By Meshack Idehen
While it is quite easy to identify the few, lonely and almost oftentimes meaningless voices that make calls and create awareness seeking that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) not concern itself with the world of natural hazards and threats, it is actually almost easier to whole heartedly argue and present a million reasons why the Department of Homeland Security should be concerned about the world of hazards and threats from natural disasters.
Viewed from a narrow prism, it could be conceded that the DHS was initially created to combat terrorism. However, it is visibly agreeable that the roles of the DHS has greatly expanded to encompass a broader all-hazards approach, as the government recognizes that natural disasters can have severe impacts on national security and societal well-being. It is this realization that forms the approach which acknowledges the interconnectedness of various threats and the need for a coordinated federal response to both man-made and natural disasters.
Nonetheless, it is very important that the DHS should concern itself with natural disasters and threats because these events can and have the capacities to exacerbate existing vulnerabilities, disrupt critical infrastructure, and potentially lead to social instability, all of which combined clearly falls under DHS’s purview of protecting the homeland. Furthermore, it is easy to see and understand that natural disasters can create opportunities for malicious actors to exploit vulnerabilities and undermine national security.
That said and with regards to the exacerbation of existing risks, natural disasters can worsen existing threats like terrorism and extremism by creating vulnerable populations and disrupting infrastructure that terrorists might target, and this is according to the DHS Office of Intelligence and Analysis. An example is that of the numerous hurricanes that regularly hits the nation which could damage a power grid, making it easier for a cyberattack to disrupt essential services. In the same vein, natural disasters can severely damage critical infrastructure like power grids, communication networks, transportation systems, and water treatment facilities. This disruption can impact national security by hindering emergency response efforts, impacting the economy, and potentially leading to social unrest.
As have been in the past like during hurricane Katrina and several others, large-scale natural disasters and hazards can displace populations, create food and water shortages, and lead to economic hardship, all of which can contribute to social unrest and instability. Again, this social instability can create opportunities for extremist groups to recruit and mobilize, further challenging national security.
It is for reasons like those mentioned above and more that the role of DHS in disaster response and management is clearly defined. DHS plays a crucial role in coordinating federal disaster response efforts, providing resources and support to affected communities. This includes coordinating with state and local governments, providing search and rescue capabilities, and ensuring communication systems are functional during emergencies. Due to natural hazards and disasters, DHS is also responsible for ensuring that civil rights and civil liberties are protected during disaster response efforts. This includes protecting the rights of vulnerable populations like people with disabilities, immigrant communities, and those with limited English proficiency. DHS also works to enhance community resilience to disasters through various initiatives, including developing technologies and tools to support planning, decision-making, and mitigation efforts. And it includes improving early warning systems, strengthening infrastructure, and promoting community preparedness.
Natural disasters and threats are inherently intertwined with national security, and DHS has a responsibility to address them through preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. By recognizing the potential for natural disasters to exacerbate existing vulnerabilities and create new challenges, DHS can better protect the nation from a wide range of threats, according to the DHS and its partners.
Despite concerns about potential overreach or resource allocation, DHS’s involvement in natural hazards is crucial for national security and societal well-being. An all-hazards approach, which integrates disaster management into DHS’s responsibilities, is essential for building a more resilient and secure nation. The interconnectedness of threats, the potential for exploitation of natural disasters by malicious actors, and the need for coordinated federal response all support the idea that DHS should continue to play a significant role in addressing natural hazards and threats.
