Long-Run Consequences of Exposure to Natural Disasters

A-Tier
Journal: Journal of Labor Economics
Year: 2019
Volume: 37
Issue: 3
Pages: 949 - 1007

Score contribution per author:

2.011 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

We explore whether fetal and postnatal exposure to tropical cyclones affects education and income in adulthood by using World War I draft records linked to census data. Difference-in-differences estimates indicate that white males born in hurricane-prone US states who experienced a hurricane in utero or as infants had 5% lower income. Labor force participation was unaffected, while education and migration account for a small portion of the effects on income. Empirical tests suggest the persistent impact of damage is an unlikely channel. Thus, we attribute the findings to lower health capital stemming from temporary disruption in the aftermath of storms.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:ucp:jlabec:doi:10.1086/702652
Journal Field
Labor
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-25