After a hazard event, the local government responds, supplemented by neighboring communities and volunteer agencies. If overwhelmed, the local government or tribal area turns to the State or Tribe for assistance.

The State or Tribe responds with its respective resources, such as the National Guard and State agencies. Local, State or Tribal, Federal, and volunteer organizations conduct damage assessments to determine losses and recovery needs. If appropriate, the Governor submits to FEMA a request for an emergency declaration. This request usually is based on the damage assessment, and is accompanied by the commitment of the Governor to devote State funds and resources to the long-term recovery.

FEMA evaluates the request and recommends action to the White House based on the disaster and the State’s or Tribe’s ability to recover. The President approves the request, or FEMA informs the Governor or Tribe it has been denied. This decision process could take a few hours or several weeks, depending on the nature of the disaster.