Evacuating in a Major Urban Area

Major urban areas around the world contain the majority of the population, yet these centers of civilization are also the most vulnerable in times of disaster. The chaotic evacuation of New Orleans because of Hurricane Katrina back in 2005 demonstrated that many major urban areas lack sufficient evacuation procedures. Many residents were abandoned without basic services like food and sanitation.

In many cases, residents of major urban areas don’t have as many options when it comes to evacuation. Trying to get out of town only leads to traffic jams, but staying means taking the risk of having to ride out the disaster. Urban residents also might be limited in their options because the elderly and young children cannot be moved as easily.

When faced with a major disaster or emergency situation, each family will have to decide whether they need to evacuate or stay put. Evacuating to other areas might make the most sense, but everyone else will be thinking the same thing. This only leads to crammed roadways. Once you are on the road, you are vulnerable to disease, crowds, and running out of supplies. You need to have a plan in place well ahead of time as well as plenty of supplies.

Staying put is an option in the face of an emergency situation, but people who decide to do this are more at risk of being the victims of crimes. They also need to have plenty of emergency supplies in order to get through the times of need so they can survive until services are restored or they are rescued.

Before disaster strikes it is a good idea to know how you will get out if you ever do need to evacuate. Way ahead of time, drive along your most likely route of evacuation, but don’t forget to explore alternative routes as well. Be familiar with each alley, street, and block within a one-mile radius of your house.

If you live in a major urban area, it is likely that you do not or will not have access to a vehicle in an emergency. In that case, you will need to scout out locations on foot and look for places of shelter. You’ll also need to know how to protect yourself in the case of attack. It is never too late to learn basic self-defense moves.

Evacuation in a major urban area is always tricky. Many major cities are not prepared for large-scale disaster situations, leaving their citizens vulnerable. It is up to you to take the initiative so that you and your family can survive and can get to safety.