Shining a Light on Resilience: Overcoming Hurricane Odile’s Impact on Economic Activity
Date
2024-06
Authors
Pasman, Clara María
relationships.isContributorOfPublication
Ruzzier, Christian
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Universidad de San Andrés. Departamento de Economía
Abstract
Climate change-induced disasters pose a significant threat to economic activity in developing
regions, particularly those with inadequate infrastructure services. Understanding
the impact of climate-related hazards, achieving resiliency, and mitigating the consequences
for affected communities are critical challenges for these regions.
In this study, we focus on Hurricane Odile, which struck Baja California Sur, Mexico,
in September 2014, severely affecting economic activity across localities. By analyzing
high-frequency and highly-disaggregated nighttime light data (NTL) from NASA,
combined with census data, we characterize the recovery path of the economic activity
following the hurricane’s impact. Our methodology allows us to characterize recovery
timelines and identify distinctive recovery patterns across localities.
We find that Hurricane Odile caused an immediate drop in luminosity levels, reflecting a
downturn in overall activity, with localities experiencing varying degrees of impact and
recovery. Overall, economic recovery was not achieved over the year after the hurricane.
Recovery patterns differ across localities, emphasizing the need for tailored mitigation
policies and aid plans.
Description
Fil: Pasman, Clara María. Universidad de San Andrés. Departamento de Economía; Argentina.