Members of which groups are at a higher risk for negative outcomes following a disaster?

Members of marginalized groups are at a higher risk for negative outcomes following a disaster due to a combination of systemic disadvantages and limited access to resources. Marginalized groups often include individuals facing socioeconomic challenges, racial or ethnic discrimination, and other barriers that can limit their ability to effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.

These groups may have fewer financial resources, access to healthcare, or social support networks, which are crucial in mitigating the impacts of a disaster. Additionally, they often live in areas more susceptible to disasters and have less influence in decision-making processes about disaster preparedness and recovery.

In contrast, privileged or affluent individuals usually have more resources at their disposal, allowing them better access to support mechanisms, emergency services, and recovery efforts. Non-minority groups typically also benefit from social privileges that provide additional safety nets during crises. Thus, the relative vulnerabilities of marginalized communities highlight why they are particularly at risk during and after disasters.