Challenges and Coping Strategies of Families With Young Children Amid Hurricanes: A Qualitative Inquiry

Climate-induced disasters have immediate and lasting effects disrupting the safety and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. Children are among the most vulnerable during disasters due to their physical, psychological, and developmental capacities that render them reliant on their parents and/or caregivers to maintain safety and ensure their basic needs are met. This study explored barriers experienced by parents and caregivers during and after Hurricanes Irma and Michael struck Florida in 2017 and 2018. We conducted 41 semi-structured interviews with hurricane-affected parents of children aged 0 to 14. Interviews explored challenges in caring for young children during response and recovery, resource usage/availability, and awareness and willingness to seek formal support in future disasters. Parents reported experiencing stress due to financial constraints and limited resources, which affected their ability to evacuate and make post-disaster decisions.