ABSTRACT

Having a good logistical plan in place and a reserve of fuel, food, and water can make the difference in surviving this disaster response situation. With adverse conditions, both the very young and very old are susceptible to illness or death as a result of extreme cold. Administrators need to keep these factors in mind when determining what parts of the population are the most vulnerable and where the resources should be sent as a priority. This chapter presents a case study that focuses on inability to get effective assistance to residents who are particularly vulnerable to the excessive heat. In addition to the most vulnerable populations (i.e., the young and old), there are also populations that are also at risk due to socioeconomic factors. The chapter also presents a case study that illustrates how extreme weather can damage the public health infrastructure of an entire region.