Legal Definitions - major disaster

A major disaster is a catastrophic event that occurs within the United States, such as a hurricane, tornado, storm, flood, earthquake, drought, fire, or other similar event. When the President determines that the disaster is severe enough to warrant federal assistance, it is declared a major disaster.

When a major disaster is declared, the federal government provides additional resources and support to states, local governments, and relief organizations to help alleviate the damage, loss, hardship, and suffering caused by the catastrophe.

• Hurricane Katrina
• The 9/11 terrorist attacks
• The California wildfires of 2018
• The COVID-19 pandemic

These examples illustrate the severity and impact of major disasters. Hurricane Katrina caused widespread destruction and displacement of people, while the 9/11 attacks resulted in loss of life and significant economic damage. The California wildfires of 2018 destroyed homes and businesses, and the COVID-19 pandemic has caused widespread illness, death, and economic disruption.