Disasters and Emergencies

Wireless Emergency Alerts Emergency Alert System NOAA Weather Radio When emergencies strike, public safety officials use timely and reliable systems to alert you. This page describes different warning alerts you can get and how to get them. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are short emergency messages from …

While the threat of mass attacks is real, we can take steps to prepare, protect ourselves and help others. What are Mass Attacks? Types of Mass Attacks Active shooter: Individuals using firearms to cause mass casualties. Individuals using a vehicle to cause mass casualties. Individuals using homemade bombs to cause …

Protect Yourself During an Avalanche After an Avalanche Additional Resources An avalanche is a large amount of snow moving quickly down a mountain, typically on slopes of 30 to 45 degrees. When an avalanche stops, the snow becomes solid like concrete and people are unable to dig out. People caught …

Protect Yourself During an Attack After an Attack Additional Resources Cybersecurity involves preventing, detecting and responding to cyberattacks that can have wide-ranging effects on individuals, organizations, the community and at the national level. Cyberattacks are malicious attempts to access or damage a computer or network system. Cyberattacks can lead to …

Nearly every part of the U.S. experiences periods of reduced rainfall. Planning in advance for a drought can protect us in dry years. Before a Drought The best way to prepare for a drought is to conserve water. Make conserving water a part of your daily life. Indoor Water Conservation …

Biological agents are organisms or toxins that can kill or disable people, livestock and crops. A biological attack is the deliberate release of germs or other biological substances that can make you sick. There are three basic groups of biological agents that could likely be used as weapons: bacteria, viruses …

Prepare Before Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Additional Resources An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the ground caused by the shifting of rocks deep underneath the earth’s surface. Earthquakes can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches. While they can happen anywhere without warning, areas at higher risk …

Chemical agents are poisonous vapors, aerosols, liquids and solids that have toxic effects on people, animals or plants. Chemical agents can cause death but are difficult to deliver in deadly amounts because they dissipate quickly outdoors and are hard to produce. Before a Chemical Emergency A chemical attack could come …

Explosive devices can be carried by cars and people and are easily detonated from remote locations or by suicide bombers. There are steps you can take to prepare. Before an Explosion Protect yourself: Build an Emergency Supply Kit. Make a Family Emergency Plan. Learn what to do in case of …

Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to death. In fact, extreme heat is responsible for the highest number …

Prepare for a flood During a flood After a flood Associated content Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Failing to evacuate flooded areas or entering flood waters can lead to injury or death. …

In just two minutes a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can, be engulfed in flames. Learn About Fires Fire is FAST! In less than 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a …

Prepare for Hurricanes Stay Safe During Returning Home Additional Resources Hurricanes are dangerous and can cause major damage because of storm surge, wind damage, rip currents and flooding. They can happen along any U.S. coast or in any territory in the Atlantic or Pacific oceans. Storm surge is historically the …

Landslides occur in all U.S. states and territories and can be caused by many factors including earthquakes, storms, volcanic eruptions, fire and human modification of land. The most deadly landslides are the ones that occur quickly, often with little notice. In a landslide, masses of rock, earth or debris move …

Nuclear explosions can cause significant damage and casualties from blast, heat, and radiation but you can keep your family safe by knowing what to do and being prepared if it occurs. A nuclear weapon is a device that uses a nuclear reaction to create an explosion. Nuclear devices range from …

Prepare for Pandemic Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Associated Content A pandemic is a disease outbreak that spans several countries and affects a large number of people. Pandemics are most often caused by viruses, like Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), which can easily spread from person to person. A new …

Power Outage Tips During a Power Outage After a Power Outage Associated Content Extended power outages may impact the whole community and the economy. A power outage is when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly. A power outage may: Disrupt communications, water and transportation. Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas …

The term “space weather” refers to the variable conditions on the sun and in space that can influence the performance of technology we use on Earth. Extreme space weather could potentially cause damage to critical infrastructure – especially the electric grid – highlighting the importance of being prepared. Learn About …

Prepare for Tornadoes Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Associated Content Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create deadly flying debris. A tornado can: Happen anytime and anywhere. Bring intense winds, over 200 miles …

A tsunami can kill or injure people and damage or destroy buildings and infrastructure as waves come in and go out. A tsunami is a series of enormous ocean waves caused by earthquakes, underwater landslides, volcanic eruptions, or asteroids. Tsunamis can: Travel 20-30 miles per hour with waves 10-100 feet …

A volcano is an opening in the Earth’s crust that allows molten rock, gases, and debris to escape to the surface. Alaska, Hawaii, California, and Oregon have the most active volcanoes, but other states and territories have active volcanoes, too. A volcanic eruption may involve lava and other debris that …

Prepare for Wildfires Stay Safe During After a Wildfire Additional Resources Wildfires are unplanned fires that burn in natural areas like forests, grasslands or prairies. These dangerous fires spread quickly and can devastate not only wildfire and natural areas, but also communities. Prepare for Wildfires Recognize Warnings and Alerts Have …

Prepare for Winter Weather Stay Safe During Associated Content Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion. Winter storms including blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and high winds. A winter storm can: Last a few …

Hazardous materials can include explosives, flammable and combustible substances, poisons and radioactive materials. Emergencies can happen during production, storage, transportation, use or disposal. You are at risk when chemicals are used unsafely or released in harmful amounts where you live, work or play. Before a Hazardous Materials Incident Many communities …

Know what disasters and hazards could affect your area, how to get emergency alerts, and where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate.  Make sure your family has a plan and practices it often. Order Free Preparedness Materials Order free preparedness materials from FEMA’s online ordering platform. These materials …

Protect Yourself During an Attack After an Attack Additional Resources Cybersecurity involves preventing, detecting and responding to cyberattacks that can have wide-ranging effects on individuals, organizations, the community and at the national level. Cyberattacks are malicious attempts to access or damage a computer or network system. Cyberattacks can lead to …

Nearly every part of the U.S. experiences periods of reduced rainfall. Planning in advance for a drought can protect us in dry years. Before a Drought The best way to prepare for a drought is to conserve water. Make conserving water a part of your daily life. Indoor Water Conservation …

Prepare Before Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Additional Resources An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the ground caused by the shifting of rocks deep underneath the earth’s surface. Earthquakes can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches. While they can happen anywhere without warning, areas at higher risk …

Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to death. In fact, extreme heat is responsible for the highest number …

Prepare for a flood During a flood After a flood Associated content Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Failing to evacuate flooded areas or entering flood waters can lead to injury or death. …

In just two minutes a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can, be engulfed in flames. Learn About Fires Fire is FAST! In less than 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a …

Prepare for Hurricanes Stay Safe During Returning Home Additional Resources Hurricanes are dangerous and can cause major damage because of storm surge, wind damage, rip currents and flooding. They can happen along any U.S. coast or in any territory in the Atlantic or Pacific oceans. Storm surge is historically the …

Landslides occur in all U.S. states and territories and can be caused by many factors including earthquakes, storms, volcanic eruptions, fire and human modification of land. The most deadly landslides are the ones that occur quickly, often with little notice. In a landslide, masses of rock, earth or debris move …

Nuclear explosions can cause significant damage and casualties from blast, heat, and radiation but you can keep your family safe by knowing what to do and being prepared if it occurs. A nuclear weapon is a device that uses a nuclear reaction to create an explosion. Nuclear devices range from …

Knowing how to handle household products containing hazardous materials or chemicals can reduce the risk of injury. Before a Household Chemical Emergency Only store household chemicals in places children can’t get to them. Hazardous household chemicals may include: Aerosol cans (including hair spray and deodorant) Nail polish and nail polish …

Nuclear power plants use the heat generated from nuclear fission in a contained environment to convert water to steam, which powers generators to produce electricity. Although the construction and operation of these facilities are closely monitored and regulated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), accidents are possible. An accident could …

Prepare for Pandemic Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Associated Content A pandemic is a disease outbreak that spans several countries and affects a large number of people. Pandemics are most often caused by viruses, like Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), which can easily spread from person to person. A new …

Power Outage Tips During a Power Outage After a Power Outage Associated Content Extended power outages may impact the whole community and the economy. A power outage is when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly. A power outage may: Disrupt communications, water and transportation. Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas …

The term “space weather” refers to the variable conditions on the sun and in space that can influence the performance of technology we use on Earth. Extreme space weather could potentially cause damage to critical infrastructure – especially the electric grid – highlighting the importance of being prepared. Learn About …

Prepare for Tornadoes Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Associated Content Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create deadly flying debris. A tornado can: Happen anytime and anywhere. Bring intense winds, over 200 miles …

A tsunami can kill or injure people and damage or destroy buildings and infrastructure as waves come in and go out. A tsunami is a series of enormous ocean waves caused by earthquakes, underwater landslides, volcanic eruptions, or asteroids. Tsunamis can: Travel 20-30 miles per hour with waves 10-100 feet …

A volcano is an opening in the Earth’s crust that allows molten rock, gases, and debris to escape to the surface. Alaska, Hawaii, California, and Oregon have the most active volcanoes, but other states and territories have active volcanoes, too. A volcanic eruption may involve lava and other debris that …

Prepare for Wildfires Stay Safe During After a Wildfire Additional Resources Wildfires are unplanned fires that burn in natural areas like forests, grasslands or prairies. These dangerous fires spread quickly and can devastate not only wildfire and natural areas, but also communities. Prepare for Wildfires Recognize Warnings and Alerts Have …

Prepare for Winter Weather Stay Safe During Associated Content Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion. Winter storms including blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and high winds. A winter storm can: Last a few …

Know what disasters and hazards could affect your area, how to get emergency alerts, and where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate.  Make sure your family has a plan and practices it often. Order Free Preparedness Materials Order free preparedness materials from FEMA’s online ordering platform. These materials …

Protect Yourself During an Attack After an Attack Additional Resources Cybersecurity involves preventing, detecting and responding to cyberattacks that can have wide-ranging effects on individuals, organizations, the community and at the national level. Cyberattacks are malicious attempts to access or damage a computer or network system. Cyberattacks can lead to …

An RDD combines a conventional explosive device — such as a bomb — with radioactive material. It is designed to scatter dangerous and sub-lethal amounts of radioactive material over a general area. Such RDDs appeal to terrorists because they require limited technical knowledge to build and deploy compared to a …

Nearly every part of the U.S. experiences periods of reduced rainfall. Planning in advance for a drought can protect us in dry years. Before a Drought The best way to prepare for a drought is to conserve water. Make conserving water a part of your daily life. Indoor Water Conservation …

Prepare Before Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Additional Resources An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the ground caused by the shifting of rocks deep underneath the earth’s surface. Earthquakes can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches. While they can happen anywhere without warning, areas at higher risk …

Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to death. In fact, extreme heat is responsible for the highest number …

Prepare for a flood During a flood After a flood Associated content Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Failing to evacuate flooded areas or entering flood waters can lead to injury or death. …

In just two minutes a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can, be engulfed in flames. Learn About Fires Fire is FAST! In less than 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a …

Prepare for Hurricanes Stay Safe During Returning Home Additional Resources Hurricanes are dangerous and can cause major damage because of storm surge, wind damage, rip currents and flooding. They can happen along any U.S. coast or in any territory in the Atlantic or Pacific oceans. Storm surge is historically the …

Landslides occur in all U.S. states and territories and can be caused by many factors including earthquakes, storms, volcanic eruptions, fire and human modification of land. The most deadly landslides are the ones that occur quickly, often with little notice. In a landslide, masses of rock, earth or debris move …

Nuclear explosions can cause significant damage and casualties from blast, heat, and radiation but you can keep your family safe by knowing what to do and being prepared if it occurs. A nuclear weapon is a device that uses a nuclear reaction to create an explosion. Nuclear devices range from …

Prepare for Pandemic Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Associated Content A pandemic is a disease outbreak that spans several countries and affects a large number of people. Pandemics are most often caused by viruses, like Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), which can easily spread from person to person. A new …

Severe weather can happen anytime, in any part of the country. Severe weather can include hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail, flooding and flash flooding, and winter storms associated with freezing rain, sleet, snow and strong winds. Know your Risk Understand the type of hazardous …

Prepare for Thunder & Lightning Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Lightning is a leading cause of injury and death from weather-related hazards. Although most lightning victims survive, people struck by lightning often report a variety of long-term, debilitating symptoms. Thunderstorms are dangerous storms that include lightning and can create …

Power Outage Tips During a Power Outage After a Power Outage Associated Content Extended power outages may impact the whole community and the economy. A power outage is when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly. A power outage may: Disrupt communications, water and transportation. Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas …

The term “space weather” refers to the variable conditions on the sun and in space that can influence the performance of technology we use on Earth. Extreme space weather could potentially cause damage to critical infrastructure – especially the electric grid – highlighting the importance of being prepared. Learn About …

Prepare for Tornadoes Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Associated Content Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create deadly flying debris. A tornado can: Happen anytime and anywhere. Bring intense winds, over 200 miles …

A tsunami can kill or injure people and damage or destroy buildings and infrastructure as waves come in and go out. A tsunami is a series of enormous ocean waves caused by earthquakes, underwater landslides, volcanic eruptions, or asteroids. Tsunamis can: Travel 20-30 miles per hour with waves 10-100 feet …

A volcano is an opening in the Earth’s crust that allows molten rock, gases, and debris to escape to the surface. Alaska, Hawaii, California, and Oregon have the most active volcanoes, but other states and territories have active volcanoes, too. A volcanic eruption may involve lava and other debris that …

Prepare for Wildfires Stay Safe During After a Wildfire Additional Resources Wildfires are unplanned fires that burn in natural areas like forests, grasslands or prairies. These dangerous fires spread quickly and can devastate not only wildfire and natural areas, but also communities. Prepare for Wildfires Recognize Warnings and Alerts Have …

Prepare for Winter Weather Stay Safe During Associated Content Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion. Winter storms including blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and high winds. A winter storm can: Last a few …

Know what disasters and hazards could affect your area, how to get emergency alerts, and where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate.  Make sure your family has a plan and practices it often. Order Free Preparedness Materials Order free preparedness materials from FEMA’s online ordering platform. These materials …

Protect Yourself During an Attack After an Attack Additional Resources Cybersecurity involves preventing, detecting and responding to cyberattacks that can have wide-ranging effects on individuals, organizations, the community and at the national level. Cyberattacks are malicious attempts to access or damage a computer or network system. Cyberattacks can lead to …

Nearly every part of the U.S. experiences periods of reduced rainfall. Planning in advance for a drought can protect us in dry years. Before a Drought The best way to prepare for a drought is to conserve water. Make conserving water a part of your daily life. Indoor Water Conservation …

Prepare Before Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Additional Resources An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the ground caused by the shifting of rocks deep underneath the earth’s surface. Earthquakes can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches. While they can happen anywhere without warning, areas at higher risk …

Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to death. In fact, extreme heat is responsible for the highest number …

Recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process. Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and physical well-being. If assistance is available, knowing how to access it makes the process faster and less stressful. This section offers some general advice on steps to take after disaster strikes in …

Wireless Emergency Alerts Emergency Alert System NOAA Weather Radio When emergencies strike, public safety officials use timely and reliable systems to alert you. This page describes different warning alerts you can get and how to get them. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are short emergency messages from …

While the threat of mass attacks is real, we can take steps to prepare, protect ourselves and help others. What are Mass Attacks? Types of Mass Attacks Active shooter: Individuals using firearms to cause mass casualties. Individuals using a vehicle to cause mass casualties. Individuals using homemade bombs to cause …

Prepare for a flood During a flood After a flood Associated content Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Failing to evacuate flooded areas or entering flood waters can lead to injury or death. …

In just two minutes a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can, be engulfed in flames. Learn About Fires Fire is FAST! In less than 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a …

Prepare for Hurricanes Stay Safe During Returning Home Additional Resources Hurricanes are dangerous and can cause major damage because of storm surge, wind damage, rip currents and flooding. They can happen along any U.S. coast or in any territory in the Atlantic or Pacific oceans. Storm surge is historically the …

Protect Yourself During an Avalanche After an Avalanche Additional Resources An avalanche is a large amount of snow moving quickly down a mountain, typically on slopes of 30 to 45 degrees. When an avalanche stops, the snow becomes solid like concrete and people are unable to dig out. People caught …

Landslides occur in all U.S. states and territories and can be caused by many factors including earthquakes, storms, volcanic eruptions, fire and human modification of land. The most deadly landslides are the ones that occur quickly, often with little notice. In a landslide, masses of rock, earth or debris move …

Nuclear explosions can cause significant damage and casualties from blast, heat, and radiation but you can keep your family safe by knowing what to do and being prepared if it occurs. A nuclear weapon is a device that uses a nuclear reaction to create an explosion. Nuclear devices range from …

Prepare for Pandemic Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Associated Content A pandemic is a disease outbreak that spans several countries and affects a large number of people. Pandemics are most often caused by viruses, like Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), which can easily spread from person to person. A new …

Power Outage Tips During a Power Outage After a Power Outage Associated Content Extended power outages may impact the whole community and the economy. A power outage is when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly. A power outage may: Disrupt communications, water and transportation. Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas …

The term “space weather” refers to the variable conditions on the sun and in space that can influence the performance of technology we use on Earth. Extreme space weather could potentially cause damage to critical infrastructure – especially the electric grid – highlighting the importance of being prepared. Learn About …

Biological agents are organisms or toxins that can kill or disable people, livestock and crops. A biological attack is the deliberate release of germs or other biological substances that can make you sick. There are three basic groups of biological agents that could likely be used as weapons: bacteria, viruses …

Chemical agents are poisonous vapors, aerosols, liquids and solids that have toxic effects on people, animals or plants. Chemical agents can cause death but are difficult to deliver in deadly amounts because they dissipate quickly outdoors and are hard to produce. Before a Chemical Emergency A chemical attack could come …

Explosive devices can be carried by cars and people and are easily detonated from remote locations or by suicide bombers. There are steps you can take to prepare. Before an Explosion Protect yourself: Build an Emergency Supply Kit. Make a Family Emergency Plan. Learn what to do in case of …

Prepare for Tornadoes Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Associated Content Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create deadly flying debris. A tornado can: Happen anytime and anywhere. Bring intense winds, over 200 miles …

A tsunami can kill or injure people and damage or destroy buildings and infrastructure as waves come in and go out. A tsunami is a series of enormous ocean waves caused by earthquakes, underwater landslides, volcanic eruptions, or asteroids. Tsunamis can: Travel 20-30 miles per hour with waves 10-100 feet …

A volcano is an opening in the Earth’s crust that allows molten rock, gases, and debris to escape to the surface. Alaska, Hawaii, California, and Oregon have the most active volcanoes, but other states and territories have active volcanoes, too. A volcanic eruption may involve lava and other debris that …

Prepare for Wildfires Stay Safe During After a Wildfire Additional Resources Wildfires are unplanned fires that burn in natural areas like forests, grasslands or prairies. These dangerous fires spread quickly and can devastate not only wildfire and natural areas, but also communities. Prepare for Wildfires Recognize Warnings and Alerts Have …

Prepare for Winter Weather Stay Safe During Associated Content Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion. Winter storms including blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and high winds. A winter storm can: Last a few …

Know what disasters and hazards could affect your area, how to get emergency alerts, and where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate.  Make sure your family has a plan and practices it often. Order Free Preparedness Materials Order free preparedness materials from FEMA’s online ordering platform. These materials …

Protect Yourself During an Attack After an Attack Additional Resources Cybersecurity involves preventing, detecting and responding to cyberattacks that can have wide-ranging effects on individuals, organizations, the community and at the national level. Cyberattacks are malicious attempts to access or damage a computer or network system. Cyberattacks can lead to …

Nearly every part of the U.S. experiences periods of reduced rainfall. Planning in advance for a drought can protect us in dry years. Before a Drought The best way to prepare for a drought is to conserve water. Make conserving water a part of your daily life. Indoor Water Conservation …

Prepare Before Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Additional Resources An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the ground caused by the shifting of rocks deep underneath the earth’s surface. Earthquakes can cause fires, tsunamis, landslides or avalanches. While they can happen anywhere without warning, areas at higher risk …

Extreme heat is a period of high heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees for at least two to three days. In extreme heat your body works extra hard to maintain a normal temperature, which can lead to death. In fact, extreme heat is responsible for the highest number …

Prepare for a flood During a flood After a flood Associated content Flooding is a temporary overflow of water onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Failing to evacuate flooded areas or entering flood waters can lead to injury or death. …

In just two minutes a fire can become life-threatening. In five minutes, a residence can, be engulfed in flames. Learn About Fires Fire is FAST! In less than 30 seconds a small flame can turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a …

Prepare for Hurricanes Stay Safe During Returning Home Additional Resources Hurricanes are dangerous and can cause major damage because of storm surge, wind damage, rip currents and flooding. They can happen along any U.S. coast or in any territory in the Atlantic or Pacific oceans. Storm surge is historically the …

Landslides occur in all U.S. states and territories and can be caused by many factors including earthquakes, storms, volcanic eruptions, fire and human modification of land. The most deadly landslides are the ones that occur quickly, often with little notice. In a landslide, masses of rock, earth or debris move …

Hazardous materials can include explosives, flammable and combustible substances, poisons and radioactive materials. Emergencies can happen during production, storage, transportation, use or disposal. You are at risk when chemicals are used unsafely or released in harmful amounts where you live, work or play. Before a Hazardous Materials Incident Many communities …

Nuclear explosions can cause significant damage and casualties from blast, heat, and radiation but you can keep your family safe by knowing what to do and being prepared if it occurs. A nuclear weapon is a device that uses a nuclear reaction to create an explosion. Nuclear devices range from …

Prepare for Pandemic Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Associated Content A pandemic is a disease outbreak that spans several countries and affects a large number of people. Pandemics are most often caused by viruses, like Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), which can easily spread from person to person. A new …

Power Outage Tips During a Power Outage After a Power Outage Associated Content Extended power outages may impact the whole community and the economy. A power outage is when the electrical power goes out unexpectedly. A power outage may: Disrupt communications, water and transportation. Close retail businesses, grocery stores, gas …

The term “space weather” refers to the variable conditions on the sun and in space that can influence the performance of technology we use on Earth. Extreme space weather could potentially cause damage to critical infrastructure – especially the electric grid – highlighting the importance of being prepared. Learn About …

Prepare for Tornadoes Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Associated Content Tornadoes are violently rotating columns of air that extend from a thunderstorm to the ground. Tornadoes can destroy buildings, flip cars, and create deadly flying debris. A tornado can: Happen anytime and anywhere. Bring intense winds, over 200 miles …

A tsunami can kill or injure people and damage or destroy buildings and infrastructure as waves come in and go out. A tsunami is a series of enormous ocean waves caused by earthquakes, underwater landslides, volcanic eruptions, or asteroids. Tsunamis can: Travel 20-30 miles per hour with waves 10-100 feet …

A volcano is an opening in the Earth’s crust that allows molten rock, gases, and debris to escape to the surface. Alaska, Hawaii, California, and Oregon have the most active volcanoes, but other states and territories have active volcanoes, too. A volcanic eruption may involve lava and other debris that …

Prepare for Wildfires Stay Safe During After a Wildfire Additional Resources Wildfires are unplanned fires that burn in natural areas like forests, grasslands or prairies. These dangerous fires spread quickly and can devastate not only wildfire and natural areas, but also communities. Prepare for Wildfires Recognize Warnings and Alerts Have …

Prepare for Winter Weather Stay Safe During Associated Content Winter storms create a higher risk of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning, and heart attacks from overexertion. Winter storms including blizzards can bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice and high winds. A winter storm can: Last a few …

Knowing how to handle household products containing hazardous materials or chemicals can reduce the risk of injury. Before a Household Chemical Emergency Only store household chemicals in places children can’t get to them. Hazardous household chemicals may include: Aerosol cans (including hair spray and deodorant) Nail polish and nail polish …

Nuclear power plants use the heat generated from nuclear fission in a contained environment to convert water to steam, which powers generators to produce electricity. Although the construction and operation of these facilities are closely monitored and regulated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), accidents are possible. An accident could …

An RDD combines a conventional explosive device — such as a bomb — with radioactive material. It is designed to scatter dangerous and sub-lethal amounts of radioactive material over a general area. Such RDDs appeal to terrorists because they require limited technical knowledge to build and deploy compared to a …

Severe weather can happen anytime, in any part of the country. Severe weather can include hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail, flooding and flash flooding, and winter storms associated with freezing rain, sleet, snow and strong winds. Know your Risk Understand the type of hazardous …

Prepare for Thunder & Lightning Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Lightning is a leading cause of injury and death from weather-related hazards. Although most lightning victims survive, people struck by lightning often report a variety of long-term, debilitating symptoms. Thunderstorms are dangerous storms that include lightning and can create …

Recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process. Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and physical well-being. If assistance is available, knowing how to access it makes the process faster and less stressful. This section offers some general advice on steps to take after disaster strikes in …

Wireless Emergency Alerts Emergency Alert System NOAA Weather Radio When emergencies strike, public safety officials use timely and reliable systems to alert you. This page describes different warning alerts you can get and how to get them. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are short emergency messages from …

While the threat of mass attacks is real, we can take steps to prepare, protect ourselves and help others. What are Mass Attacks? Types of Mass Attacks Active shooter: Individuals using firearms to cause mass casualties. Individuals using a vehicle to cause mass casualties. Individuals using homemade bombs to cause …

Protect Yourself During an Avalanche After an Avalanche Additional Resources An avalanche is a large amount of snow moving quickly down a mountain, typically on slopes of 30 to 45 degrees. When an avalanche stops, the snow becomes solid like concrete and people are unable to dig out. People caught …

Biological agents are organisms or toxins that can kill or disable people, livestock and crops. A biological attack is the deliberate release of germs or other biological substances that can make you sick. There are three basic groups of biological agents that could likely be used as weapons: bacteria, viruses …

Chemical agents are poisonous vapors, aerosols, liquids and solids that have toxic effects on people, animals or plants. Chemical agents can cause death but are difficult to deliver in deadly amounts because they dissipate quickly outdoors and are hard to produce. Before a Chemical Emergency A chemical attack could come …

Explosive devices can be carried by cars and people and are easily detonated from remote locations or by suicide bombers. There are steps you can take to prepare. Before an Explosion Protect yourself: Build an Emergency Supply Kit. Make a Family Emergency Plan. Learn what to do in case of …

Hazardous materials can include explosives, flammable and combustible substances, poisons and radioactive materials. Emergencies can happen during production, storage, transportation, use or disposal. You are at risk when chemicals are used unsafely or released in harmful amounts where you live, work or play. Before a Hazardous Materials Incident Many communities …

Knowing how to handle household products containing hazardous materials or chemicals can reduce the risk of injury. Before a Household Chemical Emergency Only store household chemicals in places children can’t get to them. Hazardous household chemicals may include: Aerosol cans (including hair spray and deodorant) Nail polish and nail polish …

Nuclear power plants use the heat generated from nuclear fission in a contained environment to convert water to steam, which powers generators to produce electricity. Although the construction and operation of these facilities are closely monitored and regulated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), accidents are possible. An accident could …

An RDD combines a conventional explosive device — such as a bomb — with radioactive material. It is designed to scatter dangerous and sub-lethal amounts of radioactive material over a general area. Such RDDs appeal to terrorists because they require limited technical knowledge to build and deploy compared to a …

Severe weather can happen anytime, in any part of the country. Severe weather can include hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail, flooding and flash flooding, and winter storms associated with freezing rain, sleet, snow and strong winds. Know your Risk Understand the type of hazardous …

Prepare for Thunder & Lightning Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Lightning is a leading cause of injury and death from weather-related hazards. Although most lightning victims survive, people struck by lightning often report a variety of long-term, debilitating symptoms. Thunderstorms are dangerous storms that include lightning and can create …

Recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process. Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and physical well-being. If assistance is available, knowing how to access it makes the process faster and less stressful. This section offers some general advice on steps to take after disaster strikes in …

Wireless Emergency Alerts Emergency Alert System NOAA Weather Radio When emergencies strike, public safety officials use timely and reliable systems to alert you. This page describes different warning alerts you can get and how to get them. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are short emergency messages from …

While the threat of mass attacks is real, we can take steps to prepare, protect ourselves and help others. What are Mass Attacks? Types of Mass Attacks Active shooter: Individuals using firearms to cause mass casualties. Individuals using a vehicle to cause mass casualties. Individuals using homemade bombs to cause …

Protect Yourself During an Avalanche After an Avalanche Additional Resources An avalanche is a large amount of snow moving quickly down a mountain, typically on slopes of 30 to 45 degrees. When an avalanche stops, the snow becomes solid like concrete and people are unable to dig out. People caught …

Biological agents are organisms or toxins that can kill or disable people, livestock and crops. A biological attack is the deliberate release of germs or other biological substances that can make you sick. There are three basic groups of biological agents that could likely be used as weapons: bacteria, viruses …

Chemical agents are poisonous vapors, aerosols, liquids and solids that have toxic effects on people, animals or plants. Chemical agents can cause death but are difficult to deliver in deadly amounts because they dissipate quickly outdoors and are hard to produce. Before a Chemical Emergency A chemical attack could come …

Explosive devices can be carried by cars and people and are easily detonated from remote locations or by suicide bombers. There are steps you can take to prepare. Before an Explosion Protect yourself: Build an Emergency Supply Kit. Make a Family Emergency Plan. Learn what to do in case of …

Hazardous materials can include explosives, flammable and combustible substances, poisons and radioactive materials. Emergencies can happen during production, storage, transportation, use or disposal. You are at risk when chemicals are used unsafely or released in harmful amounts where you live, work or play. Before a Hazardous Materials Incident Many communities …

Knowing how to handle household products containing hazardous materials or chemicals can reduce the risk of injury. Before a Household Chemical Emergency Only store household chemicals in places children can’t get to them. Hazardous household chemicals may include: Aerosol cans (including hair spray and deodorant) Nail polish and nail polish …

Nuclear power plants use the heat generated from nuclear fission in a contained environment to convert water to steam, which powers generators to produce electricity. Although the construction and operation of these facilities are closely monitored and regulated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), accidents are possible. An accident could …

An RDD combines a conventional explosive device — such as a bomb — with radioactive material. It is designed to scatter dangerous and sub-lethal amounts of radioactive material over a general area. Such RDDs appeal to terrorists because they require limited technical knowledge to build and deploy compared to a …

Severe weather can happen anytime, in any part of the country. Severe weather can include hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail, flooding and flash flooding, and winter storms associated with freezing rain, sleet, snow and strong winds. Know your Risk Understand the type of hazardous …

Prepare for Thunder & Lightning Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Lightning is a leading cause of injury and death from weather-related hazards. Although most lightning victims survive, people struck by lightning often report a variety of long-term, debilitating symptoms. Thunderstorms are dangerous storms that include lightning and can create …

Recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process. Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and physical well-being. If assistance is available, knowing how to access it makes the process faster and less stressful. This section offers some general advice on steps to take after disaster strikes in …

Wireless Emergency Alerts Emergency Alert System NOAA Weather Radio When emergencies strike, public safety officials use timely and reliable systems to alert you. This page describes different warning alerts you can get and how to get them. Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs) are short emergency messages from …

While the threat of mass attacks is real, we can take steps to prepare, protect ourselves and help others. What are Mass Attacks? Types of Mass Attacks Active shooter: Individuals using firearms to cause mass casualties. Individuals using a vehicle to cause mass casualties. Individuals using homemade bombs to cause …

Protect Yourself During an Avalanche After an Avalanche Additional Resources An avalanche is a large amount of snow moving quickly down a mountain, typically on slopes of 30 to 45 degrees. When an avalanche stops, the snow becomes solid like concrete and people are unable to dig out. People caught …

Biological agents are organisms or toxins that can kill or disable people, livestock and crops. A biological attack is the deliberate release of germs or other biological substances that can make you sick. There are three basic groups of biological agents that could likely be used as weapons: bacteria, viruses …

Chemical agents are poisonous vapors, aerosols, liquids and solids that have toxic effects on people, animals or plants. Chemical agents can cause death but are difficult to deliver in deadly amounts because they dissipate quickly outdoors and are hard to produce. Before a Chemical Emergency A chemical attack could come …

Explosive devices can be carried by cars and people and are easily detonated from remote locations or by suicide bombers. There are steps you can take to prepare. Before an Explosion Protect yourself: Build an Emergency Supply Kit. Make a Family Emergency Plan. Learn what to do in case of …

Hazardous materials can include explosives, flammable and combustible substances, poisons and radioactive materials. Emergencies can happen during production, storage, transportation, use or disposal. You are at risk when chemicals are used unsafely or released in harmful amounts where you live, work or play. Before a Hazardous Materials Incident Many communities …

Knowing how to handle household products containing hazardous materials or chemicals can reduce the risk of injury. Before a Household Chemical Emergency Only store household chemicals in places children can’t get to them. Hazardous household chemicals may include: Aerosol cans (including hair spray and deodorant) Nail polish and nail polish …

Nuclear power plants use the heat generated from nuclear fission in a contained environment to convert water to steam, which powers generators to produce electricity. Although the construction and operation of these facilities are closely monitored and regulated by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), accidents are possible. An accident could …

An RDD combines a conventional explosive device — such as a bomb — with radioactive material. It is designed to scatter dangerous and sub-lethal amounts of radioactive material over a general area. Such RDDs appeal to terrorists because they require limited technical knowledge to build and deploy compared to a …

Severe weather can happen anytime, in any part of the country. Severe weather can include hazardous conditions produced by thunderstorms, including damaging winds, tornadoes, large hail, flooding and flash flooding, and winter storms associated with freezing rain, sleet, snow and strong winds. Know your Risk Understand the type of hazardous …

Prepare for Thunder & Lightning Stay Safe During Stay Safe After Lightning is a leading cause of injury and death from weather-related hazards. Although most lightning victims survive, people struck by lightning often report a variety of long-term, debilitating symptoms. Thunderstorms are dangerous storms that include lightning and can create …

Recovering from a disaster is usually a gradual process. Safety is a primary issue, as are mental and physical well-being. If assistance is available, knowing how to access it makes the process faster and less stressful. This section offers some general advice on steps to take after disaster strikes in …