Still struggling: intersectionality, vulnerability, and long-term recovery after the Tuscaloosa, Alabama USA Tornado

ABSTRACT

This research explores the impact of the Tuscaloosa tornado on the long-term financial and emotional well-being of survivors 4 to 5 years after the event. Using social stress theory and an intersectional analytic approach, this research utilizes in-depth interviews to assess the recovery experiences of survivors. Findings reveal that the tornado resulted in qualitatively different emotional and financial impacts for marginalized Tuscaloosa, Alabama tornado survivors compared to their better situated counterparts, and created unique challenges for Latina survivors. Findings from this analysis can assist emergency managers and service providers in planning for long-term recovery for citizens from multiple diverse backgrounds.

KEYWORDS:

• Natural disasters
• social vulnerability
• intersectionality
• experiences of recovery
• social stress

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the The University of Alabama College of Arts and Sciences: College Academy of Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity.

Notes on contributors

Ariane Prohaska

Ariane Prohaska is an Associate Professor of Sociology in the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of Alabama. Her research interests include the social construction of gender, fat studies, gender victimization, race/gender/class inequality, and disaster s