This volume addresses many of the economic issues surrounding wind-related disasters. The research and ideas expressed in this volume are necessarily multidisciplinary in nature. Wind events such as tornadoes, hurricanes, and cyclones affect regional economies, individual households and businesses, as well as entire industries. Consequently, it is important to understand the impact that wind has on the markets in which businesses and people interact. Moreover, households, firms and government policymakers may take steps to mitigate the losses and/or adverse effects associated with wind storms either before or after the event occurs. Thus, it is inevitable that the study of economics and wind would be intertwined. Contributors include social scientists, economists, risk management and insurance specialists, and civil engineers from around the world. They include researchers from universities and private industry, many of whom are engaged in ongoing research programs funded by state and federal agencies.
Economics and the Wind