Dynamics of cyclone evacuation behavior among southwestern coastal residents in Bangladesh: A case study of cyclone Sidr

Abstract

Cyclone Sidr struck the southwestern coast of Bangladesh on November 15, 2007, resulting in 3,406 deaths and damaged properties of about US $1.7 billion. Despite the government’s sincere efforts, thousands of coastal residents did not comply with the evacuation orders. This article attempts to identify the sociodemographic factors affecting evacuation choices during the cyclone. Following systematic random sampling technique, a total of 384 heads of household was surveyed in the southwestern coast of Bangladesh. The bivariate results indicate that single women, older residents, people with small possessions, and people with higher level of education and occupation are more likely to evacuate. Moreover, level of education, household’s status of food security, trust in cyclone warning, and perceived severity of cyclone are also found as significant predictors of evacuation choice. Trust in cyclone warning has been found as the single best predictor. This article recommends improvement in the cyclone warning system, establishment of more public cyclone shelters, and implementation of different campaigns in coastal areas to increase the use of public shelters.