A “disaster" is a major adverse event resulting from natural processes or specific human-induced events (such as critical infrastructure failures) that cause widespread disruption and economic loss within a defined geographic area. These events typically occur over a short period, causing damage to property, infrastructure, or the environment, and may pose a threat to life safety.

To be eligible, the event must be:

• Sudden and unexpected: The event must occur rapidly and without warning.
• Widespread: The event must impact a significant portion of the affected area.
• Severe: The event must cause substantial damage or loss.
• Externally caused: The primary cause of the event must be beyond the control of those affected.
• Officially recognized: The event must typically be declared a disaster by a state, tribal, or federal government.

Eligible disaster events include:

• Natural disasters:
  • Earthquakes
  • Hurricanes
  • Floods
  • Wildfires
  • Tsunamis
  • Landslides
  • Tornadoes
  • Winter storms
  • Severe ice/snow
  • Freezing temperatures
  • Weather-related flooding
  • High water
• Infrastructure failures:
  • Bridge collapses
  • Dam failures

Ineligible events include:

• Human-caused disasters: Terrorism, riots
• Crime: Burglaries, theft
• Economic downturns: Recessions, depressions
• Pandemics: Such as COVID-19