The Emergency Management Network Podcast

Wildland fire activity remains the predominant national operational signal, as articulated in the most recent National Interagency Coordination Center Incident Management Situation Report. The report indicates that the national preparedness level is sustained at PL3, with multiple large incidents threatening residential structures in various southern regions, specifically in Texas, Oklahoma, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Kentucky. Each state has been meticulously analyzed, with significant incidents such as the Twin Creek Fire and Hancock Mill Pond139 highlighted, alongside pertinent details regarding their containment status and the behaviors of the fires. The complexities of fire activity across these states necessitate diligent monitoring and resource allocation to mitigate their impacts effectively. This brief encapsulates the critical updates and serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by wildland fires in our communities.

Takeaways:

* The National Interagency Coordination Center Incident Management Situation Report identifies national wildland fire activity as a significant operational concern.

* The report indicates that the southern region maintains a preparedness level of PL3 amidst multiple large-scale incidents threatening residences.

* Detailed summaries of specific large fires across several states reveal a diverse range of fire behaviors and containment statuses.

* Significant incidents in states such as Texas, Oklahoma, and Florida are highlighted, illustrating the widespread nature of current fire threats.

* The IMSR provides comprehensive updates on fire incidents, including containment efforts and the number of structures at risk across affected regions.

* Overall, the latest updates emphasize ongoing fire risks and the immediate need for vigilance in response efforts.

Sources

National wildland fire (NIFC/NICC)

NICC Incident Management Situation Report (IMSR) — Mar. 25, 2026 (PDF)

The episode elucidates the current status of wildland fire activity, emphasizing that the Southern Area is operating at Preparedness Level 3, with numerous large fires threatening structures and residences across multiple states. We provide a comprehensive overview of significant incidents, including those in Alabama, Colorado, and Florida, where extreme fire behavior has been reported, leading to considerable risks to nearby communities. The discussion also includes pertinent advisories from CISA regarding cybersecurity vulnerabilities that necessitate immediate action to mitigate risks. Furthermore, we touch upon recent seismic events, such as the magnitude 7.6 earthquake near Tonga, which, while not resulting in a tsunami threat, underscores the importance of situational awareness in the Pacific Ring of Fire. We conclude with an examination of public health concerns, specifically a meningococcal disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, highlighting the need for vigilance in travel advisories.

Takeaways:

* The Southern Area Preparedness Level has reached a critical status of Level 3 due to numerous large wildfires threatening structures and residences.

* A recent advisory from CISA emphasizes the urgent need to mitigate critical risks associated with unauthenticated command execution on commercial control systems.

* The Pacific Ring of Fire remains a significant focus of attention following a magnitude 7.6 earthquake in Tonga, despite no tsunami threat being reported.

* The CDC has issued a travel notice regarding an outbreak of meningococcal disease in a health zone of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, underscoring the importance of public health awareness.

* Numerous states are currently experiencing substantial fire activity, with reports indicating active fire behavior and threats to both structures and residences.

* The FAA has provided updates on potential thunderstorms affecting air traffic in central Florida, highlighting the need for vigilance in aviation safety.

Sources

DHS

* DHS News Release — Senate confirms Markwayne Mullin as DHS Secretary (Mar 24, 2026)

* DHS Newsroom — “There are no current advisories” (NTAS status shown on DHS newsroom pages)

CISA

* CISA ICS Advisory — Pharos Controls Mosaic Show Controller vulnerability (Published Mar 24, 2026)

* CISA ICS Advisory — Schneider Electric EcoStruxure Foxboro DCS vulnerability (Published Mar 24, 2026)

* CISA ICS Advisory — Grassroots DICOM memory leak vulnerability (Published Mar 24, 2026)

Wildland fire activity (NIFC/NICC)

* NIFC/NICC Incident Management Situation Report (IMSR) — PDF (Published Mar 24, 2026)

Aviation

* FAA — Statement on Air Canada Express incident at LaGuardia (Mar 23, 2026)

* NTSB — Investigation page: Air Canada Express Flight 8646 collides with fire truck at LGA (Event date Mar 22, 2026; includes media briefings)

* FAA — Daily Air Traffic Report (Mar 24, 2026)

Earthquake and tsunami messaging

* USGS — Event page: M7.6, 153 km W of Neiafu, Tonga (Reviewed)

* Reuters — No tsunami threat after deep M7.6 near Tonga (Mar 24, 2026)

Public health

* CDC — Travel Health Notices: Meningococcal Disease in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Mar 24, 2026)

The predominant focus of this podcast episode is the ongoing national wildland fire activity, which remains a critical operational concern as of March 24, 2026. Numerous large fire incidents are currently under suppression across the United States, with specific areas reporting evacuations and the imminent threat to residential properties. The National Interagency Fire Center has provided detailed situational reports, indicating moderate to extreme fire behavior in various states, including Alabama and Florida. Additionally, updates on volcanic activity in Hawaii and Alaska are discussed, with Kilauea and Great Sitkin exhibiting elevated seismic activity. As we navigate these pressing concerns, it is imperative to remain informed and heed official guidance regarding safety and evacuation protocols.

Takeaways:

* National Wildland Fire Activity is currently the foremost operational concern across the nation.

* The National Interagency Fire Center reports numerous large fire incidents under suppression nationwide.

* Evacuations and area road closures are being reported, particularly in the Plains and Pacific regions.

* Ongoing volcanic activity is being closely monitored in Hawaii, particularly at Kilauea.

* Travel advisories have been issued by the US Department of State regarding Middle East travel.

* Various states report incidents of extreme fire behavior, threatening residences and prompting evacuations.

Sources

NIFC / Wildland fire (National)

* NIFC Incident Management Situation Report (IMSR) — daily national wildland fire activity, closures/evacuations, threatened structures

USGS Volcano updates

* USGS HVO Daily Update — Kīlauea status (WATCH/ORANGE) and activity summary

* USGS AVO Notice — Great Sitkin activity update

U.S. Department of State / Global events

* Consular Information for Americans in the Middle East — current operational guidance and contacts

Host: Todd DeVoeCo-Host: Andrew BoyarskyGuest: Shannon McNamee, Author of Strategic Disaster Coordination

Episode Overview

Despite decades of investment, disaster response continues to struggle under pressure. The issue is not a lack of effort or experience. It is structural.

In this episode, Todd DeVoe and Andrew Boyarsky sit down with Shannon McNamee, author of Strategic Disaster Coordination, to examine a critical gap in the United States' disaster response. This is not a critique of performance. It is a conversation about system design.

Emergency management in the U.S. is built for incidents that are bounded, short-term, and controllable. Disasters are none of those things. Rather than redesigning the system, we have expanded it—adding layers, complexity, and cost without addressing the underlying mismatch.

This discussion focuses on the operational and strategic implications for emergency managers across all levels of government. The all-hazards framework remains essential, but the scale, duration, and interconnected nature of disasters demand a system built specifically for them.

About the Guest

For more than 15 years, Shannon McNamee has worked at the center of disaster response and coordination—leading operations, building cross-sector partnerships, and designing training that strengthens real-world readiness. Through her roles with FEMA and the American Red Cross, she helped guide large-scale response and recovery efforts while supporting planning, training, and policy development across all levels of government and community partners. As a consultant, she has focused on turning lessons learned into lasting, practical improvements.

She is the author of Strategic Disaster Coordination, a book that challenges conventional thinking in emergency management by arguing that the core issue is not performance, but system design. Drawing on field experience, policy analysis, and research, the book outlines why the current model falls short in disasters—and offers a framework for building a system intentionally designed for them.

Key Themes & Takeaways

Disasters ≠ EmergenciesEmergency systems are built for short, contained incidents. Disasters are prolonged, complex, and disruptive. Treating them the same creates failure points.

It’s a Design ProblemThe issue isn’t training or resources. The system is built for control and stabilization, not long-duration, networked crises.

More Layers, Same ProblemsWe respond to each disaster by adding plans and structures, increasing complexity without improving outcomes.

Old Thinking, New RisksCold War-era assumptions still shape policy, but modern disasters are nonlinear, interconnected, and unpredictable.

Why Lessons RepeatRecurring failures aren’t accidental. They are produced by the system itself.

Misaligned FrameworksA security-driven model has influenced disaster management, often at the expense of resilience and recovery.

Building What’s MissingEffective disaster management requires intentional design—integrated, adaptive, and built for how disasters actually unfold.

The salient point of this podcast episode centers on the critical advisories issued by the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State, particularly concerning the lack of current terrorism threats. As of March 23, 2026, there are no active advisories, which provides a sense of security for operations involving traveler support and evacuation assistance. However, we must remain vigilant given the recent developments in Hawaii, where a boil water notice has been issued for specific regions due to potential storm-related damage to the water system. This situation necessitates careful public messaging and coordination to ensure the safety of vulnerable populations. In summary, while there are no immediate threats, the ongoing response to the storm in Hawaii highlights the importance of preparedness and effective communication in emergency management.

Takeaways:

* The current National Terrorism Advisory System indicates no advisories as of this morning.

* The U.S. Department of State has updated its worldwide caution page on March 22, 2026.

* Hawaii is currently the only state reporting significant life safety impacts due to storm damage.

* A boil water notice has been issued for North Shore Oahu due to potential storm damage.

* Public messaging should include instructions to boil water before use for safety.

* Coordination with shelters is essential to support vulnerable populations affected by the storm.

Sources

DHS

* DHS Newsroom (shows NTAS status: “There are no current advisories.”)

Travel advisories

* State Department — Worldwide Caution (Last Updated: March 22, 2026)

* State Department — Consular Information for Americans in the Middle East (Last Updated: March 22, 2026)

Hawaiʻi

* Honolulu Board of Water Supply — Boil Water Notice Issued for Oʻahu (North Shore: Mokulēʻia to Turtle Bay)

* Hawaiʻi News Now — Storm damage/response impacts report (includes water advisory context)

The salient point of today’s broadcast is the issuance of gale warnings and high wind advisories that are currently in effect for various regions, particularly the coastal waters of California and parts of Montana. I am Cedric, and I present to you the Emergency Management Morning Brief for Friday, March 20, 2026. We will delve into the specifics of hazardous sea conditions and the potential dangers posed by wind gusts reaching up to 80 miles per hour. Moreover, I will provide updates regarding advisories issued by the US Department of State, particularly concerning travel to Venezuela and guidance for the Middle East. Additionally, we will touch upon ongoing volcanic activity in Hawaii that necessitates continued vigilance. Stay safe as we navigate these urgent updates.

Takeaways:

* The National Weather Service has issued marine warnings and high wind hazards for the upcoming weekend.

* Gale warnings and watches are currently active for specific areas along the California coastline.

* High wind warnings are in effect for parts of Montana, with gusts reaching up to 80 miles per hour.

* A recent update from the US Department of State includes a travel advisory for Venezuela.

* Ongoing monitoring of volcanic activity in Hawaii indicates a need for continued readiness regarding potential hazards.

* The latest brief reveals that all other states have reported no significant updates in the past 24 hours.

Sources

NOAA / NWS

* PTWC Tsunami Information Statement (M7.0 South Shetland Islands; “no tsunami threat”)

* NWS WWA text summary — High Wind Warning (includes MT warning text and timing)

* NWS WWA text summary — California coastal waters hazards (gale warning/watch, small craft advisories)

USGS (Earthquakes / Volcanoes)

* USGS HVO notice (Mar 19, 2026) — summit inflation and ongoing monitoring details

* USGS event page listing — M6.6 South Shetland Islands (time/depth/magnitude summary)

* USGS event page listing — M6.1 near Isangel, Vanuatu (time/depth/magnitude summary)

Travel advisories

* U.S. Department of State — Travel Advisories master list (shows Venezuela update dated March 19, 2026)

* State Department — “Consular Information for Americans in the Middle East” (current as of Mar 19, 2026)

California

* NWS CA coastal waters hazard text (gale warning/watch; small craft advisories)

Hawaii

* USGS HVO notice (Mar 19, 2026) — inflation / seismic observations

Montana

* NWS High Wind Warning text (MT zones; gusts and timing)

The salient point of this morning’s briefing revolves around the critical updates related to cybersecurity vulnerabilities that necessitate immediate attention from emergency managers. Specifically, the recently released CISA’s Kev Catalog highlights two newly listed exploited vulnerabilities: Microsoft SharePoint CVE 2263, with a remediation deadline of March 20, and Zimbra Collaboration Suite CVE 22566376, due by April 1. It is imperative that organizations actively monitor these additions, prioritize patch mitigation for Internet-facing collaboration platforms, and validate compensating controls in situations where patching may be delayed. Additionally, we address the security alert issued by the US embassy for Iran, urging organizations with personnel in the region to ensure their communication plans are up-to-date. Lastly, updates from various states include ongoing wildfire responses in Nebraska and a public health advisory regarding a measles outbreak in Nevada, emphasizing the necessity for vaccination and infection control measures.

Takeaways:

* On March 18, 2026, CISA released updates regarding newly identified vulnerabilities requiring immediate remediation.

* Emergency managers must prioritize patching of collaboration platforms to enhance cybersecurity measures effectively.

* Organizations with personnel in Iran should maintain updated communication plans and ensure travel safety measures are in place.

* The Nebraska Governor’s Office is actively addressing the impacts of wildfires through community engagement and assessments.

* A public health advisory in Nevada emphasizes the importance of vigilance regarding measles outbreaks and vaccination efforts.

* All other states reported no significant updates, indicating a period of relative stability in emergency management activities.

Sources

CISA / KEV

CISA KEV data (released 2026-03-18) — SharePoint CVE-2026-20963 & Zimbra CVE-2025-66376 added; due dates listed

Travel / Security

U.S. Embassy Iran — Security Alert: Iran (March 18, 2026 update)

Nebraska

Nebraska Governor — March 18 update: Tour Cottonwood Fire & visit Brady community (acreage/containment noted)

AP — Nebraska wildfire fight continues; scale/containment context

Nevada

Southern Nevada Health District — Public Health Advisory 03/18/2026: Measles outbreaks update (vigilance & vaccination)

The primary focus of this podcast episode pertains to the ongoing wildfire incidents in Nebraska, specifically the Cottonwood Fire and Morrell Fire, which are currently 40% and 18% contained, respectively. As we delve into the details, we examine the operational challenges posed by red flag warnings and strong winds, which are anticipated to exacerbate the fire activity and hinder aerial firefighting efforts. Additionally, we discuss the federal assistance being mobilized through FEMA for both the Nebraska and Texas fires, highlighting the critical role of governmental response in managing such disasters. Furthermore, we address the precautionary boil water notice issued in Marion County, Florida, due to a water main break, underscoring the importance of public health communications during emergencies. This episode serves as an essential update on the current state of emergency management efforts and the implications for affected communities.

Takeaways:

* The Cottonwood Fire has consumed 131,259 acres and is currently 40% contained as of March 17.

* The Morrell Fire’s extent has reached 572,084 acres with only 18% containment reported on the same date.

* A red flag warning has been issued due to forecasted winds reaching approximately 50 miles per hour.

* Federal Fire Assistance is being mobilized for the Morrill Cottonwood Fire under FEMA’s declaration processes.

* A precautionary boil water notice has been enacted in Marion County, Florida, following a water main break.

* CISA has updated its catalog of known exploited vulnerabilities, emphasizing active threats for federal agencies.

Sources

CISA

CISA alert — adds one Known Exploited Vulnerability to KEV (published Mar 16, 2026)

Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) Catalog — reference list

FEMA

FEMA disaster page — Texas Corner Pocket Fire (FM-5625-TX) (posted/updated within last 24h)

FEMA disaster page — Nebraska Morrill-cottonwood Fire (FM-5623-NE) (posted/updated within last 24h)

FEMA declarations listing — includes Texas Corner Pocket Fire (FM-5625-TX)

Nebraska - NEMA — Cottonwood and Morrill Fires Update (March 17, 2026)

Florida, Marion County, FL — Precautionary Boil Water Notice for Spruce Creek area (posted Mar 17, 2026 8:46 PM)

The episode delineates critical updates regarding public health and emergency management, with particular emphasis on the E. Coli outbreak linked to raw Cheddar cheese from Raw Farm. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported seven infections, predominantly affecting children under five, prompting advisories against the consumption of the implicated product. Additionally, the episode highlights ongoing assistance for North Carolina residents recovering from Tropical Storm Helene, noting extensions for temporary housing and the impending introduction of rent requirements. We also discuss operational measures necessitated by newly identified cybersecurity vulnerabilities, particularly regarding the wingftp server. These salient points collectively underscore the importance of vigilance in public health and safety protocols, as well as the need for swift action in response to emerging threats. I shall provide a succinct summary of the podcast episode with utmost clarity and precision. The primary focus of our discourse centers on the intricate dynamics of interpersonal relationships in a contemporary context. We delve into the complexities that arise from communication barriers and the myriad ways in which they can impede understanding. Our exploration is further enriched by examining practical strategies that individuals may employ to enhance their relational efficacy. Throughout the episode, we advocate for a heightened awareness of emotional intelligence as a pivotal component in nurturing and sustaining healthy connections with others.

Takeaways:

* In this episode, we explored the multifaceted implications of technology on modern society and interpersonal relationships.

* We discussed the critical importance of maintaining a balance between digital engagement and real-life interactions.

* The episode highlights the necessity of understanding the ethical considerations surrounding emerging technologies.

* We examined the psychological effects of prolonged exposure to social media on mental health.

* Throughout the discussion, we emphasized the role of personal responsibility in digital consumption.

* Finally, we concluded with strategies for fostering a healthier relationship with technology in daily life.

Sponsor

https://go.emnmedia.com/IWCE2026

Sources

Cyber (KEV / Wing FTP Server)

NVD — CVE-2025-47813 shows KEV “Date Added” 03/16/2026 and due date 03/30/2026

BleepingComputer — context on Wing FTP Server CVE-2025-47813 being added as actively exploited (Mar 16, 2026)

Public Health (CDC)

CDC Newsroom — Media alert on E. coli outbreak linked to raw cheddar cheese (Mar 16, 2026)

North Carolina

WSOC-TV — report on FEMA housing and rental aid extensions for Helene survivors (posted Mar 16, 2026)

This episode centers on the critical updates regarding extreme heat warnings in Southern California and the ongoing volcanic activity in Alaska and Hawaii. We elucidate the specifics of the heat messaging from the National Weather Service, emphasizing the advisories for vulnerable populations and outdoor events as temperatures rise significantly in the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley regions. Furthermore, we delve into the heightened seismic activity at the ATKA Volcano complex in Alaska, identifying Korovin as a potential source for any explosive occurrences. Additionally, we provide insights into the current status of Kilauea in Hawaii, which remains under vigilant observation due to its elevated alert status. The episode concludes with an invitation to attend the IWCE 2026, a pivotal event for professionals in critical communications, underscoring the urgent need for preparedness and awareness in the face of environmental challenges.

Takeaways:

* Southern California is currently experiencing extreme heat, prompting various warnings from the National Weather Service.

* The Alaska Volcano Observatory has reported increased seismic activity at the ATKA Volcano complex, indicating potential explosive risks.

* Great Sitkin Volcano in Hawaii is exhibiting slow lava eruptions, necessitating ongoing monitoring and assessment of volcanic activity.

* Kilauea remains at Watch Orange level, with updates provided to ensure safety for aviation and local communities.

* We emphasize the importance of reviewing local hazard products for effective communication and planning during extreme weather events.

* The IWCE 2026 event in Las Vegas is crucial for professionals involved in critical communications, highlighting the latest advancements and tools.

Sponsor

IWCE - https://go.emnmedia.com/IWCE2026

Sources

NOAA/NWS — Heat hazards (California region)

NWS San Diego — Extreme Heat Watch text product (Coachella Valley / deserts)

NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard — WWA summary (Extreme heat messaging)

NWS San Diego — Hazard map/status page (watches/warnings/advisories)

NOAA/NHC — Basin status

National Hurricane Center — Current basin status (no active tropical cyclones) and Tropical Weather Discussion timing

USGS — Volcano updates (Alaska)

USGS/AVO — Atka volcano complex notice (increased seismicity; Korovin highlighted)

USGS/AVO — Great Sitkin volcano notice (ongoing slow eruption in summit crater)

USGS — Volcano updates (Hawaii)

USGS/HVO — Kīlauea daily update (WATCH / ORANGE)