Addressing Disaster Response and Preparedness Gaps in Connecticut

As climate change continues to amplify the frequency and severity of weather-related hazards, the need for effective disaster preparedness becomes increasingly critical.

We conducted a study as part of an effort to assess disaster preparedness and identify the roots and repercussions of preparedness disparity across socioeconomic groups in Connecticut. The results highlight how state-level disaster management systems might worsen preparedness gaps among towns and leave much of Connecticut poorly equipped to handle the growing threats of climate change-induced disasters in southern New England.

Our research to date indicates that longtime state and regional preparedness practices have yet to update to reflect current climate forecasts, effectively equip local emergency volunteers, or improve communication services to the extent necessary. For Connecticut to effectively manage the rising incidents of climate change-induced disasters, it's crucial for local-level disaster management to revise practices. This involves fostering more community-based engagement, particularly with a focus on collaborating with the state's most vulnerable populations.