CDC/ATSDR Social Vulnerability Index
CDC/ATSDR Social Vulnerability Index
Social vulnerability refers to the potential negative effects on communities caused by external stresses on human health. Such stresses include natural or human-caused disasters, or disease outbreaks. Reducing social vulnerability can decrease both human suffering and economic loss.
The CDC/ATSDR Social Vulnerability Index (CDC/ATSDR SVI) uses 16 U.S. census variables to help local officials identify communities that may need support before, during, or after disasters.
GRASP released the official CDC/ASTDR SVI 2020 update in October 2022. Access the newest update on the CDC/ATSDR SVI Data & Documentation Download page.
GRASP led the June 2020 publication of ‘Spatial exploration of the CDC’s Social Vulnerability Index and heat-related health outcomes in Georgia’ in the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction.

FEMA integrates the CDC/ATSDR Social Vulnerability Index into its National Risk Index (NRI) dataset and interactive mapping tool. The NRI tool enables public health professionals, emergency planners, and the general public to understand their risk to 18 natural hazards. Explore the National Risk Index’s interactive map.