Key opportunities and challenges for community investment in community disaster resilience zones

This report highlights, that areas like Los Angeles—designated Community Disaster Resilience Zones by FEMA—face disproportionate risks due to economic, environmental, and social vulnerabilities. The 2025 wildfire crisis exemplified the report’s call for investment in infrastructure, community engagement, and climate adaptation to mitigate future disasters.

Focused on wildfire-prone areas like Los Angeles County, the report provides actionable insights into:

• Addressing critical infrastructure vulnerabilities, such as water, energy, and transportation systems.
• Integrating early warning systems for disasters like wildfires into community planning.
• Mobilizing private investment to complement stretched public resources, targeting high-risk communities.
• Developing resilience hubs to support evacuations and protect public health during crises.