Schneider Case Study 1

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Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University *

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4223

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Geography

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Oct 30, 2023

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pdf

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Hurricane Hugo, a powerful and destructive storm that struck in September 1989, left an indelible mark on the southeastern United States. Chapter 7 of Schneider’s text, “Dealing with Disaster—Public Management in Crisis Situations” delves into the impacts of this hurricane on various locations, highlighting three significant strikes. This case study will explore Hurricane Hugo's devastation through the lens of Schneider's framework, examining the disaster events and their implications for the affected areas. By analyzing the disaster management and response efforts in these locations, we can gain valuable insights into how communities coped with this natural catastrophe and the lessons that can be drawn from their experiences. In this study, we will delve into the disasters that unfolded in South Carolina, North Carolina, and the Caribbean, offering a comprehensive perspective on the different challenges and responses that emerged within each location. Hurricane Hugo's Implementation Pattern in North Carolina was characterized by a combination of reactive and proactive measures. The state and local authorities were proactive in issuing evacuation orders and mobilizing resources ahead of the storm's landfall. This early action contributed to saving lives and reducing the overall impact of the disaster. However, the state also had to respond reactively to the unexpected challenges that arose during and after the hurricane, such as widespread power outages and communication breakdowns (Schneider 2011). North Carolina's governmental response to Hurricane Hugo was a mixed bag of successes and failures. The state's evacuation efforts were largely successful in getting residents out of harm's way. The coordination between state and local authorities, as well as federal agencies, was commendable and contributed to efficient resource allocation (Schneider 2011). However, the response was not without its flaws. Some areas experienced delays in receiving aid and recovery assistance, and there were communication issues that hindered the flow of information between

different levels of government. Human behavior during Hurricane Hugo in North Carolina showcased both resilience and vulnerability. Many residents heeded evacuation orders, demonstrating an understanding of the potential dangers posed by the hurricane. However, there were instances of individuals choosing not to evacuate, putting themselves and emergency responders at risk. Additionally, post-disaster human behavior was characterized by community resilience, with neighbors helping each other in the aftermath of the storm. Hurricane Hugo in North Carolina was marked by several major events and characteristics. The hurricane's rapid intensification caught some residents off guard, emphasizing the importance of early warning systems. The storm caused extensive damage to infrastructure, particularly power lines and communication networks, leading to widespread disruptions. The flooding that followed Hugo's landfall also had a significant impact on communities, highlighting the vulnerability of coastal areas to storm surge and heavy rainfall. Schneider's analysis reveals that in South Carolina, there was a reactive and fragmented implementation pattern. The state was caught off guard by the hurricane's sudden intensification, leading to a delayed response and limited pre-disaster planning. The lack of a comprehensive disaster management strategy contributed to the challenges faced during the event (Schneider 2011). The governmental response to Hurricane Hugo in South Carolina exhibited shortcomings and successes. The state and local authorities struggled with coordination and resource allocation in the initial stages of the disaster. However, federal assistance and support played a crucial role in mitigating the impacts. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provided significant aid, showcasing the importance of federal involvement in large-scale disasters (Schneider 2011). Human behavior during Hurricane Hugo in South Carolina was characterized by a mix of resilience and vulnerability. Many residents underestimated the severity of the storm,

leading to insufficient evacuation efforts in some areas. However, the disaster also brought out acts of community solidarity and volunteerism, as individuals and organizations rallied to help their neighbors in need. Major events and characteristics of Hurricane Hugo in South Carolina included the hurricane's unexpected intensification just before landfall, causing widespread destruction. The storm surge, reaching heights of up to 20 feet, inundated coastal areas and caused significant flooding. Strong winds and falling trees resulted in extensive property damage and power outages. Despite the challenges, the disaster led to successes in terms of improved disaster preparedness and response protocols for future events. Schneider's analysis underscores the importance of proactive disaster management planning, effective governmental response, and a nuanced understanding of human behavior in the face of disasters. The case of Hurricane Hugo in South Carolina serves as a valuable lesson in disaster resilience and the need for comprehensive disaster management strategies. The implementation pattern in the case of Hurricane Hugo in the Caribbean involved the assessment of the hurricane's severity and trajectory. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) played a crucial role in tracking the storm and providing early warnings. The NHC's forecasts and warnings allowed governments and communities in the Caribbean to make informed decisions regarding evacuations and preparedness measures. This early determination and communication of the hurricane's threat contributed to the disaster management process. The governmental response in the Caribbean was characterized by varying levels of preparedness and coordination. Some governments, particularly those with experience in handling hurricanes, were better equipped to respond effectively. However, in some cases, government agencies struggled to provide timely assistance and coordinate relief efforts. The response varied from one island to another, reflecting differences in resources and capacity (Schneider 2011). Human behavior

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during Hurricane Hugo in the Caribbean was a mixed bag. While many individuals and communities heeded evacuation orders and took necessary precautions, there were also instances of individuals choosing to stay behind, sometimes underestimating the severity of the storm. Human behavior ranged from proactive preparation to risky decision-making, and this variability influenced the outcomes of the disaster. Major events and characteristics of Hurricane Hugo that led to successes included the effectiveness of early warning systems and the evacuation efforts that saved many lives. Additionally, communities that had well-established disaster preparedness plans and strong social networks were more resilient in the face of the disaster. However, failures were evident in the inconsistent government response, limited resources for post-disaster recovery, and challenges in communication and coordination, especially on smaller Caribbean islands. Overall, the successes and failures of the response to Hurricane Hugo in the Caribbean were influenced by factors such as the level of preparedness, government capacity, community resilience, and the ability to accurately assess and communicate the impending disaster. Schneider's framework provides a valuable perspective for analyzing these aspects of the disaster and drawing lessons for future disaster management efforts in the region.