In the US, not only are millions of people affected by natural disasters every year, but the frequency and severity of these events are also increasing at an alarming rate. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, there were an unprecedented 28 weather and climate disasters in 2023, surpassing the previous record of 22 set in 2020.1 Natural disasters are overwhelming and traumatic life experiences, and in the aftermath of a disaster, survivors often find themselves displaced, disoriented, and grappling with shock, as they struggle to restore order amid the chaos.2 Indeed, natural disasters can impose a severe and lasting psychological toll on individuals. Those affected may experience intense emotions such as grief, panic, fear, and sadness. The trauma from such events can lead to mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and depression. For instance, Grineski et al. conducted a survey in eight Texas metropolitan areas following Winter Storm Uri in 2021, revealing that exposure to winter storms and extreme cold weather was linked to heightened risks of mental health issues.3,4

The literature on disasters and vulnerabilities has thoroughly examined how demographic differences contribute to disparities in mental health outcomes during and after natural disasters. Research shows that, for example, women, individuals from low socioeconomic backgrounds, and members of marginalized groups are at a higher risk of experiencing a range of negative mental health consequences in the aftermath of such events.5,6 However, there has been a notable lack of focus on disabilities within this body of research. It is only recently that a few studies have begun to address the mental wellness of disability communities during and after natural disasters,3,4 despite the well-documented fact that people with disabilities face heightened vulnerability in these situations.7, 8, 9, 10, 11 It is both essential and urgent to continue examining mental wellness among people with disabilities and to incorporate their perspectives into disaster research, because understanding the mental health implications of natural disasters for this population is crucial for developing tailored interventions and policies that address their specific needs and promote resilience in the face of adversity.

When examining the vulnerabilities of people with disabilities in the context of natural disasters, it is crucial to recognize several important nuances. One challenge is the impact of prolonged displacement, which can severely exacerbate existing issues faced by individuals with disabilities,12, 13, 14 such as mobility limitations, communication barriers, and increased reliance on caregivers. This extended period away from their homes can also lead to adverse mental health outcomes,15 and more critically, prolonged displacement may result in the institutionalization of people with disabilities—a situation they have long fought against. Additionally, it is important to acknowledge that the disability community is far from monolithic; it encompasses individuals with a wide range of disabilities, each presenting unique challenges. Natural disasters can affect these individuals differently: those with physical disabilities may encounter additional barriers during evacuation and recovery; individuals with sensory disabilities, such as visual or hearing disabilities, may struggle to access critical information and emergency services; while those with cognitive disabilities may experience heightened anxiety and confusion.16 Understanding these diverse experiences is crucial for developing effective disaster response strategies that address the specific needs of all individuals within the disability community.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), increased exposure and vulnerability to extreme weather events in the coming decades will lead to greater suffering, illness, and loss of life.17 This climate crisis compels disability and health scholars to rethink and expand their work to address these urgent challenges. In this paper, I investigate whether individuals with disabilities experience longer displacement and heightened mental distress in the immediate aftermath of natural disasters. To answer this research question, I analyze survey data from a nationally representative sample obtained from the 2024 Household Pulse Survey (HPS), conducted by the US Census Bureau. By exploring these critical issues, this study aims to illuminate the unique experiences of people with disabilities in disaster contexts and highlight the necessity for tailored interventions that address their specific needs in the face of a changing climate.