Challenges and best practices during the development of FEMA's National Risk Index

This study examines the development of the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) National Risk Index (NRI), highlighting key challenges and effective strategies identified during its development. Semi-structured interviews with FEMA officials and contributing experts provided insights into methodological challenges, data management complexities, and inter-agency dynamics. The findings emphasised the significance of interdisciplinary collaboration, the early involvement of technical specialists, and iterative design processes. The study highlights the necessity for transparent documentation of methodological limitations and underscores the importance of effective stakeholder engagement and adaptive approaches. These insights can guide future national risk assessment initiatives aiming to enhance resilience and support informed decision-making.