Who Worries about Hurricanes?

Hurricane Sandy clearly focused the attention of the Northeast on the hurricane threat. When asked which natural disaster would be most likely to directly affect them, fear of hurricanes is greater in the Northeast than in the South. Sixty-three percent of Northeastern residents say a hurricane would directly affect them versus a smaller 57 percent of those in the South who say they would feel the pain.

Despite their newfound fear of hurricanes, snowstorms are the number-one natural disaster concern in the Northeast (cited by 70%). Tornadoes are the biggest worry in the South (66%), and they are an even greater concern in the Midwest (87%). Earthquakes are the biggest natural disaster threat for residents of the West (67%). Overall, 54 percent of Americans say they are prepared for a natural disaster with a three-day supply of food, water, and other necessities.

Source: Harris Interactive, Just Over Half of Americans Say They Are Prepared for a Long Term Power Outage or Disaster