The Chaos of Evacuation: What If 7 Million People Were Told to Flee?

Imagine the chaos if 7 million people were suddenly ordered to evacuate. What locations would they choose, and how would they manage such a massive relocation? This article explores the potential scenarios and the lessons from different countries' experiences with large-scale evacuations.

Evacuation Scenarios: Different Perspectives

Some respondents suggested places like Disneyland as a potential destination, praising their ability to manage crowds. Others focused on practical considerations, such as where exactly the evacuation is taking place and the time frame they have to leave. For example, a commentator suggested Australia, but noted the ongoing climate change disasters in other parts of the world. Another pointed out that internal evacuation is often necessary, with people moving to remote areas away from danger, like the bush in Australia.

Planning and Preparedness

Importantly, the need for planning is emphasized. For those who have planned ahead, they have specific strategies. Friends and motels are potential destinations, with receipts kept for insurance and FEMA. Pet owners will choose pet-friendly shelters. For those without a plan, the outcome is often miserable or worse - forced to stay in shelters.

Real-World Scenarios

One specific scenario involving Yellowstone Caldera was mentioned, where key items for evacuation include blankets, a tent, food, water, petrol, and underpants. A small hand-cranked generator or portable solar panel would be valuable for keeping phones charged and listening to government announcements. Long-term, the best bet would be Canada, with the ability to grow their own food.

Japan provides a more optimistic view, highlighting its extensive emergency preparedness and comprehensive evacuation plans. Despite the current situation, where up to 7 million people have been warned to evacuate due to Typhoon Hagibis, the government's ability to handle such evacuations is recognized.

The Nightmare Scenario

The reality of evacuating 7 million people is far more complex and chaotic. If the evacuation starts, expect to face significant logistical challenges, such as blocked roads and evacuation routes, people abandoning their cars, and the need to walk or run out of danger. The lack of preparedness will be evident, with people dropping their "go bags" and dealing with inappropriate clothing for the journey. For those with illnesses or disabilities, evacuation becomes a life-threatening situation.

Lessons from History

a resident in the 1991 Oakland Hills Fire, Kendra Luck, vividly documented the chaos and confusion when thousands of people were evacuated en masse. The scene depicted cars blocking roads, people running alongside them, and the general sense of panic and disarray.

While the specific evacuation scenario may vary, the need for comprehensive planning and preparedness is universally acknowledged. The more prepared individuals and communities are, the better they can navigate the chaos of evacuation.