The Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan (Mitigation Plan) was prepared in response to Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2000).  DMA 2000 (also known as Public Law 106-390) requires state and local governments to prepare Mitigation Plans to document their Mitigation Planning process, and identify hazards, potential losses, mitigation needs, goals, and strategies.  This type of planning supplements the City’s comprehensive emergency management program. 

Under DMA 2000, each state and local government must have a federally approved Mitigation Plan to be eligible for hazard mitigation grant funding.  This is the third mitigation plan prepared for the City of Whittier.  Preceding plans were approved by FEMA in 2005 and 2010.

The Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2000) is intended to facilitate cooperation between state and local governments, prompting them to work together.  Through collaboration, mitigation needs can be identified before disasters strike, resulting in faster allocation of resources and more effective risk reduction projects.

City of Whittier is located in Los Angeles County and offers the benefits of living in a Mediterranean type of climate.  The City is characterized by the unique and attractive landscape that makes the area so popular.  However, the potential impacts of natural hazards associated with the terrain make the environment and population vulnerable to natural disaster situations.

The City is subject to earthquakes, flooding, wildfires, and drought.  It is impossible to predict exactly when these disasters will occur, or the extent to which they will affect the City.  However, with careful planning and collaboration among public agencies, private sector organizations, and citizens within the community, it is possible to minimize the losses that can result from these natural disasters.

The resources and information within the Mitigation Plan:

• Establish a basis for coordination and collaboration among agencies and the public of City of Whittier;
• Identify and prioritize future mitigation projects; and
• Assist in meeting the requirements of federal assistance program

2016 Hazards Mitigation Plan (NHMP)
FEMA Approval Letter NHMP