What is meant by 'vulnerability' in emergency management?

In emergency management, 'vulnerability' refers to the susceptibility of a community to harm from hazards, which encompasses a range of factors that increase the likelihood of damage or loss when faced with a disaster. This concept is crucial as it highlights the idea that not all communities are equally at risk from the same hazards; factors such as socio-economic status, physical environment, and preparedness levels all contribute to how vulnerable a community may be. Understanding vulnerability allows emergency managers to identify at-risk populations and prioritize resources and planning efforts to mitigate potential impacts, ultimately leading to more effective disaster response and recovery strategies.

Vulnerability considers not only the physical characteristics of the community but also social systems, economic stability, and community resilience, which can influence the entire emergency management cycle, from preparedness to recovery.