Disasters Collide: How the Pandemic Will Affect Response to Natural Disasters  

Some reports indicate that the spread of the coronavirus will continue through this summer, indicating that social-distancing measures may be in place for several months. In this article, NIBS Multihazard Mitigation Council Chair Bryan Koon points out that the pandemic won’t stop other natural disasters from occurring, citing the recent earthquake in Salt Lake City. Spring flooding, tornadoes, and the first part of hurricane season will all occur before the number of COVID-19 cases dissipate. Koon explains that we need to start preparing now and begin to think through some of the major challenges that will arise when responding to multiple disasters simultaneously.