FEMA’s Office of Resilience is reflecting on key lessons from 2024’s disasters, emphasizing how modern building codes, strategic relocation, and proactive debris removal have helped communities better withstand extreme weather in their latest blog post. Visits to areas impacted by Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton revealed that stronger building standards—like elevated homes and improved utility placement—kept families safer and homes operational during storms.
In North Carolina, a fire station’s relocation out of a flood zone enabled first responders to stay operational during Hurricane Helene, while in Georgia, coordinated debris removal efforts prevented subsequent flooding. As FEMA continues its work supporting wildfire recovery in California, these insights will help shape future resilience strategies. Read more about how communities are building smarter for the future on FEMA’s website.