FEMA sought public input on the methodology and data used for the National Risk Index, as well as the Community Disaster Resilience Zones designation methodology, through public engagement sessions and Request for Information published in the Federal Register. In the 60-day public comment period from May 26 - July 25, 2023, FEMA received more than 600 comments through 24 public engagement sessions and submitted comments. FEMA reviewed and considered these comments as it determined a methodology for the initial designations. A summary of FEMA’s responses is available online.
Community Disaster Resilience Zones
The Community Disaster Resilience Zones Act of 2022, P.L. 117-255 (CDRZ Act) directed FEMA to (1) maintain a natural hazard assessment program and update products for the public’s use that show the risk of natural hazards through the use of risk ratings; and (2) designate at the census tract level “Community Disaster Resilience Zones” (CDRZs) based on natural hazard risk ratings. The act directed FEMA to review the underlying methodology and receive public input on the natural hazard risk assessment product that it would use to designate zones.
Pursuant to that direction, FEMA considered the data used and reviewed the underlying methodology of the National Risk Index. The National Risk Index is an effective resource for a nationwide, holistic assessment of baseline risk to natural hazards and is relied upon when working with state, local, tribal and territorial partners to determine risk.
From this review and engagement FEMA is designating as Community Disaster Resilience Zones census tracts within communities that are at the most risk and most in need. On Sept. 1, 2023, FEMA published the initial set of 483 designated zones.
Next Steps
The act requires FEMA to regularly review and update its risk assessment products and in the future FEMA will be designating additional zones. Based on public comments received to date, FEMA is actively accessing how to incorporate climate change data into five hazards within the National Risk Index. These include data for coastal flooding, drought, heatwave, hurricane wind, and wildfire.
FEMA is committed to making every effort to seek additional public input. We are connecting and engaging with experts and new stakeholder groups as they are identified to review and update the designation methodology for future zone designations.
Summary of Public Comments
FEMA categorized the comments received in virtual public engagements and through the Federal Register. The comments include six main themes:
- Community Engagement
- Data and National Risk Index
- Designation Methodology
- Displacement
- Equity
- Post-Designation Support
FEMA appreciates the agencies, organizations, and individuals who took the time to provide thoughtful and detailed feedback.