Strengthening Disaster Response Through Analysis of Crime During Hurricane Ike

Abstract This study uses time series analysis in an effort to inform disaster response efforts by identifying changes to Houston crime during Hurricane Ike. The results indicate that Burglaries increased significantly by 305% during Ike. Aggravated Assaults also increased significantly, but Theft and Auto Theft decreased by 37% and 16% respectively. Several other crimes revealed no significant differences during Ike. These findings, when combined with other research, show that Burglaries consistently increase during natural disasters, and Emergency Support Function 13 (ESF-13) responders should plan for that reality. This study also provides some other considerations for ESF-13 management related to disaster preparedness training and exercises. Additionally, the study provides evidence of the need for ESF-13 responders and reinforces their importance as a key form of capable guardianship under Routine Activities Theory.