Abstract

The Commonwealth of Virginia Hazard Mitigation Plan provides guidance for hazard mitigation activities within the Commonwealth. Its vision is supported by goals, categories, and actions for Virginia that will reduce or prevent injury from natural hazards to residents, communities, state facilities, and critical facilities. The Commonwealth of Virginia Hazard Mitigation Plan has undergone a full revision for this required 2018 update.

The Commonwealth of Virginia Hazard Mitigation Plan was first approved by FEMA Region III on September 28, 2004. The Commonwealth received approval of its enhanced plan status on March 14, 2007. The plan was updated in 2010 and in 2013; however, during the 2013 update the Commonwealth did not pursue enhanced plan status. The 2018 version is an update from the 2013 plan, and documents successful completion of FEMA’s enhanced plan requirements (see Section 07).

This plan fulfills the standard state mitigation planning requirements (44 CFR §201.4) of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA2K; Public Law 106-390, signed into law October 10, 2000). The DMA2K amends the 1988 Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, and reinforces the importance of mitigation planning, emphasizing planning for disasters before they occur. Section 322 of the act specifically addresses mitigation planning at state and local levels. New requirements are identified that allow Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funds to be used for mitigation activities and projects for states and localities with Hazard Mitigation Plans approved by November 1, 2004.