"Waffle House's more than 2,000 U.S. locations span regions prone to hurricanes, tropical storms, tornadoes, and severe flooding, being concentrated in the mid-Atlantic down through the Gulf Coast and across to the Midwest."
"FEMA's informal three-tiered Waffle House Index works like this: If during a storm, Waffle House locations are operating as usual, the index is green, meaning damage is likely minimal."
"The index rises to yellow if a Waffle House is still open but serving a limited menu, which is often due to utility or food supply issues."
"If a Waffle House is closed, it's a code red, and FEMA knows they need to act. 'If you get there and the Waffle House is closed, that's really bad,' Fugate said."
Waffle House has operated 24/7 since 1955, becoming a reliable dining option for late-night snackers and workers. Its locations are concentrated in areas prone to severe weather. FEMA uses the Waffle House Index, created by former administrator Craig Fugate, to assess disaster severity based on restaurant operations. The index has three levels: green for normal operations, yellow for limited menu, and red for closure, indicating significant damage. A closed Waffle House signals the need for immediate federal response.
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