Sponsored by The Ohio State University Sustainability Institute project, led by P.I. Dr. Smitha Rao and Co-PI Dr. Anais Roque, explores how climate-related disasters—like hurricanes and severe storms—disrupt electricity systems and impact public health, particularly in communities that are already socially and economically vulnerable. Focusing on the U.S. Gulf Coast, the research looks at where, how long, and to whom power outages happen after disasters, and how those disruptions are linked to poor health outcomes, including mortality.

By bringing together data on energy, disasters, health, and social inequality, the project aims to uncover patterns of vulnerability and resilience. Findings can inform decision-makers, emergency responders, and community advocates as they work to create more just, equitable, and climate-resilient systems.