money and authority, while others say the main job of disaster relief should be handed over to the states and local governments. The Trump administration has proposed cutting money for programs that supporters describe as crucial to disaster-related preparation and recovery. Meanwhile, mounting debt at the National Flood Insurance Program has renewed calls to stop insuring homeowners who repeatedly rebuild in flood-prone areas. And local governments are facing new pressure to curb development that adds to flood and fire risks.