What Is the NRI?
The National Risk Index (NRI) is a dataset from FEMA that identifies communities most at risk to 18 natural hazards. It uses a composite scoring method that considers expected annual loss, social vulnerability, and community resilience.
How Scores Are Calculated
The NRI combines three components: Expected Annual Loss (EAL) — the average dollar amount a community can expect to lose per year from a hazard; Social Vulnerability — how susceptible a community is to harm based on socioeconomic factors; and Community Resilience — the community's ability to prepare for, adapt to, and recover from hazards.
What the Ratings Mean
Very High: Top 10% nationally. These counties face the most significant risk. Relatively High: 75th-90th percentile. Above average risk. Relatively Moderate: 40th-75th percentile. Average risk. Relatively Low: 15th-40th percentile. Below average risk. Very Low: Bottom 15%. Minimal risk from this hazard.
Frequently Asked Questions
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