Accession Number:

AD1105769

Title:

CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROTECTION: Federal Agencies Have Taken Actions to Address Electromagnetic Risks, but Opportunities Exist to Further Assess Risks and Strengthen Collaboration

Descriptive Note:

[Technical Report, Congressional Report]

Corporate Author:

GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY OFFICE WASHINGTON DC

Personal Author(s):

Report Date:

2016-03-01

Pagination or Media Count:

68

Abstract:

Electromagnetic risks caused by a man-made EMP or a naturally occurring solar weather event could have a significant impact on the nations electric grid as well as other infrastructure sectors that depend on electricity, such as communications. These risks could lead to power outages over broad geographic areas for extended durations. GAO was asked to review federal efforts to address electromagnetic risks to the electric grid. This report examines 1 the extent to which key federal agencies have taken action to address electromagnetic risks and how these actions align with the 2008 EMP Commission report recommendations, and 2 what additional opportunities exist to enhance federal efforts to address electromagnetic risks to the electric grid. GAO reviewed the EMP Commission report and federal program documents, and interviewed DHS, DOE, and FERC officials and relevant stakeholders who provided insights on key actions taken.

Descriptors:

• department of homeland security
• national security
• communication systems
• united states government
• electrical grids
• emergency response
• management personnel
• united states
• control systems
• electromagnetic fields
• homeland security
• law
• space weather
• urban areas
• air force
• department of defense
• electromagnetic pulses
• electronic mail
• governments
• magnetic fields

Subject Categories:

• Electromagnetic Pulses
• Military Operations, Strategy and Tactics

Distribution Statement:

[A, Approved For Public Release]