Disasters are categorized into three Levels namely; minor, major and catastrophic disasters. The distinctions between disaster levels are described below:

Minor Disaster: Any disaster that falls within the response capabilities of Local Government and requires minimal State or Federal assistance. Operationally, this disaster categories requires a level 1 or level II activation.

Major Disaster: Any disaster that exceeds local government capabilities and require a broad range of State and Federal assistance. Operationally, this disaster level requires a level III or level IV activation. NEMA is to  be notified, and potential federal assistance will be predominantly recovery- oriented.

Catastrophic Disaster: Any disaster that require massive State and Federal assistance, including immediate military involvement. Potential Federal assistance will involve response as well as recovery measures. Operationally, this translates into a level V Federal activation. NEMA will he notified and pre-deployed.