Understanding evacuation behavior during cyclones: Evidence from Bangladesh

This paper examines evacuation behaviors in response to approaching cyclones using survey data collected through face-to-face interviews with residents in coastal areas of Bangladesh. Various statistical models, including probit, panel probit, bivariate probit, and multinomial logit models, are used to analyze the determinants of both past and future evacuation decisions, as well as the choice of evacuation destinations.

The findings reveal consistent patterns across different cyclone events, highlighting the significant roles of warning time, proximity to the coast, property loss, shelter accessibility, housing structure, literacy, past evacuation experiences, and demographic factors such as age, gender, and employment status. Additionally, the analysis of evacuation destinations provides insights into evacuees’ preferences and challenges, emphasizing the need for improved shelter accessibility. With rising vulnerabilities in coastal areas of Bangladesh and globally, understanding the factors that influence household evacuation decisions and destination choices can inform evacuation planning and enhance disaster management efforts.