The U.S. Geological Survey estimated that it could be far deadlier than a 7.7-magnitude earthquake that struck the country in 1900.

Cameron Hamilton, who briefly led the agency on an acting basis last year but was fired for contradicting the president, also said he would get money out to states faster.

Firefighters are left without any options to prevent the tank, filled with a toxic chemical, from collapsing or exploding. The authorities have urged thousands of people to evacuate their homes.

The biggest episodes of the past have altered the course of human events, according to researchers. An emerging one is drawing historic comparisons.

The World Health Organization declared a global health emergency after about 80 people died from the virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

President Trump chose Cameron Hamilton to direct federal disaster response. As acting head of FEMA last year, he had opposed abolishing the agency and was ousted.

A White House task force also called for speeding up aid, but some of its ideas would require action by Congress to become reality.

During President Trump’s second term, the disaster declarations that unlock money are taking longer than in the past. Blue states wait the longest and they hear ‘no’ more often.

The agency said staff members who had been let go or placed on administrative leave were now needed to prepare for hurricanes and the World Cup.

The energy industry is planning for a future where the choke point on Iran’s southern coast is a lot less important.

The president’s nominee, Markwayne Mullin, said he would avoid “micromanaging” FEMA.

Long delays in FEMA assistance brought bipartisan complaints, especially in North Carolina after Hurricane Helene in 2024.

A report by Senate Democrats found that scrutiny of large FEMA expenditures slowed housing and employment assistance for victims of fires and storms.

GOP lawmakers ensured there was enough money for the immigration crackdown, but the funding pause threatens other Homeland Security work.

Though funding for the department is set to run out early Saturday, officials said its essential functions would continue.