Over the past several decades, disasters in the United States have become both costlier and deadlier. This trend is expected to continue, emphasizing the importance of disaster preparedness at all levels of a community. This research study examines the current levels of both perceived and actual disaster preparedness among Houston and Harris County residents, as well as contextual and sociocognitive predictors of each. The findings can be used to inform actions aimed at improving disaster preparedness and response efforts in the Greater Houston area.
Data for this study come from a survey fielded to the Greater Houston Community Panel in spring 2024. More than 5,350 people responded.
Key findings
- More than half of Houston and Harris County residents (58%) felt either somewhat or very well prepared for a disaster. On average, residents reported taking about 4 out of 10 potential disaster preparedness actions.
- Seven in 10 residents (70%) reported worrying at least somewhat about disasters happening in the Houston area, and more than 9 in 10 (91%) said that it was at least somewhat likely a disaster would impact them where they live.
- Households with higher annual incomes were more likely to feel prepared for disasters, and they also took more actual preparedness actions.
- Higher trust in local officials to respond effectively to a disaster was associated with a higher likelihood of feeling more prepared and taking more preparedness actions.
- Greater confidence in the effectiveness of disaster preparation was significantly associated with a higher number of preparedness actions taken.
