Extract

Measuring economic impacts stemming from various natural disasters is an increasingly common interest in the United States. Even since the US economy experienced severe losses from the two hurricanes that consecutively hit the Gulf of Mexico coast in August 2005, we are still experiencing similar damage every year. The recent Hurricane Sandy is one of the greatest storms ever to hit the United States and clearly illustrates this problem, especially if a hurricane hits a mega metropolitan area located on the coast. New York City (NYC) and Long Island have the most coast-concentrated population and economy in the United States. NYC and Long Island’s geographical location exposes the region to a high level of vulnerability from the threat of storm surges. The recent physical disruptions and environmental damages caused by Hurricane Sandy demonstrate the fragility of NYC and Long Island in terms of built and natural environmental systems.