Emergency managers make decisions every day that protect communities, especially during hurricane season. With peak activity expected from August to October, recent tropical storms in the Gulf of America and forecasts for an above-normal season across the Pacific Ocean, now is the time to act. Readiness is more than a checklist; it’s a commitment to safety and resilience. It only takes one storm to cause major or catastrophic damage. If you work in emergency management for a town, county, state, Tribal Nation or territory, use these resources from FEMA and other federal agencies to improve your community’s readiness for the next storm.
On April 27, Joshua McDaid, a firefighter for FEMA’s Mount Weather Emergency Operations Center, was off duty and attending a soccer match in Hagerstown, Maryland, when he saw an attendee collapse. McDaid immediately recognized the signs of cardiac arrest. He assessed the patient, confirmed the individual did not have a pulse and was not breathing. McDaid quickly positioned the patient’s airway and began CPR.
When Hurricane Helene struck Western North Carolina, families and communities faced the daunting task of rebuilding for the future. Local partners launched long-term recovery groups with technical and coordination support from FEMA, which have been instrumental in speeding up recovery in the area and connecting residents with lasting local support systems.
When the world came to America for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, the excitement was everywhere. Stadiums packed with cheering fans, bustling city streets and vibrant fan zones set the stage for unforgettable moments. Behind the scenes, the FIFA World Cup 2026™ was one of the largest, most complex special Event Assessed for Security Risk events ever supported.
Over the July 4th weekend, FEMA actively supported Guam and Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI)’s response efforts to Super Typhoon Bavi. President Donald J. Trump approved emergency declarations for Guam and CNMI on July 3, and FEMA has been closely coordinating with territorial officials to support their needs.
July is Extreme Heat Awareness Month. This summer, stay smart and ready when temperatures rise to dangerous levels. This year, Freedom250 celebrations and the FIFA World Cup 2026 ™ are bringing people outdoors to various events. It’s possible to enjoy these events safely by planning ahead and knowing what to do in a heat-related emergency. While extreme heat can put anyone at risk, outdoor workers, children, older adults, people with health conditions are especially at risk. Follow these tips to help you and your family stay #SummerReady.
This year marks a historic milestone for the United States of America: 250 years since the Declaration of Independence was adopted on July 4, 1776. As we gather to celebrate this momentous occasion, it’s important to keep you and your family’s safety in mind. With summer temperatures rising and fireworks lighting up the night sky, taking simple precautions can help ensure your festivities are memorable for all the right reasons.
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ promises to provide fans with once-in-a-lifetime moments. Along with the excitement, you may also feel overwhelmed by the large crowds that come with it. Planning ahead can help prepare you for extreme weather, transportation logistics and security concerns.
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ will be the largest sporting event ever held in the United States, with 48 teams, 104 matches and millions of fans traveling to dozens of cities. But welcoming the world is more than a celebration, it’s a national security challenge. With millions of visitors, complex logistics and the added risk of hurricane season, FEMA’s role in preparedness and safety is essential.
In early April, FEMA completed a massive effort to help people in three of the states hit hardest by Tropical Storm Helene. Across Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee, 413 families received a place to live through FEMA Direct Housing Assistance. This type of assistance helps survivors with long-term housing needs after a disaster by providing a trailer, RV or rental property.