Responding to catastrophic disasters: Lessons from the World Trade Center terrorist attacks

David A. McEntire, PhD; Jill Souza, MPA

doi:10.5055/jem.2009.0011

Authors

David A. McEntire, PhD
Jill Souza, MPA

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5055/jem.2009.0011

Keywords:

World Trade Center attack, terrorism, response, emergency management, preparedness lessons

Abstract

The following article uses the 2001 World Trade Center Terrorist attacks as a case study to illustrate the major challenges presented to responders and emergency management officials. It examines not only the consequences of this disaster but also the immediate and long-term measures to deal with it. The article concludes with suggestions on how to prepare for such events in the future.

Author Biographies

David A. McEntire, PhD

Emergency Administration and Planning, Department of Public Administration, University of North Texas, Denton, Texas.

Jill Souza, MPA

Emergency Management Consultant, McLean, Virginia.

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