Hurricane Safety – Evacuation Stats and Facts

FACTS

1. Delayed Evacuation: Waiting too long to evacuate can result in being trapped by rising waters or impassable roads.
2. Traffic Congestion: Mass evacuations can lead to severe traffic jams, delaying escape and increasing stress.
3. Shelter Overcrowding: Insufficient shelter space can result in overcrowded conditions, potentially leading to health and safety concerns.
4. Communication Breakdowns: Overloaded networks can impede access to critical information and coordination during evacuations.
5. Limited Access for Vulnerable Populations: Individuals with disabilities, the elderly, or those without transportation may face challenges evacuating safely.

STATS

• The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that storm surge is historically the leading cause of hurricane-related deaths in the United States.
• In 2021, the United States experienced 97 natural disasters, including hurricanes, highlighting the importance of effective evacuation planning.
• Historical data indicates that hurricanes can cause significant fatalities, with Hurricane Maria in 2017 resulting in 2,981 deaths, underscoring the critical need for effective evacuation strategies.
• In 2022, there were 15 catastrophic weather events, including hurricanes, resulting in $3.4 billion in insured losses, mainly due to water-related damages.
• The Canadian Disaster Database contains detailed information on over 1,000 natural and man-made disasters since 1900, including hurricanes that have directly affected Canadians.
• On average, Canada experiences about six hurricanes annually, with regions such as Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Québec being the most affected.