A Social Vulnerability Index for Disaster Management

Flanagan Barry E., Gregory Edward W., Hallisey Elaine J, Heitgerd Janet L. and Lewis Brian
Additional contact information
Flanagan Barry E.: CDC/ATSDR
Gregory Edward W.: CDC/ATSDR
Hallisey Elaine J: CDC/ATSDR
Heitgerd Janet L.: CDC/NCHHSTP
Lewis Brian: CDC/ATSDR

Journal of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, 2011, vol. 8, issue 1, 24

Abstract: Social vulnerability refers to the socioeconomic and demographic factors that affect the resilience of communities. Studies have shown that in disaster events the socially vulnerable are more likely to be adversely affected, i.e. they are less likely to recover and more likely to die. Effectively addressing social vulnerability decreases both human suffering and the economic loss related to providing social services and public assistance after a disaster. This paper describes the development of a social vulnerability index (SVI), from 15 census variables at the census tract level, for use in emergency management. It also examines the potential value of the SVI by exploring the impact of Hurricane Katrina on local populations.

Keywords: social vulnerability; Hurricane Katrina (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2011
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (6)

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DOI: 10.2202/1547-7355.1792

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