In the event of a disaster or similar event that may have a widespread impact in the community, the state
requires the local jurisdiction to do an initial damage assessment to assess the human and infrastructure
impact. To perform this function in the most expeditious and efficient manner we have developed a Rapid
Impact Assessment Reporting Form that pre-designated individuals will use immediately after an event to
report the damage and its impact.
The Rapid Impact Assessment is a very quick indicator to determine the observed amount of damage
sustained in a specific geographical area (using ¼ mile square grids) and to identify the resources
needed for a particular area.
The reporting form was primarily designed for assessment of windstorm damage and flooding such
as would be experienced with a hurricane. It has some limited use in other types of disasters.
It allows the EOC to rapidly:
- Assess the extent of the damage
- Assess the need to request outside assistance and mutual aid
- Assist in the effective management of emergency response resources within the city
