Magnitude and frequency of hurricane experiences shape community preparedness in distinct ways

This study examines how prior hazard experiences shape community preparedness for future climate-related risks by linking census block group-level wind and rainfall exposures from eleven storms affecting Louisiana during 2017–2021 with mobility-derived preparedness measures during Hurricane Ida (2021). The study finds that communities with prior exposure to higher-magnitude hurricane hazards, characterised by stronger winds and greater precipitation, exhibited higher preparedness levels.

In particular, communities that had previously experienced hurricane-force winds (maximum wind speed ≥ 33 m s⁻¹) or extreme rainfall (≥150 mm in 24 h) showed substantially higher preparedness. By contrast, more frequent exposure to non-catastrophic winds (21–33 m s⁻¹) or rainfall (70–150 mm in 24 h) was associated with lower preparedness. These associations were stronger in communities facing higher forecast wind speeds and in coastal areas. The findings reveal contrasting relationships of hazard magnitude and frequency with subsequent preparedness and highlight the importance of jointly considering both dimensions when designing targeted preparedness strategies.