TAMPA, Fla. — Researchers from the University of South Florida are investigating why some people choose to stay in their homes, despite the order to evacuate.
According to Elizabeth Dunn, an instructor with USF Health, the study’s goal will be to gather information on decision-making processes in various Florida communities, according to WTSP-TV.
“We want to understand a wide range of vulnerabilities and for coastal communities, as well as those inland communities that were affected,” Dunn told the station.
Dunn said the survey had at least 7,000 responses, and the study is expected to be released at the end of the year.
“We have to be prepared for a potential threat. We need to be very cognitive, aware and make sure that we’re prepared,” Dunn told WTSP.
The bulk of the deaths from Hurricane Ian confirmed in Florida were from drowning in storm waters, according to The Associated Press.