A resilient disaster recovery model for Puerto Rico: a qualitative case study

Environmental disruptions cause various damages to cities and communities. Many Puerto Ricans have endured catastrophes, suffered the loss of friends and family, resided in temporary shelters, and have been uncertain when they could return home. Thus, this study aims to understand the factors that help Puerto Rican communities better respond to and recover from shocks. Through a multiple-case-study design, the study analyses four Puerto Rican communities to identify the indicators that most significantly contribute to resilient disaster recovery. Data is collected via in-person interviews and analysed via qualitative inductive coding. The study results emphasise the role of internal – social cohesion, community engagement, and local leadership – and external factors – political vulnerability, available resources, social participation in preparation planning, and sustainable development – in resilient disaster recovery. This research deepens our comprehension of the critical factors that shape resilient disaster recovery efforts within Puerto Rican communities. It also aids communities in enhancing their preparedness, coping mechanisms, and adaptation strategies and offers guidance for urban planners and policymakers to concentrate on the internal and external factors that bolster the adaptive capabilities and resilience of communities in Puerto Rico.