Faith-Based Daily Awareness Post 15 May 2026

These updates are shared to help raise the situational awareness of Faith-Based organizations to best defend against and mitigate the impacts from all-hazards threats including physical security, cybersecurity, and natural disasters.

(TLP: CLEAR) Research Report – Wildfire Weather Increasing Across the U.S.

As climate change drives hotter temperatures and drier conditions across the United States, wildfire risk is increasing in both frequency and intensity. According to the non-profit Climate Central, warming temperatures, low soil moisture, dry vegetation, and windy conditions are creating more “fire weather” days, particularly in the western U.S., where climate divisions now average 32 fire weather days annually. This is four times more than the eastern U.S. A record-warm winter and extreme spring heat wave have also contributed to a historic snow drought across the West, worsening concerns about wildfire conditions heading into summer. By mid-April 2026, the total acreage burned by wildfires has already doubled the previous national record for that point in the year.

WaterISAC analysts warn that these fires pose significant risks not only to property and critical infrastructure, but also to drinking water systems. Damage to water infrastructure can allow ash, smoke, soot, debris, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to contaminate water distribution systems, threatening water quality and public health. Continued drought and elevated wildfire potential are expected across the Southwest, Northwest, and Northern California through mid-summer, while global wildfire activity has already surpassed the 150 million hectares burned in early 2026, raising concerns that a developing El Niño could further intensify wildfire conditions later in the year.

Analyst Comments: Faith-based organizations located in high wildfire risk areas should consider how prolonged fire activity could disrupt both day-to-day operations and their ability to support congregants during emergencies. Houses of worship often serve as gathering points, shelters, distribution sites, or community support hubs during disasters, making continuity planning especially important. Organizations should consider reviewing evacuation procedures, backup communications, defensible space measures, and continuity plans for worship services, childcare programs, food ministries, and community outreach operations. Wildfires can also damage or restrict access to local water systems, resulting in unsafe drinking water, reduced sanitation capabilities, limited fire suppression capacity, and disruptions to cooking, cooling, and restroom access. If a congregation relies on well water or a small local utility, smoke, ash, debris, or infrastructure damage could leave facilities temporarily unusable. Preparing alternative water sources and coordination plans with local emergency management can help faith communities continue supporting vulnerable populations while protecting staff, volunteers, and congregants during wildfire emergencies.

New Dates Added: Live Virtual Presentations on Targeted Violence Prevention

The U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center (NTAC) Virtual Training Program offers free live online training events focused on preventing targeted violence in schools, workplaces, and communities. These trainings are designed for educators, law enforcement, mental health professionals, corporate security personnel, faith leaders, and other public safety stakeholders. NTAC researchers present findings from decades of behavioral threat assessment research, emphasizing how acts of violence are often preventable when warning signs and concerning behaviors are recognized early. Topics include school safety, mass attacks in public spaces, behavioral threat assessment models, and violence prevention strategies that encourage collaboration among schools, law enforcement, and community organizations.

Analyst Comments: Faith-based organizations should consider attending NTAC virtual trainings because houses of worship increasingly face threats ranging from targeted violence to harassment and disruption. The training provides practical guidance on recognizing behavioral warning signs, improving safety planning, and strengthening coordination with law enforcement and community partners. It also helps faith leaders better understand prevention-focused approaches that can support both congregational safety and broader community resilience.