Skip to main content
Woman holding Baby in Mississippi after tornado
Community Resources

Experiencing a Natural Disaster?

Woman holding Baby in Mississippi after tornado

Natural Disasters and Frontline Communities

In fact, a 2019 study found that Black and Latinx residents in American counties that experienced $10 billion in damages from natural disasters, such as hurricanes between 1999 and 2013, lost an average of $27,000 and $29,000, respectively. White people in counties with similar losses due to natural disasters instead gained an average of $126,000. 

Types of Natural Disasters

The Impact of Extreme Heat on Black Americans

On average, Black Americans are exposed to extreme heat for 38 days annually, compared to 28 days for White Americans, making preparation crucial. 

Natural Disaster Resources

Learn more about the different types of natural disasters and receive information on how to prepare for them.

Voting After a Natural Disaster

In the event of a hurricane, state election authorities will typically provide storm-specific information on their websites, outlining steps voters can take if they are affected. Below is guidance for voters in the states of Alabama, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia.

Each state and each impacted county within the state has specific procedures for voting.  You must contact your local election office for guidance. 

Find Your Local Elections Office for Hurricane Voting Information  

Recovery Assistance

Need help recovering from a natural disaster? View our list of resources for housing, insurance, mental health, and more.

Teacher Reading a Book to a Seated Group of Young Children

Schools and Natural Disasters

When a disaster occurs, schools are essential in helping communities recover. To be prepared, schools must engage in ongoing efforts like developing emergency operations plans (EOPs) and collaborating with community partners. These efforts ensure that schools and communities can respond effectively to disasters and support recovery. 

The National Disaster Recovery Framework (NDRF) offers vital resources and guidelines for schools to plan for recovery before, during, and after an emergency. By focusing on recovery capabilities and coordinating with local agencies, schools can strengthen their role in disaster resilience and ensure smoother recovery. 

Disaster Survivor Application Checklist 

Before you start your FEMA application, please have the information below and a pen and paper ready.

  • Social Security Number 
    • You, another adult, or a minor child member in your household must have a Social Security number. You or they must also be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified non-citizen. 
    • If you don't have a Social Security number, go to the Social Security Number and Card page. You will get instructions on what to do and what documents you will need.  
    • Once you have your number, you may come back to DisasterAssistance.gov or call the FEMA Helpline to apply.  
  • Insurance Information 
    • Describe the type(s) of insurance coverage you have. This could include coverage under policies like homeowners, flood, automobile, or mobile home insurance
  • Damage Information 
    • Describe the damage caused by the disaster. Include the type of disaster (like flood, hurricane, or earthquake) and the type of home or vehicle (like a condo, mobile home or house, or a car or truck). (Photos before and after are helpful) 
  • Financial Information 
    • Provide your total annual household income, before taxes, at the time of the disaster. 
  • Contact Information 
    • Provide the address and phone number of the property where the damage occurred and the address and phone number of where FEMA can reach you. 
  • Direct Deposit Information (optional) 
    • If approved, FEMA can deposit your funds directly into your bank account.
  • NEED HELP? If you need help with the application, please call the FEMA Helpline. 
    • For help with your application or to apply by phone, call the FEMA Helpline: 1‑800‑621‑3362 

Issues Getting Assistance?

Experiencing issues contacting FEMA or other agencies for aid? Submit your story here so we can ensure you get the resources you need. 

Happy Black Family in front of house

Natural Disasters and Rural Communities

Rural communities are often hit hardest by natural disasters, making preparedness and recovery crucial. The USDA Rural Development (RD) offers over 40 programs, including loans, grants, and technical assistance, to help rural areas build disaster resilience and support recovery efforts. 

RD partners with local governments, nonprofits, and private organizations to provide these resources, working with local leaders to ensure rural communities recover more effectively and build stronger, disaster-resilient futures. 

Climate Marginalization in America

Purple Scribble