Vulnerability Assessment

A vulnerability assessment is a series of actions or steps taken to identify, prioritize and map weaknesses of a given area during a disaster.  These assessments are not restrained by size. They can be conducted for cities, states–even entire countries. A vulnerability assessment can serve as the basis for developing strategies for reducing the risks from disasters. THIRA (Threat Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment) is one tool we use to measure vulnerability. It is a 4-step process with the end goal to help communities answer questions such as, what do we need to prepare for and what accessible resources are required in order to be prepared?

Step 1: Identify Threats and Hazards of Concern: Based on a combination of experience, forecasting, subject matter expertise, and other available resources, identify a list of the threats and hazards of primary concern to the community.

2. Give the Threats and Hazards Context: Describe the threats and hazards of concern, showing how they may affect the community.

3. Establish Capability Targets: Assess each threat and hazard in context to develop a specific capability target for each core capability identified in the National Preparedness Goal. The capability target defines success for the capability.

4. Apply the Results: For each core capability, estimate the resources required to achieve the capability targets through the use of community assets and mutual aid, while also considering preparedness activities, including mitigation opportunities.

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Author: Alexandra Dove