Disaster and Preparedness: Lessons from Hurricane Rita

This paper investigates the lessons learned and preparedness behaviours of businesses in the southeast Texas region affected by Hurricane Rita. The data were collected through an e‐mail survey sent to businesses in the southeast Texas region affected by Hurricane Rita. Findings from the study indicate that the majority of businesses took only ‘few’ or ‘some’ preparedness measures before the hurricane. However, those businesses that experienced impacts and losses due to Hurricane Rita report that they are now taking greater preparedness measures. This study identifies specific areas that should be addressed in a disaster preparedness plan based on information gathered from organizations that went through a major disaster first‐hand.