A new analysis of 30 years of FEMA disaster data reveals a sharp rise in climate-related disasters across the United States. The International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED), in collaboration with CNN, found that 2024 saw 90 major disaster declarations, nearly double the 30-year average of 55 per year. This means the country faced a new major disaster every four days on average.
By cross-referencing FEMA data with census records, researchers estimate that 137 million people 41% of the U.S. population were affected by a major disaster or emergency declaration in 2024. These disasters, including tornadoes, wildfires, tropical storms, and floods, highlight the increasing toll of climate change on American communities.
“Millions of Americans are being affected by climate-driven disasters every year, sometimes with deadly consequences,” said Sejal Patel, senior climate finance researcher at IIED. “Political leaders need to act boldly, cutting emissions and supporting those most impacted.”
The research found that disasters peaked during July and August, with some days witnessing up to 10 active major disasters. In total, 73% of the year (267 days) had at least one active disaster, emphasizing the near-constant state of emergency across the country.
IIED stresses the urgent need for stronger disaster preparedness and resilience efforts as climate change continues to drive extreme weather. Patel emphasized that governments must use climate models and impact predictions to guide infrastructure planning, emergency response, and long-term adaptation strategies.
Key recommendations include:
- Stronger building codes to withstand extreme weather
- Climate-resilient infrastructure, such as flood barriers
- Improved health services for climate-related emergencies
- Early warning systems to help communities prepare
- Financial support programs for those affected by disasters
The Time to Act is Now
While FEMA data captures catastrophic events, it does not account for gradual climate impacts such as shifting rainfall patterns or extreme urban heat. As IIED continues to work globally on climate resilience, the findings make it clear: the U.S., like all nations, cannot afford to delay climate action any longer.