Catastrophic Disaster Planning and Response

While catastrophic disasters are rare, given global climate change and the location of human population centers, there is no doubt they will continue to occur at an ever-increasing rate and scale. Based on this realistic assumption, and the fact that the standard emergency management toolbox is insufficient to address these events, Catastrophic Disaster Planning and Response represents the cutting edge of both domestic and international thinking on how to effectively plan for and manage the consequences of a catastrophe. Demonstrating that a "business-as-usual" approach to preparing for and responding to such events is doomed to fail, the book fills a gap in emergency management education, introducing the many issues that influence how we plan for and respond to a catastrophe and how they differ from preparing for smaller-scale emergencies and disasters.

Written by a recognized expert in emergency management, this volume is a thorough study of the planning process and response procedures for catastrophic disasters. Topics discussed include

Major events over the last several years provide valuable lessons that demonstrate the characteristics of a catastrophic disaster, the special issues of response and recovery, and the necessary preparation on international, national, and local levels. Offering best practices using recent real-world case studies, the book provides a foundation for continued study and critical reflection

Clifford Oliver, CEM, CBCP, is a member of the Federal Senior Executive Service and is director of the Acquisition Program and Planning Branch in FEMA’s Acquisition Management Division. Prior to occupying this position, he held numerous management and senior technical positions within FEMA, including overseeing the temporary housing program during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita emergency responses. He is also an adjunct professor at the University of Maryland, University College in the Homeland Security and Emergency Management programs. He has BS and MS degrees from the University of Maryland and is currently pursuing his Ph.D.