Enhancing Tornado Preparedness and Protective Action for Persons with Disabilities: Addressing Barriers and Facilitators

The mission of this project is to identify and address the unique challenges faced by persons with disabilities (PWD) during tornado events, with a focus on the December 10-11, 2021 tornado outbreak. Through comprehensive research and community engagement, the study aims to:

1. Explore how individuals with disabilities receive and interpret tornado hazard information.
2. Identify the barriers and resources influencing their ability to take protective actions.
3. Highlight the systemic gaps in tornado warning communication and protective strategies.
4. Develop actionable insights to improve warning systems, enhance protective options, and inform policy and practice to create inclusive disaster preparedness frameworks.

This mission is rooted in promoting equity and resilience for marginalized populations, ensuring that disaster response and preparedness strategies meet the needs of all community members. The findings will contribute to advancing disaster communication practices, fostering safer environments for PWD in tornado-prone areas.