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Rural Communities of Color Overrepresented in FEMA’s Disaster Risk Zones

Summary

A recent analysis by the Urban Institute reveals that rural communities of color are disproportionately represented in FEMA’s Community Disaster Resilience Zones (CDRZs), classified as at-risk areas for natural disasters. Using data from FEMA's National Risk Index, researchers found that rural areas, particularly those distant from urban centers, are more vulnerable to climate disasters. While FEMA aims to allocate resources to the most vulnerable communities, challenges persist, as rural areas lack the same level of private and philanthropic support as urban counterparts. Anne Junod, an environmental social scientist at the Urban Institute, suggests streamlining federal funding processes for rural communities to enhance disaster preparedness and resilience. Readers are encouraged to subscribe to The Daily Yonder for regular updates on rural issues.

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