Prepare for Recovery Now: Lessons from Katrina

摘要

In addition to the tragic loss of life, Hurricane Katrina will have staggering long-term economic, environmental, and social impacts on the Gulf Coast and surrounding communities. Already, these consequences are emerging, including a dissolution of the tax base, conflicts over the reconstruction of housing and cultural landmarks, and strained racial and socioeconomic relations. The effects of this disaster have clearly demonstrated that mitigation and preparedness are vitally important for disaster recovery. As other disasters have done in the past, Katrina confirmed that practical investments in risk reduction, mitigation, and emergency planning are important tools for reducing the enormous burden disasters place on individuals, business owners, and all levels of government.