Which federal agency is primarily responsible for coordinating the national response to disasters?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is primarily responsible for coordinating the national response to disasters. This agency operates under the Department of Homeland Security and plays a critical role in the nation's emergency management system. FEMA's responsibilities include preparing for, responding to, recovering from, and mitigating the impacts of disasters and emergencies, including natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and other man-made disasters.

FEMA develops policies, provides funding for disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation efforts, and works collaboratively with state and local governments, non-profits, and the private sector to ensure a unified response during emergencies. Its established programs and frameworks, such as the National Response Framework, guide how the nation responds to all types of disasters, making it the authoritative entity when it comes to disaster coordination at the federal level.