26 One of the greatest challenges of Recovery management after a hurricane is the challenge of replacing what has been totally lost or otherwise destroyed. Continued from previous page DESTRUCTION It is important to recall that anything that can be damaged by a hurricane can also be destroyed by a hurricane if the forces are strong enough. One of the greatest challenges of Recovery management after a hurricane is that of replacing what has been totally lost or otherwise destroyed. This is particularly important in relation to critical facilities such as hospitals and airports. It is also pivotal in social recovery if many houses and schools are completely destroyed in a hurricane event. The mere existence of a hazard does not automatically or immediately result in a disaster. There tends to be a progression from the appearance of a hazard to the negative effects that may culminate in an emergency, a crisis or a disaster. Overall vulnerability is a function of the relationship between hazards and level of risk. DISRUPTION A major hurricane impact results in disruption. The disruption relates primarily to services. Services provided by all sectors are usually suspended because the situation must be assessed and decisions taken as to how best to resume services. This often takes time. It sometimes affects critical utilities and other essential services. DELAY Delays are common with hurricane impacts. Entities might not have been directly damaged but because of disruptions that have taken place in other areas of the economy, then delays arise. A school might not have undergone serious damage but if there is extensive damage to the water system, the school cannot resume classes. Continues on next page
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