Low-income households, older populations and Hispanic communities faced the greatest danger from winds and flooding due to Hurricane Milton, according to researchers.
Real-time analysis highlighted severe disparities in the populations who faced the highest risk during the storm.
Research was done by the University of Virginia and the U.S. Census Bureau.
“The data is a stark reminder that not all experiences are equal,” said Dr. Jonathan Colmer, an associate professor of Economics at UVA. “We show that many of those facing risks from Hurricane Milton were more likely to be low-income, Hispanic and older. The populations forecasted to be exposed to life-threatening winds and flooding from Hurricane Milton were less likely to have the means to prepare, evacuate or manage the consequences of the storm.”
Using the newly developed Environmental Impacts Frame, researchers were able to track in real time which populations were most vulnerable to the severe impacts of the hurricane. As the storm intensified, the communities most likely to experience hurricane-force winds and severe flooding were often the same populations that already face socio-economic challenges.
The analysis combines hyperlocal data on population characteristics with live forecasts from the National Hurricane Center and Weather Prediction Center.
“We hope this work provides important context and will lead to more informed decision-making to aid disaster preparation, response and relief efforts and the targeting of resources,” said Colmer. “By highlighting who is most likely to be exposed before, during and after extreme weather events, emergency responders can target their efforts to ensure that help reaches those who need it most.”
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Crystal Graham
