FEMA is the Federal Government’s lead agency in preparing for, mitigating against, responding to, and recovering from disasters and emergencies related to all hazards—whether natural or man-made. When states or territories are overwhelmed and the ‘‘disaster is of such severity and magnitude that effective response is beyond the capabilities of the state and the affected local governments,’’ the Governor of the affected state may request the President declare a major disaster. In recent years, the increasing frequency and costs of disasters, the COVID-19 pandemic and other responsibilities have placed additional pressures on FEMA. This book examines the state of disaster readiness, response, and recovery under FEMA’s leadership and guidance.