InTeGrate Modules and Courses >Coastal Processes, Hazards and Society > Student Materials > Dimension 2: Sensitivity > Case Studies > Mobile Home Vulnerability to Hurricanes
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These materials are part of a collection of classroom-tested modules and courses developed by InTeGrate. The materials engage students in understanding the earth system as it intertwines with key societal issues. The collection is freely available and ready to be adapted by undergraduate educators across a range of courses including: general education or majors courses in Earth-focused disciplines such as geoscience or environmental science, social science, engineering, and other sciences, as well as courses for interdisciplinary programs.
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Initial Publication Date: December 7, 2016

Mobile Home Vulnerability to Hurricanes

Another example of the role of sensitivity in creating vulnerability to hazards involves the impacts of hurricanes on mobile homes. In 1992, Hurricane Andrew struck the Florida coast and caused billions of dollars in damages and several deaths. Impacts on mobile homes were particularly severe, and in response, federal regulations were strengthened in July 1994 to require mobile homes to be more resistant to hurricanes.

The revised mobile home standards have had a dramatic impact on sensitivity of these structures (Table 1). In the very active 2004 hurricane season, which saw four hurricanes make landfall in Florida, all damages to mobile homes occurred in units built before the federal regulations changed. No mobile homes built after 1994 were damaged. This is a clear example of variable sensitivity to the same hazards based on quality of construction.

Table 1: Mobile home damages of impacted communities in Florida during the 2004 hurricane season
HurricaneTotal number of mobile homes in storms' pathMobile homes built before July 1994Mobile homes destroyedMobile homes built after July 1994Mobile homes destroyed and seriously damaged
Charley1190990112413/26.8%28980/0%
Frances7089696199/1.4%1280/0%
Ivan1432124682/6.6%1860/0%
Jeanne88458001989/12.4%8440/0%
Total29275252193583/14.2%40560/0%

Activate Your Learning

Question - Multiple Choice

What other types of structures might be highly susceptible to coastal hazards?

A. Prefabricated structures such as sheds or carports
B. Houses in which living areas are elevated above ground level
C. Structures built with storm shutters
D. Improvised dwellings such as those found in impoverished areas of cities in the developing world

These materials are part of a collection of classroom-tested modules and courses developed by InTeGrate. The materials engage students in understanding the earth system as it intertwines with key societal issues. The collection is freely available and ready to be adapted by undergraduate educators across a range of courses including: general education or majors courses in Earth-focused disciplines such as geoscience or environmental science, social science, engineering, and other sciences, as well as courses for interdisciplinary programs.
Explore the Collection »