Beyond Urban-Centered Responses: Overcoming Challenges to Build Disaster Resilience and Long-Term Sustainability in Rural Areas

Abstract

This study delves into the difficulties in rural areas of building resilience to disasters and ensuring long-term sustainability. While cities typically receive attention during disaster recovery efforts, previous research shows that rural regions encounter obstacles such as geographic limitations, transportation issues, financial constraints, and a lack of media attention. This study aims to better understand rural disaster resilience and recovery by examining the impact of Hurricane Maria on Puerto Rico through interviews with 18 professionals involved in the recovery process from a variety of sectors including governmental organizations, emergency managers, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and community leaders from community-based organizations (CBOs). The key findings stress the importance of implementing initiatives in rural areas that bolster sustainability—addressing economic, social, and environmental aspects. This study highlights the importance of customizing disaster response and resilience strategies to meet the needs of rural communities as opposed to a one-size-fits-all approach. It also offers insights for policymakers and urban planners seeking to develop disaster response plans tailored to address the distinctive challenges faced by rural areas.