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Temporal and spatial changes in social vulnerability to natural hazards
Susan L Cutter1, Christina Finch
1Hazards and Vulnerability Research Institute, Department of Geography, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA. scutter@sc.edu
Summary
Social vulnerability in the United States has become more widespread, with urban density, race/ethnicity, and socioeconomic status consistently increasing risk. While national trends show a reduction, regional variations persist, highlighting the need for tailored emergency plans.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Sociology
- Emergency Management
Background:
- The United States has undergone significant demographic, economic, and development changes from 1960-2000.
- These transformations have increased the number of people residing in high-hazard areas.
- Understanding social vulnerability is crucial for effective emergency management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the spatial and temporal patterns of social vulnerability in the U.S. from 1960 to the present.
- To identify key factors contributing to social vulnerability over time.
- To inform the development of place-based emergency plans.
Main Methods:
- Utilized county-level data for spatial and temporal analysis.
- Examined changes in population, development, economy, and social characteristics.
- Assessed the impact of density (urban), race/ethnicity, and socioeconomic status on social vulnerability.
Main Results:
- Urban density, race/ethnicity, and socioeconomic status consistently increased social vulnerability across all analyzed periods.
- Initially concentrated, the spatial distribution of social vulnerability has become more dispersed nationwide.
- A national trend of reduced social vulnerability is observed, yet significant regional disparities and increases in certain counties exist.
Conclusions:
- Social vulnerability is a dynamic and spatially variable phenomenon.
- Place-based emergency planning must account for the evolving nature of social vulnerability.
- Targeted strategies are needed to address regional increases in social vulnerability.
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